When it comes to vehicle care, most drivers focus on oil changes and tire rotations—but regular car washes are just as important for long-term protection. However, not all car washes are created equal.

At Duxler Tire & Auto Repair in Libertyville, IL, we’ve seen the long-term damage that automatic car washes can cause to wheels, paint, sensors, and trim. While we don’t offer detailing or car wash services, we believe in helping drivers make informed decisions about how they care for their vehicles.

Here are 9 reasons to reconsider using automatic car washes.

1. Paint Scratches and Swirl Marks

The spinning brushes and cloth strips used in many drive-thru car washes aren’t as gentle as they look. They can trap dirt and debris from previous cars, grinding it into your vehicle’s paint and leaving fine scratches and swirl marks.

Long-term impact: Over time, these micro-scratches dull your paint finish and may lead to costly paint correction services.

2. Wax and Sealant Stripping

Many automatic car washes use strong, low-pH detergents to clean quickly—but they often strip away protective wax or sealant coatings in the process. This leaves your car’s clear coat vulnerable to UV rays, acid rain, and road grime.

3. Incomplete Cleaning in Critical Areas

Automated systems often miss the tight spaces around wheels, behind mirrors, or under door handles where salt, mud, and grime can build up. In winter climates like Libertyville’s, missed spots can speed up corrosion on brake components and lower panels.

4. Wheel and Rim Damage

Bristle brushes and acidic cleaners can scuff, etch, or corrode your rims—especially if you have painted, polished, or aftermarket wheels.

Tip: If your steering wheel starts to shake after repeated washes, unbalanced or damaged wheels could be part of the cause.

5. Sensor and Camera Malfunctions

Many modern vehicles rely on sensors and cameras for lane assist, backup alerts, and collision warnings. High-pressure jets and harsh cleaners can fog lenses, cause sensor errors, or even misalign cameras over time.

6. Loose or Damaged Trim

Plastic moldings, weatherstripping, and old antennas can come loose or break during a wash. We've seen customers arrive at our shop with trim flapping or missing after a quick car wash.

7. Water Spots and Residue

Hard water used in some automated systems can leave behind calcium deposits or water spots—especially if the drying cycle is weak or skipped. These spots are difficult to remove and can etch into paint over time.

8. Environmental Impact

Some automatic washes discharge used water and chemicals into storm drains. While many modern systems recycle water, older ones may contribute to local water pollution—something we all want to avoid in Lake County.

9. Reduced Resale Value Over Time

A vehicle’s appearance plays a major role in resale value. Faded paint, etched wheels, and water-damaged sensors can all reduce the perceived condition of your car—even if it's mechanically sound.

A Better Approach to Vehicle Care in Libertyville

While we don’t offer car wash services at Duxler Libertyville, we’re always here to help you take better care of your vehicle. A safe alternative to automatic washes includes:

• Touchless hand washing at home using pH-neutral car soap
• Local detailing services that hand wash and use safe products
• Avoiding salt buildup in winter by rinsing off your vehicle at self-serve bays

For advice on protecting your tires, wheels, sensors, or suspension from the effects of road grime, our ASE-certified techs are here to help.

Visit Duxler Tire & Auto in Libertyville, IL

We may not wash cars—but we do everything else to help you keep your vehicle in excellent condition. From wheel inspections and alignments to sensor diagnostics and brake checks, our team has your back.

📍 Duxler Libertyville, IL
📞 Call us at 847-367-6710
💻 Schedule service online