edgemaster Posted January 30 Report Share Posted January 30 Guys, I have a, probably, silly question: I'm planning to buy a power washer. Never used one on a car and I am wondering if prolonged usage has any negative effect on the exterior (rubber, paint, clear coat, etc.)? I'd appreciate any input pro or contra. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
STBEAST Posted January 31 Report Share Posted January 31 In my opinion, it is a great way to clean your vehicle. Especially the wheel wells and undercarriage. How much PSI is it? That would tell a lot about your question. Depending on how strong it is, you need to learn how to use it and not get too close to certain areas and parts of the vehicle. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
edgemaster Posted January 31 Author Report Share Posted January 31 The one I was planning to buy has 2000 PSI. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
edgemaster Posted February 2 Author Report Share Posted February 2 Any more input on my question? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Samurai Edge Posted February 2 Report Share Posted February 2 I don't see how prolonged use would have any negative effects. What you don't want to do is hold the pressure wand right up against any part / paint. That might cause an issue. Great tool as STBEAST already said. Use common sense and you should not have any problems. ALWAYS be careful if spraying around any electronics Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
enigma-2 Posted February 26 Report Share Posted February 26 I've never had good experience with the electric sprayers, they last a year or two. Have never had a problem with my gas sprayer, has a Honda engine. Don't use a high pressure washer in your engine compartment. Followed this video few years ago and never had a problem. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
edgemaster Posted February 27 Author Report Share Posted February 27 Well, I have used a Kärcher since the late 90s and it lasted about 20 years, so no gas powered pressure washer for me. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
enigma-2 Posted February 27 Report Share Posted February 27 I've had several Karcher's. Usually in the 2nd or 3rd year something goes wrong and I get the speed up—slow down, speed up—slow down on the motor/pump. Called Karcher and they told me what was wrong but wasn't worth fixing. Nonetheless, I'd never use high pressure in the engine compartment. (I have used the battery sprayer in the video and it's perfect.) Gas has several advantages, lot more power, accessories, more flexible (not limited by power outlet.) Just get one with a Honda engine and known pump. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SteveMMM Posted 3 hours ago Report Share Posted 3 hours ago I asked a Paint and Body Shop, this question. They said to never get the Power Washer Jet any closer to the Paint than you could comfortably hold your hand in the Jet. Also they said Purple Power would remove any wax, and was somewhat harsh on the Clear Coat and Paint. BTW, I asked this for Oil Based Paints, I believe modern paints are made water based. They are great for removing Road Salt, from the Body, and undercarriages. Makes it quick and easy during the winter. I also use a Foam Gun, may modify the Power washer so it has both the Gun and Wand. Gasoline here, much more Versatile for other cleaning projects. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SteveMMM Posted 2 hours ago Report Share Posted 2 hours ago On 2/27/2026 at 12:06 PM, enigma-2 said: I've had several Karcher's. Usually in the 2nd or 3rd year something goes wrong and I get the speed up—slow down, speed up—slow down on the motor/pump. Called Karcher and they told me what was wrong but wasn't worth fixing. Nonetheless, I'd never use high pressure in the engine compartment. (I have used the battery sprayer in the video and it's perfect.) Gas has several advantages, lot more power, accessories, more flexible (not limited by power outlet.) Just get one with a Honda engine and known pump. Get a Leader Hose, use it only on your power washer, drain it out after each use. Garden Hoses have a lot of gunk in them. My HVAC Company used a lot of the Karcher’s and we got a Rep. to give us tips on their use. Also never leave it Plugged in with the water shut off, and clean the inlet strainer often Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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