A simple search for a nearby self-car wash on your phone can help you locate a self-car wash in your locality. However, if you’ve never been to a self-car wash, do not worry. We have the answer to “how to use a self-car wash near me”. Read on to know more.
A self-car wash is an ideal method to wash your car if you don’t have the right equipment at your disposal. It is also helpful if you live in an apartment and don’t have a proper place to wash your car effectively. What’s more, a self-car wash is your best bet if you want to give your car a proper wash with professional equipment, especially if you’re skeptical about automatic car washes.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Self-Car Wash
If you are looking for a cheap and effective way to wash your car, a self-car wash station is what you need. Let’s have a look at the steps to use a self-car wash.
Step 1
A self-car wash station usually has multiple car wash bays where you need to park and clean your car. Drive your car to an empty bay and park it in the center. If you notice a marked spot on the floor, you can park on it. Make sure you have enough space to walk around the car. Also, see if the sprayer can reach both sides of your car. If the sprayer does not reach both sides of the car comfortably, then park accordingly.
Step 2
Once you have parked your vehicle, remove your floor mats and set them aside. You can clean them using the sprayer. If you think your floor mats are clean or if your floor mats are made of carpet or cloth fiber material, you can skip this step.
Step 3
Next, familiarize yourself with the sprayer settings on the self-wash machine. Almost all self-wash machines offer three basic settings: wash, soap, and rinse to clean your car. However, you can also find pre-soaks, high-pressure rinses, and other options in advanced machines. Choose the setting you want to use and pay for it. You can insert coins or use a credit card, depending on the machine. Some car wash locations that offer monthly plans also offer an RFID tag that you can stick on your windshield for a contactless car wash process. Your car wash time will begin immediately after you pay the wash fee.
Step 4
First, choose the wash or pre-wash setting. Stand 3-5 feet away from the vehicle and point the sprayer towards your car. The high-pressure water from the sprayer should remove dirt and debris stuck onto your car’s exterior. Make sure you walk around and clean all sides of your car. Point the sprayer at the wheels and clear off the debris stuck in the wheel wells. Go around the vehicle and check for missed spots, if any.
Step 5
Now, set the desired soap option in the machine. A soapy stream will flow from the sprayer instead of water. Go around the car and spray the soap onto the car’s body. Now use a foam brush – you can find it near the self-car wash machine or in your wash area – and scrub the car’s exterior. Scrub thoroughly to remove all the deeply embedded dirt on the car’s body.
Step 6
After completing the previous step, use the rinse setting to wash down the soap. Use the sprayer to give your car a thorough wash. Check your car for any soap residue; clean it off if you find any. Finally, give your car a once-over to check the result.
Wrapping Up
A self-car wash station can save you time and money if you don’t have the right facilities with you. If you enjoy taking care of your car yourself, it is the best option you’ve got. However, it is always important to follow the right steps to have a professional-level result. With our guide, you can easily approach a self-car wash station to have control of your car maintenance all by yourself. Although it may take more time and effort than automatic car washes, you can have the convenience of maintaining your car in an effective and cheap way.
Renée Martin is a travel and car expert who focuses on road and air travel in the U.S. For the past 6 years, she’s been helping make driving and trip planning easier and budget-friendly for everyday travelers.
