Automatic car washes?

[blue2000s]

I've never had a problem with the top leaking, the top and windows are really tightly sealed on my car, so I don't think the pressure would be a problem. Just make sure the top is protected with Ragg Top or another such product that will keep the soap on the surface.

I would never run my car through an automatic car wash that uses brushes. That's just asking for surface scratches. The brushless washes, which don't do such a great job of getting the car really clean at least won't mar the finish, provided they don't use a strong detergent to clean the car. If they do use a detergent, it will strip the wax off the car, in which case, you'll have to wash and wax it again after getting it washed. Either way, it's not the best way to treat your Porsche.

The best solution is to find a water spigot near the house and wash it in the street/driveway with 2 buckets, a dedicated car wash solution and a nice, soft wash mitt.

[FTD]

I think my Owners Manual states to not use high pressure washes, and something is telling me why, but I am afraid to say it because I am not sure why I am thinking it. ha ha But anyway, there are reasons not to. I have used coin ops for a quickie to get dust or sap rinsed off, and I keep a distance with the wand so that the water is not high force when it meets the paint. You might like the coin op, if one is available to you, when it is really cold and you just want to freshen up the exterior.

[shaman1204]

Check into a product called No Rinse wash and shine. I have used it with success and you only need two buckets that you can fill in your sink/bathtub.

[Topless]

I use one of those touchless self serve car washes about once a year or so to clean up the exterior while away from home. No perceived problems so far. 10 yr old paint still looks new... original top A-OK.

[rick3000]

You don't want to get soap on the softtop, so I would recommend using a self-serve car wash. That's what I do in the summer and it's my preference in the winter. Just avoid spraying the top with anything other than water. Occasionally I'll use an automated car wash, but only if it doesn't touch the paint and I have my hardtop on.

[blue2000s]

Originally Posted by rick3000

You don't want to get soap on the softtop

Why not? What does the soap do?

[LoveBunny]

I do remember being advised on this forum not to run my through a car wash, but I couldn't state specifics.

I take mine to my parents' house to wash since they have a better set up. I admit I'm not the best at doing it regularly though. I know we have self service car washes here like someone else mentioned.

[Perfectlap]

canvas and car wash soap are not friends. the detergents attract dust which breaks down the threads. If you get soap on the top rinse it out thoroughly.

one more on the No Rinse solution if you don't have regular access to a hose. You can get away with one bucket of warm water and two shots of the No Rinse. Use a sheepskin mitt or a chenille sponge. dunk the mitt and hold it over each panel to wet down the car. then simply wipe in the direction of the wind. dunk the mit before moving onto another panel. To dry off the car use a waffle weave towel. Probably a good idea to use a spray wax or quick detailer before wiping.
With the remaining water in the bucket use a wheel face brush(Meguiar's Gold Class for intance) and brush down the wheels.

I actually use No Rinse instead of doing a full bucket and hose wash. Cuts down on the paint swirling.