PriceProtect™
DriveShield™
GarageGuard™
Services
Insurance
Car Insurance
Compare Car Insurance with Jerry
Jerry’s Expert Advice
Car Insurance Estimates
Home & Renters Insurance
Renters Insurance
Repairs
Car Repair Estimates
Repair Estimates for Popular Services
Advice
Read Car Content
Browse Jerry Car Advice
Check Out Expert Car QnA
Learn About How We Create Content
Jerry Data & Research
How do you wash a motorcycle at a car wash?
I’ve only owned a motorcycle for a few months, but it’s about time to get it cleaned. I used to take my car through the car wash, but I don’t know how that’s supposed to work with a bike. Is there a good way to wash my motorcycle at a car wash?
Joshua Levy · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If you ask most motorcycle owners how you should wash your bike at a car wash, they’ll give you a simple answer—don’t! High water pressure can damage your bearings, paint, electrical, and chain. Plus, quick temperature changes could warp your engine.
But, if you still want to wash your motorcycle at a car wash, use these tips:
- Only use manual car washes.
- Wait at least 10 minutes for the engine to cool before you start.
- Only use low water pressure to spray it down.
- Work in sections to avoid spraying exposed leather.
- Don’t use detergent soaps since some of them may react poorly with aluminum.
- Use a degreaser to clean your engine instead of soap and water.
Cleaning your motorcycle can be a chore, but it’s a part of general bike
maintenance
. If you can, your motorcycle will be better off with an old-fashioned scrub. Using a wet, soapy cloth and degreaser will help your motorcycle get clean without the risk of damage.Beyond general maintenance, protect your new motorcycle with a roadside assistance membership from
Jerry
. Jerry’s membership provides you with industry-leading roadside assistance, including benefits like towing, lockout service, and a mechanics hotline. To find out if you’re eligible, you can check the app or call one of our friendly agents. You may qualify for a special rate of $50 for your first year! View full answer
- Gregory R.
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance
You Might Also Be Interested
Read Advice From Car Experts At Jerry
What Others Are Asking
Browse More Content
Insurance in Your State
Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance
No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls
Quotes from top insurance companies