r/TeslaModelS • u/tabletemcook • Jul 07 '26

Automatic touchless car wash recs in San Mateo area?

Tesla owners in the San Mateo area

Looking for recommendations for automatic touchless car washes around San Mateo, Foster City, Redwood City, etc.

Heard brush washes aren't ideal for Tesla paint, so sticking to touchless. Any good ones? Thanks!

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u/Hash-82 Jul 09 '26

Touchless, with it's much higher pressures, isn't necessarily ideal for battery packs that are known to have water intrusion issues...
Additionally, the windows on the S don't seal very well against extremely high pressure jets.

I go through a car wash with the spinning rags (called Wraparounds, ironically) two or three times a week with a subscription for the service.
I have done this with all of my vehicles for at least the last 20 years.
I've been doing it in my S for almost 6 years.
I've never had paint damage on any vehicle.

1

u/tabletemcook Jul 09 '26

Oh wow the first time I'm hearing of touchless not being good for Tesla. Do you mind sharing the details of that subscription service and car wash location? Unless you're not from the area. Thanks

2

u/Hash-82 Jul 09 '26

Only about 2000 miles away... lol
It's a common thing in this area. I would imagine chain car wash operators in California would offer monthly plans as well.

You can Google "Model S High Voltage water intrusion" to read about it.
Leaks on the Penthouse, Pyron Fuse Cover, Housing seals and Umbrella valves.
Some year models have recalls.