Expert: Bob - 11/27/2009

Question
I have a 2006 Solara Convertible that is desperately in need of a wash.  Normally I take to be hand washed but because it's so cold, no shops are open.  Can I take a rag top through a car wash?

Thanks,


Answer
Yes, you can take the ragtop through a carwash. Check with friends, the Internet, so on and so forth and find the best one in your area. Talk to the manager and tell him or her of your concerns.

Take pictures of the the car just before you go, focusing on the mirrors, license plates and items that can be damaged.(Cellphones are great for this.) Check the car before you leave the facility. This way if you have a problem you can bring it to the attention of the management.

I recently took my car through a carwash.(This was the first time ever for this car in 8 years) I was not at all happy with the service and would not go back.

Sometimes, if I don't have easy access to my garage I will go over to a self-serve wash and just pressure wash it down without washing just to get the dirt off. If you have a good wax on the car this will help a great deal.

I hope this helps,

Bob