How to Use a Ryko, LaserWash, or Self-Service Car Wash

A good wash keeps your car free of salt, dirt, and debris. Gas stations offer a range of user-friendly wash options.
Written by Bellina Gaskey
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
Washing a car at a gas station tends to be user friendly. Automated kiosks will typically run the operator through a step by step process. The bad news is that you might come across a couple different types of systems, namely Ryko and LaserWash.
So, here's how to use a car wash at a gas station, with a little help from
car insurance
comparison and broker app
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.
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How to use Ryko car wash machines

There are a few steps to using a Ryko machine. Here's a quick rundown.

Find a suitable Ryko location

With more than 4,750 locations nationwide, you're bound to drive past a
Ryko
at some point. First, you just need to find one near you. This can usually be done on Google maps.

Drive up to a Ryko payment kiosk

The Ryko car wash system is designed with ease-of-use in mind. First, pull up to the kiosk as you would with a fast food drive-thru. Use the payment kiosk and input the form of cleaning you would like. Certain additional cleaning options may be requested to give your car a waxy shimmer at the end of it.

Drive through the Ryko washer tunnel

Drive through into the washing tunnel once you're done with the kiosk. Ryko's ultrasonic vehicle detection will pinpoint your car so the cleaning can commence.
During this stage, it's time to sit back while the automated wash does its thing. When the wash is complete, a ringer will sound. When it does, drive slowly through the dryer section of the tunnel. As you get out of the tunnel, make sure to be safe and slow. Your windshield may still be obscured from the wash, and nearby cars may not have the chance to see you emerge from the washing tunnel.
More: How to wash a car at home

How to use a LaserWash car wash

LaserWash
is different from a typical car wash like Ryko because it's touchless. There are no rollovers making direct contact with the car's paint. This may be a little more expensive, but it virtually eliminates any chance of your car getting scratched during the washing process.

Drive up to the payment kiosk and input service options

Much like a Ryko station, drive slowly up to the payment station. Input the type of clean you want and offer card payment when prompted. You can get extra add-ons like clear coat protection for an extra fee.

Drive in and sit tight during the wash

Stay in your car while the cleaning is happening. A LaserWash should take a few minutes to complete the wash. Keep your windows rolled up to prevent water from getting in.
There should be a beeping sound to indicate when it's safe to drive ahead through the dryer portion and out the other end.
More: How to clean your dashboard

How to wash a car with a self-service station

Using a self-service station is typically cheaper than the full-fledged automated drive-ins. However, it also means getting out of your car and doing the dirty work yourself. So, here's what to do if you come across a gas station with self service car wash.

Input payment and service options

Pull into an alcove that is designated for self-service car washes. From a payment kiosk, order the water and supplies needed to go through with the cleaning. When you're paying, it's valid to keep in mind that your dollar will go further with prepaid services rather than a coin-operated machine.

Wash evenly and thoroughly

Self-service is not recommended if you don't know how to wash a car properly yourself. It may not be a form of rocket science per se, but you will need to make sure you have your bases covered. Apply lots of water and suds to the car, and apply the cleaning evenly across the surface.

Dry the car after washing

After the washing, you should put just as much effort into properly drying off the car.
The important thing in this case is that the soap suds are rinsed off before they have time to settle. Leaving undried patches of soap could result in streaks that will show up badly on your car. Washing your car in the middle of a sunny day helps to speed up the drying process.
Remember, experts recommend that you wash your car
every two weeks
. So find a car wash method that works best for you to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape! (And don't forget the
interior
as well.)
Also remember that you'll need the right insurance to protect your vehicle should anything go awry. For the best rate, try using the
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