An exterior car wash typically involves a thorough cleaning of the exterior surfaces of your vehicle. While the exact process may vary depending on the car wash facility or service provider, here are the common steps and components you can expect during an exterior car wash:

Pre-Wash

The car wash process usually begins with a pre-wash stage, where the vehicle is sprayed with water to remove loose dirt, debris, and surface contaminants. This step loosens and softens stubborn dirt, preparing the surface for a deeper clean during the main wash.

Main Wash

After the pre-wash, the car goes through an intensive cleaning stage. A specialized car wash soap or detergent is applied to the exterior surfaces, including body panels, windows, wheels, and tires. This soap effectively breaks down and lifts grime, ensuring a thorough wash.

Brush or Touchless Wash

Depending on the type of car wash facility, there are two main methods for the main wash:

• Brush Wash: In a brush wash, automated or manual brushes with soft bristles are used to agitate the soap and scrub the vehicle’s surfaces. These brushes help reach tough spots and provide a more hands-on clean.
• Touchless Wash: In a touchless wash, high-pressure water jets are employed to blast away dirt and grime from the car’s surface without physical contact. This method relies on powerful water streams and cleaning agents to remove debris.

Rinse

Following the main wash, the vehicle is thoroughly rinsed with clean water to eliminate any remaining soap or dirt. This step ensures a residue-free finish on the car’s exterior.

Drying

To avoid water spots and streaks, the car wash facility will often provide drying options. This may include air dryers, microfiber towels, or a combination of both. Drying can be done manually by technicians or through an automated drying system designed to give a spotless finish.

Additional Services

Many car washes offer optional add-on services for an extra level of care. These may include wheel and tire cleaning, tire dressing, window cleaning, and a final protective wax application to enhance the vehicle’s shine and protect the paintwork.

It’s important to note that different car wash facilities may have variations in their processes and the specific equipment they use. Additionally, some high-end car wash services may offer additional detailing options as part of their exterior wash packages.