Before you take your pickup truck through a carwash, make sure to check if it will fit in the tunnel and consider its size. Measure the height of your truck and fold in the side mirrors. Some car washes may not be suitable for larger trucks or ones with dual wheels. Remove loose items like antennas and extra lights to avoid any damage. If you're unsure, think about using a touchless wash or washing by hand for a gentle clean. By getting your truck ready and choosing the right wash, you can ensure a safe and scratch-free experience.
TLDR
- Check how tall your pickup truck is, including any extra parts like lift kits and antennas, to make sure it fits in the car wash.
- Fold in your side mirrors and take off any extra lights or accessories to avoid them getting damaged in the wash.
- You might want to choose a touchless or soft-cloth brush car wash for a gentle cleaning, or hand wash it for extra care.
- Take out loose items like antennas and items from the truck bed to prevent them from getting lost or damaged.
- Drive slowly through the car wash, especially if you have a dual-wheeled truck or a long bed, to keep your vehicle safe.
Carwash Clearance Height Considerations
When checking if your pickup truck will fit in a carwash, make sure to measure the tallest point, including any added features like lift kits, antennas, or extra accessories. This way, you can avoid damaging your truck or the car wash equipment. Don't forget to consider the height of your antenna, as it's vulnerable during the wash. Also, remember to fold in your side mirrors to prevent them from getting damaged. By being cautious, you can safely drive through the car wash without worrying about harming your vehicle.
Measuring Your Pickup Truck's Size
To ensure a smooth car wash, first measure your pickup truck's height from the top point, including any extras like a lift kit. Watch out for antennas that could get damaged. Width is usually fine, but dual-wheeled trucks or long beds might cause trouble. Remove big side mirrors, extra lights, and fancy chrome to avoid damage. By getting your truck's size right, you can confidently go through the car wash.
Automatic Car Wash Limitations
Automatic car washes have their limits, so it's important to know them to protect your pickup truck's paint and extras. Some car washes with brushes can scratch your truck's paint, but touchless ones are safer. They use strong jets of water to clean without touching your truck. These touchless washes work for trucks of all heights and are gentler on your paint. If you prefer a brush wash, remove loose items like the antenna to prevent damage. Look for a soft-cloth brush wash, as they are usually gentle on your truck. Knowing these limits will help you make sure your pickup truck gets a safe and good clean.
Hand Washing for Gentle Cleaning
Gentle cleaning is important for keeping your pickup truck's paint in good shape. Hand washing is a great way to avoid scratches and swirl marks. Use a soft cloth or microfiber wash mitt to gently wash your truck with soapy water. Rinse well to get rid of all dirt and grime. Dry your truck with a soft towel to prevent water spots and keep it shiny. Regular hand washing not only keeps your pickup truck looking nice but also helps you spot any issues that need fixing.
Pre-Carwash Preparation Tips
Before you drive your pickup truck through a car wash, take a few minutes to get it ready for a safe and damage-free wash. Measure your truck's height, including any changes you've made, to ensure it will fit through the car wash without any issues. Fold in your side mirrors tightly and remove any extra lights to avoid them getting damaged. Clear out the truck bed and take out anything that's not waterproof to prevent damage from water and strong cleaning chemicals used in touchless car washes. If your truck has delicate features, think about going to a manual car wash instead. By getting your truck ready, you'll keep it looking good and avoid any harm. A touchless car wash with mild cleaning chemicals can be a good choice, but always check the car wash's capabilities first.
Conclusion
Can you drive a pickup truck through a carwash? It depends on how tall your truck is and the carwash's clearance. Measure your truck's height and compare it to the carwash's clearance. If it fits, be careful, remove loose things, and retract antennas. If it's too tall, consider a hand wash or a specialized truck wash. Make sure to clean gently to protect your truck's exterior. By doing it right, you can keep your pickup truck clean and in good shape.