Hand Car Wash vs. Touchless Car Wash

Whether you’ve been off-roading around Foothill Ranch or driving through mud puddles in Irvine, chances are, your vehicle could use a wash. But which is better for your car, a hand car wash or a touchless car wash? There are pros and cons to both car wash methods. Here the service team at Mercedes-Benz of Foothill Ranch compares hand wash car wash vs. touchless car wash so you can decide for yourself.

Hand Wash Car Wash Facts 

When your new vehicle needs a thorough washing, a hand wash car wash is always best. You can do it at home in Irvine, or hire a professional hand car wash service at a trusted dealership like Mercedes-Benz of Foothill Ranch. These are the pros and cons of a hand car wash: 

Hand Car Wash Advantages

• A More Thorough Clean – Choosing a hand wash car wash means you’ll get a deeper clean because you can reach the small crevices that a touchless car wash might miss. Places like your car’s undercarriage are easier to reach, and you can get rid of those crusty dried bugs on the windshield or headlights. 
• Affordable – Washing a vehicle at home vs. having someone else do it can save you some money. 

Hand Wash Car Wash Disadvantages

• You’ll Pay a Bit More at Specialty Facilities – You’ll pay more if you hire someone to wash your car vs. take the DIY route. However, if you don’t have time or the space for washing your car yourself, it’s likely worth it.
• Car Paint Could Be Damaged – If you hand wash your vehicle too vigorously or frequently, you could damage the paint.

Touchless Car Wash Facts 

A touchless car wash is sometimes called a hands-free car wash, like when you drive your vehicle through an automatic mechanized car wash around Orange County. But they also have some advantages and drawbacks. Find out what they are below: 

Hands-Free Car Wash Advantages

• Convenience – Automated car washes are fast and efficient, and you can be back on Trabuco Canyon roads in under ten minutes.
• Easier on Your Paint – Touchless car washes are more gentle on your car, so you’ll avoid paint scratches. 
• Cheaper Costs – The costs are relatively low because no manual labor is needed for a touchless car wash. 

Hands-Free Car Wash Disadvantages

• End Result Might Be Unsatisfactory – Because automatic car washes are more gentle on your paint, they don’t always remove stuck-on debris. 
• Water Spots – The air dryers at the end of an automatic car wash are designed to remove remaining water droplets, but they can still leave hard water spots.