Pressure washer?
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 294
Likes: 90
From: PA
Pressure washer?
Just curious...
Do any of you use a pressure washer to wash your cars?
Been washing my cars by hand for ages given that I'm a bit paranoid with car washes... brushes and all. Not sure if its still an issue. See lots of people using pressure washers to wash cars these days. Just wondering if there is some specific guidance on how to do it safely.
I happen to already own one of these
Would be nice if I could use it for cars. Maybe I can try it on my daughter's beater
.
Do any of you use a pressure washer to wash your cars?
Been washing my cars by hand for ages given that I'm a bit paranoid with car washes... brushes and all. Not sure if its still an issue. See lots of people using pressure washers to wash cars these days. Just wondering if there is some specific guidance on how to do it safely.
I happen to already own one of these
Would be nice if I could use it for cars. Maybe I can try it on my daughter's beater
.
Pole Position
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 3,466
Likes: 920
From: wa
I have a very similar SunJoe washer like the one you do, with the automatic mixing tanks. I love it for many things but it’s only *somewhat* helpful with a standard car wash. It is useful on the tires, cleaning wheel wells, inside gas door, used carefully underhood, etc. But I only do those things once a year on average. You still need a gentle wash mit or sponge on the paint, glass, etc.
The biggest time saver/game changer is ceramic or graphene wax/coating. Very long-lasting and makes washes very quick and easy.
The biggest time saver/game changer is ceramic or graphene wax/coating. Very long-lasting and makes washes very quick and easy.
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2021
Posts: 836
Likes: 1,075
From: NJ
I only use a power washer to wash my car. I have it PPF and ceramic coated, so it's really all that is needed. I have a Ryobi washer, foam cannon, and electric leaf blower that takes care of everything, minus some stuff I need to spot treat (wheels, creases, etc.). It's still a 1.5-2 hour process after putting on the ceramic booster, but it works for me.
Lead Lap
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 4,681
Likes: 4,696
From: ON
I also occasionally use a pressure washer but i try and limit the actual output and not strip away the wax. I have a gas powered one for the heavier work like cleaning the underbody of my daily driver but now that i have my custom car detailing garage, i have a hose (regular) and also an electric pressure washer to help with good rinsing power....
I have been eyeing that one from the link posted above (active 2.0) but might be more than i need. I have a Ryobi one that is 1/4 the price and works well for light duty
I have been eyeing that one from the link posted above (active 2.0) but might be more than i need. I have a Ryobi one that is 1/4 the price and works well for light duty
Trending Topics
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 294
Likes: 90
From: PA
So in terms actually using a pressure washer on a car, what would you guys advise with regards to safety recommendations... nozzles, distance... whatever else.
I have heard of ceramic or graphene wax/coating when I was doing the PPF for bumpers. Haven't really given it much thought then. Thinking I should get a quote and go from there. I like the fact that it protects the paint long term and makes it easier to clean.
I have heard of ceramic or graphene wax/coating when I was doing the PPF for bumpers. Haven't really given it much thought then. Thinking I should get a quote and go from there. I like the fact that it protects the paint long term and makes it easier to clean.
ClubLexus Stories
Celebrating Lexus & Toyota from Around the Globe
Top 10 Lexus & Toyotas to Drive Before You Die!
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 Lexus/Toyotas With The LEAST 5-Year Depreciation
Joe Kucinski
Lexus LC500 Convertible Auction: A Preview of Rising Values?
Brett Foote
GX 550 vs TX 550: Best 3-Row Luxury Lexus Family Hauler
Michael S. Palmer
9 Best Lexus Models You Can Buy for Half Price (And 1 You Shouldn't!)
Joe Kucinski
2026 Lexus NX Buyer's Guide: Models, Features, Prices & More!
Brett Foote
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a Lexus TX 550h+ (& 3 Reasons to AVOID!)
Michael S. Palmer
Top 10 Lexus & Toyota Models of the 1990s RANKED!
Joe Kucinski
10 Great Toyotas That Could Have Been Lexus Models
Joe Kucinski
Pole Position
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 2,242
Likes: 1,581
From: CA
So in terms actually using a pressure washer on a car, what would you guys advise with regards to safety recommendations... nozzles, distance... whatever else.
I have heard of ceramic or graphene wax/coating when I was doing the PPF for bumpers. Haven't really given it much thought then. Thinking I should get a quote and go from there. I like the fact that it protects the paint long term and makes it easier to clean.
I have heard of ceramic or graphene wax/coating when I was doing the PPF for bumpers. Haven't really given it much thought then. Thinking I should get a quote and go from there. I like the fact that it protects the paint long term and makes it easier to clean.
I have an old gas pressure washer and I bought some 5.0 nozzles to bring the water volume up and the pressure down. I can use the 40, 25, and 15 degree nozzles with no issues from any distance.
With a good ceramic you can nearly clean the car with just water. If you ceramic your car you have to maintain with a pH neutral soap or it will eventually eat off your ceramic. Automatic car washes are a no. I quit going to the touchless wash and I've noticed my ceramic is lasting A LOT longer. I tried the new Cerakote ceramic and I'm in love. Best one I've used by far.
I'd say my paint is still in good shape. No filter.
Pit Crew
Joined: Jan 2022
Posts: 147
Likes: 298
From: Texas
I use one on my car. It is a small electric Ryobi. Cost about $100 from Home Depot. No problems from using it. I use a 40-degree nozzle, try to keep the nozzle at least a foot from the car, and keep the spray constantly moving.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
joedaddy1
Automotive Care & Detailing
18
Jan 29, 2023 06:45 AM
x10civ
Automotive Care & Detailing
2
Sep 21, 2011 10:35 PM