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How do you use a car wash that's self-service?

What’s the best way to use a car wash that’s self-service? I’m interested in using one, but I’m not really sure how to do it.

avatar
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Self-service car washes are great options for meticulous car owners since they give you the freedom to wash your car exactly as you see fit. You can follow these steps to get started with a self-service car wash:
  • Park your car in the garage bay.
  • Find the payment box and check to see which type of payment it requires. Many machines will accept credit cards, but some will require quarters.
  • Choose your sprayer setting. Some sprayers will have more options than others, but most will offer plain water, soap, and rinse settings. Some will also have wax options, which should be saved for last.
  • If you’d like, remove interior parts that you’d like to wash.
  • Finally, provide payment.
Once you’ve put down the money, you can follow these steps to wash the car:
  • Start by using the pre-wash or wash setting.
  • Cover your car with soap and use the provided tools to scrub at any spots that are
    particularly difficult to clean
    .
  • When you’re done, use the rinse setting to spray off the soap.
  • If you’d like, use the wax setting to polish your car.
  • If you washed any interior parts, be sure to dry them thoroughly before putting them back in your car.
Congratulations—you just washed your car at a self-service car wash!
While you’re waiting for your car to dry, take a minute to save on car insurance with
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MORE: How to wash a car at home
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