Clausen's Car Wash (2024)

FAQs

What happens if you don't wash your car enough? ›

Substances like tree wax or bird droppings are trickier to see than a layer of salt coating the paint, and people often leave these things on the car for too long. Infrequent washings can also cause brake dust to build up and eat through your wheel finishes.

The amount you tip depends on the type and quality of service you receive. Think about the level of effort required. You usually don't need to tip for an automated, mechanical car wash with minimal human supervision. For a basic hand wash, you might tip a few bucks.

This is because the powerful jets of water used in car washes can damage the engine or even cause it to stall if it is left running. In addition to avoiding damage to your engine, turning off your engine during a car wash can also help prevent potential safety hazards.

Car Wash Recommendations

As a general rule of thumb, you should wash your vehicle every two weeks. That is if you're not driving down dirt roads daily or in an area where salt is used on the highways. This is under normal wear and tear circ*mstances.

In general, washing your car once every two weeks will help keep it clean without harming your car's finish. Keeping a regular schedule like this will help keep most automobile finishes from fading excessively and stop the accumulation of dirt and debris in areas that can damage your car's finish or paint.

Tipping Etiquette at Car Washes

While tipping is not mandatory, it is a gesture that is greatly appreciated by those who work in the industry. The best time to give your tip is when the car wash professionals have completed the service and you are satisfied with the results.

Tip car detailers 10-20% of the total bill based on the quality of their work, the size of your vehicle, and how dirty it was when you handed it over. Give car wash attendants $2-5. Tip more for a larger vehicle and/or if they've cleaned the interior, or less if they've just given your vehicle a quick drying.

Standard Service: For a basic wash, a tip of $2 to $5 is appropriate. This range is a good baseline for showing gratitude without overcommitting.

It's very simple. Dirt and grime collect in the areas around your car's wheels. The concentrated spray at professional car washes loosens and rinses the grime, giving you a smoother ride. The spray also helps prevent rusting inside the of the wheel wells - the most difficult type of rust to stop.

Do I put my car in park or neutral for car wash? ›

The car wash system may use lights and arrow indications to assist you in moving your automobile to the right spot. After situating your vehicle, put it in neutral if it has a manual gearbox or park if it has an automatic transmission. Make sure you let go of the brake.

Dirt, salt, and other debris can lead to rust and corrosion on your car. This is especially true in the winter when roads are full of salt. Washing your car regularly will remove these corrosive materials. So don't wait until your car is covered in dirt to give it a wash – make it part of your car care routine.

Washing your vehicle every two weeks is a safe rule of thumb, Progressive officials said. However, those who apply a coat of wax to their vehicle following a cleaning session might be able to get away with longer breaks in between, since it creates a barrier between your car's exterior coat and the elements.

Risks of Not Washing Your Car

The tiny particles of dirt, grime, pollen, or other debris you'll encounter from one season to the next can be acidic and corrosive. They can also be rough in texture, and can readily wear down your car's clear coat.

Scratches or chips in your car's paint. Fading of your car's finish. Rust or other forms of corrosion that can cause damage to components or body panels. Limiting your visibility while driving (aka having a dirty windshield)

Industry experts recommend washing your car about every two weeks as part of its general maintenance schedule. This frequency helps keep your car's exterior clean and free from harmful substances that can cause long-term damage.