Hand Car Wash vs. Touchless Car Wash

If you’re considering washing your car this weekend, you’ve likely heard the terms, hand car wash (washing your car yourself instead of paying for the service) and hands-free/touchless car wash (an automated drive-through service). If you’re wondering, “Are touchless car washes better?”, or if you should opt for a hand-car wash, there are advantages and disadvantages to both methods. Keep reading to compare the perks of hand car washes vs. touchless car washes below. Then, if you think your vehicle needs one, schedule for a professional deep cleaning near Hamilton at Mercedes-Benz Burlington.

Hand-Wash Method Facts

When your vehicle requires thorough washing, a hand car wash is an optimal choice. You can do this yourself at home or find skilled hand-washes at dealerships like Mercedes-Benz Burlington. Consider the following pros and cons:

Hand Car Wash: Advantages

• A Thorough Clean – Opting for a hand wash car wash means a deeper clean for your car, as you can reach the many spaces that an automated touchless car wash may miss. In addition, places like the undercarriage become accessible, allowing you to get rid of eyesores like dried bugs on the windshield or headlights.
• Affordable – Washing your car at home has minimal costs. After the initial investment in cleaning products and tools, it is practically free.
• Superior Cleaning Products – It is easier than ever to purchase high-quality products, effective and efficient products, environmentally friendly products, and every product you require to hand-wash your car from a big-box retail store or online.

Hand Car Wash: Disadvantages

• Specialty Facilities are Costly – Naturally, you’ll pay more if you get your car washed at a dealership or specialty facility than taking the DIY route. However, you may not have the cash on hand to pay for a hand-wash from a facility.
• You Might Not Have Space: If you live in a dense urban area or an apartment complex, you may not have space or access to a water hose.
• Possible Damage to Your Car – Washing your car too frequently and using improper equipment could lead to unnecessary damage to your car’s paint.

Touchless Car Wash Facts

Also known as a hands-free car wash, a touchless car wash is the automatic car wash you loved going through as a kid. So, are touchless car washes better? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons:

Hands-Free Car Wash Advantages

• Convenience – Automated car washes are designed for speed and efficiency and can have your car cleaned in about 10 minutes or less.
• Easier on Your Paint – Touchless car washes are designed not to damage your car.
• Cheaper Costs – A touchless car wash is an automated process that involves no manual labour. Removing the human element reduces the cost.

Hands-Free Car Wash Disadvantages

• Unsatisfactory results – A hands-free car wash protects your car’s exterior from damage, using equipment designed to clean but not power-wash. Unfortunately, therefore, you may still have dirt and grime on your vehicle.
• Water Spots – The air dryers at the end of the car wash may leave your car with water spots.
• Improper Cleaning Fluids – The chemicals in the washing and waxing fluids might be harmful to your car’s paint and clear coat.

What is Car Detailing?

If you’re looking to deep clean your vehicle, you may also want to consult our service department about receiving a car detailing. When your vehicle’s exterior is detailed, the cracks in its paint job will be sealed, the exterior components will be degreased, and the paint will be waxed to restore its shine. As for the interior, your upholstery will receive a deep cleaning in order to remove stains, and torn upholstery will be replaced. This is a perfect complement to a hand car wash if you’re looking to get your car into tip-top shape before putting it on the market, or you’re just looking to give it a full cosmetic makeover.

Get a Professional Hand Car Wash at Mercedes-Benz Burlington

You can rely on the friendly service team at Mercedes-Benz Burlington to treat your Mercedes-Benz vehicle with the utmost care. We will have your car sparkly and shiny for you to show off on your commute from Burlington to Milton. So contact us if you have questions about the differences between a touchless car wash and a hand car wash. Keep an eye out for a coupon for a maintenance or service special, as they change frequently. While you’re here, be sure to explore our other service tips for other helpful reads, including our guide on how to properly clean leather seats.