How to Use Tesla’s Car Wash Mode Properly

How to Use Tesla’s Car Wash Mode Properly

Why Tesla Has a Car Wash Mode

Tesla vehicles are packed with high-tech features, and that includes a special mode for something as routine as a car wash. Car Wash Mode is designed to prepare your Tesla for safe entry into an automated wash by disabling or modifying systems that might otherwise be damaged or triggered — such as automatic wipers, parking sensors, or the charge port door.

At PeakForce Design, we’ve seen plenty of Tesla owners accidentally damage trim or sensors during automatic washes. Activating Car Wash Mode the right way helps prevent unnecessary wear and keeps your EV in pristine condition.

How to Activate Car Wash Mode

Whether you own a Model 3, Model Y, Model S, or Model X, the activation process is nearly identical and takes just a few seconds.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Tap Controls on the touchscreen
  2. Select Service
  3. Tap Car Wash Mode
  4. Confirm to enable

Once activated, your Tesla will automatically:

  • Close all windows and the charge port
  • Disable windshield wipers
  • Disable walk-away door locking
  • Fold mirrors (optional)
  • Disable parking sensor chimes

When Should You Use It?

Car Wash Mode is especially important if you're going through an automated or touchless wash. Even if you're just hosing off your car manually in your driveway, enabling the mode can help avoid surprise wiper activation or accidental door lock/unlock events.

Some car washes will ask you to put your vehicle in neutral and keep it rolling without driver input. Tesla handles this through Transport Mode, which is available from within Car Wash Mode when you press "Enable Free Roll."

Manual Washes (Home Wash):

  • Activate Car Wash Mode to keep systems disabled
  • Use a two-bucket method with pH-neutral soap
  • Avoid spraying directly into cameras or charging port

Automatic Washes:

  • Use touchless car washes only (no spinning brushes)
  • Activate Car Wash Mode + Enable Free Roll
  • Stay in the car, keep foot off the brake

PeakForce Design recommends avoiding brush-style car washes altogether — they may scratch your paint and damage trim, even with Car Wash Mode active.

What About After the Wash?

After the car wash is complete, tap "Exit Car Wash Mode" on the screen. Tesla will automatically restore your previous settings — including mirror positions, walk-away lock, and wiper settings.

Post-Wash Checklist:

  • Inspect exterior for remaining water or soap residue
  • Open the trunk and frunk briefly to prevent trapped moisture
  • Dry wheels and calipers to reduce brake rust

Extra Tips to Protect Your Tesla During Washing

Car Wash Mode is just one part of keeping your Tesla safe during cleaning. For maximum protection, we also recommend:

  • Installing door edge protectors and paint protection film (PPF)
  • Using ceramic coating for easy rinsing and shine retention
  • Applying PeakForce Design’s custom-fit accessories to reduce interior and trim damage during cleaning

Common Mistakes to Avoid

New Tesla owners often make small errors that could lead to costly repairs. Here are some of the most common:

  • Forgetting to disable the auto wipers
  • Not folding mirrors before a wash
  • Leaving the car in Park in a tunnel-style wash
  • Using brushes or high-pressure washers near sensors

With proper Car Wash Mode usage and mindful cleaning practices, your Tesla will look showroom-ready for years.

Final Thoughts

Using Tesla’s Car Wash Mode is a simple but powerful way to protect your vehicle’s electronics, finish, and trim. It's especially important if you rely on automatic car washes, or if you're meticulous about avoiding micro-scratches and sensor damage.

At PeakForce Design, we believe every Tesla deserves to stay clean — safely and efficiently. Pair proper wash techniques with our premium accessories, and your car will always stand out on the road.

Written by the PeakForce Accessories Team

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