Pressure washers are a terrific resource to wash a vehicle if you are knowledgeable as to how to do so. Believe it or not, there is actually a ‘wrong’ way to perform this exercise, and it can be a costly mistake, so it is wise to heed the warnings.

Calibrate With Care

Before a single drop of water comes out of the pressure washer’s nozzle, have the setting be around 2,000 PSI. The biggest mistake people make when using these types of washers is that they just assume they need 10 times the power generated from a standard garden hose. While we want to use the finite stream in our favor, you also don’t want to blast the paint off of your automobile. Always start at a delicate setting and gradually increase until you reach the desired flow. The setting on your power washer is too high if it starts to sound as if gravel or small rocks are bouncing off of the body.

“Always start at a delicate setting and gradually increase until you reach the desired flow. The setting on your power washer is too high if it starts to sound as if gravel or small rocks are bouncing off of the body”

Pre-Soak Every Surface

The point of a pre-soak is NOT to get rid of all the dirt and debris. Instead, it is to loosen any particles that you do not want to spread when the washer is on a higher setting. Jarring foreign elements before washing is advantageous because they will be easier to clear later on. Don’t forget to soak your wheels and rims just as much as your car exterior.

Spray The Detergent

Some power washers come with tips and nozzles that can be replaced to allow users to distribute liquids other than water, like detergents and cleaners. If you are in possession of just such a model, evenly spray car soap all over the outside until it looks as if it is taking a bath. Never ever penetrate inside the engine. Common sense will get you far in what is a smart approach to take with where to place the chemicals. After you have soaked your automobile with detergent, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. All too often drivers wash immediately after applying soap. It is integral the cleaner bonds with the paint to rid it of its impurities.

It should be noted that if you do not have a pressure washer with replaceable nozzles, then you can apply detergent by an applicator pad or sponge. This isn’t as effective, but can do the trick in a pinch. If you are even remotely concerned about clogging your pressure washer, choose the hand method.

Wash Away!

Standing a few feet away from where you are directing its force, spray the pressure washer to remove all grime and dirt, starting from the top and working your way down. The tactic that is most smooth is to move around the entire vehicle spraying the top, middle and bottom almost like you are walking in a circle. After you are satisfied with the results, wash the wheels and rims efficiently. Tires can handle more power than your car’s paint, so a closer application is just fine.

Conclusion

Making a single mistake pressure washing your vehicle can result in thousands of dollars of damage, not to mention the effort you will have to go through getting a new paint job. The task itself should be routinely performed by auto detailers who can clean effectively and make your vehicle appear flawless.