E-car in the car wash: All tips

Can you take an e-car to the car wash?

In short: Yes, you can drive your e-car into the car wash. Electric cars are generally suitable for driving through automatic car washes. The entire high-voltage technology – including the battery, control electronics and charging ports – is installed in such a way that it works safely even in very wet conditions.

However, the prerequisite is that you pay attention to a few important points. These include certain presettings on the vehicle, the correct gear and the correct behavior when washing. Because: Mistakes in preparation can lead to damage to your vehicle or the car wash.

With the e-car to the car wash: What you need to consider

To ensure that your e-car gets through the car wash safely and without any problems, you should consider the following tips:

Tip 1: Read the operating instructions

Every e-car is slightly different. Your vehicle's owner's manual contains important information on how to prepare your model for the car wash. Some manufacturers provide special information on the gear, locking or assistance systems that can be deactivated.

Tip 2: Deactivate windshield wipers

Automatic rain sensors or interval switches can be activated unintentionally during the washing process. That's why you should switch off the windshield wiper – especially the front wiper – before entering the building.

Tip 3: Fold in the exterior mirrors

To avoid damage to the mirrors or the car wash, it is better to fold the exterior mirrors manually or automatically before starting the wash.

Tip 4: Lock doors and windows

All doors, windows, sunroof (if equipped) and charging port should be fully closed and locked. This will protect the interiors from water penetration.

Tip 5: Switch off assistance systems

Systems such as the automatic parking brake, parking aids or collision warning systems should be deactivated before washing.

Tip 6: Position the vehicle correctly

When entering the car wash, pay attention to the guide rails and the instruction of the staff. Incorrect positioning can lead to scratches and mechanical damage.

Tip 7: Engage the right gear

Most electric cars should be switched to neutral mode ("N") for the car wash so that they can roll freely. You can find out which gear position is intended for your model in the user manual. Some vehicles require additional settings so that the mode does not automatically deactivate during the entire wash.

Tip 8: Remove the charging cable

Before visiting the car wash, the e-car must of course be disconnected from the power supply. Remove the charging cable completely and close the charging socket to prevent water from entering. Even at public charging points, the vehicle should not be charged immediately before the wash cycle.

Tip 9: Activate Car Wash Mode (if available)

E-car in the car wash: Which gear is the right one?

For most electric cars with automatic transmission, the following applies to the car wash: Gear position "N" (neutral) is the right choice. This is the only way the vehicle can move freely in the car wash without the drive locking.

While "P" (Park) mechanically locks the wheels – for example via a parking lock – "N" ensures that the car remains freely rollable. However, some models require you to manually confirm the "N" position or activate it before the vehicle goes to sleep.

E-car in the car wash: engine on or off?

With a classic combustion engine, it is common to switch off the engine during the washing process. But what about e-cars that do not have an engine in the conventional sense?

As a general rule, the "engine" of an electric car can remain on during washing, as long as the vehicle is in neutral mode. In some models, this is even necessary so that the "N" position remains active. So no real engine running time in the classic sense is necessary, but only an active vehicle status.

Is underbody washing allowed for e-cars?

Yes, underbody washing is allowed in modern e-cars. The high-voltage technology and the battery unit are sealed in such a way that even strong water jets from underbody cleaning do not cause any damage.

Manufacturers such as Volkswagen, Tesla or Hyundai confirm that their vehicles are suitable for underbody washes – as long as they are commercially available car washes.

What should you pay attention to?

• The washing system should be state-of-the-art – older or unmaintained systems can use aggressive cleaning agents or too high pressure.

• No leaks on the vehicle – in the case of damaged seals or older vehicles, it should be checked beforehand that the battery unit is fully protected.

• Pay attention to corrosion protection – underbody washing can help to remove salt residues in winter. At the same time, protective layers (e.g. in older e-cars) should be checked regularly.

Can you wash an e-car at home?

In principle, you are allowed to wash your e-car at home - but not everywhere and not without restrictions. The most important rule: In many cities and municipalities, washing on public roads or unpaved surfaces is prohibited. The reason: environmental and water protection.

Particularly problematic is the runoff of dirty water into the groundwater with oil residues, brake dust or cleaning agents.

If you want to wash your electric car at home, keep the following in mind:

• Tip 1: Make sure
  you have a suitable location Washing is only allowed on sealed surfaces with a connection to the sewer system – preferably with an oil separator.

• Tip 2: Use
  environmentally friendly cleaning products Use biodegradable car shampoos and avoid harsh chemicals.

• Tip 3: Do not use a high-pressure cleaner on sensitive parts
  Charging ports, seals and electronics should not be treated directly with high pressure.

• Tip 4: Don't charge and wash at the same time
  Avoid charging your electric car during the washing process. Even if the technology is well protected, moisture and electricity can pose an unnecessary risk.