Pressure Wash Vs Hand Wash: Which is Better For Your car?

Published on 24 Dec, 2022, 6:07 PM IST

Updated on 3 Jan, 2023, 8:27 AM IST

Team Ackodrive

7 min read

Interesting Articles

Parameter	Pressure wash	Hand wash
Process	Spraying high-pressure water and soap foam to clean the car.	Washing with a sponge/cloth dipped in soap water.
Time required	Lesser than hand wash.	More than pressure wash.
Cost	Higher than hand wash.	Lesser than pressure wash.
Cleaning efficiency	Easily removes oil and grease stains.	Can clean every corner of the vehicle efficiently.
Water consumption	Less	More
Tools required	High-pressure car washer and microfiber towels	Buckets, water hose and sponge/cloth
Possible damages	It can cause damage to the paint or dents in the body.	It can leave scratches on the car's paint surface.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much pressure should I set to wash my car with a pressure washer?

The optimum pressure to wash your car with a pressure washer is between 1,200 PSI to 1,900 PSI. Setting the pressure above 2,000 PSI may damage the vehicle's paint or cause dents in the body.

Can I wash a brand-new car?

You can wash a brand-new car, but only if it's essential. A new car may come with polish and wax treatment. If you pressure wash the vehicle, the lifespan of that treatment may reduce.

Can high-pressure water wash scratch my car's paint?

Generally, a contactless pressure wash will not cause scratches to the car's paint.

Is it safe to pressure wash under the car?

You can pressure wash the undercarriage of your car, especially if you drive through unpaved roads.