Touchless Car Wash

exochris · 10-29-2007, 01:43 AM

I think I recall reading in the user manual not to take the Sky into an automatic touchless car wash (high pressure car wash), but what happens? Does the roof leak? Does it actually, or can it? How serious?

I'm asking as I've had a very bad experience with a full service car wash (which I've posted in another thread) and I definitely don't want to take it to an automatic machine wash cause I know that will scratch it up.

I've been told the warnings are just warnings but nothing bad will happen, I don't want to take the chance unless someone else with a Sky/convertible knows it will be okay.

I don't have the time (or tools/space) to hand clean my car as easily or frequently as I would like.

Thanks

**Skip** · 10-29-2007, 02:19 AM

I myself have taken my Sky to a car wash with the strips hanging down and the instant wax and tire black. I have no problems with leakage or swirls or chipping . The reason I trust this place is because I watched them maintain the hanging down parts and the brushes and the high pressure lines. I worked next door to it when it was being built. I get out and wipe my baby down each time looking for something to say here look at this and it has always been good. But on this forum it is a no no. because the book says no no. If you want to take to, a do it yourself wash with the high pressure nozzle and foaming bubbles just remember do not use the scrub brush because it has garbage in it from prior users. Instead use micro towels. and don't rub hard....Skip....

GetAboutRL · 10-29-2007, 06:06 AM

To most Kappa owners, their Solstice or Sky is not just another vehicle.

It is a classic ... a dream come true ... a trophy ... a special symbol of youth or success. Do you just run that image through any old grubby car wash? Hell no! You wash it by hand with care and affection.

exochris · 10-29-2007, 10:34 AM

lol, nice.

I am referring to a touchless one though. I have hopes that a touchless car wash would clean it without damaging the paint or shine. But I'm concerned about the roof. I had been taking it to a hand wash place, but discovered their towels were scratching the heck out of my shiny body and dash!

Sky4Her · 10-29-2007, 10:37 AM

I have taken mine through a touchless car wash once...just once... when I was in need for a quick touch up...yes, it leakes...A LOT. I would rather park it on my back patio and spend the day detailing so I know it's right, but if you HAVE to take it through the auto washes, use the ones with the brushes and bring your own towel to dry.

exochris · 10-29-2007, 10:45 AM

Yikes! Thanks, that's exactly what I needed to hear.

I wouldn't take it through a normal wash, having a Midnight Blue Metallic one means every little scratch or mar is clearly visible. I guess I'm going to go invest in some good towels and find a manual car wash.

Winter in Colorado!

Rick Tinley Park · 10-29-2007, 11:38 AM

The Owners manual warns you not to use a touchless wash because it MIGHT leak. I have heard of a few owners who got through OK -- but many that had some leakage. I personally hand wash -- but I know that is not an option for some people. . .

DS9Yanks · 10-29-2007, 11:43 AM

What exactly is a touchless car wash?

SkyBaby · 10-29-2007, 12:32 PM

When I looked it up about a week ago... all I read is that it may leak........ well, I have this great mostly hand wash place... and it hasnt leaked yet..... SkyBaby

MidniteBlues · 10-29-2007, 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DS9Yanks

What exactly is a touchless car wash?

A car wash that "doesn't touch" the car, nor clean very well either for that matter--

1Man1Sky · 10-29-2007, 12:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DS9Yanks

What exactly is a touchless car wash?

Its a car wash that's been put on a sex offenders list...not allowed to touch.

Wakka Wakka.

SkyBaby · 10-29-2007, 12:54 PM

LOL...... I dont think the TOUCHLESS ones clean well either.... SkyBaby

1Man1Sky · 10-29-2007, 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SkyBaby

LOL...... I dont think the TOUCHLESS ones clean well either.... SkyBaby

No, they're dirty...hence, being on the sex offenders list.

ba-zing!

Oh, somebody stop me!

MidniteBlues · 10-29-2007, 01:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1Man1Sky

No, they're dirty...hence, being on the sex offenders list.

ba-zing!

Oh, somebody stop me!

MeToo · 10-29-2007, 01:45 PM

I just got mine and it leaked like a sieve when I went through the touchless. Won't be doing that again.

SaturnSkyDude · 10-29-2007, 06:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MidniteBlues

A car wash that "doesn't touch" the car, nor clean very well either for that matter--

A touchless car wash sprays your car with a high pressure stream of water and this is probably why it is not recommended. I believe the owners manual tells you not to spray the water where your top meets the windshield. I have used these with my other vehicles and they don't do a very good job.

duck833 · 10-29-2007, 08:04 PM

I use a touchless car wash when I am lazy and desperate.

What I do is take two microfiber towels with me. When the spray machine hits the front top of the two door windows it will leak. I simply hold one towel up to the top at both points and take care of any leakage, no problem. If any drips hit the seats I use the towels and take care of it.

Actually works pretty good if you have a good wax/sealant on the car and it is not to dirty.

I will not take my car through any car wash that touches the car with any kind of cloth thingy. Or any car wash that has kids drying the car with their dirty towels

I try not to have my dealership wash my car when I take it in, but they did it last time even though I told them not to.

LicketySplit · 10-29-2007, 10:52 PM

I don't like to take mine out in the rain not to mention a car wash! It is my toy and it gets kid glove treatment (microfiber).

kphelgerson · 10-29-2007, 11:07 PM

I've been absent awhile, putting (as of last count) about 4,800 miles on my '08 RL so far. And after several frustrating comments that nothing can be done about roof leakage (including that in a simple downpour), LO and BEHOLD there is now a service bulletin out about that very topic. I didn't get the number of it, but the Saturn service center man in Grand Rapids looked it up as I plead for him to please search for anything like it, and he found it. It involves a tiny smear of clear sealant (probably windshield clear silicone sealant) at the seam of the roof on each side at the front. This is exactly where mine has leaked several times. It has been through several light rains since this free repair was done by them, and so far no leaking. But I still haven't had the guts to go to a touchless wash and try that.

KentuckySky · 10-30-2007, 09:49 AM

I've ran mine through a touchless on a couple of occassions. Of course there are the leaks but the other thing I noticed was that it pressure cleans the "Ragg Top Sealent/protection" off the convertable top. I have to re-apply it each time which costs $$$$. Not to mention that it's still dirty afterwards...

Ruthie · 10-30-2007, 11:13 AM

I took mine thru the touchless wash once. Didn't have any leaks, but because back of car is so short, didn't get it clean whatsoever.

10-29-2007, 01:43 AM	#1 (permalink)
exochris Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Posts: 20 My Photos: (0)	Touchless Car Wash I think I recall reading in the user manual not to take the Sky into an automatic touchless car wash (high pressure car wash), but what happens? Does the roof leak? Does it actually, or can it? How serious? I'm asking as I've had a very bad experience with a full service car wash (which I've posted in another thread) and I definitely don't want to take it to an automatic machine wash cause I know that will scratch it up. I've been told the warnings are just warnings but nothing bad will happen, I don't want to take the chance unless someone else with a Sky/convertible knows it will be okay. I don't have the time (or tools/space) to hand clean my car as easily or frequently as I would like. Thanks

10-29-2007, 02:19 AM	#2 (permalink)
Skip First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: deep in the land of cotton where good times there are not forgotten Posts: 4,614 My Photos: (0)	I myself have taken my Sky to a car wash with the strips hanging down and the instant wax and tire black. I have no problems with leakage or swirls or chipping . The reason I trust this place is because I watched them maintain the hanging down parts and the brushes and the high pressure lines. I worked next door to it when it was being built. I get out and wipe my baby down each time looking for something to say here look at this and it has always been good. But on this forum it is a no no. because the book says no no. If you want to take to, a do it yourself wash with the high pressure nozzle and foaming bubbles just remember do not use the scrub brush because it has garbage in it from prior users. Instead use micro towels. and don't rub hard....Skip.... __________________ Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle. Resident Redneck of the forum and Birthday Greeter Gator skin is good as boots...

10-29-2007, 06:06 AM	#3 (permalink)
GetAboutRL First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Capital District of New York Posts: 1,480 My Photos: (0)	To most Kappa owners, their Solstice or Sky is not just another vehicle. It is a classic ... a dream come true ... a trophy ... a special symbol of youth or success. Do you just run that image through any old grubby car wash? Hell no! You wash it by hand with care and affection. __________________ "Lucifer" is my name! Deposit:4-11-06 & Titled:11-28-06 SKY "Red Line" Silver Pearl, Black Wings on it's back, Bloody Red interior, Dejon intercooler/Solo Exhaust, Robert's screen. If you suddenly feel warm, it is just me passing through grinning!

10-29-2007, 10:37 AM	#5 (permalink)
Sky4Her Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Charlotte, NC Posts: 109 My Photos: (11)	I have taken mine through a touchless car wash once...just once... when I was in need for a quick touch up...yes, it leakes...A LOT. I would rather park it on my back patio and spend the day detailing so I know it's right, but if you HAVE to take it through the auto washes, use the ones with the brushes and bring your own towel to dry. __________________ Sky + Twisties = FUN! Vin:141904 Plate: RIDN'2UP Mods: Steve's Windscreen Opel GT Antenna 3rd tail light blackout "sky" Fujita CAI RL Exhaust www.CharlotteColdwellBanker.com

10-29-2007, 11:38 AM	#7 (permalink)
Rick Tinley Park Moderator Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: SW Suburbs of Chicago Posts: 4,807 My Photos: (11)	The Owners manual warns you not to use a touchless wash because it MIGHT leak. I have heard of a few owners who got through OK -- but many that had some leakage. I personally hand wash -- but I know that is not an option for some people. . . __________________ Find out about my radio show http://www.anj.westpm.net Founder: www.chicagolandroadsters.com Rick Tinley Park Delivered June 15, 2006 VIN - 3099 Sunburst Yellow Name - Sunni1 IL License # - YLO SKY 1

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10-29-2007, 10:34 AM	#4 (permalink)
exochris Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Posts: 20 My Photos: (0)	lol, nice. I am referring to a touchless one though. I have hopes that a touchless car wash would clean it without damaging the paint or shine. But I'm concerned about the roof. I had been taking it to a hand wash place, but discovered their towels were scratching the heck out of my shiny body and dash!

10-29-2007, 10:45 AM	#6 (permalink)
exochris Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Posts: 20 My Photos: (0)	Yikes! Thanks, that's exactly what I needed to hear. I wouldn't take it through a normal wash, having a Midnight Blue Metallic one means every little scratch or mar is clearly visible. I guess I'm going to go invest in some good towels and find a manual car wash. Winter in Colorado!

10-29-2007, 11:43 AM	#8 (permalink)
DS9Yanks First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: New York City Posts: 69 My Photos: (0)	What exactly is a touchless car wash? __________________ Yankees Universe

10-29-2007, 12:32 PM	#9 (permalink)
SkyBaby First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Somewhere In The SKY! Posts: 6,703 My Photos: (13)	When I looked it up about a week ago... all I read is that it may leak........ well, I have this great mostly hand wash place... and it hasnt leaked yet..... SkyBaby __________________ Whats NOT to Love??? I would much rather stand out in a crowd and be noticed than life just pass me by while I am bitter! www.kappascoasttocoast.com www.kustomkaps.com www.flameball.com

10-29-2007, 12:54 PM	#12 (permalink)
SkyBaby First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Somewhere In The SKY! Posts: 6,703 My Photos: (13)	LOL...... I dont think the TOUCHLESS ones clean well either.... SkyBaby __________________ Whats NOT to Love??? I would much rather stand out in a crowd and be noticed than life just pass me by while I am bitter! www.kappascoasttocoast.com www.kustomkaps.com www.flameball.com

10-29-2007, 01:45 PM	#15 (permalink)
MeToo Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Posts: 10 My Photos: (0)	I just got mine and it leaked like a sieve when I went through the touchless. Won't be doing that again.

10-29-2007, 08:04 PM	#17 (permalink)
duck833 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Eugene, Oregon/Scottsdale, AZ Posts: 413 My Photos: (0)	I use a touchless car wash when I am lazy and desperate. What I do is take two microfiber towels with me. When the spray machine hits the front top of the two door windows it will leak. I simply hold one towel up to the top at both points and take care of any leakage, no problem. If any drips hit the seats I use the towels and take care of it. Actually works pretty good if you have a good wax/sealant on the car and it is not to dirty. I will not take my car through any car wash that touches the car with any kind of cloth thingy. Or any car wash that has kids drying the car with their dirty towels I try not to have my dealership wash my car when I take it in, but they did it last time even though I told them not to. __________________ Ordered cars at two dealerships, ended up snagging one at Saturn of Beaverton, Oregon Member of the Snaggers Club RED Line Yellow Magna-Flow. CAI, chromies, stubby ant Loaded

10-29-2007, 10:52 PM	#18 (permalink)
LicketySplit Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Valrico, Florida Posts: 94 My Photos: (0)	I don't like to take mine out in the rain not to mention a car wash! It is my toy and it gets kid glove treatment (microfiber). __________________ Redline Chili Pepper Red Automatic Black Premium Trim Monsoon/1 CD Chrome Wheels (No Spoiler) Splash Guards Ordered 12-28-06 / #KRQVP3 Picked it up 3-27-07

10-29-2007, 11:07 PM	#19 (permalink)
kphelgerson First 2000 Sr. Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Richland, MI near Kalamazoo. Posts: 314 My Photos: (1)	Touchless leakage/rain leakage I've been absent awhile, putting (as of last count) about 4,800 miles on my '08 RL so far. And after several frustrating comments that nothing can be done about roof leakage (including that in a simple downpour), LO and BEHOLD there is now a service bulletin out about that very topic. I didn't get the number of it, but the Saturn service center man in Grand Rapids looked it up as I plead for him to please search for anything like it, and he found it. It involves a tiny smear of clear sealant (probably windshield clear silicone sealant) at the seam of the roof on each side at the front. This is exactly where mine has leaked several times. It has been through several light rains since this free repair was done by them, and so far no leaking. But I still haven't had the guts to go to a touchless wash and try that. __________________ Kurt The day arrived on 7/9/07! Finally! RL MN Blue 6-disc premium Monsoon sound black leather. What a ride!

10-30-2007, 09:49 AM	#20 (permalink)
KentuckySky Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Louisville, KY Posts: 250 My Photos: (0)	I've ran mine through a touchless on a couple of occassions. Of course there are the leaks but the other thing I noticed was that it pressure cleans the "Ragg Top Sealent/protection" off the convertable top. I have to re-apply it each time which costs $$$$. Not to mention that it's still dirty afterwards... __________________ Judi 2008 Red Line Midnight Blue Automatic

10-30-2007, 11:13 AM	#21 (permalink)
Ruthie Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Charleston, WV Posts: 560 My Photos: (0)	I took mine thru the touchless wash once. Didn't have any leaks, but because back of car is so short, didn't get it clean whatsoever. __________________ Ruthie 2007 Black Onyx Redline

10-30-2007, 02:46 PM	#22 (permalink)
TOY4TWO First 2000 Sr. Member