Can You Pressure Wash a Ceramic Coated Car?

Yes, you can safely pressure wash a ceramic coated car. In fact, the hydrophobic properties make pressure washing very effective at removing dirt without damaging the coating. The water sheets off easily, taking contaminants with it.

Why Pressure Washing Works Well

Ceramic coating's hydrophobic surface is ideal for pressure washing because water doesn't stick to the surface, dirt and contaminants release easily, less scrubbing is required which reduces scratch risk, and the coating is hard enough to withstand normal pressure washing.

Best Practices for Pressure Washing

Pressure Settings

Use moderate pressure of 1,200-1,900 PSI. Avoid extremely high pressure settings above 2,500 PSI. Consumer-grade pressure washers are typically safe.

Distance

Maintain a distance of 12 inches or more from the surface. Closer distances concentrate pressure and could potentially affect the coating over time.

Angle

Hold the wand at a 45-degree angle rather than perpendicular to the surface. This helps lift dirt rather than driving it into the coating.

Nozzle Selection

Use a 25-degree or 40-degree nozzle for general washing. Avoid zero-degree nozzles which concentrate too much pressure.

The Pressure Washing Process

Start by rinsing the entire vehicle to remove loose dirt. Work from top to bottom so dirty water flows down. Pay extra attention to wheel wells and lower panels where dirt accumulates. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Dry with clean microfiber towels to prevent water spots.

What to Avoid

Don't use extremely high pressure above 2,500 PSI. Don't hold the nozzle too close to the surface. Don't use harsh chemicals not designed for coated vehicles. Don't let the vehicle air dry as this can cause water spots.

Combining Pressure Washing with Hand Washing

For the best results, use pressure washing as a pre-rinse to remove loose dirt, then follow with a gentle hand wash using the two-bucket method. This combination provides thorough cleaning while minimizing any risk to the coating.

At Glazed Auto Spa, we provide detailed care instructions with every ceramic coating application. Proper washing technique helps ensure your coating lasts as long as possible.

Schedule a consultation to learn more about ceramic coating care.