Many people are content with cleaning their cars by hand. That may take a lot of time, but the cleaning is more thorough. However, not every person has the luxury to take so much time out of their schedule. They want their cars to be clean without putting in so much effort.
What do you do in such a scenario? The simplest answer to this would be to buy the best power washer for cars body as well as cleaning the underside.
A clean car enhances not just your driving experience but also increases its longevity. That is why for a cleaner, easier, quicker, and affordable solution, power washers are your go-to equipment.
You do not have to spend money on a professional car wash every time or even waste time cleaning it by hand. We have listed some of the best power washers for cars that you can choose from.
Top 5 Power Washer for Cars
1. Champion Power Equipment Gas Pressure Washer
Pros
- Presence of detergent tank
- Very durable construction
- Powerful machine
- Portable
Cons
- Pricey washer
- It can be too powerful sometimes
- Not easily handled by amateurs
Out top pick for the best power washer for the car is the Champion Power Equipment Gas Pressure Washer. This washer is highly recommended in the market and has very good reviews. You can never go wrong with a model like Champion Power Equipment Gas Pressure Washer. There are many high-powered washers in the market, and this is one of them.
At 4,200 psi and 4 GPM, this washer gives tough competition to most high-powered washers. No matter what tough substance you need to clean, this machine can handle it all. Your car will be free of mold, grease, mud, and any other stubborn substances. Professional car cleaners mostly use this machine.
Due to the intense water pressure, it might be hard for you to control the hose. However, trying it out a few times will give you the hang of it. Once you know how to use the powerful washer, you will not need any outside car washing services. This package comes with a 50 ft steel-braided hose. The hose is resistant to abrasion, non-marring, and durable.
It comes equipped with an AAA triplex plunger industrial pump that enhances the overall performance. There are five spray nozzles present in the package that is easy to connect and remove. That makes it easy to clean different surfaces and control the power of the high-pressure machine. You can position the spray gun however you want and get the desired cleaning.
Another attractive and important feature of the machine is its durability. You need to buy a washer that will run for a long time. That is made possible with the solid steel framing, which can withstand rigorous use. Despite the high-powered heavy-duty built, it is easy to carry the washer.
Features
- Compact and portable: Can be carried around easily without much hassle
- Powerful: Gives 4,200 psi and 4 GPM
- Versatility: Has five types of spray nozzles and an ergonomic spray gun
- Heavy-duty performance: Can be used by professional cleaners
- Durable: Sturdy frame and construction increases the durability
Overall, the Champion Power Equipment gas pressure washer stands up to its brand name. It is a champion in the true sense with its amazing, powerful performance, ergonomic design, and versatility. If you wish to use a durable machine, then you can easily choose this one. Even though it is an expensive model, the features will make it worth the purchase.
2. Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Electric Pressure Washer
Pros
- Low noise level
- Versatile option for small cleaning jobs
- Affordable price range
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- Short wand
- Electrical outlet needed to power it
- It cannot use in heavy-duty cleaning jobs
The Sun Joe pressure washer is an electric-powered washer that is great for cleaning cars. You will need approximately 30 minutes to assemble this partially assembled unit completely. All of the components of the unit are made from heavy-duty, high-quality plastic. There are small screws in the package which you can use to secure all the components properly.
The instructions for assembling the unit are given in the package. Make sure that all the components get placed in the right position. Moreover, securing these parts should be done so that it does not come loose mid-operation and cause accidents. This unit delivers 1.76 GPM and a moderately powerful 2,030 psi.
Based on the pressure, you can understand that this power washer is good for small to moderate jobs. You can clean your cars properly, but you may not be able to use them for other heavy-duty cleaning purposes. If your car has grease and dirt, then you can use this power washer effectively to cut through it.
Due to the low power, it will not damage the surfaces of your vehicle. You can even clean delicate parts of your car with the right nozzle. This package includes all five nozzles that are the 0-degree, 15-degree, 25-degree, 40-degree, and soap nozzle. The package also has a garden hose adapter that you can use to connect the washer to a garden hose.
Sun Joe pressure washer comes with large wheels that make portability easy. However, since this is an electric-powered washer, you will always need a power source to run it. There are also two cleaning tanks with a dial to adjust the amount that you want from the reservoirs.
Features
- Great performance: Perfect for handling small jobs such as car cleaning
- Versatility: Comes with five different nozzles for different tasks
- Dual reservoir: You can fill two tanks with water or one with water and the other with soap
- Easy assembly: Clear instructions given to assemble the unit in less than 30 minutes
- Longer use: Battery-powered power washer for unlimited usage
If you want a power washer you can use dedicatedly for car washing, the Sun Joe SPX300 Electric Pressure Washer is the right choice. This pressure washer comes with many amazing features. Moreover, this is a durable unit that is available at an affordable price.
3. Ryobi Electric Pressure Washer
Pros
- Weight does not exceed 20 pounds even after adding cleaning agents
- Very versatile machine for small cleaning tasks
- Easy to remove and connect the nozzles
- Moving the washer is hassle-free
Cons
- Lack of detergent tank
- Not powerful
- Absence of wheels to move the cleaner
Ryobi is a very well-known company when it comes to pressure washers. So having a model of the brand in this list should not come as a shock. We have included the Ryobi RY141612 Electric Pressure Washer in the list. It is one of the most budget power washers on this list, but there is no lack of features and performance.
The RY141612 is a small-sized model used for basic cleaning. It is a very suitable product that you can choose solely for car cleaning. This model weighs just 16 pounds which makes it very lightweight. Due to this lightweight, you can carry the pressure washer anywhere you want without any hassle.
With a 1,600 psi and 1.2 GPM, this is probably not one of the most powerful power washers in the market. However, this does not stop it from cleaning dirt properly for small projects. Since we are reviewing the best power chaser for cars, this model can do an incredible job cleaning your automobile. It also has a 20 ft hose and a 35 ft power cord for connectivity.
The package comes with three nozzles which include one for faster cleaning. It is a turbo nozzle that you can use for stubborn cleaning at a fast speed. Moreover, the compact and lightweight construction of the machine does not decline the performance.
It can be a great power washer for cleaning lawn tools, walkways, and other areas. There is a handle located at the top of the machine used to grip it.
Features
- Small and compact: The model is very small and is easy to carry
- Lightweight: At just 16 pounds, this unit is not at all heavy
- Small projects: This machine is suitable for small projects like car cleaning
- Durable: Constructed from high-quality materials for durability
- Comfortable to use: Easy grip and stability makes it comfortable and easy to use
The Ryobi electric power washer is a budget-friendly model that you can use for small cleaning jobs. It is a very lightweight and compact unit, so you will not have any issues using or carrying it. Overall, it is a very sturdy model that is made from solid parts, making it durable.
4. Simpson Cleaning MSH3125 MegaShot Gas Pressure Washer Powered by Honda
Pros
- Very durable
- Powerful engine
- Engine starts very easily
- Pneumatic wheels for easy movement
Cons
- Lack of detergent tank
- The hose can come loose from the holder
- Water connectors placed very awkwardly
If you are looking for a heavy-duty power washer, then the Simpson MegaShot pressure washer is the right choice. It comes with a 3,200 psi and 2.5 GPM, which can take the toughest spot out. This model comes partially assembled, and you will need to attach some pieces to assemble it completely.
It will take around 15 to 20 minutes to assemble the power washer. Due to the high psi and GPM, this power washer is very powerful. It is a gas-powered power washer which gives you high portability. Moreover, this powerful power washer can get rid of even the most stubborn grime and dirt in a few seconds.
You need to be careful while using such a powerful washer about the item you are cleaning. It is better not to use the washer to clean any delicate place since the water pressure is very high. It can damage or break delicate parts of your car if you are not cautious.
The most attractive thing about the power washer is its durability. This washer’s built is quite sturdy and is resistant to abrasion. You will find the power wand also has brass fittings. There are five nozzles provided with the package. These nozzles are red, yellow, green, white, and black. Each of the nozzles has different uses, which makes it a very versatile unit.
The washer’s cart has pneumatic wheels of 10 inches, and the frame is compact. It also comes with a 25 ft hose that lets you clean at a good distance from your water source. This unit does not have a detergent tank; instead, it has a tube with which you need to suck the detergent.
Features
- Compact and portable: Makes it easy to use at different locations
- Great fuel life: Can complete large cleaning tasks at one go
- Heavy-duty performance: Good for cleaning stubborn dirt and grime
- Low noise level: Can be used in different settings without disturbing others
- Powerful: Comes with 3,200 psi and 2.5 GPM
The Simpson MegaShot Pressure Washer is a compact and powerful tool that you can use for heavy-duty cleaning. Overall, this is a very satisfactory cleaning with all the necessary features present in it. Despite the lack of some basic components like the detergent tank, this is a well-performing power washer.
5. Karcher K5 Premium Electric Power Pressure Washer
Pros
- Comes with a detergent tank
- Motor life is very long
- Two types of spray wands
- Very sturdy and well-built
Cons
- Leaks
- Not high-powered
- Do not have many spray nozzles
The Karcher K5 Premium Electric Power Washer is one such machine that will take your cleaning experience to the next level. This washer gives a psi of less than 2,000, which makes it suitable for small jobs. However, this is a good enough pressure for cleaning your car without damaging it.
Karcher offers you two different wants that are the Dirt Blaster spray wand and the Vario Power wand. The Dirt Blaster spray wants suitable for handling tough dirt or spots that would not go away easily. On the other hand, you can use the Vario Power spray for all other types of cleaning.
The GPM of the washer is 1.4, which is more than your standard hose. That may seem to be less as compared to the other washers on the list. However, this washer can take out all the dirt when cleaning cars without damaging any part of it. This way, you get a clean car, and you do not have to spend extra on replacing any parts.
The machine promises longevity and would not heat up even after long use. It is due to the water-cooled induction motor that ensures long-lasting performance. The N-COR pump is resistant to corrosion and is highly durable even without maintenance.
The power washer includes two spray nozzles, one detergent tank, and one hose reel. Due to the presence of the detergent tank, using soap for your cleaning becomes a breeze. You will not have to use any tube to take out the detergent. The weight of the whole unit is 32 pounds and has dimensions 16.77 x 13.07 x 34.33 inches.
Features
- Long-lasting built: Made from durable, high-quality materials
- Versatile: Can be used for different cleaning tasks
- Amazing features: Has a detergent tank for easy soap usage
- Portability: The tall handle and large wheels makes portability easy
- Low noise level: Easy to use in different surrounding without creating a nuisance for others
Overall, the Karcher K5 is a good model that you can use for basic car cleaning. It comes with two spray nozzles and two types of wands. What it lacks is the power that most power washers have, but that does not make it a bad product. If you are looking for a power washer just for your car, you can opt for this model.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Power Washer for Cars
You have already gone through the different options for the best power washer for cars. From the reviews, you may have made an idea of which washer you want to choose. However, before you make the final decision, there is one more step that you need to go through.
Since the power washer will be a long-term purchase, you do not want to go wrong. That is why we have mentioned some important considerations that will help narrow down your search. These considerations will also help if you are confused or unable to make a choice.
Pressure of Water
When you buy a power washer, you need to check the force of the water that it creates. It is because the cleaning of your car will depend on the water force. You will find companies mentioning the psi or pounds per square inch of their power washer. It is the value used to measure water pressure.
If the psi is low, then the pressure will be low and vice versa. Most people opt for the highest psi, thinking that it will clean better and faster. However, this a grave mistake since a very high psi can damage your car.
Depending on how you wish to use the power washer, the psi will vary. Sometimes a power washer with a low psi is all you need to have a clean car. For a consumer power washer used for residential car cleaning, a psi ranging between 1,300 and 1,800 will be enough.
Gallons per Minute
Another factor that is as important as the psi is the GPM. GPM means gallons per minute which measures the water volume. It gets used to determine how much volume of water is going through the power washer.
Generally, it is better to have a higher GPM since the water force will also be better. If the water volume is low, then the force created will not be much. Having a high GPM will make the cleaning faster and efficient.
The psi and GPM of a power washer are directly proportional. If the psi is high, then the GPM will also be high and vice versa. The GPM for machines used for residential purposes will be somewhere around 1.5. You need to check both the psi and GPM when buying your power washer. Also, your water source needs to support the GPM of the power washer you choose.
Source of Power
The power source for each power washer is also different, and you need to see which one will be the most suitable for you. There are electric washers and gas washers, and each of these has its advantages and disadvantages.
If you need a power washer that needs less maintenance, is affordable and lightweight, then you could choose an electric washer. They also have a low noise level which is great for a congested neighborhood. Moreover, they do not cause air pollution, but you will be restricted to a certain area.
Since electric-powered washers have a cord, you cannot move beyond a certain point. On the other hand, gas-powered washers give you the freedom to use them wherever you want. However, the maintenance of the gas-powered models is quite high. They are also very loud and a major source of air pollution.
FAQs
Do I need to connect my pressure washer to a water tap?
A water source is necessary to connect your power washer. Generally, people use any water tap located outside as their water source. You will also need to use a garden hose to connect the power washer to the water tap. Depending on how far your car is from the water tap, you might need a very long garden hose.
The diameter of the hose is generally ¾ inch, or you can check out your particular water source and power washer. If you do not have any water tap outside in the garden, there are many other alternatives. You can use your washing machine tap as your water source.
The washing machine tap structure is similar to that of your outdoor tap. That means you can attach the hose to it and get water. If possible, you can also use your bathroom or kitchen taps to withdraw water. However, for these, you might need threaded adapters that can fit.
Before you buy a power washer, ensure that you have the right water source. If you do not have a suitable source, you may need to get one made. The easiest is setting up a water tap in your garden. This way, you do not have to connect one to the inside of your house.
Which detergent would be the most suitable for my pressure washer?
If you are cleaning your car every week or twice a week, there is no need to use detergent. Generally, detergent is not recommended for routine cleaning since the water pressure will remove all the dirt. However, it is better to add a little detergent to the water if you have tough and stubborn dirt.
In some pressure washers, you will find a separate tank where you can put the detergent. In others, you might need to suck the detergent directly from the bottle using a tube. No matter how you use your detergent, the real question is what detergent you should use. It is better to use a detergent formulated just for pressure washers to be on the safer side.
They are generally not foamy and will not create a slippery layer on the ground. It is quite easy to wash away the pressure washer detergents. They are also formulated to get rid of grunge and grease easily. You will also find detergents that are made just for cars.
Many people use dishwashing detergents, but that is never a good choice. These detergents could damage or block the pressure washer due to suds overflow. Since you have already invested in a pressure washer, it is advisable to invest in a suitable detergent for enhanced cleaning and machine longevity.
How do I know which is the best spray nozzle for cleaning?
When you buy a pressure washer, you will see that many packages come with different nozzles. These nozzles will give you different water pressures, and you will require them for different cleaning scenarios. You need to ensure that you use the correct nozzle color to get the desired spray pattern.
A red nozzle is suitable for spot cleaning and getting rid of dried elements or tough stains. This spray is very powerful and focused at one point. You can use this effectively on a hard surface like steel and concrete. Then you have the yellow nozzle that sprays at a 15° angle and removes tough stains, paint, dried mud, mildew, and rust. Before that, check out these guide on how to check for rust and remove rust before painting your car.
The green nozzle sprays at a 25° angle and is the most widely-used nozzle. For car cleaning, the green nozzle is the one that you will be using the most. This nozzle clears away grime from cars and also removes leaves and mud.
If you want to clean any delicate part of your car, the white nozzle is the perfect one. It sprays water at a 40° angle and will rinse the water very easily. There may also be a black nozzle that sprays water at 65° degrees and gets mostly used with a detergent.
Final Verdict
You will find numerous options when you search for the best power washer for cars. There is, however, much to think about before you make your decision. That is why we have listed five of the best-rated power washers that you can use to clean your car.
Check the psi, GPM, and power source of the washer before you buy one. This list also has multi-purpose washers that you can use for other cleaning purposes. All of the products we have mentioned here are included only after proper research.
Look at our options for the best power washer for cars and choose the one most suitable for you.
