How Pressure Washing Affects Your Car’s Paint Job

pressure washing car There's a common belief among DIY car enthusiasts that pressure washing is the ultimate way to get your vehicle spotless and looking brand-new. It’s seen as a faster, more efficient alternative to hand-washing and waxing the exterior.

In recent times, many people have been leaning towards pressure washing their cars at home, especially with social distancing measures in place. But it’s important to remember that improper use of a pressure washer can lead to serious damage, such as removing the paint and exposing the bare metal, which could eventually result in rusting.

Before you dive into this DIY project, here are some crucial tips you need to keep in mind.

Mastering the Art of Pressure Washing Your Car

Contrary to what most people think, pressure washing isn’t just about blasting your car with a powerful stream of water. These systems come in either electric or gas-powered varieties, and adjusting the PSI (pounds per square inch) is key to avoiding damage. Additionally, the type of nozzle you use matters a lot—different angles offer varying levels of intensity. Many models allow you to add soap or a cleaning agent to enhance the cleaning process.

To avoid damaging your car's paint job, follow these guidelines:

  • PSI and GPM: PSI refers to the pressure at which water is expelled, while GPM (gallons per minute) indicates the volume of water being released. Together, they determine the cleaning efficiency. For a standard car, stick to a PSI between 1,200 and 1,900 and a GPM around 1.4 to 1.6, providing a total of 1,900 to 2,800 cleaning units. Anything higher can easily wear down the paint.
  • Electric vs. Gas: Electric pressure washers are usually safer for delicate tasks like cleaning a car since they don’t produce as much force. Using a gas-powered model increases the risk of damaging the paint or even cracking your car windows.
  • Nozzle Angle: The nozzle ranges from 0 to 65 degrees, with lower angles producing a concentrated stream. A nozzle angle of 15 degrees or higher is recommended for rinsing or applying soap, whereas lower angles are far too aggressive for the car’s surface.
  • Parking Considerations: Pressure washing poses a danger to nearby objects like plants, fences, and pavements, and it can also be hazardous to people and pets. Ensure your car is parked away from everything sensitive before you start washing.

After taking these precautions, double-check that all windows, doors, and trunks are closed. Start by rinsing off any loose dirt or mud from a distance of four to five feet. Afterward, apply a suitable detergent that’s compatible with both your pressure washer and your car. If you're planning to use a brush alongside the pressure washer, make sure it’s clean and free of debris to prevent scratching the surface.

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes while working, as the pressure washer’s stream can be surprisingly strong and might cause injury to exposed skin.

Potential Pitfalls of Pressure Washing

Despite its appeal, Consumer Reports advises against pressure washing your car due to the significant risks involved. High PSI can easily strip paint or create scratches, allowing rust to form on the exposed metal. Furthermore, the powerful spray can send small stones and dirt flying, causing further abrasion on the surface.

Even beyond these major concerns, pressure washing often results in more harm than good, particularly for inexperienced users:

  • Many car owners neglect to thoroughly clean the car’s surface and undercarriage before pressure washing, leaving dirt trapped on the surface. This dirt, combined with the intense water stream, can become abrasive and leave unsightly scratches all over the paint.
  • If the paint is already chipped, a pressure washer can worsen the problem by widening cracks or causing the paint to peel off completely.
  • Older or classic vehicles are more prone to rust, making them poor candidates for pressure washing. Age plays a significant role in how quickly rust sets in.
  • Improper usage, such as standing too close, using excessively high PSI, washing from bottom to top, keeping the stream stationary for too long, or washing near fragile surfaces or gravel, can lead to unintended damage.
  • Parts like the engine, under the hood, and components made of plastic or rubber should never be pressure washed. However, a low-pressure stream can help clear mud, salt, and debris from the undercarriage.
  • While detergent enhances cleaning, some mistakenly use dish soap or laundry detergent, neither of which are safe for cars, and fail to dilute the solution adequately before beginning.

If you'd rather avoid the potential pitfalls of pressure washing your car, consider bringing it to DaSilva’s Auto Body for professional exterior detailing and rust removal services. Contact our Naugatuck location to schedule an appointment today.

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