Touchless car washes and hand car washes: How they're different

 When it's time to get your car back into like-new shape, do you opt for a touchless car wash or head to the driveway for a hand car wash? These two methods of washing your vehicle are actually pretty different, and both have their pros and cons. So which one is right for your N Charlotte Toyota? Our auto service experts at Toyota of N Charlotte are here to explain each in detail to help you decide. 

How are hand car washes and touchless car washes different? 

Hand car washes: Hand car washes are done by hand (obviously). You'll use special car soaps, sponges, microfiber towels, etc. to get your car spic and span and also to dry it at the end of the process and avoid pesky water spots on the paint. 

Touchless car washes: Touchless car washes are mechanized and automated. It's basically a stall that you drive into; once inside, you put your car in park, sit back, and let the machines wash, rinse, and dry your car. 

Which is better for your N Charlotte Toyota? It really boils down to your personal preference. Here are the pros and cons of hand car washes and touchless car washes as explained by our N Charlotte Toyota experts. 

Pros of hand car washes: Hand car washes are completely in your control. You get to choose which products you use, the steps you take, whether or not you repeat any steps, how long it takes, etc. You can also pay as much attention to detail as you want, getting into cracks and crevices, taking care of stubborn spots, and making sure the undercarriage of the car gets cleaned. Hand car washes are also affordable. All you have to pay for is the supplies upfront (all of which you can find at the Parts Store at Toyota of N Charlotte) and then invest your own personal time. 

Pros of touchless car washes: Touchless car washes are super convenient - you literally just sit there while your car gets washed, and it only takes a few minutes for the entire process. They're also gentler on your paint than a hand car wash, and they're relatively affordable, especially if you get a membership or package of them. 

Cons of hand car washes: Hand car washes take time, so if that's one resource you're short on, they might not be a fit for your routine. You can also damage the paint if you don't know what you're doing (for example, a dirty sponge can leave scratches). 

Cons of touchless car washes: Touchless car washes are convenient, but you don't always get the attention to detail you want. You may end up with stubborn spots and stains still after the fact, and your car's undercarriage won't get washed. Plus, sometimes the air dryer at the end just doesn't cut it and you end up with water spots. 

Still have questions or need to shop car wash supplies for your car? Visit Toyota of N Charlotte today! We're just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville and we're open seven days a week at 13429 Statesville Road. Call us at (704) 875-9199!