Washing an electric car: You should definitely avoid this mistake

Created: 04/27/2022, 08:30

By: Marcus Efler

Washing your electric car is basically no problem.

Still, there is something Stromer owners need to be aware of.

Losheim am See (Saarland) - electric car and lots of wet: For many drivers, that doesn't sound like a very good combination.

The fact that a car wash operator denied the Tesla models entry (although not for fear of a high-voltage shock) increased skepticism.

But how justified is it - and how do you get your e-mobile clean without any problems?

Washing an electric car: You should definitely avoid this mistake

"The combination of water and electricity harbors a certain potential for danger in many everyday situations," confirms Thomas Schuster, motor vehicle expert from the expert organization "KÜS" at 24auto.de, but also reassures Stromer fans: "In the case of purely electrically powered cars, however, you can drive into car washes without fear and without danger.

The high-voltage technology of the drive system is of course protected against the ingress of moisture by the manufacturer, as is the rest of the vehicle's electronics.

After all, you can drive through puddles with e-cars on rainy days, sometimes resulting in larger spray fountains.

In this respect, electric cars do not fundamentally differ from passenger cars with combustion engines.

Nevertheless, a look at the operating instructions to see whether there are any instructions on how to use the car wash can't hurt.

With the Stromer in the car wash: risky or not?

(Iconic image) © UJ Alexander/Imago

Washing the electric car: Be careful with the high-pressure cleaner

A hand wash (which is subject to legal restrictions) is basically safe, according to the expert, and even with a high-pressure cleaner.

With one caveat: You mustn't aim its "hard water jet" directly at areas of the underbody.

This is usually where the battery and motor are located.”

Although they are well encapsulated and protected against the ingress of water, excessive water pressure may allow moisture to penetrate.

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In addition, the jet of a high-pressure cleaner should not be aimed directly at the charging socket - even if it is protected with a cover as usual.

And of course washing by hand, whether with a sponge, garden hose or steam jet, is prohibited while the vehicle is being charged.