Who wants to spend hours washing their car? Unless you’re an avid car enthusiast who takes parent-like pride in their ride, the simple answer is this: nobody!
Getting this job done, however, can be made a lot easier and quicker with the help of one piece of kit – the pressure washer!
This guide is going to explain what a pressure washer is and how you can choose the right one for yourself. We’ll also let you know more about the best pressure washer for cars, so you can purchase the one that’s right for you.
Quick Links to Our Top Recommendations for Best Pressure Washer for Cars
- Karcher K5 Premium Electric Power Pressure Washer, 2000 PSI, 1.4 GPM
- Ticks every box there is to tick!
- Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Joe 2030 PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp
- Fairly priced and powerful enough to tackle tough stains in no time.
- Greenworks 1500 PSI 13 Amp 1.2 GPM Pressure Washer
- The lightest model on our list and ideal for smaller vehicles.
- AR Blue Clean AR390SS Electric Pressure Washer
- A fantastic PSI rating and GPM combine to make this one better for quick and deep cleaning than most of the competition.
- Karcher K2 Car Care Kit Electric Power Pressure Washer, 1600 PSI, 1.25 GPM
- Not the most powerful option out there but still a great choice for quick cleaning jobs.
- SIMPSON Cleaning MegaShot Gas Pressure Washer, 3200 PSI at 2.5 GPM
- This beast of a unit could breezily clean your average tank, never mind a car!
- Briggs & Stratton 2200Psi 1.9Gpm Vs Washer
- This water-saving device is a solid choice for anyone who likes to keep their vehicle, outdoor furniture, and lawn equipment squeaky clean.
- Generac OneWash 3, 100 PSI, 2.4 GPM, Gas Powered Pressure Washer and PowerDial Gun
- Heavy and bulky but packs a serious punch!
Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices and customer reviews on Amazon.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
- 1 Best Pressure Washers for Cars – A Detailed Look at Our 8 Favorite Models
- 2 Best Electric Pressure Washers for Cars
- 2.1 Karcher K5 Premium Electric Power Washer, 2000 Psi, 1.4 Gpm
- 2.2 Sun Joe Spx3000, 2030 Psi 1.76 Gpm 14.5-Amp Electric Pressure Washer
- 2.3 Greenworks 1500 Psi 13 Amp 1.2 Gpm Pressure Washer Gpw1501
- 2.4 Ar Blue Clean Ar390ss Electric Pressure Washer, Blue
- 2.5 Karcher K2 Car Care Kit Electric Power Pressure Washer, 1600 Psi, 1.25 Gpm
- 3 Best Gas Pressure Washers for Cars
- 4 What Is a Pressure Washer?
- 5 Power Washer Vs Pressure Washer
- 6 Benefits of Pressure Washing Cars
- 7 Are There any Downsides to Pressure Washing Your Car?
- 8 Types of Pressure Washers
- 9 Gas Vs Electric Pressure Washers
- 10 Pressure Washer Strength Rating
- 11 What PSI Pressure Washer Is Best for Washing Cars?
- 12 Features to Look for in the Best Pressure Washers
- 13 Conclusion
Best Pressure Washers for Cars – A Detailed Look at Our 8 Favorite Models
We know it can get complicated to choose with so many products out there. That’s why we’ve taken the time to review some top products and save you time and a lot of hassle. We’re going to look at electric and gas options separately. This way it’s easier to understand the advantages that each type of product offers.
Best Electric Pressure Washers for Cars
We’ve got some favorite models to share with you, and we’re going to look at the electric pressure washers first in more detail. This will hopefully help you make up your mind and choose the right pressure washer for you.
Karcher K5 Premium Electric Power Washer, 2000 Psi, 1.4 Gpm
This first product from Karcher should be on everybody’s shortlist. This product doesn’t disappoint, offering powerful pressure to get rid of dirt and stains that accumulate on your car. The 2000 PSI rating can get rid of any stubborn bird droppings or other dirt, and the 1.4 GPM flow rate makes cleaning your car fast and easy.
This model comes with the Vario Power and Dirtblaster spray wand attachments to help you take on tough cleaning jobs in half the time. You won’t have to worry about annoying your neighbors either. The motor is far less noisy than most pressure washers we’ve tried over the years.
Another useful feature that’s missing from some competing products on our list is the integrated hose reel. This may seem like a simple feature, but it makes cleaning a lot easier when you’re not tripping over the hose.
Features and Specifications
- 2000 PSI rating.
- 4 GPM.
- Weighs 32 pounds.
- Longer lifespan with a water-cooled induction motor.
- Corrosion-resistant N-COR pump.
- 25-foot, high-pressure hose.
What We Like
- Powerful.
- Efficient cleaning with good GPM.
- Water-cooled induction motor for durability.
- Includes Vario Power and Dirtblaster spray wand.
- Minimal maintenance with N-COR pump.
- Integrated hose reel.
What We Don’t Like
- Heavy at 32 pounds.
Summary
All things considered, we’d say this is an excellent, versatile pressure washer for your car. It provides everything you need to make sure your vehicle is sparkling and spotless, whether you have a big SUV or smaller city car.
What’s more, this product features an N-COR pump that will last longer than most. It also has a water-cooled induction motor, which is going to last around five years longer than most normal motors.
However, this model may not be the best when it comes to portability. It weighs 32 pounds, which may be hard to maneuver for some people. But it does come with 7.7-inch wheels that help.
Sun Joe Spx3000, 2030 Psi 1.76 Gpm 14.5-Amp Electric Pressure Washer
This Sun Joe pressure washer is great if you’re looking for a budget pressure washer with the ability to blast off all the dirt and debris from your car. It has a 2030 PSI rating to provide an excellent amount of power that will remove salt and tough stains.
The five different quick-connect spray tips are a great feature that let you clean anywhere on your vehicle. Combined with 1.75 GPM, you’re going to get the job done in no time with this Sun Joe washer. If you’re environmentally conscious, you’ll love the fact it has a total stop system (TSS). This means that when you’re not using it, the pump will automatically shut off.
Another feature worth mentioning is the two 30-ounce detergent tanks. This allows you the convenience of two different detergents to clean your car. All you have to do to switch them is to turn the selection dial.
Features and Specifications
- 2030 PSI.
- 76 GPM.
- 35-foot power cord.
- 4-ounce dual detergent tanks.
- Five nozzles included, including foam cannon.
- Weighs 31 pounds.
What We Like
- 2-year warranty.
- Powerful.
- Five different nozzles for any cleaning task.
- Total stop system to conserve energy.
- Dual detergent tanks.
- Excellent GPM for fast cleaning.
- Spray wand for great coverage.
What We Don’t Like
- There’s no hose reel.
- The unit is on the heavy side at 31 pounds.
Summary
It doesn’t matter whether you’ve been driving through mud or snow, this Sun Joe pressure washer is going to clean your car well. We love how powerful it is and that it’s going to make washing your car so much easier. In particular, the spray wand included allows maximum coverage.
However, we were disappointed that it doesn’t have a hose reel. With a 20-foot hose, this is going to be a hassle when you’re tidying up.
Greenworks 1500 Psi 13 Amp 1.2 Gpm Pressure Washer Gpw1501
This Greenworks pressure washer is ideal if you want a compact and lightweight device for all your car washing needs. It offers a good PSI rating, which is going to clean the dirt off your car successfully and is easy to store away after cleaning.
The great thing about this model is it’s the only one on our list to include a soap applicator. It’s easy to connect to the hose and it makes shampooing your car fast and simple. It will be shiny and clean in no time. It’s quiet to use, and there’s no need for any charging or batteries.
Another good feature of this product is the 35-foot power cord. This makes it easy to connect to your outlet and have the freedom to move around your vehicle.
Features and Specifications
- 1500 PSI rating.
- 2 GPM.
- 35-foot power cord.
- 20-foot, high-pressure hose.
- Weighs 17 pounds.
- Soap applicator attachment available separately.
What We Like
- Long power cord.
- Soap applicator for cleaning the car.
- Lighter weight than many other models.
- Powerful.
- Includes different attachments for different cleaning tasks.
What We Don’t Like
- No wheels.
- Lower GPM than other products on the list.
- May only work well with smaller vehicles.
- Soap applicator not included.
Summary
This portable pressure washer wins when it comes to being lightweight and easy to store. It’s not going to take up a lot of space in your garage, and it’s easy to operate. It offers a good PSI rating for thorough cleaning, but the lower GPM means it may be better for small vehicles. You’ll find a soap applicator attachment available separately, here.
The fact it doesn’t have wheels does mean you’ll have to carry and move it manually. But if you’re looking for a compact machine that doesn’t weigh so much, that’s the sacrifice you’ll have to make.
Ar Blue Clean Ar390ss Electric Pressure Washer, Blue
If you’ve got a pickup truck or an SUV, you’ll already know some areas are hard to reach. Well, this can be a problem of the past with this product from AR Blue Clean. We love this one and think it’s the top model for bigger cars.
You can blast away all the dirt and debris from your vehicle with the pressure washer wand or gun. Combined with 2000 PSI, this gives you the higher pressure needed to remove the toughest stains on your car.
What’s more, the 30-foot hose allows plenty of movement to walk around your vehicle. Of course, you can also adjust the pressure with four quick change nozzles. They’re easy to use and only take a second to attach.
Don’t want to spend hours cleaning your car? You won’t have to. With an impressive 4 GPM pump rate, you’ll be able to blast your car clean within 15 minutes.
Features and Specifications
- 2000 PSI.
- 4 GPM.
- 35-foot power cord.
- Weighs 32 pounds.
- 48-ounce onboard detergent tank.
- Attachments are included.
What We Like
- Provides powerful water pressure.
- Long power cord.
- Different attachments for cleaning.
- Features a big detergent tank.
- Quiet engine.
- Environmentally friendly.
- Includes washer gun and wand.
What We Don’t Like
- Another heavy one, at 32 pounds.
- Only has a 1-year warranty.
Summary
Overall, we find it hard to fault this reliable pressure washer. It’s got a fantastic PSI rating and GPM that combine for deep cleaning in less time than other models. You can adjust the pressure with the different nozzles to clean any surface of your car safely. Plus, the large detergent tank and wheels will make cleaning even more convenient.
The only downsides are that the warranty is short, and the washer is pretty heavy at 32 pounds.
Karcher K2 Car Care Kit Electric Power Pressure Washer, 1600 Psi, 1.25 Gpm
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use and lightweight pressure washer with a long power cord, we’d recommend this one. This model from Karcher provides a good PSI rating and GPM for cleaning smaller vehicles.
We also like that three car care accessories are included. The wash brush allows you to scrub at tough stains, and the Dirtblaster spray wand is helpful too. The Vario spray wand is great, as you can switch between low and high pressure without having to change nozzles.
What’s more, a unique feature is an N-COR pump. This is designed to be long-lasting, it won’t corrode, overheat, or burn out. This means you can enjoy durability with less maintenance.
Features and Specifications
- 1600 PSI rating.
- 25 GPM.
- Includes a 3-piece car care kit.
- 20-foot hose.
- 35-foot power cord.
- Weighs 16.8 pounds (without accessories)
- Telescopic handle for extended reach.
- N-COR pump to deter corrosion.
What We Like
- 2-year warranty.
- Lightweight
- Rear wheels for portability.
- Telescopic handle for reaching up high.
- Light-duty cleaning abilities.
- Includes a wash brush and two spray wands
- Durable N-COR pump.
What We Don’t Like
- Lowest GPM on our list.
- May only be suitable for cleaning small cars.
Summary
The best electric pressure washer for beginners? We think so. It’s designed to be lightweight and so some PSI and GPM is sacrificed. There are definitely more powerful and efficient products out there. However, this one will still do a good job if you’ve got a small runaround car that needs regular cleaning.
Best Gas Pressure Washers for Cars
Are you more interested in seeing what gas washers have to offer? We’ve also reviewed some of these, so let’s take a look now.
Simpson Cleaning Msh3125-S Megashot 3100 Psi 2.5 Gpm Gas Pressure Washer
The Honda GC190 engine delivers an impressive 3100 PSI rating, which makes this an extra-heavy-duty washer. Just be sure to use the nozzle tips included to get the right pressure for your vehicle.
In addition, the 2.5 GPM rating is one of the highest on our list. This means that the amount of water you use is dispensed faster, making every pressure wash quick and easy. Plus, the 25-foot hose gives you plenty of space to reach all angles of your vehicle, while the big wheels make the unit portable and easy to move around.
However, there’s no incorporated detergent tank, only a siphon tube with filter. Some users feel this is a plus point, however, rather than a negative.
Features and Specifications
- 3100 PSI rating.
- 5 GPM.
- Features a powerful Honda GC190 engine.
- 25-foot MorFlex hose.
- Solid steel construction frame.
- Includes five quick-connect nozzle tips.
- Detergent siphon tube with filter
- Weighs 55 pounds.
What We Like
- Very powerful.
- Different nozzle tips for effective cleaning.
- Impressive GPM and water flow.
- Big wheels for mobility.
- 2-year limited Honda consumer engine warranty.
- Convenient cord storage.
What We Don’t Like
- Heavy and bulky design.
- So powerful it may damage vehicle if used incorrectly.
- Only has a detergent siphon rather than a built-in tank.
Summary
You don’t get a more powerful vehicle pressure washer than this one. But it’s essential that you choose the right power setting and nozzle so you don’t damage your vehicle during your cleaning job. It’s not going to be the best option if you have a small car. But it’s definitely going to blast away tough stains and clean your car efficiently if used correctly.
This model does have a bulky and heavy design, weighing in at a whopping 55 pounds. But the 10-inch wheels do help, with tread that can roll the unit over all types of terrain easily.
Briggs & Stratton 20545 2200 Psi 1.9 Gpm Vs Washer
This Briggs & Stratton pressure washer is powered by a 550e Series OHV engine that provides you with 2200 PSI and 1.9 GPM. Combined, this lets you clean all the dirt and grime off your vehicle with no fuss. Plus, the engine is easy to start thanks to the axial cam pump.
What’s more, it uses 80 percent less water than your regular garden hose. This means you can clean your vehicle (and patio furniture, driveway, etc.) and not waste water. You can also adjust the pressure you use with three quick-connect nozzles.
Features and Specifications
- 2220 PSI rating.
- 9 GPM.
- 2-year limited consumer warranty.
- 25-foot high-pressure hose.
- Three quick-connect tips included, including a turbo nozzle.
- Easy start with axial cam pump.
- Weighs 50 pounds.
- Detergent injection system.
What We Like
- Three tips included for thorough cleaning.
- Power engine.
- Powerful rating.
- Good GPM.
- Wheels for mobility.
What We Don’t Like
- No integrated detergent tank.
- No hose reel.
- Heavy and bulky design.
- The gas engine is noisy.
Summary
This gas-powered pressure washer is a good choice for the car enthusiast who likes to keep their vehicle, outdoor furniture, and lawn equipment sparkling clean. The PSI rating and GPM are high, which means a lot of power and efficiency. Those hard-to-reach areas won’t be so difficult anymore.
But because it’s gasoline fuelled, you can expect it to be noisier than most electric machines. It also has a bulkier design, which will make storage difficult.
Generac Onewash 3,100 Psi 2.4 Gpm Gas Powered Pressure Washer
Last but not least we have this gas fuelled from Generac. This is an extra heavy-duty product with 3100 PSI, which is the second highest on our list. This is great for tough cleaning and removing stubborn dirt and stains. It’s also easy to adjust the pressure with the power dial.
With the 25-foot hose and spray gun, you’re ready to tackle the dirt. The detergent tank is also huge so you won’t have to worry about running out of soap while you’re cleaning. You can also use the nozzle tips for maximum control.
Features and Specifications
- 3100 PSI rating.
- 4 GPM.
- Half-gallon detergent tank.
- 25-foot high-pressure hose.
- Includes four interchangeable nozzles.
- Features oversized tires.
- Weighs 57 pounds.
What We Like
- Adjustable power dial.
- Big detergent tank for holding soap.
- Powerful heavy-duty water pressure.
- Excellent GPM for efficient cleaning.
- Tires for mobility.
- Good hose length.
What We Don’t Like
- May damage vehicle at too high a setting.
- No integrated hose reel.
- Heavy at 57 pounds.
- Loud engine.
Summary
There’s no doubt that this product produces the power. It has a high PSI rating and GPM, which is going to clean large trucks and vehicles thoroughly and easily. But you’ll have to watch that you don’t damage your normal-sized car. Be sure you learn how to adjust the power dial to avoid this from happening.
It’s also not the best choice if you don’t have a lot of storage. It’s heavy and bulky, which won’t suit everyone.
What Is a Pressure Washer?
It is a piece of cleaning equipment that is, basically, a motorized hosepipe. There’s a water pump that pressurizes the water, which then comes out in a single stream from the hose end. This is what you use to clean your vehicle.
A variety of people choose to use a pressure washer rather than clean by hand. The high-pressure jet of water is effective at removing dirt without having to scrub it away manually. They can be used to clean driveways, patios, and other outdoor surfaces. They can, of course, also be used to blast your car clean without so much elbow grease.
Power Washer Vs Pressure Washer
When you’re looking for pressure washers online, you’ll notice a lot of people call them power washers. These two names are used interchangeably. Of course, the real question is, Are they the same thing?
Well, they work in much the same way. They both offer pressurized water streams that help you blast away dirt and grime. They look pretty similar too and there’s no real difference when it comes to pressure levels either.
But where the key difference lies between the two is in the temperature of the water. A power washer usually heats up the water. So, unlike the pressure washer that blasts out cold water, a power washer provides hot water. This means that grime caused by salt, mold, and other contaminants can be washed away better with a power washer.
But when it comes to cleaning your car, you don’t really need a power washer. The hot temperatures of the water may damage your paintwork and this is the last thing that you want.
Benefits of Pressure Washing Cars
Let’s have a look at the main benefits of pressure washers so you understand why they can be a good investment to make.
Makes Cleaning Your Car More Efficient
If you clean your car by hand, you’ll know how tedious and exhausting it is. Plus, if you have any ailments, such as a bad back, cleaning your car can be the absolute worst task imaginable. Well, the good news is that using a pressure washer is going to save you a lot of time and effort. Using a pressure washer on your vehicle can literally cut cleaning time in half.
Allows for a More Thorough Cleaning
There are always spots on your vehicle that you can’t reach or clean thoroughly by hand. Of course, we know that dirt from the road, such as salt and grime will damage your car over time. This is particularly true for your paintwork and your rims which are susceptible to corrosion when dirt is left on them. You really need to clean it all off.
A pressure washer is going to solve that problem. You’re going to be able to clean those hard-to-reach places and blast away all the damaging contaminants.
Helps Remove More Stubborn Dirt
Some dirt is harder to remove than others, including bird droppings and salt from the roads. This is especially true if it’s been on your car for a while. But when you use a pressure washer, the dirt dislodges with no problems.
Pressure washers use high kinetic energy and pressurized water to blast away tough dirt. This not only makes your life a lot easier, but it means your car is left cleaner too. Plus, it won’t damage your paintwork.
It’s More Cost Effective
Using your garden hose or buckets of water to clean your car starts to add up financially. But using a pressure washer actually uses less water, which is going to make sure you’re not paying out a lot of money.
In addition, you don’t have to rely on valeting services or car washes to make your vehicle look good. You’ll have the initial cost for the pressure washer and then you can do it all yourself. You’ll have plenty of money left over to play with.
Environmentally Friendly – Saves Water Compared to Other Methods
How many buckets of water do you think you use to clean your car? No doubt, it’s more than you realize. Your garden hose also uses a lot more water than you think since the faucet is constantly left on.
Simply using a pressure washer can save up to 80 percent more water. If you live in a place where water consumption is restricted, it’s beneficial to consider one to clean your car. You can also do your bit for the environment.
Are There any Downsides to Pressure Washing Your Car?
Pressure washers are an excellent way to clean your car, but it’s important to understand that there are some downsides to consider before investing in one.
The first thing you should think about is where you wash your car. A pressure washer requires good drainage to get rid of the water. If you don’t have drains or ways for the water to flow away, this could flood the area you’re working in, and leave it dirty.
While they do blast your car clean, these small machines can be noisy, which might upset some of your neighbors. Gas-powered machines tend to be noisier than electric.
A lot of people complain about how dirty and wet they get while power washing their car. Of course, the water is pressurized to blast away the dirt and this can be a messy process. The best way you can overcome this is by adjusting the nozzle and using attachments to control the water. Plus, wear some casual clothes!
The main concern about using a pressure washer on your car is it may damage your paintwork, trims, and decals. There is the potential for this to happen if you don’t use the machine properly. It’s essential that you learn to adjust the nozzle and select the correct power settings before you clean your car.
Types of Pressure Washers
There are a few different types of pressure washers out there. But you only have to be concerned with three—electric motor, gasoline engine, and diesel-powered.
Just as it sounds, a pressure washer with an electric motor uses this motor to create pressurized water. You’ll need electricity as a power source, which means you should have an outlet nearby. This type can also sometimes be used for light-duty cleaning around the home, such as patios or decking.
Units powered by gasoline engines are often used by businesses and for commercial uses. This is because they’re excellent for medium to heavy-duty cleaning and more powerful than electric models.
Lastly, you’ve got the diesel-powered models. These have similar capabilities to a gasoline-powered pressure washer and are only used outdoors.
Gas Vs Electric Pressure Washers
You’ll mostly have the choice to buy an electric or gas-powered model. This decision determines the power that’s provided to the water pump to pressurize the water. People naturally ask: Which one is better? Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages now.
Electric
Electric-powered pressure washers tend to be better for smaller cleaning jobs around the home and light car cleaning. They’re often quieter than gas models, and are also lightweight and portable. Another good thing is once you’ve bought the machine, that’s all you have to pay for, apart from the electricity they use, which is minimal.
Yet, there are some downsides to electric pressure washers too. Namely, you have to be near an electrical outlet to use them. This is not always going to be convenient for cleaning your car. Plus, some people are apprehensive about using electricity and water together.
Gas
Gas pressure washers don’t require cables. This means they’re easy to use anywhere you want. They also tend to be more powerful than electric models, which is better for stubborn dirt. Overall, they offer better cleaning ability.
Yet, there are some disadvantages to consider here as well. Gasoline-fuelled models do tend to be heavier than electric ones, which makes them harder to move around.
They are also more expensive than electric models, and there will be some maintenance required to keep them in good working condition. You also have to buy replacement gas, an added expense, plus, there’s a possibility of running out of power mid-wash.
Pressure Washer Strength Rating
You’ll find that every pressure washer has its own strength rating. This is going to tell you its capabilities and the power it can provide for cleaning. There are four different ratings you should know.
- Light Duty: A light-duty model is normally used for cleaning around the home. This can include cleaning a small car or motorbike, as well as decking and patios. You can expect a rating of around 1300 to 2000 PSI (pounds per square inch). This is delivered at around 2 gallons per minute (GPM).
- Medium Duty: The most popular strength for cleaning cars, these will provide a pressure rating of around 2000 to 2800 PSI and deliver a flow rate of around 2 to 3 GPM. Whether you’ve got a pickup truck or a sedan, this is likely to be the best strength rating for you. Plus, you can also use it to blast clean swimming pools and larger patio areas.
- Heavy Duty: If you’ve got a larger vehicle, such as a truck or a van, you’ll want a heavy-duty pressure washer. Just as you’d think, these have a higher rating of between 2900 to 3000 PSI and can deliver a flow rate of 3 to 4 GPM.
- Extra Heavy Duty: An extra-heavy-duty model isn’t suitable for cleaning cars and is reserved for industrial cleaning jobs. It features the highest pressure rating of 3300 PSI and above, and can potentially damage your car’s paint if used incorrectly, though they do mostly have settings so you can lower their power and still use them on cars.
What PSI Pressure Washer Is Best for Washing Cars?
When you’re assessing each product, always pay attention to the pounds per square inch. This is commonly referred to as PSI. Choosing a PSI rating that’s too high could cause damage to your vehicle.
We recommend the light-duty and medium-duty washers for blasting your vehicle clean. A light-duty model provides around 1300 to 2000 PSI, which is good for cleaning smaller vehicles.
If you’ve got a pickup truck, sedan or SUV, we’d recommend a medium-duty pressure washer. This is going to provide you with a slightly higher PSI rating of 2000 to 2800. This is going to make sure you can get to all those hard-to-reach places.
Features to Look for in the Best Pressure Washers
There are some key features you should look out for when buying. Let’s have a look at some of them now so that you can make sure you choose the best one for your car.
PSI and GPM
As we’ve mentioned, PSI refers to pounds per square inch. This is a measurement of pressure and it’s essential to know the PSI as this will determine if it’s powerful enough for a dried stain to be broken down. Weak chemical bonds will need less pressure to break them down, while stronger chemical bonds require a higher PSI.
Gallons per minute, or GPM, is the amount of water that’s delivered. Thus, the more GPM, the faster you can wash your vehicle. A higher GPM means that you save time, as well as using less gas or electricity.
In short, your PSI rating is going to demonstrate just how deep a clean you can give your car. The GPM rating shows you how fast you can get the job done and is all about efficiency.
Soap or Detergent Tank
You want to make sure that your pressure washer has a detergent tank (or even dual onboard detergent tanks). This is going to allow you to fill the unit up with car wash soap, preferably one of the best car wash soaps you can find in our guide! Otherwise, this is something you’ll have to do by hand with buckets.
Availability of Attachments for Different Uses
Some of the best pressure washers come with different attachments. This means that you’ll have more tools at hand to remove dirt and grime. For example, they may include fixed brushes that let you scrub away at stubborn dirt or a spray gun that lets you aim the pressurized water exactly where you want it to go.
What’s more, having different attachments means that you can use it to clean other places around the home.
Adjustable Power and Spray Pattern
Many pressure washers are adjustable. This may mean they have a dial to change the pressure or different nozzle tips to adjust the strength of the spray. This gives you more control and prevents using the wrong pressure and damaging your vehicle.
Convenient Power Cord Storage and Tool Storage
You want a product that is easy to store away neatly after use. After all, you want to keep all the cords, quick-connect nozzles, and the hose together so it’s all ready to use.
Look out for pressure washers that have attachment storage. In addition, a cable tidy makes sure that the power cable doesn’t get all tangled. While a hook will do the job, an integral cable reel is much more convenient.
Conclusion
Spending hours washing your car just isn’t necessary. With the help of a pressure washer, you can do a better job and do it in a fraction of the time. Of course, there are a lot of pressure washers out there on the market now. It’s essential you choose one with a good PSI rating and GPM flow rate.
Our list of recommendations contains some of the best products. There are some that are good for beginners, while others are extra heavy duty for larger tasks on bigger vehicles.
Overall, though, we believe the best overall pressure washer for cars is the Karcher K5 Premium electric power washer because it scores highly in every possible metric. Make sure you check through the options again, however, to make sure this is the best fit for you.
Which is your favorite? Do you have any anecdotes or experiences to share? Comment down below and be sure to ask any questions you may have.