As a car owner, you’re probably aware of the importance of keeping your vehicle clean. But, have you ever considered the importance of washing the underbody of your car?
What is a vehicle underbody wash?
A vehicle underbody wash is a specialized car wash service that focuses on cleaning the underside of a vehicle. This includes the frame, chassis, suspension, and other parts that are not visible from above. These areas are often exposed to dirt, grime, and other debris that can accumulate over time, leading to rust and corrosion.
The underbody is exposed to a lot of harsh elements, such as salt, dirt, and moisture. These can accumulate over time and cause rust and corrosion, which can lead to serious damage to the vehicle’s components. Washing the underbody removes these harmful substances, helping to prevent damage and prolong the life of the car.
How often should you wash the underbody of your vehicle?
The frequency of underbody washes depends on a few factors, such as the climate you live in and the driving conditions you face. If you live in an area with harsh winters or near the ocean where saltwater exposure is common, it’s recommended to wash the underbody of your car every few months. If you frequently drive on dirt roads or in muddy conditions, it’s also important to wash your underbody regularly.
If you neglect to wash the underbody of your vehicle, you run the risk of serious damage to your car’s components. Rust and corrosion can eat away at the metal, weakening the structure of the vehicle and leading to costly repairs. Additionally, buildup of debris can cause problems with the suspension and braking systems, leading to decreased performance and safety hazards.
Procedure
You will need to take your vehicle to a service center like DELTA SONIC to have the underbody washed and cleaned properly. They usually follow these steps:
Preparation
This involves lifting the car onto a hydraulic lift or ramp, so the technician can access the underbody. They will also inspect the underbody for any signs of damage or corrosion that may require additional attention.
Pre-Rinse
Before the actual wash begins, the underbody is pre-rinsed with high-pressure water to remove any loose dirt or debris from the underbody, making it easier to remove the remaining dirt and grime.
Cleaning
The technician will apply a specialized cleaning solution to the undercarriage. This solution is designed to break down and remove any dirt, grime, and salt buildup that has accumulated on the underbody. It is usually applied using high-pressure water jets that reach all the nooks and crannies of the undercarriage.
Rinse
The underbody is rinsed again with high-pressure water to remove any remaining dirt and grime, as well as the cleaning solution that was applied in the previous step.
Drying
Once the underbody has been thoroughly rinsed, the technician will use compressed air to blow-dry the underbody to make sure the water has been removed from the underbody, preventing any water spots from forming.
Some professional car wash services offer a rust inhibitor application to prevent rust and corrosion from forming on the metal components of the underbody.
Once the underbody wash is complete, the technician will inspect the underbody again for any signs of damage or corrosion. This ensures that any potential issues are identified early on and can be addressed before they become more serious.