How to Wash a Car With a Pressure Washer

There's nothing quite like the power of a pressure washer for deep cleaning tough grime and stuck-on messes from your car's exterior paint. But wielding this power requires care and caution to avoid swirling scratches, damaged trim or oversprayed finishes.

In this blog we will cover everything related to how to wash a car with a pressure washer. Your job now is to read it through and apply in practice. 

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How to Wash a Car With a Pressure Washer?

Here is a step-by-step guide for washing a car with a pressure washer:

Preparing the car wash area 

Find a shady spot out of the wind with access to a water source. Lay down car wash mats or set up a folding table to keep the car elevated. This will allow water to run off the surface better and prevent water spots.

Rinsing the entire car

Remove any loose dirt and debris with a hose or spray bottle. Give the whole car a rinse with the pressure washer in a sweeping motion, using a wide spray tip. Start at the top and work your way down. Pay attention to wheel wells and bumpers where dirt collects.

Washing from top to bottom

Use a sponge or mitt with car wash soap and wash the roof first, then hood, trunk, and sides of the car. Use a two bucket method with soapy water in one and rinsing water in the other. Wash panels one at a time to avoid streaks.

Washing wheels and tires

Remove wheels and tires and wash them separately with degreaser to remove brake dust. Scrub off any stuck on mud and grime. Use a dedicated sponge and bucket for washing the wheels. Rinse them thoroughly when done.

Rinsing and drying the car

Give the entire car another rinse with the pressure washer to remove all soap residue. Hold the pressure washer at least 18 inches from the surface of the paint for an even coat of rinse water.

Wipe off water

Use microfiber towels, working from top to bottom, to dry the car. Make sure all water has been wiped off to avoid water spots. Use a chamois for the final buffing and shine if desired. Apply a protectant spray wax or sealant if needed.

Done!

Driving away with a clean car! Once everything is dry, you can put the wheels and tires back on. Ensure no dirt or debris ends up on the clean car before driving away with your freshly washed and detailed vehicle.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some useful tips and tricks for washing a car with a pressure washer:

• Use a wide spray tip, around 40 degrees, for larger surfaces like hoods and roofs. Narrower tips, around 15 degrees, are better for tighter areas like wheels, doors and trim.

• Keep the pressure washer 6-24 inches from the surface of the paint when rinsing. Too close can damage the paint, too far won't effectively remove dirt and debris.

• Start at the top (roof) and work your way down using a consistent technique. This prevents water spots from drips running down the sides.

• Wash from left to right or top to bottom for best results. Don't wash in circles.

• Soap up one section of the car at a time, then rinse just that section. This limits the buildup of dirt and soap on the paint.

• Use a microfiber wash mitt or sponge, not Terry cloth towels. Microfiber is very effective at lifting dirt from the surface of the paint.

• Use a leaf blower to dry the wheels and wheel wells. Prevents water spots and gets into all the crevices.

• Apply car wax or sealant after washing and drying for extra shine and protection. A glazed coat of wax will help the next wash be easier.

• Consider using a foam gun for extra dirt and debris removal before washing. It helps loosen bonds on particles for easier washing.

Conclusion

With the proper technique, tools, and patience, you'll be washing your car thoroughly with a pressure washer with ease! If you have any questions, let us know anytime!