Ever wondered how to keep your sleek Tesla sparkling clean without causing any damage? You've come to the right place! While Teslas are marvels of modern engineering, they require a bit of special attention when it comes to washing, especially if you're using an automatic car wash. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your Tesla emerges from the wash spotless and unscathed.
Step 1: Getting Started – Your Pre-Wash Checklist
Before you even think about entering a car wash, let's make sure your Tesla is properly prepared. This is crucial for avoiding any accidental damage.
1.1 Park Your Vehicle Safely
First and foremost, park your Tesla in a safe, level spot. This allows you to access the touchscreen and perform the necessary pre-wash checks without any distractions. Ensure the car is in Park (P). You cannot activate Car Wash Mode if the vehicle is charging or not in park.
1.2 Close Everything Up Tight
Double-check that all windows, doors, the panoramic roof (if applicable), and the front trunk (frunk) and rear trunk are completely closed. Any open entry points could lead to water intrusion and potential damage to the interior electronics.
1.3 Clear the Exterior of Loose Items
Remove any external accessories like phone mounts, dash cams, or anything else that might be loose on the exterior of your vehicle. While Car Wash Mode addresses many things, it's always a good practice to manually remove anything that could potentially be dislodged or damaged by the wash brushes or high-pressure water.
Step 2: Activating Tesla's Car Wash Mode
This is the most critical step for any Tesla owner using an automatic car wash. Tesla's "Car Wash Mode" is designed specifically to protect your vehicle's sensitive components during the wash process.
2.1 Navigating the Touchscreen
Tap "Controls": On your Tesla's large touchscreen, look for the "Controls" icon. It's usually a car icon at the bottom left of the screen.
Select "Service": Within the "Controls" menu, locate and tap the "Service" tab. This section contains various vehicle service options.
Activate "Car Wash Mode": Finally, tap on "Car Wash Mode." You'll see a prompt explaining what the mode does. Confirm to activate it.
2.2 What Car Wash Mode Does for You
Activating Car Wash Mode triggers several important safeguards:
Closes All Windows: Automatically rolls up any open windows.
Locks the Charge Port: Prevents the charge port door from accidentally opening due to water pressure or contact with brushes.
Disables Automatic Wipers: Stops the windshield wipers from activating unexpectedly, preventing damage to the wipers or the vehicle.
Turns Off Sentry Mode: Prevents Sentry Mode alarms from triggering due to the car wash's activity.
Disables Walk-Away Door Locking: Ensures your doors don't lock unexpectedly, which can be an issue in certain types of car washes.
Silences Parking Sensor Chimes: Prevents constant beeping from the parking sensors as the car moves through the wash.
Enables "Free Roll" (for conveyor washes): If you're going through a conveyor-style automatic car wash (where the car is pulled along a track), Car Wash Mode allows you to engage "Free Roll." This keeps your vehicle in Neutral and disengages the parking brake, allowing the car to roll freely without you needing to manually press the brake. To enable Free Roll, press the brake pedal and tap "Enable Free Roll" on the screen, or shift into Neutral.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Car Wash Type
While Car Wash Mode helps, the type of car wash you choose also plays a significant role in protecting your Tesla's finish.
3.1 The "Touchless" Advantage
Tesla, and many detailing experts, strongly recommend using touchless car washes. These washes use high-pressure water and cleaning solutions without any physical brushes or cloths touching your car's surface. This significantly reduces the risk of scratches and swirl marks on your paint, which are common issues with traditional brush-based automatic car washes.
3.2 Avoiding Brush-Based Washes (If Possible)
If a touchless option isn't available, and you must use a brush-based automatic car wash, understand the increased risk of paint damage. The brushes can pick up dirt and grit from previous vehicles, potentially creating micro-scratches on your Tesla's finish.
3.3 The Hand Wash Alternative
For the ultimate care, a hand wash is always the safest option. If you have the time and resources, this allows for meticulous cleaning with soft microfiber cloths and pH-balanced car wash soap, ensuring no harsh chemicals or abrasive materials come into contact with your Tesla.
Step 4: During and After the Wash
Once your Tesla is in Car Wash Mode and you've selected your wash type, there are a few things to keep in mind.
4.1 Remain in the Vehicle (for Conveyor Washes)
If you're in a conveyor-style car wash that requires you to stay in the vehicle and keep it in Neutral, do not leave the driver's seat or apply the brakes during the wash cycle. This could stop the vehicle abruptly on the conveyor, causing damage.
4.2 Monitor Your Screen
Keep an eye on your touchscreen. While Car Wash Mode handles many things, it's a good habit to ensure everything is functioning as expected. Some updates to the mode may even include window alerts.
4.3 Exiting Car Wash Mode
Once the wash is complete, you need to deactivate Car Wash Mode. You have two primary ways to do this:
Tap the Blue Banner: A blue banner will appear at the top of your touchscreen indicating Car Wash Mode is active. Simply tap "Exit" on this banner.
Drive Away: Car Wash Mode will automatically disable if your vehicle's speed exceeds 9 mph (15 km/h).
4.4 Post-Wash Checks
Inspect for water spots: After the wash, especially in warmer weather, dry your Tesla thoroughly with a soft, clean microfiber towel to prevent water spots.
Check brakes: If your car was subjected to a lot of water, especially if it's been sitting for a while, a short drive with a few gentle brake applications can help dry out the brake components.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to use Car Wash Mode in Tesla?
To use Car Wash Mode, park your Tesla, go to "Controls" > "Service" > "Car Wash Mode" on your touchscreen, and tap to activate.
How to put Tesla in neutral for a car wash?
With Car Wash Mode active, press the brake pedal and tap "Enable Free Roll" on the touchscreen, or gently push the gear stalk up and hold it for a second or two to shift into Neutral.
How to prevent scratches when washing a Tesla?
To prevent scratches, use touchless car washes whenever possible. If hand washing, use a two-bucket method with a grit guard, soft microfiber wash mitts, and pH-neutral car shampoo.
How to clean Tesla wheels safely?
Use a separate soft brush or sponge for wheels and tires, along with specific wheel cleaners that are not chemical-based or highly acidic/alkaline, as these can damage the finish.
How to dry a Tesla after washing?
Dry your Tesla immediately and thoroughly with a clean, soft microfiber drying towel to prevent water spots. Working from top to bottom is recommended.
How to clean the interior of a Tesla?
For general interior cleaning, use a soft cloth (like microfiber) dampened with warm water and a mild, non-detergent cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol, or silicone-based products on interior surfaces and screens.
How to protect Tesla paint after washing?
Consider applying a high-quality ceramic coating or paint protection film (PPF) for long-lasting protection. Regular waxing or sealant application can also help.
How to wash a Tesla in winter with road salt?
Thoroughly rinse all traces of road salt from the underside of the vehicle, wheel wells, and brakes before and after the main wash to prevent corrosive damage.
How to clean Tesla cameras and sensors?
Gently wipe cameras and sensors with a soft, clean cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage them.
How to avoid accidental door/trunk opening during a Tesla car wash?
Car Wash Mode disables walk-away locking. Additionally, avoid touching the touchscreen controls that might open doors or trunks while the car is in the wash.
For more detailed information on Tesla care, watch this video:
