As a car owner, washing your car is an essential task. However, in Hong Kong, washing conditions can be restrictive due to the need for a water source and space. Thus, there are many car wash services available, each using different methods such as traditional hand washing, computerized washing, contactless washing, and DIY car wash facilities. What are the differences between these methods, and what should you pay attention to when choosing?

Let’s explore the features of each car washing method so you can ride a clean and shiny car under the autumn-winter breeze. 

Is Not Washing Your Car Harmful?

Although some car owners don't mind their vehicles getting dusty and consider washing optional, washing your car not only gives it a shiny look but also helps reduce the risk of water-related damage. 

If a car is not maintained regularly, dust and debris can accumulate in areas like the rear trunk and drainage channels. When these areas lose their drainage function, water from heavy rain can enter the cabin, leading to carpet or ceiling stains, or even affecting electronic components, with potentially serious consequences.

Comparison of Washing Methods: Hand Washing

Hand washing is the most traditional method, with costs ranging from $100 to $200. In addition to regular car wash shops, there are also door-to-door car wash services available online. Hand washing allows for targeted cleaning of different parts of the car, but the time required depends on the number of people working. For a one-person shop, it can take about 30 minutes, resulting in a longer wait time.

Hand Washing typically involves rinsing the car to remove dust, applying car wash foam by hand, and then rinsing off the foam and drying the car with a piece of cloth. Be aware that the drying cloth may have been used multiple times and could contain dust and small particles, potentially causing minor scratches on the car's surface.

Comparison of Washing Methods: Contactless Washing

Contactless washing is a popular method in recent years, costing around $100 to $200. The entire process, from rinsing to applying foam and drying, is automated by computers, with no physical contact with the car, minimizing the risk of scratches. The process is quick, taking about 10 minutes, and drivers can stay in their vehicles.

Since the process is fully automated, it cannot target specific areas for additional cleaning. What’s more, relying solely on strong air blowers to remove water may leave water spots in gaps like the windshield area and lower parts of the car, so some manual touch-ups may be necessary afterward.

Comparison of Washing Methods: Computerized Washing

Computerized washing costs from around $100 to $200 and uses rotating brushes to clean the car. Although it is effective at removing dirt, the hard brushes can damage the paint and may pick up debris from previous cars, potentially causing scratches.

Recently, many computerized washes have switched to soft cloth brushes to reduce paint damage. Some facilities also offer manual brushing to enhance cleaning.

Comparison of Washing Methods: DIY Self-Service Car Wash

Quite a few car enthusiasts prefer doing it themselves, which has made DIY car wash facilities increasingly popular.

It costs around $60 to $80 for 45 minutes, and these facilities offer comprehensive equipment including high-pressure water guns, foam guns, air blowers, and powerful vacuums. Some even provide clean drying towels, so users don't need to bring their own tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should You Wash Your Car in the Rain?

If your car is covered in dust and then exposed to acidic rain, it can damage the paint over time, causing it to lose its shine. Ideally, you should wash your car before it rains and apply a water-repellent coating to prevent rainwater from sticking to the paint.

Does Foam Improve Cleaning?

Foam provides lubrication, making it easier to remove dirt from the paint. To generate more foam, add car wash solution to half a bucket of water and then add more water while using the flow to create additional foam.

Which is Better: Sponge or Wash Mitt?

Sponges have many pores that can trap dirt and debris, potentially scratching the paint. Wash mitts, usually made from microfiber, can absorb dirt between fibers, and can be cleaned easily with water or a small amount of detergent.

Is It Okay to Wash Your Car Right After Driving?

The engine and brake components are heated after driving, and immediately applying water can cause thermal contraction and expansion issues. It's best to wait about 10 minutes for the vehicle to cool down before washing, starting from the top of the car and finishing with the wheels.