Automatic car washes?

[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.

[Mike_Yi]

Car washes are, in general, really bad for your paint. In order to keep costs down, the water is reused. They filter it for solid dirt, but the more it is used, the more acidic it becomes.

[bowbyeal]

Thanks to everyone for your helpful replies.

I am now convinced I should go the "No Rinse" method in my heated condo garage when I can't get to a hose and when outside temp goes below freezing.

Thanks, again.

[Perfectlap]

Which reminds me I have put in another order.

If you sign up for the detailcity.com newsletter they'll send you a discount code.

This bottle is good for a least 16 washes.

No Rinse

[bowbyeal]

Done.

Thanks Perfectlap

[husker boxster]

I realize I'm late to the conversation and glad you've decided against using an automatic wash. I just wanted to add a couple items that haven't been discussed yet, but are important. I ran my previous Box through a touchless wash the first winter I owned it. It ended up knicking my nice Sport Classic IIs. The other item to mention is a Boxster is very low and may have trouble clearing everything without scraping. That can't be good.

+1 on using the coin operated hand wash.

[bowbyeal]

Thanks for the tips.

All the replies I have received about my question were extremely helpful in getting me on the right track. Very educational.

An excellent forum.