While drive-thru car washes are quick and convenient, they can actually do more harm than good to your vehicle. 1. Scratches & Swirl Marks Most drive-thru car washes use stiff, dirty brushes or cloth strips that can trap dirt and debris from previous vehicles. As these spin against your car, they create tiny scratches and swirl marks, dulling your paint over time. 2. Harsh Chemicals Many automatic car washes use strong, acidic cleaning agents to remove dirt quickly. These chemicals can strip off wax, sealants, and even damage clear coat protection, leading to faster paint deterioration. 3. Poor Drying Methods Drive-thru car washes often use large blowers or rough towels that leave water spots and streaks. Some older systems even use dirty drying cloths, which can reintroduce dirt onto your freshly washed car. 4. Water Spot Buildup Hard water is commonly used in automatic washes, and if it’s not properly filtered or dried off, it can leave behind mineral deposits that cause water spots and etching on your paint and glass. 5. Incomplete Cleaning Since automated washes follow a set cycle, they often miss hard-to-reach areas like wheel wells, door jambs, and intricate trim details, leading to buildup over time. 6. Damage to Side Mirrors, Antennas & Trim The high-speed brushes and spinning mechanisms can snag and damage side mirrors, antennas, and loose exterior trim pieces, leading to costly repairs. 7. No Personalized Care A machine can’t assess your car’s specific needs. If your car has special coatings, delicate paint, or areas needing extra attention, an automatic wash won’t handle them properly like a hand wash or professional detailing would. 8. Stripped Protection If your car has a ceramic coating, wax, or sealant, an automatic wash can degrade these layers much faster, reducing their effectiveness and shortening their lifespan. 9. Risk of Rust & Corrosion Some drive-thru car washes recycle water that may contain salt, grime, and contaminants. If not properly rinsed, these can accelerate rust, especially in wheel wells and undercarriages. 10. Conveyor Belt & Track Damage Some drive-thru washes use conveyor belts that require your car to be in neutral while rollers push it through. If your car has low ground clearance, aftermarket wheels, or a custom body kit, these tracks can cause scratches or alignment issues.