As car owners, we know that our vehicles are more than just a way to get from point A to point B. They’re an extension of ourselves and reflect our personalities and style. We take pride in keeping them in pristine condition, whether it’s through regular oil changes, tune-ups, or regular carwashes.
However, not all carwashes are created equal. While a quick wash and rinse may seem like enough to keep your car looking clean, it’s not always enough to maintain its value and performance over time. That’s where undercarriage car washes come in.
In this article, we’ll dive into why undercarriage car washes are essential for the health of your car and how they can help you maintain its value. We’ll also take a closer look at the undercarriage car wash process and how it works, so you can see firsthand why it’s such an essential part of regular car maintenance.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply looking to keep your car in top shape, this article is for you. So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into the world of undercarriage car washes.
What Is an Undercarriage Car Wash?
An undercarriage carwash is a type of car wash that focuses on cleaning the underside of your car. This includes;
- suspension
- exhaust system
- transmission
- brake lines
- front and back axles
The undercarriage of your car is exposed to debris such as dirt, mud, salt, and other contaminants that can accumulate over time and cause damage to your vehicle.
An undercarriage car wash uses high-pressure water and specialized cleaning solutions to remove this debris and keep your car in top condition.
Why Is an Undercarriage Car Wash Important?
Now that we know what an undercarriage carwash is, let’s dive into why it’s crucial. Here are some reasons why you should consider getting an undercarriage car wash regularly:
Prevent Rust and Corrosion
One of the most significant benefits of getting an undercarriage carwash is preventing rust and corrosion from developing on the metal parts of your car. Rust and corrosion can cause structural damage to your vehicle and lead to expensive repairs.
An undercarriage car wash can help prevent this damage by removing salt and other corrosive substances from your car’s undercarriage.
We get cold winters here in Pennsylvania. The roads are treated with salt to prevent icing. This salt can accumulate on the undercarriage of your car and lead to rust and corrosion.
An undercarriage car wash can help remove this salt and protect your car from damage.
Protect Suspension and Exhaust System
Your car’s suspension and exhaust system are located underneath the vehicle and are vulnerable to damage from the debris on the road. Over time, this debris can cause damage to these critical components and lead to costly repairs. An undercarriage car wash can help protect these parts and prolong their lifespan.
If you frequently drive on roads with potholes or rough terrain, your car’s suspension may be exposed to debris that can cause damage. Regularly getting an undercarriage car wash can remove this debris and prevent damage to your suspension and exhaust system.
Increase Resale Value
When it comes time to sell your car, you want to get the highest resale value possible. A well-maintained vehicle with a clean undercarriage is more attractive to potential buyers than one that shows signs of neglect. By going through an undercarriage carwash regularly, you can increase the resale value of your car and make it more appealing to buyers.
If you’re selling your car, a potential buyer may inspect the undercarriage to check for signs of rust or corrosion. If they see that your vehicle has been well-maintained with regular undercarriage car washes, they may be more willing to pay a higher price.
Improve Overall Appearance
Getting an undercarriage car wash can improve the overall appearance of your car. A clean undercarriage can make your car look newer and more well-maintained. This can also make you feel better about driving your vehicle, which is always a plus.
For example, if you’re driving a high-end car, you want it to look its best. Regular undercarriage car washes can help keep your vehicle looking clean and polished, improving its overall appearance and making you feel proud to drive it.
How Is an Undercarriage Car Wash Done?
At Drake’s Carwash, we use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to clean your car thoroughly. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the undercarriage carwash process works:
Step 1: Drive Onto the Conveyor Belt
You’ll be directed to drive onto our conveyor belt when you arrive at our carwash. Our friendly staff will guide you onto the belt and ensure your car is positioned correctly. Once your vehicle is in place, the wheels are locked to prevent movement during the wash.
Step 2: Remove Loose Debris
The undercarriage of your car is often the dirtiest part, as it collects dirt, mud, salt, and other contaminants from the road. We use a high-pressure stream of water that sprays from all directions to remove this loose debris. This helps to dislodge any accumulated dirt or debris on the undercarriage.
Step 3: Apply Cleaning Solution
Next, we apply a specially-formulated cleaning solution to the undercarriage of your car. This solution is designed to break down any remaining dirt and grime without causing damage to your car’s sensitive components. Our team ensures that the cleaning solution thoroughly covers every inch of the undercarriage.
Step 4: Rinse With High-Pressure Water
After the cleaning solution has had time to work its magic, we rinse the undercarriage again with a high-pressure stream of water. This removes dirt and grime, leaving your car’s undercarriage spotless. We take care to ensure that every nook and cranny is rinsed thoroughly so there are no areas that are missed.
Step 5: Dry With a Powerful Blower
Finally, we dry your car’s undercarriage with a powerful blower. This ensures that any remaining water is removed and no water spots are left behind. Our team takes the time to ensure that the undercarriage is completely dry so you can drive away confidently.
We’re committed to providing our customers with the best possible carwash experience at Drake’s Carwash. Our undercarriage carwash process is designed to be thorough, effective, and efficient so you can get back on the road as quickly as possible. Visit us today to experience the difference for yourself!
How Often Do I Need to Get an Undercarriage Car Wash?
The frequency of undercarriage carwashes depends on several factors, including the weather conditions in your area, the type of roads you drive on, and how often you drive your car.
As a general rule of thumb, we recommend getting an undercarriage car wash every three months. However, if you live in an area with harsh winter weather or frequently drive on roads exposed to salt, you may want to consider getting an undercarriage carwash more regularly.
Additionally, if you notice any signs of rust or corrosion on the undercarriage of your car, you should get it washed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
At Drake’s Carwash, we offer car wash memberships and subscriptions that make it easy and affordable to get regular undercarriage car washes.
Our Unlimited Plans provide unlimited washes, including the option for undercarriage carwashes, so you can keep your car looking and running its best without breaking the bank.
Types of Carwashes
Now that we’ve discussed the importance of undercarriage carwashes let’s look at the available types of carwashes.
Self-Service Carwashes
Self-service car washes allow you to wash your car using the equipment and cleaning solutions provided. These car washes are typically the least expensive option but require more effort and time.
Touchless Carwashes
Touchless carwashes use high-pressure water and cleaning solutions to clean your car without physically touching it. These carwashes are an excellent option if you’re concerned about potential damage to your car’s paint job.
Automatic Carwashes
Automatic carwashes are the most common type of carwash available at most gas stations and car wash facilities. These carwashes use high-pressure water, brushes, and cleaning solutions to clean your car quickly and efficiently.
Full-Service Carwashes
Full-service carwashes provide the most comprehensive cleaning for your car and typically include undercarriage carwashes. These carwashes may include other services such as waxing, detailing, and tire shine. Full-service carwashes are the most expensive option but provide the most thorough cleaning for your car.
Common Car Washing Mistakes to Avoid
While regular car washes are essential for maintaining the appearance and performance of your car, there are also common mistakes that car owners make that can harm their vehicles. Here are a few common car washing mistakes to avoid:
Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Type of Soap
Not all soaps are created equal, and using the wrong type of soap can harm your car’s paint job. Avoid using household cleaners or dish soap, as these can strip your car’s protective wax coating and leave your paint exposed to damage.
Instead, use a soap that’s specifically designed for cars. These soaps are formulated to be gentle on your car’s paint while removing dirt and grime.
Mistake 2: Not Rinsing Properly
Rinsing your car thoroughly after washing is essential to remove all soap residue. If soap residue is left on your vehicle, it can cause streaks and water spots that can be difficult to remove.
Make sure to rinse your car thoroughly with clean water, taking care to get into all the nooks and crannies.
Mistake 3: Using the Wrong Towel
Using the wrong towel to dry your car can scratch the paint. Avoid using regular towels or cloths, as these can leave behind tiny fibers that can scratch the surface of your vehicle.
Instead, use a microfiber towel designed to be gentle on your car’s paint and won’t leave any fibers behind.
Mistake 4: Washing in Direct Sunlight
Washing your car in direct sunlight can harm your car’s paint job. The heat from the sun can cause the soap to dry too quickly, leaving streaks and water spots on your vehicle.
Instead, try to wash your car in a shaded area or on a cooler day when the sun isn’t as intense.
Mistake 5: Neglecting the Undercarriage
While the top of your car may be the most visible, the undercarriage is just as essential to maintain. Neglecting the undercarriage can lead to rust and corrosion, which can cause serious damage to your car over time.
That’s why regular undercarriage carwashes are so important. By getting your car’s undercarriage cleaned regularly, you can prevent rust and corrosion from forming and ensure that your vehicle stays in top condition.
By avoiding these common car washing mistakes and getting regular undercarriage carwashes, you can ensure that your car stays looking and running its best for years to come.
Should You Get a Car Wash Subscription?
Getting an undercarriage car wash is an integral part of maintaining the value of your car.
In addition to undercarriage car washes, we offer various other services, including tire shining and waxing. We offer memberships and subscriptions that provide unlimited washes, making it easy and affordable to keep your car looking and running its best.
If you’re in the Pittsburgh or Cranberry areas, we invite you to visit our website to learn more about our services and pricing. Our website details our carwash locations, services, and pricing. You can also sign up for our newsletter for exclusive discounts and promotions.
At Drake’s Carwash, we’re committed to providing our customers with the best possible carwash experience, so contact us today to get your car washed and keep it looking and running its best!