If you needed yet another reason to avoid drive-thru car washes...

[AdamsPolishes]

Just a quick backstory:

Had to run to the local home improvement store this past weekend. Stopped to get gas when I was leaving, and the station had one of the drive-thru washes that so many of them have. As I filled up and was driving away, I couldn't help but notice the somewhat startling condition of the brushes in the wash bay:





Of course, the first thought that crossed my mind, and I'm sure the same as all of you, was "STAY AWAY!!!"

However, I have some prototype goods at home that need some testing. Because of this, I made a sacrifice for the greater good, and $8, much gnashing of teeth, and about 90 seconds of tears later, here is what my paint looked like in the bright sun later that day:





And the following morning in different light:








In the interest of full disclosure, my paint was not perfect before hand, but I'd say 95%+. Since the last correction, I've done 2 2-bucket washes and 3 Rinseless Washes on it. Being black, there was a light amount of wash damage that could be seen. However, the amount of damage that this single wash inflicted upon it was pretty shocking, wouldn't you agree?!?

 

[bigrhino]

I try to wash mine by hand but when the winter comes i have no choice but the car wash.

 

[Goodinblack]

I honestly have never seen a wash that dirty though

 

[GalaxyBlackEsky]

When Winter comes go through touch less washes. Also look into Adams Rinseless wash. I use that during the winter great way to wash the car during winter in the garage.

 

[AdamsPolishes]

I try to wash mine by hand but when the winter comes i have no choice but the car wash.

Seek out the touchless versions. They use very acidic/harsh soap that will quickly strip wax/sealant, but they are a much better alternative that the one I went though.

I honestly have never seen a wash that dirty though

I'm not sure if it was truly filthy, or if the fibers were wore off the backing material. Either way, absolute hell on paint!

When Winter comes go through touch less washes. Also look into Adams Rinseless wash. I use that during the winter great way to wash the car during winter in the garage.