Convertibles and car washes

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Aug 30, 2021 | 08:44 AM

Vito

Thread Starter

Junior Member

Joined: Jun 2021

Posts: 8

Convertibles and car washes

I now own a convertible for the first time in my life, a new 2021 Mini. It occurred to me that I have no idea if it is safe to take this car to a regular car wash business, thinking that the brushes and pressurized water used to wash the car might be too much for the rag top, and the same for those drive through places attached to many gas stations. Hoping any members here that own or have owned convertibles can comment and help me out.

Sep 2, 2021 | 01:00 AM

Nzr56coopers

Senior Member

Joined: Jun 2021

Posts: 110

Car wash

Never never never take a convertible car through a car was,the pressure from the roller brushes will trash your roof.no responsible owner of a car wash will allow a convertible to use the facility.

Dec 3, 2025 | 02:49 PM

micaeljames

Member

Joined: Jul 2024

Posts: 55

Quote:

Originally Posted by Vito

I now own a convertible for the first time in my life, a new 2021 Mini. It occurred to me that I have no idea if it is safe to take this car to a regular car wash business, thinking that the brushes and pressurized water used to wash the car might be too much for the rag top, and the same for those drive-through places attached to many gas stations. Some people even recommend consulting professional boat detailing services for advice on cleaning soft tops. Hoping any members here that own or have owned convertibles can comment and help me out.

It’s generally safe to use a car wash with your Mini convertible, but stick to touchless or soft-cloth washes to avoid abrasive brushes. Make sure the top is fully closed and windows up. Hand washing is the gentlest option for the top and helps prolong its life, but occasional soft automatic washes are fine.