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How and where are you washing your electric car?

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Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,502 ✭✭✭MojoMaker


    1 person has suggested this, hardly a large sample.

    Far more have suggested not overthinking it and just wash the car as you would any other.



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,781 ✭✭✭✭Oscar_Madison
    #MEGA MAKE EUROPE GREAT AGAIN


    Is autoglym a good brand for car wash shampoo? Looks like it’s very popular on Amazon at least and seems to have been around donkeys years



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,781 ✭✭✭✭Oscar_Madison
    #MEGA MAKE EUROPE GREAT AGAIN


    “1 person has suggested this, hardly a large sample.”

    I’ve never suggested otherwise thanks.



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,368 ✭✭✭kirving


    On a somewhat serious note, I'd probably be a bit more apprehensive about a high-pressure underbody wash one an older EV than on most other cars.

    All EVs have good IP ratings, but over time, gore vents and seals can degrade, and a rating is not a guarantee for life that the part will remain waterproof. Additionally, like any other car, undertrays can be damaged and get lost over time, and connectors might not be seated perfectly by a mechanic who removed it for some reason or other.

    Just to add, this is not anti-EV. All cars can suffer similar, but have more sensitive, more expensive electronics sitting lower down increases risk.

    This is an interesting article about how water spray is simulated, and is applicable to how the location of electrical connectors is decided in the design phase - to keep them as dry as possible.. https://www.autonomousvehicleinternational.com/features/why-simulation-of-vehicle-water-and-dirt-management-is-important-for-adas-development.html




  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,409 ✭✭✭Stallingrad


    I'm sure these handles are thoroughly tested but there are motors and other electronic shenanigans in there that might not take kindly to be being power hosed, hence why I avoid them. My Megane E-tech also has a little flush button on the boot to release it, looks neat but feels like a French failure waiting to happen so I avoid that area too.



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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,781 ✭✭✭✭Oscar_Madison
    #MEGA MAKE EUROPE GREAT AGAIN


    I think your wise-that and opening on freezing mornings could well damage them over time - better to be a bit cautious



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,409 ✭✭✭Stallingrad


    Absolutely fine. More important than the actual shampoo though is the method you hand wash the car to avoid marring the paint. It's not rocket science but a quick Google will explain all.



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 436 ✭✭GPoint


    meguiars or turtle wax better in consumer products available in Halfords



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 436 ✭✭GPoint


    OP, get yourself a pressure washer, bucket, mitten and shampoo and wash it yourself



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 12,781 ✭✭✭✭Oscar_Madison
    #MEGA MAKE EUROPE GREAT AGAIN


    I have all of the above and my intention is to do just that- I used to use a local self manual wash which has now disappeared - it was very handy as it had the shampoo and powerhose all ready and in place for about 6-8 euro - my car’s bonnet feels quite flimsy overall and a bit plasticky - hence my reluctance to use a conventional auto wash - feels like an auto wash could be a bit abrasive over time - that and damage to 360 cameras and sensors is also my fear



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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 55 ✭✭Megastreisand




  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,078 ✭✭✭PGE1970


    There used to be a very good detailing thread here a few years ago but, sadly, it seems to be gone.

    Rather than spending a fortune in Halfords, try D&D Detailing or Autopia who regularly have sales. Make sure that you get a wash mitt, two buckets with grit guards, shampoo, polish and wax. After that, you can get a foam gun, pre-wash, tyre gel etc. It's up to you.

    As mentioned above, Collonite Insulator wax is the business. Put two coats on after a wash and polish and it will keep your car protected for several months. A bottle will last you several years.



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 436 ✭✭GPoint


    Halfords often have sales. Normal prices are a rip off. Reflect auto care is a good place for all stuff detailing.



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 436 ✭✭GPoint


    Two buckets ideally:) but can get away with one if careful



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 436 ✭✭GPoint


    Automatic washes will scratch all your paintwork in no time.

    Also dealers complimentary wash where they use a brush on a stick , mop it in the bucket and rub the shite into you car paintwork, are also ones to avoid.



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