I was wondering if anyone knew if an '09 MCS Cabrio is safe to take through a regular car wash. The dealer told me no, but I have heard from many people that it is fine. Anybody know if it is okay or not?

 

I don't think any car's paint is safe from a car wash but i think both gens of cabrio aren't at all.

 

Gas station car wash high risk, quality car wash low risk, wash at how real low risk.

 

This is meant as a joke, correct?

 

Well when my black Mini Cabrio looked white from all the road salt I took it through a touchless car wash. Sat in there expecting to get soaked but the top never leaked a drop of water. I've only done this once I really needed the salt off and it was a bit to cold to hand wash.. I hand wash all the time.

 

I took my 2010 S Cabrio to a nearby "touchless" car wash once or twice a month for several years, never had any problems other tan an occasional water drip at the top of a window.


I thought about a regular car wash on occasion, but was concerned that the bottom of the car / suspension could scrape against the tire guide rack.


I don't think there would be any problem with the top getting scrubbed by soft brushes or pads in a car wash, as I used a pressure washer and soap/brush to get the bugs, tree sap, etc. out of the top when needed.

 

Just remember to unscrew and remove the antenna.

 

My local car wash doesn't work well for my 2010 Cooper. The wheel guide does strange things to the car, lifting and jerking it, and it cut a large, deep chunk out of the side of my tire. Of course, they accept no responsibility.
No more for me.

 

As long as your top does not leak from age or wear you should be fine sending it through a car wash. The manufactures design the cars knowing they have to stand up to that type of use. If they did not new cars would be in for all kinds of warranty work due to electronics and other items getting wet. I agree that car washes are not great on the cars but I know I do not have time to hand wash all of my cars like I use to.

 

Look into ONR or other waterless/rinse-less wash products. Much quicker, usually cheaper, and much safer for your car. I use to wash my cabrio ('05) in about 8-12 minutes during my lunch break using Optimum No-Rinse. Best thing for the top is Raggtop clean and seal twice a year and regular vacuuming (and yes I said vacuum your hood/roof).