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Will Car Wash Damage Tonneau Cover

The answer to whether a car wash will damage a tonneau cover depends on the type of cover and the type of car wash. Hard-top tonneau covers made of fiberglass or hard plastic should be able to go through a car wash without causing any damage. However, rolling brushes in some car washes can damage the cover via abrasion. Soft-touch car washes that use moving cloths and brushes, along with touchless systems that use soap and water jets, are generally safe for tonneau covers. It is recommended to inspect the cover periodically for tears or damages.

Can A Pressure Washer Damage A Tonneau Cover?

High-pressure water from a pressure washer can damage certain types of tonneau covers. Soft truck bed covers can sustain damage from water pressure and dryer fans. However, some soft tonneau covers can go through a standard car wash that uses brushes. If the manufacturer states that the cover should be removed before washing, it is recommended to heed that advice. If you must use an automatic car wash, a touchless system is the best option as it uses pressurized water jets with soap for a thorough cleaning and is less likely to harm the cover. It is also recommended to inspect the cover periodically for tears or damages.

How Can I Protect My Tonneau Cover During A Car Wash?

To protect your tonneau cover during a car wash, it is recommended to inspect it periodically for tears or damages. If the cover is damaged, it may be more prone to further damage in a car wash. If you are using an automatic car wash, it is best to avoid those that use spinning brushes as they can damage the cover via abrasion. Soft-touch car washes that use moving cloths and brushes, along with touchless systems that use soap and water jets, are generally safe for tonneau covers. If you must use an automatic car wash, a touchless system is the best option as it uses pressurized water jets with soap for a thorough cleaning and is less likely to harm the cover. It is also recommended to use chemicals that are safe for tonneau covers.

Should I Remove My Tonneau Cover Before Going Through A Car Wash?

Some tonneau cover manufacturers suggest removing the cover before going through a car wash. If the cover is easy to remove, it is recommended to take it off to avoid the risk of damage. If removing the cover is not an option, it is best to avoid car washes that use spinning brushes as they can damage the cover via abrasion. Soft-touch car washes that use moving cloths and brushes, along with touchless systems that use soap and water jets, are generally safe for tonneau covers. It is also recommended to use chemicals that are safe for tonneau covers. To protect the cover, it is important to inspect it periodically for tears or damages. Additionally, it is recommended to use a low-pressure setting on the hose and avoid using a high-pressure setting when washing the cover.

Can A Tonneau Cover Be Damaged By Harsh Chemicals Used In Car Washes?

Harsh chemicals used in car washes can damage certain types of tonneau covers. It is recommended to use chemicals that are safe for tonneau covers to avoid any potential damage. Spinning brushes and thick cloth strips used in some car washes can also damage certain types of tonneau covers. Soft-touch car washes that use moving cloths and brushes, along with touchless systems that use soap and water jets, are generally safe for tonneau covers. If you must use an automatic car wash, a touchless system is the best option as it uses pressurized water jets with soap for a thorough cleaning and is less likely to harm the cover. It is also recommended to inspect the cover periodically for tears or damages.

Are There Any Specific Types Of Tonneau Covers That Are More Prone To Damage In A Car Wash?

Certain types of tonneau covers are more prone to damage in a car wash. Spinning brushes and thick cloth strips used in some car washes can damage certain types of tonneau covers. Soft truck bed covers can sustain damage from water pressure and dryer fans. If the manufacturer states that the cover should be removed before washing, it is recommended to heed that advice. Hard-top tonneau covers made of fiberglass or hard plastic should be able to go through a car wash without causing any damage. If you must use an automatic car wash, a touchless system is the best option as it uses pressurized water jets with soap for a thorough cleaning and is less likely to harm the cover. It is also recommended to use chemicals that are safe for tonneau covers. To protect the cover, it is important to inspect it periodically for tears or damages.

How Often Should I Inspect My Tonneau Cover For Damage?

It is recommended to inspect your tonneau cover periodically for any damages or tears. The frequency of inspection may depend on how often you use your truck and how frequently you wash it. It is suggested to inspect the cover before cleaning it to avoid further damage. Some tonneau cover manufacturers may also provide specific guidelines on how often to inspect the cover. It is important to inspect the mounting hardware as well to ensure that it is secure and functioning properly. Regular inspections can help identify any issues early on and prevent further damage to the cover.

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Meghan Drummond
Meghan Drummond

Meghan has owned trucks for over 20 years and installed her first tonneau cover back in 2005. She has tested over 50 different tonneau cover models hands-on. Meghan has a journalism degree from the University of Florida and previously worked as an auto writer.

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