Self serve car washes are convenient, easy to use, and can save you time and money. But if you’re not familiar with how they work, it can be confusing. In this article, we’ll show you how to use a self serve car wash and give you tips on how to get the best results.
What is a self serve car wash?
A self serve car wash is a type of car wash where you do the work yourself. Instead of paying for a full-service wash, you use the equipment provided to clean your own car. Self serve car washes are usually coin-operated, but some accept credit cards or mobile payments.
How to use a self serve car wash
Using a self serve car wash is easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Choose the right bay
Self serve car washes have different bays for different types of cleaning. Look for a bay that has the equipment you need. For example, some bays have high-pressure hoses for washing off dirt, while others have brushes for scrubbing the car’s surface.
Step 2: Insert your payment
Most self serve car washes require payment before you can start using the equipment. Insert your coins or card into the payment machine and follow the instructions.
Step 3: Apply soap
Once you’ve paid, it’s time to apply soap to your car. Look for a button or lever that dispenses soap and spray it all over your car. Be sure to cover all surfaces, including the wheels and tires.
Step 4: Scrub the car
After applying soap, it’s time to scrub your car. Use a brush or sponge to scrub the surfaces, paying special attention to areas with heavy dirt or grime. Don’t forget to scrub the wheels and tires as well.
Step 5: Rinse off the soap
Once you’ve scrubbed your car, it’s time to rinse off the soap. Look for a high-pressure hose or wand and spray off all the soap. Be sure to rinse thoroughly, making sure there’s no soap left on the car.
Step 6: Apply wax
If the self serve car wash has a wax option, consider using it. Wax will help protect your car’s paint and give it a nice shine. Look for a button or lever that dispenses wax and spray it all over your car.
Step 7: Rinse off the wax
After applying wax, it’s time to rinse it off. Use the high-pressure hose or wand to rinse off all the wax, making sure there’s no residue left on the car.
Step 8: Dry your car
Once you’ve finished rinsing off the wax, it’s time to dry your car. Use a towel, chamois, or air dryer to remove all the water from the car’s surface. Be sure to dry all the nooks and crannies, including the wheels and tires.
Tips for using a self serve car wash
Here are some tips to help you get the best results when using a self serve car wash:
Tip 1: Bring your own supplies
While most self serve car washes provide all the equipment you need, it’s a good idea to bring your own supplies as well. This includes a bucket, sponge, and soap. Using your own supplies will help you get a better clean and save you money in the long run.
Tip 2: Pre-wash your car
If your car is really dirty, consider pre-washing it before using the self serve car wash. This will help remove the heavy dirt and grime, making it easier to clean your car at the wash.
Tip 3: Don’t forget the undercarriage
When using a self serve car wash, it’s easy to forget about the undercarriage. But this area can get just as dirty as the rest of the car. Look for a high-pressure hose or wand that can reach the undercarriage and give it a good clean.
Tip 4: Use the right amount of soap
Using too much soap can leave a residue on your car, while using too little won’t give you a good clean. Follow the instructions on the soap dispenser and use the right amount for your car.
Tip 5: Rinse thoroughly
Make sure you rinse off all the soap and wax thoroughly. Leaving soap or wax on your car can damage the paint and leave streaks.
Conclusion
Using a self serve car wash is easy and convenient. By following these tips and steps, you can get a great clean for your car without spending a lot of time or money. So next time you need to wash your car, consider using a self serve car wash.