What is EV washing?
The process of washing an EV is almost the same as any vehicle. Manufacturers make sure the battery and other crucial electrical components are protected during heavy rain and thorough washing. As long as the car has no major damage, it’s completely safe to wash your EV. Large dents, for example, should be fully sealed before applying any water to the car.
Remember to check with local bylaws if washing your car on your property is allowed. If you’re unsure, use a self-serve car wash.
How to wash your EV
Start by hosing down your EV with water, removing loose dirt and debris with a sponge or wash mitt. Working from the top down, use a generous amount of car shampoo to lather the exterior in a foamy coat.
Take care when washing around the charging port and sensors. It’s best to clean this area with a damp cloth, avoiding the electrical contacts. A dry cotton bud can brush away dust and dirt. For stubborn dirt, use electrical contact cleaner.
Don’t forget the tires and wheels! After letting the soap sink in everywhere for a few minutes, rinse it off with water and let the car dry completely.
How long does a car wash take and what does it cost?
Although you can get very meticulous with your car wash, this task only needs a few products and about an hour of your time (or a few minutes with an automatic wash), making it much cheaper and faster than the process of detailing.
You can easily learn to wash your EV yourself, but many drivers prefer to spend $10 to $20 on an automatic car wash. If you need a highly detailed cleaning, a professional service may be the way to go.
What is EV detailing?
When it comes to car care, the difference is “in the details.” While car washing focuses on the exterior of your vehicle, detailing mainly focuses on the interior. EVs typically host many more electronics in their cabin, including touchscreen interfaces. Be sure to use a gentle cleaner made for these surfaces to avoid accidental damage.
How to detail your EV
EV detailing requires tools like a vacuum, microfibre cloths, and various cleaning solutions (i.e., fabric cleaner).
- Vacuum the cabin.
- Wipe down hard surfaces with a damp microfibre cloth (add an interior cleaner for better results).
- Treat leather seats and the steering wheel with a leather balm to maintain their condition.
- Finish up with an odour eliminator to lock in a fresh scent.
Detailing can include your EV’s exterior, as well. For example, a polish and wax can follow a car wash.
Always use the right products for the surface you’re working on. The wrong product could, for example, dry out the leather or leave an oily sheen on hard surfaces.
How long does detailing take and what does it cost?
What detailing services entail and how long they take depends on what you’re looking for and how much you want to spend, but you can expect your bill to be at least $100. Although you can do a quick refresh on your own in about an hour, in-depth EV detailing is best left to an experienced professional who knows the ins and outs of EVs.
To keep your ride looking and performing its best, protect your investment with professional EV detailing services.
Other Resources
When should I precondition an EV?
What does it mean to precondition your electric vehicle? How does it help your EV battery’s range? Find your answers here.
Why can’t you tow an electric car?
Need to get your EV towed? Find out what precautions to take and what kind of towing to request from roadside assistance.
Back-to-school maintenance: Get your hybrid’s high-voltage battery checked
As you get ready for back-to-school season, don’t forget to have your hybrid’s battery checked. Here’s why.