How to wash your SUBARU

[@doodledog4401]

Long time Subaru addict here. On my third, in 25 years, all bought new. With these numbers you can tell I keep my cars for a long time. With my current '14 Forester, even my family thinks it's a new car. I'm borderline obsessive about keeping it clean and regular maintenance. All good tips on the washing procedure. I would like to suggest a couple of additional steps that make a real difference over time. First, I use the two bucket system, but have a rack in the bottom of the pail that keeps the mitt or cloth off the bottom of the pail, and out of the increasing amount of debris and sediment that collects. Second, after the wash, I use a damp towel +/- some instant detailer to wipe down the door jambs, rocker panels and edges of the doors and tailgate. These collect a lot of dust, and even though you don't see this area when the door is closed, it makes a difference. Third, in the same area, I use a rubber conditioner, or tire dressing and wipe down the rubber seals around all doors. Keeps them from cracking, dulling and helps prevent poor door seals, whistles and wind noise that starts to invade the cabin on an older car. Fourth, clean the inside of windows as diligently as the outside. It's amazing how much grime builds up on the inside glass, and I'm not a smoker. Finally, a periodic clean of the engine compartment, sometimes just with compressed air, or judicious use of detergent and low pressure water. This is not an area to go crazy with the pressure washer, which can force water into the crazy amount of electronic sensors, connections and devices under the hood.

[@jeffstone28]

It always feels good to have a nice clean car and know you did a good job yourself! I'm surprised you didn't show how you wash the roof. After having sedans previously, I now have to open the rear door and step up to be able to reach everywhere on the roof with my wash mitt. Also, I don't have any of those power wash contraptions. I simply use my garden hose nozzle to wet the car beforehand and rinse it, section by section. I start from the top, the roof, and then soap up the windows and the hood and rinse the above. Then I do the sides, the back, the front, and finally the wheels. I use a mild car wash concentrate and if I think of it, have a second bucket of clean water for periodically rinsing the wash mitt. Once I'm done , I open up the doors and wipe the wet spots on the frame with a clean towel and open the lift gate and do the same. Once or twice a year, I use an easy-to-use car polish, to ensure that rain continues to bead up nicely. I've been doing it this way for many decades.

[@carlfoster7003]

Bought the same exact car last month. Cleaned her today. Love the pearl white. ❤

[@charlesebyjr2925]

Looks nice, Alex could you please show us what safety features need to be off when going to automatic car wash? I always wanted to try but fear some of my safety features could cause a problem? Thanks, Charlie from Pennsylvania 😊

[@tomtribur458]

In my area it’s always hot so one panel ant a time is a must because the rest of the car would be dried soap by the time you get to it. Also, a pressure washer with the high pressure tip will not only damage paint but can force water thru window seals and gaskets into parts of the car or engine or lights that you don’t want water in.

[@lovestihlquality1369]

Now that winter is past, put the carpeted floor mats in.. Scotch Gard those. Clean and wipe all weathers w protectorant b4 storing.

[@opin2u]

I learned day one with my 2023 Forester Sport to leave the key in the garage as my door went off numerous times during the washing process. I use Meguire's Hot Shine for the tires which can be applied to wet or dry tires and will foam away dirt without scrubbing and will keep a shine even when the tires get lightly wet later. I have been using a duster on the dash and screen but am getting some microfiber cloths as that is a better option, thank you!

[@mariosimard4207]

Your content is always very interesting and I encourage you to continue. I owned a Subaru Crosstrek for four years and then a Subaru Forester for four years as well. I have chosen an Outback for my next vehicle but I still hesitate between the two engines. I'm retired, follow speed limits and do 15,000 miles a year. I do mostly in the city. Some people told me that there wouldn't be a big difference between the two engines in town since the naturally aspirated engine still consumes a lot in town. I would like to know your opinion since you use it daily. Thanks for taking the time to respond.

[@Doc1855]

Thanks Alex. We’re on we’ll water and it’s hard water so I take our vehicles to the car wash at least once a month. They wash underneath the vehicles to get rid of the de-icing chemicals so our vehicles don’t rust.

[@ricksousa3932]

Alex nice job on the wash, don't forget the windows. A clean car looks so much better when the wheels are shinning. I have an black Outback always washing it.

[@mgv00]

I like using Adams rubber mat cleaner. It makes the floor mats like new.

[@drift4647]

Thank you Alex for making this video, I know I’ve personally asked what products are good for the car. It’s my first Subaru and my last and all other cars had leather seats. Great video!

[@noelbaterna4141]

Just got a '23 Crosstrek recently and I'm loving her! Do you recommend any particular method/glass cleaner when cleaning the glass and infotainment screen? Regarding the windshield I recall seeing something about possible risk of compromising the eyesight cameras if cleaning incorrectly...

[@jimbuckley4986]

Thank you. I really enjoy your informative videos as this is our first Outback. Will going back and watch all your videos.

[@lovestihlquality1369]

A clean car is a happy car. I winter I go to car wash w full features including under body wash. Best to keep in garage.

[@pamelafarris2707]

What do you recommend for the black trim to keep it looking like new and removing pine tree sap

[@mstephens7]

Alex - Thanks for this. Leaned some things! Also, the video is very relaxing!

[@alexpmo]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@TavosMr]

I love too the pearl white color. I have the same color in my CX5

[@trk2423]

MN 2024 OB Onyx Meteor Grey here. Auto washer in winter only when it's above freezing really and forget about doing it by hand in the winter.... What is you opinion for the best auto car washer....Touchless or rotating or wiping "rag" type? Also, about the black plastic trim...any special product to use on those areas that would be different from the rest of the car?

[@MartinStockel-k6f]

Nice sporty Escape ST-Line vehicle. Had a lot of great features for a car in this segment. They should allow the media to be able to at least turn on the dash and nav screen. That would put your video over the top!

[@Madknick]

Nice work I just got 23 Outback XT in white in June

[@MichaelOdom-r2d]

I have a 2021 Subaru Forester, and I wash it by hand, I don't have the pressure washer. I use bucket and hose for cleaning the my Forester., sometimes I take it through the touch less car wash, but when I get the car done washing I dry it with Turtlewax Wax & Dry. Have you ever use Wax& Dry before? I would like your opinion.

[@SpexSpexington]

Would it be possible to provide a link for that short pressure washer handle? I have a pressure washer already, and it works great, but it definitely would be nicer to use a "pistol" sprayer versus the default sprayer wand Edit: I also highly recommend a pressure washer undercarriage cleaner. It's basically 3-4 fan nozzles on a bar with ine large wheel on both ends. The pressure washer connects to it with attachable metal hoses, and you just slowly move the entire thing under the car to pressure wash all the dirt, salts, etc off the undercarriage. Alternatively, you could just use the pistol wand, and get on your hands, knees, and back, and just reach under the car, but the undercarriage cleaner makes it 1000x easier.

[@alexpmo]

Sorry about that. I included the link in the description but labeled it wrong. Here's the short nozzle/foam cannon combo I use: amzn.to/3oGjRsZ.

[@alexd5721]

Pls send the link about the spray with Canon tank . Thanks

[@robalexander7348]

Thank you Alex, the Outback is looking great after its careful wash down, i have just purchased my 5th new WRX Sport CVT last week, i like my Subaru WRX cars for there safety features and the all wheel drive grip, also the excellent road holding manners, and of course my local Subaru dealership for good servicing... Safe motoring Alex. 👍 Au

[@Mikecantdrive55]

What do your recommend to use maintain the black plastic? Here in TX that black will look gray in a few years in the sun.

[@alexpmo]

The Griots garage tire shine I use doubles as trim restorer. I'd spray this on a microfiber to apply to your trim: amzn.to/41ITWzu

[@2504499]

I'm sure you hear this frequently---you are very cute and adorable Subaru owner.

[@kipjackson6784]

Alex, I would like to thank you for all the Subaru content you create but I have a question regarding this one; what method do (did) you use to dry the car? Chamois or terrycloth towel?

[@alexpmo]

For this wash I let it air dry. However, I have always used a chamois in the past because it gets all of the water sports off. Just have to be careful to use a clean chamois because this could cause small scratches.

[@kingkiril]

Great video. Great job

[@alexpmo]

Thank you!

[@tmschulte]

I enjoy your videos! How about cleaning the roof and the undercarriage? When I rinse the undercarriage my brakes always sound awful for awhile, so now I'm a little hesitant to do it. And then drying? Microfiber bath sheets? 😄

[@ColleenMc-M213]

How about maintaining/cleaning the cloth interior please! I have a Premium model 💚 Thank you!

[@janelmanuel9935]

Thank you, Alex. Do you have any recommendations for cleaning all the crumbs and junk that collect in the cracks & crevices of the interior? (Around the shifter and the seats)

[@alexpmo]

I use a vacuum for that! Then I wipe down the seats with a detail spray

[@janelmanuel9935]

@@alexpmo, thank you! I’ve looked at the slime like products for it, but I’m skeptical. Lol

[@robertgingg7243]

Hi Alex. I love your content and your Onyx. I would love to get the Autumn Green Onyx XT soon. I have a 2016 Limited now. I have a question about the soap. Is it safe for the environment? Our street gutters drain into a creek and I don’t want to harm any of the wildlife with harsh chemicals. Keep the great videos coming.

[@toddelliott9242]

What do you use on the plastic trim?

[@abufarhaz2306]

It's a very beautiful Outback Onyx.

[@2chicos]

I wash the underside w/ fresh water and appy UV protectorant to black plastic cladding, headlamps and taii lamps.

[@toddmarshall5387]

What do you use on all the black exterior trim?

[@charleshedeen2681]

Do you use any product on the plastic cladding trim? Curious if you have seen this fade at all. Thanks!

[@Doc1855]

Alex, your Subie is a nice looking ride.

[@TwoAlaskans]

Hard to beat a hand washing. Will be adding some of your gear to my collection. Am wondering if you can comment on floormats. I have not ordered factory floormats because some said they don't fit that great. Any ideas on other brands I should consider? Also, what are current recommendations on waxing a car? I've been told not to worry about doing that, but that's a habit hard to give up. My Outback Onyx is due in any day now.

[@russellcasey5216]

I differ on some of your methods. If you are doing the painted areas first. You should start at the top with a clean mitt and work down. Also, do not let soap dry on the car. I used a separate bucket and mitts for the wheels and tires.

[@patrick4979]

Hi Alex! What do you use for waxing? Brand etc.

[@Racer88]

Fuggedabout the wax! Get Cerakote ceramic paint sealant. Awesome stuff. Much easier to apply and buff off.

[@TneSoftOwner]

I just got a 2024 onyx xt. Haven’t had a fancy car before so the rubber feeling dash and soft touch dash areas I don’t know how to clean. Used to work at a car wash company back in 2011. We used armor all for dashes and plastics but I don’t know if that works for the rubbery dashes and soft touch dashes. Do you have any products that work well with the rubbery dash and the soft touch dash materials? Thanks in advanced!! Love the Subaru! Been a Honda guy all my life and when my civic was totaled i wanted to try a new brand. Subaru is becoming my new favorite brand.

[@EagleOne49]

My 2020 Outback is my 6th! Can't get enough! Thanks for the video, but you left out the drying process. Towel dry with towels you recommend, or blower, etc.?

[@andy.cher404]

OMG you have GSP puppy? You need to flood us with those videos too!

[@dianerudolph6530]

Hey Alex,. I'm loving your videos! How do we wash the top of the Outback? I thought I'd be able to easily reach it but not so. Thanks🙂!

[@Racer88]

Look up "wash mop stick kit" from Griot's Garage (no I don't work for them). I'm sure there are similar products out there. I got one for my new Outback Onyx XT. Works a charm to get to the roof of the Outback!

[@dlg5485]

I got a touring xt in magnetite gray, but I wish I'd got the onxy xt. The outback looks so much better with the black accents rather than chrome.

[@alexpmo]

That's a big reason why I went with the onyx. There are aftermarket vinyl stickers you can get to black out the chrome pieces and you could also swap the wheels or have the originals professionally painted black. I understand though that this is typically more work than most people want to fool with.

[@dlg5485]

@@alexpmo I'm actually considering that, wrapping all the chrome and powder coating the wheels in satin black. I'd most likely have it professionally done so it's a quality job. I'm not very confident in my wrapping skills.

[@vistjass]

Can you also suggest products for interior?

[@martinr8278]

I use chemical guys on my forester. Check them out. Took out stains easily and great protectants for vinyl and fabric.

[@susanevans8618]

Can you put a a2020 Forester through modern car washes? I was told to would mess up the outdoor safety devices.

[@arielspalter7425]

Awesome video, thanks!

[@martinmarsola6477]

Thanks for the video. A great exercise! 😊

[@alexpmo]

It's a bit of a workout!

[@jt.8144]

Would you also recommend doing an Engine Bay wash as well ?

[@rockinrob2004]

I was told with all the computer stuff today under the hood it's recommended not to.

[@MaxFromSydney1]

Thanks, Alex. I don’t mean to be a wowser but does your street storm water go through a water treatment plant before flowing into the river / harbour? Here in Sydney, Australia, storm water flows straight into rivers and harbours without water treatment (it isn’t practical to treat the huge quantities of storm water, unlike sewerage), so people can get fined if they let soap suds and other pollution go down the storm water drains. The drain is just for rain etc.

[@Dawn191]

I like 👍 the white foam wash.I will have to get it.

[@alexpmo]

It’s fun! And it does a really good job

[@Racer88]

​ @alexpmo is right... the foam cannon is fun and it works really well!

[@larrypirtle2062]

What product do you recommend for cleaning and conditioning the Napa leather upholstery?

[@jimwilliams7136]

Do you ever do anything with the exterior black moldings?

[@richardwilliamson4665]

My vehicle is parked under pine tree. How do you clean off pine sap on the paint and also on the black trim? How do you feel about using Goo Gone? Thanks, Alex

[@gelikoi]

Alex, can you recommend some products for wax? I bought a brand new Forester 2023 touring trim inspired by your channel. I park on the street and thus need to wax it to retain the paint on the car. There are so many products out there and it's really confusing. It would be great if you could try something and recommend it here. Thank You in advance!

[@EC-tj8bb]

Hi Alex what product do you use for the black plastic trim on the outside?

[@MikePDaTruth]

Thanks Alex, great job on the channel, I just took delivery of a 2023 Outback Onyx about 2 weeks ago. Any tips or suggestions for preventing the gray plastic cladding from fading over time?

[@alexpmo]

Thanks Mike! You can use the tire shine/trim restorer I use in this video: amzn.to/41ITWzu I'd spray it on a microfiber towel to apply to the trim so it doesn't get on your paint.

[@waltmarks1336]

Hi Alex. New Forester owner here. Your videos helped in our final decision to purchase our first Subaru. Can you tell what type of wax (natural or synthetic) you would recommend for the Magnetite Gray Metallic color? Thank you in advance.

[@giorgismama8024]

Thank you for this. I feel much more confident about washing my Outback by hand now so I will give it a try. Always really appreciate your videos!

[@drift4647]

Would you shine the black trim on outside of car? Also, for my dash I use a swifter to clean that up to pickup lint and dust. Not sure if it’s the same for all, but my dash is somewhat of a sticky material where a microfiber cloth won’t pickup any dust.

[@kensvilduchatellier5117]

Hey Alex. Love your channel. I just got a new Silver 2024 Crosstrek Premium back in March and your page has helped me immensely. Do you know if these newer cars come with Ceramic coating or not? I'm considering coating mine with Meguier's but don't want to do so if it's already on there.

[@alexpmo]

Thanks for watching! Subaru doesn't apply a coating at the factory. Some dealers will apply this so it's best to ask your dealership. Most won't do this unless you pay extra for it so chances are yours doesn't have it.

[@MJJCvideo]

@Alex Prestigiacomo Good car washing video,may I know if it's ok for you to review our foam cannon S V3.0?Thanks in advance!😊

[@gracevolt2616]

So you don't dry your cars after washing to prevent water spots? I have had the 2022 Crimson Red Forester for 7 months and now that winter is over (supposedly!) I want to keep it clean! Love the color but like everyone warned - it doesn't take long for it to lookd dull and dirty! I notice the inside of the door rims get dirtier than in my old Forester. I will just use the same wash to clean those.

[@Jhjh-t9t]

what do you use to clean the windshield and rear panel? Do you also use wax on the paint? i have a new crosstrek and planning to clean when it gets warmer and less snowy.

[@janetd57]

I enjoy your videos, Alex. Do you have any thoughts or opinion on having a new car Simonized on delivery?

[@davedavis3467]

Dang clean ..I should bring mine over and let you shine her up

[@alexpmo]

My neighbor said the same thing 🤣

[@joekimberlin264]

Great tips, thanks! Our Outback is getting alot of hard water /mineral build up on the windows that doesn't come off when it's washed, any experience with this?

[@alexpmo]

Thanks! Do you use anything to wipe the water off your windows or air dry?

[@joekimberlin264]

@@alexpmo use a towel usually when I wash, sometimes just 'drive it dry' but the spots are kinda just there all the time. I heard vinegar would work on water spots, so far nope. That foam shooter is legit, BTW, gotta have me one of those!

[@ig916]

What is the name or link to the brush you used on the tire rims?

[@lobsangyeshi6433]

Thank you very much. I find all your videos very helpful. Is it safe to wax your car? Would appreciate your guidance. Thanks

[@abpakdeep]

How do you clean the interior windows, windshield and undercarriage?

[@LicPlate8VPL158]

I don't have enough respect for my base model trek to give it a thorough washm I just take it to a nearby 24 hour wash once a year

[@Doc1855]

WOW, Really? I have our vehicles washed at least once a month. During our winter months our roads are sprayed with chemicals to melt the snow and ice. The chemicals literally eat concrete and rust vehicles. During the wash process they spray underneath our vehicles to wash off those chemicals. Our vehicles are waxed once a year with Ceramic wax. My college car was a very base model Corolla. Vinyl seats and flooring, but I kept it clean.

[@ScottLane-e9h]

How do you clean and polish roof

[@frankkirschner]

Did you get the ceramic coating when your car was new? It supposedly makes the car much easier to wash. I'm about to get my first Subaru, and expect to be asked if I want the ceramic coating on the vehicle.

[@classicalwit]

How about the roof, my guy? I imagine that you'd want to start there first? I'm 5'-8" tall and might have trouble reaching the center of the panel. Also, a moon roof would require some extra attention? Do you to anything special for your glass? Thanks in advance!

[@jugglematt100]

Thanks for the video. I have the same white based in Australia. 2022 outback sport which has the startek seating also. 10,000km in i love my suby very comfortable and so nice to drive . Can i ask what are your thoughts on ceramic coating paint treatments . Everytime i wash my car i notice lots of tar spots from local road works. I also get a fair bit of bird and bat droppings on my car. Thanks Matt .

[@kennethvella2282]

Just received the invitation for my first Subaru badge. I ordered it, and it should arrive in 4-6 weeks. Where does it go when it arrives?

[@rockinrob2004]

I put mine on the rear right side below the model name.

[@bodhidogculture]

Have you had your car ceramic coated or do you recommend it?

[@williamstevenson8518]

You live where it's warm. What about washing the undercarriage if you live someplace where they salt the roads?

[@carolynforbes7054]

Can you take a subaru with camping rack on top, through a car wash

[@robertcochran7103]

Perhaps a tutorial on waxing the vehicle will be interesting. 🙂 My vehicle is actually parked about 70 feet from the house and that is the closest I can get the vehicle to the house...and a water tap. I can run a very long hose, but it is hard work. So I rely on automatic car washes and the rain.

[@vonphilp]

Thanks for the video. I pretty much already do what you described but didn’t know the shorter nozzle for pressure washers existed. I definitely want one instead of using the longer wand but I already had the foam canon so will just look for the shorter nozzle sold separately. Question: Does your tire shine product leave marks in your driveway that can take weeks to fade away? Mine does and it’s very annoying. Is that why you applied in the street?

[@alexpmo]

Yes, that's exactly why I apply it in the street 😂

[@gixxer_killa]

Do you wax the car too or just wash? And do you use anything for the black trim?

[@greekgod200486]

9:32 what is this spray? I want to get some.

[@alexpmo]

In the video I used the adam's polishes interior spray. The one in the video was a limited run they had in the fall that smelled like pumpkin. However, here is what I typically use now for the interior: amazon.rockporch.com/prdlink/JvdQRFcVT1

[@ДимДимыч-ц2ч]

Good day. how to find out if the car has remote start. forester 2020. I can't use the key. it is possible to find out by vin. thank you.

[@rockinrob2004]

They have their own separate key fob. Auto start is usually never built into one key. The vin would not tell you because that is usually an option not factory installed.

[@ДимДимыч-ц2ч]

@@rockinrob2004 Дякую

[@alexpmo]

There are two remote start options. One is with a second key fob (around $750 between parts and labor) and the second option is through your phone with the MySubaru app. The app is a subscription through Subaru Starlink. It's $150 a year and gives you remote access. you can start/stop the car, adjust climate controls, lock/unlock, and even locate the car.

[@ДимДимыч-ц2ч]

@@alexpmo дякую

[@leevonwall6548]

Nothing better than a clean car. Unfortunately I ended up buying mine in Crystal Black Silica and I live off of a gravel road 😅

[@therealkb3515]

😂😂 I just got a crystal black silica too, was driving on gravel yesterday

[@leevonwall6548]

@@therealkb3515 it’s the worst

[@randallgreene8398]

Do you do any special post wash coating on the cladding?

[@alexpmo]

I haven't applied one yet but I'll test out a product and see what I can recommend!

[@wvpickledish]

Did you forget to wash the top of the car? I have to use a step stool in order to reach it all. 😊

[@alexpmo]

I did but didn’t show it in the video. I probably should’ve shown that 😅 I also have to use a stool to get the roof lol

[@randallgreene8398]

I usually open the door and step up, but I am going to try a stool now.

[@alexpmo]

@@randallgreene8398 I've done that also. Just harder to avoid soap inside the car

[@patricklundquist9869]

Some nice technique. I've been going old school with dish detergent, old towels and T-shirts. That foam seems like a better choice. Stays wet longer. One thing most people forget to do and over the years it can get really gunky, cleaning the inner door frames, etc. Also, lower the windows part way and there will be a line of dirt where the window goes into the upper slot. Here's a little bonus information about the 2023 Ascent, the front driver and passenger windows are double pane for a quieter ride. The salespeople never mentioned that but a service guy did. Lower the window part way and look at the upper edge and you can see the line where the panes meet. My wife has a 2023 Forester and it does not have the double pane.

[@lovestihlquality1369]

Other than keeping in garage, be careful parking to avoid door dings.

[@7easton7]

Washing in the shade is key.

[@alexpmo]

yes 100%

[@maryanderson8746]

What do you use on the interior windows?

[@danielfair4675]

NexGen window cleaner is awesome.

[@nancycole7210]

Now I wish I bought the white one and not my red one. Lol

[@arti8364]

Why not work from top then sides etc. Also why miss instead of a fine brush. Seems like mitts capture grit

[@alexpmo]

Good point! I'm remaking a car wash video soon to show a better example. The mitts can capture grit if you're not careful. It's best to use the two bucket method to avoid this. I wouldn't use a brush on the paint. This has a good chance at creating scratches.

[@gilbertj.quilatan8148]

Did you have to do anything about drying? That’s usually the part I dread the most…

[@vonphilp]

Who held the camera? I’m used to you doing it all. Give ‘em a shout out!

[@Aikynbreusov]

His wife

[@reljoy]

Why do you use a pressure washer? Can't you use that snow foam with your garden hose?

[@alexpmo]

You can also use a garden hose but make sure you get the foam gun that is set up for the garden hose. The pressure washer is easier to use and it creates more foam so that's why I personally use it.

[@BobPetrone]

I use Dawn dish detergent on my forester. Enjoy watching your videos.

[@alexpmo]

I'm guilty of using that on cars in the past. Never had any issues out of it but I made a few people upset lol

[@robalexander7348]

Be careful using Dish detergent, some contain salts 😟 Au