Can you take an electric car through a car wash?

Back in 2019, a survey discovered nearly one in five drivers thought electric cars cannot be driven through a car wash. Attitudes have changed a lot since then, but to avoid any lingering doubts… yes, it is fine to take an EV through a car wash.

In a separate report, Hyundai addressed what it called the top 10 concerns and myths about electric cars. In at number five was the misconception that you can’t take an electric vehicle through a car wash, or drive in a lightning storm.

In response, Hyundai said: ‘Of course we’ve all been told that you don’t mix electricity with water. But when it comes to EVs, it’s perfectly safe to use a car wash and there’s no extra risk of driving in a lightning storm.’

It’s worth remembering that electric cars must meet the same strict regulations as combustion vehicles, with a tough testing regime that includes withstanding water ingress. All cars are subjected to flood levels of rain, so an EV will have no trouble coping with a car wash.

How to take an electric car through a car wash

If you’ve taken a petrol or diesel car through a car wash, you’ll be familiar with the process. The good news is that the procedure is the same for electric cars. Just make sure you have sufficient charge to avoid gliding to an embarrassing halt.

First, make sure you read the instructions that will be printed next to the car wash. It goes without saying that you should close all doors, windows and the sunroof before entering.

The door mirrors should be folded in, while on older (probably non-electric) cars, the radio aerial should be retracted or removed. Do not use an automatic car wash if your car has any loose fitting or damaged bodywork.

Once in the car wash, engage the handbrake, turn off the vehicle and make sure you have disabled the automatic windscreen wipers.

Should you take an electric car through a car wash?

At Motoring Electric, we wouldn’t recommend using an automatic car wash. The stiff brushes can be damaging to paintwork and you’ll almost certainly collect a few light scratches and swirl marks.

Our advice would be to invest in a pressure washer and do the cleaning yourself. Not only will you do a better job, you’ll also be able to spot any damage or stone chips in the process. As a bonus, you’ll be out in the fresh air. Better for you, and better for your electric car.

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