Electric vehicles (EVs) require special care and maintenance compared to gas-powered cars. Keeping your EV clean both inside and out will help it run efficiently and extend its life. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to properly wash and clean your electric vehicle at home.
Introduction
EVs have some unique cleaning needs compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. Their lack of tailpipe emissions means EV exteriors stay cleaner. However, brake dust, road grime, and rail dust can still accumulate. Bird droppings and tree sap also need prompt removal to prevent etching of the paint.
Inside, EV interiors tend to stay cleaner without engine fumes creating oily residues. But dust and dirt still enter the cabin, especially with pets or outdoor activities. Proper cleaning keeps your EV looking sharp and helps maintain its value.
Follow this guide to learn the proper techniques and cleaning solutions for washing and detailing your electric car at home. With some basic supplies and a little time invested, you can keep your EV clean inside and out.
Exterior Washing and Cleaning
Washing your EV at home allows you to use cleaning products you trust. You also control water usage and prevent swirls from automated wash brushes. Follow these steps to safely hand wash your electric vehicle exterior:
Supplies Needed
- Two buckets with grit guards
- Car wash soap or shampoo
- Wash mitt and soft towels
- Wheel cleaner
- Tire brush
- Automotive microfiber cloths
- Leather cleaner/conditioner for vinyl and rubber trim
- Detail spray for glass and mirrors
- Plastic trim restorer
- Chamois or waffle weave drying towel
Step 1 – Rinse Exterior
Rinse your EV with a pre-soak using a low pressure water hose. This helps soften dirt and dissolve contaminants. Work from top to bottom and pay attention to wheels, undercarriage, badges, grilles, and other intricate areas.
Step 2 – Wash Painted Surfaces
Fill one bucket with car wash soap and water. Use the two-bucket method with grit guards to prevent swirls and scratches. Submerge a wash mitt in the soapy bucket. Wash from the top down using straight back and forth motions following the body lines. Rinse mitt often and avoid letting soap dry on the paint.
Step 3 – Spot Clean Problem Areas
Use a separate mitt to clean lower body panels which tend to collect more dirt and grime. Spot clean tar, sap, and bugs with an all-purpose cleaner or bug remover. Rinse these areas thoroughly.
Step 4 – Clean Wheels and Tires
Spray wheel cleaner onto a tire brush. Scrub each wheel and allow cleaner to dwell for 1-2 minutes. Use a strong stream of water from the hose to completely rinse wheels. Wipe down tire sidewalls with an all-purpose cleaner and a soft brush.
Step 5 – Wash Lower Panels and Rocker Panels
Spray an all-purpose cleaner onto lower body panels, rocker panels, and the undercarriage. Let dwell 1-2 minutes. Use a wheel brush or separate wash mitt to scrub these areas clean. Rinse thoroughly with high water pressure.
Step 6 – Final Exterior Rinse
Perform a final rinse of the entire exterior from top to bottom. Flush away any remaining dirt or cleaning solution. Use high water pressure but avoid directing the stream too close to badges, sensors or seals.
Step 7 – Dry Exterior
Dry the EV using automotive microfiber cloths or a chamois. Wipe in straight lines following the body panels. A chamois gently “squeegees” water for fast drying without surface scratches. Dry glass and mirrors last with a designated cloth.
Step 8 – Clean Exterior Details
Use trim restorer on any exterior vinyl or rubber molding. Apply leather cleaner and conditioner to preserve any leather accents. Remove any water spots from glass or paint with a detail spray. Clean the EV badge with a mild cleaner and microfiber.
Cleaning EV Interior Surfaces
The cabin of an EV stays relatively clean without engine fumes creating oily residues. But dust, dirt, and mud still make their way inside. Follow these steps to clean all interior components:
Supplies Needed
- Vacuum with brush, crevice and upholstery tools
- Interior car cleaner or all-purpose cleaner
- Soft microfiber cloths and brushes
- Leather cleaner and conditioner
- Vinyl/rubber protectant
- Detail brushes
- Toothbrush or other small scrub brushes
Step 1 – Thoroughly Vacuum Interior
Use the vacuum crevice tool to clean between and under seats. Vacuum compartments, cup holders, and small spaces. Use the brush tool for carpets and upholstery tools for seats. Remove floor mats and vacuum beneath them.
Step 2 – Dust Interior Surfaces
Use a microfiber dusting mitt or duster to dust the dashboard, console, door panels, vents, and other surfaces. Dusting first prevents spreading dirt when wiping down.
Step 3 – Clean Hard Interior Surfaces
Spray an interior detailer or all-purpose cleaner onto a microfiber and wipe down all hard surfaces – dash, doors, console, trim, steering wheel, etc. Avoid harsh cleaners on delicate surfaces.
Step 4 – Spot Clean Carpets and Upholstery
Pre-treat any stains on carpets or upholstery with a dedicated spot cleaner. Allow to dwell for 5 minutes then dab away stain residue with clean microfiber cloths. Never roughly scrub.
Step 5 – Clean Leather Surfaces
Use a leather cleaner and microfiber to gently wipe down leather seats, steering wheel, and other trim. Apply leather conditioner to preserve and protect. Buff lightly with a dry microfiber.
Step 6 – Protect Vinyl and Rubber
Apply vinyl/rubber protectant to all interior vinyl and rubber surfaces – dash, trim, door seals, etc. Wipe away any excess for an anti-static UV protective coating.
Step 7 – Detail Air Vents and Tight Spaces
Use cotton swabs, small brushes, or toothbrushes to detail air vents, speaker grilles, cup holders, and other tight spaces. Remove dirt and debris for a like-new appearance.
Step 8 – Clean Glass Surfaces
Spray glass cleaner onto microfiber cloths and wipe down all interior glass – mirrors, display screens, windows, etc. Avoid harsh cleaners on coatings or tint film. Buff to a streak-free shine.
Cleaning the EV Battery and Motor compartment
While the sealed battery and motor areas don’t require extensive cleaning, light maintenance helps prevent corrosion and keeps components functioning efficiently:
Supplies Needed
- Protective eyewear
- Nitrile gloves
- Soft cleaning cloths
- EV battery cleaner and protector
- Plastic/rubber trim restorer
- Corrosion inhibitor
- Water displacement spray
- Soft bristle brush
Step 1 – Review Safety Precautions
Review your owner’s manual for any cleaning restrictions or battery safety precautions. Put on protective eyewear and nitrile gloves – batteries contain hazardous chemicals.
Step 2 – Visually Inspect Components
Open the motor compartment per manufacturer instructions. Visually inspect for any debris or nesting animals before cleaning. Look for damage, leaks, or corrosion on terminals.
Step 3 – Wipe Down Accessible Surfaces
Gently wipe down plastic covers and any accessible metal bracketry with a soft cloth dampened with battery cleaner. Take care around exposed terminals and wiring.
Step 4 – Dry Surfaces and Apply Protectant
Allow surfaces to fully dry. Then apply battery protector and plastic/rubber trim restorer to help repel future dirt. Avoid direct contact with electrical components.
Step 5 – Inhibit Corrosion on Terminals
Use a disposable brush dampened with corrosion inhibitor or terminal protector to gently clean battery terminals and connections. Avoid spreading dirt to other areas.
Step 6 – Displace Moisture with Protectant Spray
Lightly coat exposed terminals and connections with a water displacing spray. This prevents future corrosion from condensation or standing water from car washes.
Step 7 – Remove Debris with Compressed Air
Use short bursts of compressed air to blow out light dirt or debris in crevices and hard to reach areas. Avoid directing air directly at sensitive electronics.
Tips for Maintaining EV Cleanliness
Practice these habits for keeping your electric vehicle interior and exterior as clean as possible:
- Vacuum the interior frequently to avoid dirt building up in carpet fibers or upholstery. Clean spills quickly before stains set.
- Use floor liners or mats to protect carpeting from muddy or damp shoes. Consider a spare set for really messy situations.
- Park in a garage whenever possible to avoid dust and dirt accumulation. Outdoor car covers also provide protection.
- Remove exterior dirt weekly by rinsing your EV. This prevents abrasive particles from rubbing into the paint.
- Inspect the exterior when washing for chips, swelling, corrosion or damage. Address any issues you find right away.
- Keep a stash of microfiber cloths and quick detailer in your EV. You can wipe away dust or prints between washes.
- Shampoo interior carpets and cloth seats every six months. This removes embedded dirt that vacuuming cannot.
- Avoid carrying messy cargo loose in the cabin. Use trunk liners and compartment organizers to contain dirt and spills.
- Clean wheels with dedicated wheel cleaner every few washes. Brake dust is abrasive and leads to permanent pitting if left on wheels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of car wash soap should I use on an EV?
Use a pH neutral soap made for automotive finishes. Avoid dish soaps or cleaners with harsh detergents that can strip wax. Never use abrasive compounds on an EV’s delicate exterior surfaces.
Can I take my EV through an automatic car wash?
Most EVs can go through touchless automatic washes, but avoid frequent trips. Brush washes increase swirl mark risk. Hand washing is gentler on an EV’s paint and finish.
How often should I clean the interior of my EV?
Aim to thoroughly clean the interior every 1-2 months. More frequent mini cleanings help too – vacuum weekly, wipe surfaces from dust, and spot clean stains immediately
What should I use to clean EV leather seats?
Use a pH balanced leather cleaner and leather conditioner specifically designed for automotive interiors. Avoid household leather cleaners as these may dry out and damage the leather over time.
Is it safe to pressure wash an EV?
Avoid pressure washing whenever possible. The high pressure water can penetrate seals and damage electronics. Use low pressure water hoses and soft wash mitts when hand washing your EV.
How should I clean the EV’s charging port?
Use a soft dry cloth to gently wipe out any dust or debris around the charging port opening. Avoid inserting anything into the port itself to prevent damage to the contacts.
What areas of an EV are unsafe to spray with cleaners?
Avoid directing cleaners, conditioners, or protectants near electronics like sensors and cameras. Battery acid or caustic wheel cleaners can also damage paint, so rinse thoroughly if these get on body panels.
How often should I clay bar my EV’s exterior?
Plan to thoroughly clay bar the EV’s paint 1-2 times per year. This removes bonded contaminants that regular washing leaves behind. Always lubricate panels well and use light pressure to avoid marring the clearcoat.
Conclusion
Properly cleaning and caring for your electric vehicle’s exterior and interior will help it look and function its best. By using specialized automotive cleaners and techniques recommended for EVs, you can safely detail your EV at home between professional services. Keep your EV looking showroom new and preserve its value by investing a little time in regular, thorough cleaning inside and out.
How to Clean and Wash Your Electric Vehicle at Home
Introduction
Keeping your electric vehicle looking its best requires some special care and techniques compared to washing a gas-powered car. Electric vehicles have smooth, aerodynamic exterior designs and minimal openings to optimize efficiency. This necessitates a gentle approach to washing and cleaning to avoid damaging the paint or sensitive components.
Interior cleanliness also helps maintain the pristine look of an EV’s cabin since there is no engine residue creating oily surfaces. Following the proper procedures and using automotive-specific cleaners designed for EVs will allow you to safely detail your electric vehicle at home between professional services.
Exterior Washing Tips and Process
Washing your EV by hand is the safest method for the paint and body panels. Here are some tips for effectively cleaning the exterior at home:
Wash from Top to Bottom
Always start washing from the roof and work your way down. This avoids dirty water streaming down and redepositing grime on already cleaned panels.
Use the Two Bucket Method
Fill one bucket with your automotive wash solution. The second bucket contains only clean water for rinsing dirt from your wash mitt. This prevents swirling particles across the paint.
Rinse Often and Frequently Soak Mitt
Rinse your wash mitt frequently in the clean rinse bucket and fully soak it in the soapy wash bucket. Letting soap dry on EV surfaces can lead to staining.
Clean Wheels Before Lower Body
Wheels and wheel wells tend to be the dirtiest areas. Clean them first before washing the rest of the vehicle to avoid splattering dirt onto freshly washed panels.
Spot Clean Problem Areas
Spot treat stubborn dirt accumulation, bug splatter, bird droppings, tree sap, and tar spots with dedicated cleaners before full washing. This prevents spreading contaminants across the paint.
Use Microfiber Drying Towels
Chamois and waffle weave microfiber towels gently absorb water for scratch-free drying. Avoid terry cloths or paper towels that can mar surfaces.
Don’t Forget Details
Clean trim pieces, rubber seals, badges, door jambs, and crevices with dedicated cleaners and microfiber cloths for a spotless finish.
Recommended Exterior Cleaning Supplies
Assembling the right supplies makes washing your EV faster and more effective:
- Two buckets with grit guards to keep dirty water separate
- Carnauba wax-free, pH balanced car wash
- Lambswool or microfiber wash mitts that are scratch-free
- Separate wheel and tire brushes
- Tar and bug spray removers
- All-purpose cleaners for spot treating areas like rocker panels
- Microfiber drying cloths and chamois
- Trim restorers and protectants for finished surfaces
- Chrome and glass cleaners and polishes
Safely Washing the Interior
Use these tips to keep your EV’s interior looking spotless:
Start by Vacuuming
Thoroughly vacuum all upholstery, carpeting, crevices, and compartments to remove loose dirt before wiping surfaces.
Dust First, Then Clean
Use a microfiber dusting mitt or cloth to remove dust before cleaning. This prevents it grinding into surfaces as you wipe.
Spot Clean Messes Quickly
Immediately treat any stains, spills, or heavily soiled areas on upholstery and carpets. This prevents permanent setting before full interior cleaning.
Clean One Section at a Time
Tackle interior sections systematically – front seats, rear seats, flooring, doors, dash, console etc. This prevents missing areas and cross-contamination.
Use Protectants and Conditioners
Apply vinyl, rubber, leather, and plastic protectants and conditioners to preserve surfaces and prevent drying out. Buff gently after application.
Detail Air Vents and Tight Spaces
Use cotton swabs, soft brushes, or toothbrushes to remove debris that collects in air vents, cup holders, stitching, and crevices.
Recommended Interior Cleaning Supplies
These interior cleaning supplies make safely detailing the EV’s cabin simple:
- Upholstery brush, crevice tool, and hose attachments for your vacuum
- Interior-specific cleaners and protectants for vinyl, leather, plastic, and rubber
- Microfiber cloths and gentle scrub brushes
- Cotton swabs and toothbrushes for detail work
- Stain pre-treaters and odor eliminators
- Glass cleaner formulated for automotive interiors
Cleaning Charging Ports and Battery Areas
While less maintenance is required for EV power systems, avoid neglecting these sensitive components:
Gently Wipe Accessible External Surfaces
Use a soft cloth with mild, non-corrosive cleaner to gently wipe down any accessible plastic covers or metal bracketry around batteries or charging ports. Avoid pressure washing.
Dry Surfaces and Apply Protectant
Allow surfaces to fully dry after cleaning. Then apply rubber, vinyl or plastic trim protectant to repel future dirt and moisture. This inhibits corrosion.
Clean Charging Ports of Debris
Use a soft dry cloth to gently wipe away any dust or dirt around the charging port opening. Avoid inserting anything into the port that could damage the contacts.
Check Connections for Corrosion
Inspect connection points, terminals, and wiring for any corrosion or oxidation. Gently clean with battery terminal cleaner and protectant if needed. Avoid spreading debris into other areas while cleaning.
Blow Out Light Debris with Compressed Air
Use compressed air to safely dislodge any light dirt or debris that may collect in crevices around the battery and motor compartments over time. Avoid directing air flow at sensitive electronics.
Conclusion
With the proper techniques and automotive cleaners, you can safely detail your electric vehicle at home in between professional services. Pay special attention to the areas that make EVs unique when washing, like aerodynamic exterior surfaces and battery components. Following these best practices will keep your EV looking like new inside and out.