Everyone knows that electricity and water are a bad combination. So, you might wonder if an EV can go through a car wash. It’s a good question. Here’s more insight on sending your EV through the wash.
Yes! Your EV can get wet, and that means it can go through a car wash. Vehicles need to be able to withstand all types of road conditions, including inclement weather. EVs need to be able to drive in the rain, snow, mud and other wet hazards. It’s important to remember that vehicles are designed to be water-resistant.
Manufacturers construct vehicles specifically to protect sensitive electrical components from water exposure—that also means the engine and charge port on an EV! Afterall, you wouldn’t want water getting inside a gas engine, either. Everything is sealed and insulated to prevent any damage caused by moisture. This means that when you take your EV through a car wash, you don’t have to worry about water seeping into the electrical system.
Ready to get your car a scrub? Whether it’s a drive-through automatic or manual car wash, the employees are well-trained to handle EVs.
Most modern-day drive-through automatic car washes regulate water pressure to ensure a safe level that won’t harm vehicles. That being said, it’s a good idea to confirm that your charging port is shut completely. Some EVs have a built-in mechanism that prevents water from entering the charging port which provides an extra layer of protection. Just to be on the safe side, get into the habit of checking that the charging port cover is closed before getting your vehicle washed.
Another good idea is to make sure the car wash you choose has a good reputation by checking online reviews. You might also want to call in advance and ask the staff if they recommend any precautions for your specific EV before proceeding.
It’s worth mentioning that if you have installed any aftermarket modifications on your EV, such as a body kit, be sure to check with the car wash employees before sending your vehicle through the wash. Certain modifications may require special handling or precautionary measures to prevent damage.
Once your EV goes through the car wash, take a minute to do a quick once over of your vehicle. Check for any water accumulation or unusual drainage. You likely won’t have any concerns due to the water-resistant design of EVs, but it’s smart to check just in case. If you notice anything peculiar after the carwash, you can consult your local dealership service department for guidance or check your owner’s manual.
You can confidently send your EV through a car wash without any concerns as they are designed to be water-resistant just like all other vehicles. Make sure to choose a reputable car wash, check your charging port before spraying with water and enjoy the delight of having a sparkling clean EV.
Contact the any of our dealerships at Ontario Auto Center to learn more about available EVs and how to care for the vehicle.
While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors can occur. Please verify all pricing information with a customer service representative. This is easily done by calling us or visiting us at the dealership.
Customer may not qualify for ALL Rebates shown. Some rebates are stackable and others can and cannot be combined. See Dealer For Complete Details.
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