Automatic car wash?

[Sammy]

I must admit that I haven't read the manual from cover to cover. I am wondering if you can put these cars through an automatic car wash? I have the 18" wheels which is also of concern to me. Any thoughts? Does the manual state anything about automatic car washes?

Thanks!

[stumpjumper]

I must admit that I haven't read the manual from cover to cover. I am wondering if you can put these cars through an automatic car wash? I have the 18" wheels which is also of concern to me. Any thoughts? Does the manual state anything about automatic car washes?

Thanks!

bad idea!

not only do you risk destroying the wheels on the guides, but you'll crush the brake cooling ducts (or worse)

plus, you don't want that high pressure water sprayed onto a convertible top, it's just asking for water penetration, and if you have a plastic window you risk scratching it badly

[djantlive]

wash it yourself. it's a 30 min job every 2 weeks.

otherwise, find a handwash place but most have tire guides. the brushing and shampoo isn't good for the top's durability. top only needs shampooing every 3-6 month. overwashing wears it and reduces waterproofing.

a detail shop is another option but that gets expensive.

[Sammy]

Do you use the typical car wash soap on everything except the top? How do you clean the bird dooky off of the top (hasn't happened yet, but I'm a realistic person)? Any awesome products out there to clean the wheels? I've always used the Meguir's stuff in the pink bottle, but seeing that this is a Porsche I didn't know if I had to click my heels, kneel down and pray, and then use some sort of magic potion you can only get through Porsche.

[70Sixter]

I like P21S products. Especially their wheel cleaner, which now comes in a thick gel for really dirty wheels. I use Porsche top cleaner treatment, but Raggtop is getting a lot of good buzz in this and other forums. Try this site. http://www.carcareonline.com/

There are plenty of others. Just no automatic car washes! And have fun with your car!

[djantlive]

top can be cleaned with water only most of time. only wash it 2x a year with shampoo. i use porsche top cleaner and protectant. not expensive at all

for wheels, just use water. the painted wheels are smooth and don't require any scrubbing. just a towel. if you need to remove baked on brake dust, try a little wheel cleaner - most brands will do.

[jmorgan456]

I use a local hand wash place all the time -- no probs.

I am sure the detail folks are rolling over -- but I drive it year round in CT.

[0586slb]

I find that the automatic car washes are great for that 'Brushed Aluminium' look... :lol:

[stumpjumper]

I've been using a lot of the Griot's Garage stuff since it was given to me as a gift and it's been very good, it's online at www.griotsgarage.com