Yes, you can generally go through a car wash with rain guards, but the feasibility depends on the guards’ mounting method, durability, and the wash style you choose.
Rain guards (vent visors) are mounted along the upper edge of your windows to deflect rain and wind. They come in adhesive, clip-in, or molded varieties and vary in height and stiffness. Because car washes use brushes, jets, and detergents, not all setups are equally suited to pass through without risk to the guards or the installation.
How rain guards interact with car washes
Car washes come in several formats, and each format interacts differently with rain guards. Understanding the differences helps you decide how to proceed.
- Touchless or high-pressure jet washes
- Soft-touch brush washes
- Manual or self-serve washes
In general, touchless washes are the least likely to physically damage rain guards because there are no brushes contact. Soft-touch washes pose a higher risk if the guards extend beyond the window frame or are poorly secured. Manual or self-serve washes give you the most control but still require careful handling to avoid brushes or jets contacting the guards.
Bottom line: The risk is greatest with brush-based washes, while touchless options are typically safer for rain guards, provided the guards are well installed and in good condition.
Practical steps if you plan to go through with rain guards
Before taking your vehicle through a car wash, consider these practical steps to reduce risk to rain guards and their attachment hardware.
- Inspect the guards and mounting hardware for any loose edges, cracks, or peeling adhesive before entering a wash.
- Prefer a touchless car wash when possible to minimize contact with the guards.
- If you have adhesive-mounted guards, ensure the adhesive is in good condition and use a wash that’s gentler on attachments.
- If the guards are loose or old, remove them before the wash or opt for a manual wash to control the process.
- Drive slowly and avoid aiming high-pressure jets directly at the window line or the guards during the wash.
- After the wash, inspect the guards again for loosening, cracking, or detachment and address any issues promptly.
Implementing these precautions reduces the chance of damage and helps you decide whether to wash with the guards in place or to remove them temporarily.
Summary
Rain guards can usually survive a car wash, especially when you choose a touchless wash and ensure the guards are securely installed. If your guards are old, fragile, or protrude into the wash area, removing them or opting for a manual wash may be safer. Always inspect before and after, and follow the manufacturer’s care guidance to minimize risk.
How soon can I drive after installing rain guards?
After installing the side windoe deflectors, leave them for 2 to 3 hours, and do not drive the vehicle. Avoid washing the vehicle or exposing it to rain or the like for 24 hours. This manual describes how to install and handle the side window deflector.
Will rain guards come off in car wash?
The sticky adhesive is attached to the car and the rain guards so you shouldn't have to worry about the soap and water affecting it.
Is it okay to get a carwash when it's raining?
Yes, it's usually fine and often beneficial to wash your car when it's raining, especially in low-pollution regions like New Zealand. Rainwater is naturally soft and can help reduce water spotting, save time, and conserve water.
What does a rain guard do to a car wash?
RainGuard helps to repel water and other particulates from your vehicle while at the same time increasing visibility. Excessive rain or snow will decrease the effective time of the application.