Washing your car in the driveway used to be the standard weekend practice. Many people might think it’s gentler than an automatic wash. However, research has shown that hand washing your car might do more harm than good.
The changing car market and rising working class have caused car washing to become timed and require precision. Car wash experts cannot make errors because a vehicle needs to be in good condition, which becomes the rule. The desire to have a pristine car has prompted many car experts to experiment with various car cleaning methods to minimize the job. The value of automatic car washes vs. hand washing techniques has been highlighted as both have their advantages and disadvantages. While each of the car washing methods has a certain degree of usefulness, the problem is not worth belaboring, as car washing methods require scrutiny.
The pros and cons of an automatic car wash vs. a human-washed car will help car wash owners decide which path to take.
Automatic Car Washes
The use of machines in almost every industry is taking hold, and car wash technology is no different. Car wash systems have become great alternatives to hand washing. Many people prefer the automatic car wash system, thanks to the fact that the advantages outscore the disadvantages.
Pros of Choosing an Automatic Car Wash:
- Gentle on the car‘s bumper paint: A car’s body paint is considered one of its most valued features, and the owner takes great care to preserve it. The use of rough brushes destroyed some cars’ paint jobs and contributed to bruises. In comparison, the automatic car washing process is gentle and free of harsh chemicals, unlike the conventional method.
- Thoroughness: The amount of work the automatic system wants to do per unit time is sufficient. There is no risk of the machine running out of work to do.
- Lower fatigue frequency: Using hands to wash will drain a person’s resources. Tired people cannot do their jobs well, and their work will be ignored when the car is washed. However, automatic car washing is reputed to clean all surfaces except in places where hands cannot reach.
- Lower cost: The automatic car wash is known for using modern car washing techniques that save time and water. Its low cost and high performance allow both the car owner and the car wash specialist to cut costs.
- Time-saving: ‘Time is money.’ Most professionals would make do with taking their vehicles to an automatic car wash, where they will have the car washed in a record time of just five to 10 minutes. Customized automatic washing machines allow car washes to monitor the design and washing needs of their customers. They may need to combine several coat care methods in one operation, and the automatic process delivers it in record time.
Cons of Choosing an Automatic Car Wash:
- Reduced capacity: Automatic car wash strategies tend to focus on washing the car with limited or no contact. While this has been touted as fair, grime may remain stuck on the motor vehicle body even at the end of the wash.
- Costly: This method of car wash uses expensive, specialized machines. Even if a customer opts to wash at the nearest self-service car wash, the money paid is likely higher.
- Water spots: Some automatic car washing can leave watermarks on the vehicle’s body as the air dry or final hand cloth dry may not be sufficient, especially when older equipment is used.
Manual Car Washes
For a long time, hand washing cars was the most traditional method. However, advances in technology and the ever-growing need for efficiency have pushed many car owners to adopt the latest craze of automatic washing at a car wash.
Pros of Choosing a Manual Car Wash:
- Perfection and customization: The final result of a handwashing job is usually deemed perfect, as the user has had contact with the car. It is advised to use a hand wash in tandem with other coating strategies.
- Better reach: There are areas on the car body where machines may not reach the car, yet hand washing may get the dirt out.
Cons of Choosing a Manual Car Wash:
- Sandpaper effect: The most feared thing with handwashing is the damage caused by scrubbing the car coat because of the paint’s delicate nature. Over time, the buildup of tiny bits of dirt on rags and sponges leaves them loaded with hard objects.
- Soft finish: Identifying the dirt and trying to remove it is possible, though not guaranteed, as body muscles may not, at times, be strong enough to manage the sticky nature of grime. Unwashed soap on car coats also leaves vehicles with a dull look.
- Labor- and time-intensive: Hand washing requires intense energy. Tired muscles are likely to do a poor job. Besides, the amount of time it takes to hand wash a car is longer. It may at times turn into hours of work.
- Water usage: Many automatic car washes have the edge in water usage compared to hand washing.
Which is the best method?
Looking at both strategies, automatic car washing is the best, especially when the user is on a clock. It is clear that when the pros and cons are compared, an automatic car wash is the best option. People would rather spend less time and avoid the hassles. With all of this information, it’s clear that an automatic car wash will not only save you time but also be better for your car in the long run. Professional equipment and service will extend the life of your car’s exterior and interior.
Sara Sam may not look like your typical car and finance expert, but don’t let that fool you. With over four years of experience in the industry, she knows all the ins and outs of cars, car insurance, and refinancing. You can trust Sara to help you navigate the often-confusing world of automobiles and financing.
