Zune

Hi guys!
I hope I don't make myself a dartboard for asking this question, but just wondering what everyone's opinion is on touchless car washes. I have a new (Glacier metallic white) SQ5, & really want to keep it in tip-top shape. I generally do almost all detailing myself, with frequent hand washes, paint sealant, etc. Here in Canada though, it just gets near impossible to do any exterior detailing work in the winter (i.e. I don't have a heated garage, & hence don't have a water supply that isn't frozen!) I realize that touchless car washes often don't do a superb job, but in the winter time I've relied on them with my previous vehicles to rinse off surface salt & dirt when I'm not able to do a hand wash. Is this a non-no, or a suitable alternative when a hand wash just isn't available?

P.S. - I stay away from "soft scrub" car washes, as I don't trust them not to scratch my clear coat.

Thanks!

Al

Q5 Bob

I use a touchless car wash nearly exclusively with no issues. Probably best for a light color. Definitely agree that it's best to avoid the "soft clorh" type of washes.