Miata Mailing List: April 1993, Message #15
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   From: (none)
Subject: Re: "Brushless" Car Washes Safe?
   Date: (none)

> The Miata design engineers have said over and over in the MCA magazine NOT to
> go through car washes with the Miata.
> They never discussed potential damage, but [...] I would guess that they're
> concerned about damage to the top, and the potential for water entry into
> the cabin (the window seals do a good job of keeping out rain, but high
> pressure spray enters fairly easily.)  I wouldn't take the chance.

i'll vote with you.  i think the main concern is damage to the soft top.

depending on the type of car wash, some have roller things that go over
the roof as you drive through - certainly the roof and/or rear window
aren't meant to put up with this.  also, depending on how powerful the
sprayers are, they might be able to damage or punch through the soft
top material if they're concentrated enough.  i know that some of the
"manual" car wash sprayers i've seen are pretty strong, and i don't
aim them directly at the soft top from too close a range.

usually i just wash mine by hand with a hose and bucket, it doesn't
take long, and anyway, it's important to help remind your car that it
is being loved and well cared for... :-)