New Car with Option Paint - Car Wash Options?

[generationx]

I´ve just bought an Alfa Romeo Giulia QV with the optional Competizione mica red. Obviously as this is a high(ish) value car and the paint was an expensive option I want to look after it correctly but as I´m quite time-poor I would rather use some form of service.

There are many disparaging comments over several PH posts/forums about hand car washes, so can I trust the new-style automated car washes, such as this one in Basildump?

http://www.imocarwash.com/carwash/essex/basildon-c...

I took my Golf R through there a couple of times and it seemed relatively "gentle" while at the same time giving a really nice result.

Generally I don´t have time to leave the car with a detailing company. I´m in south Essex.

Thanks in advance!

[Alex_225]

Personally, I wouldn't use any form of car wash be it automated or a typical hand car wash. None of them really take the time to properly pre-wash the car before scrubbing the dirt off.

If you can find a local detailer who has a website or will tell you how they pre-wash and then wash the car that would be my option.

The trouble with a lot of car washes if they use harsh chemicals to get the car cleaned quick. So acid on the wheels and traffic film removers on the paintwork. Ok, so a quick blast with a jet wash does help get dirt off but you are better off with a proper pre-wash and rinse, followed by a gentle hand wash and dry.

Trouble is, the sky (or should that read OCD) is the limit with this kind of thing so depends how much effort/cost you want to go to. A detailer doesn't have to cost the earth but it's not going to be the £5-10 most people want to spend.

[Alfa Pete]

Keeping a car clean doesn't necessarily have to be too time consuming. I'd look at getting the car professionally coated with a Gtechniq or Gyeon, which will make the finish easy to maintain then doing maintenance washes yourself.
Invest in a pressure washer, a decent lambswool wash mitt, decent car shampoo, some microfiber towels and you can have a wash done in 30 minutes. There's some good you tube tutorials on techniques.
I'd find a good local dealer and talk to them about your options.

[generationx]

Update: as suggested above bought a Karcher pressure washer (current promotion in Halfords), as well as some other bits and pieces.

It's my new favourite thing!

Thanks all for the advice.