With the onset of spring, many motorists want to free their vehicles from the stress of winter. In addition to changing tires and having them inspected, they often also go to the car wash. In addition to a thorough cleaning of the interior, the premium washing program is also on the to-do list.
Floor cleaning in the car wash: do you really need it?
Drivers at the car wash are often asked whether they would also like to have the underside cleaned. Some car washes offer this as an additional program, while others sell it as an extra service. Because this sounds like a full service, many people accept the offer. But on the one hand, this not only wastes money unnecessarily, but also has a negative effect.
How the ADAC emphasizes that modern cars already have sufficient corrosion protection on the underside. This means that additional cleaning is not necessary, because the plastic covering already provides sufficient protection against road salt, dirt, ice and gravel. On older vehicles, cleaning the underbody can allow moisture to enter the voids, leading to corrosion and unwanted damage.
When asked, an ATU car repair shop in Munich explains: “Washing the underbody does not cause direct damage to the vehicle, but many old models are not prepared for this because important plastic panels are missing. This allows moisture to penetrate the interior more easily.
Instead, regular inspections and maintenance appointments should be carried out to optimally protect the vehicle against corrosion.
“On your next visit to the workshop, a specialist should look at the underside,” advises the Autoclub Verkehr (ACV).
Can you wash your car on your own premises?
Whether and under what conditions you can wash your car at home on your own property is up to you, according to the Auto Club Europe (ACE) varies from region to region. Local statutes provide information about what, when, how and where is allowed. Anyone who violates requirements or prohibitions should expect severe penalties.
According to ACE, fines vary by region. They often start at 25 euros, but can also amount to 500 euros, for example in Baden-Württemberg and North Rhine-Westphalia. In extreme cases, such as in Saxony, up to 100,000 euros may be owed. The amount depends on the risk to the environment.