Okkkkk so this might be a really stupid question But is it ok to put the s in a car wash or just wash it by hand?

 

By hand please

 

Ok will do I was thinking that's such a smarter idea.

 

nothing but damage will come from an automatic wash.....wheels scraped, bumper tore off,....water blasted inside the cabin through the weather strpping, etc

 

Read the owner's manual. No high pressure washes. The soft top seals will get damaged.

 

Too much risk in a car wash like what others have said. Handwash takes more time but it pays off in the long run. Also, do a 2-bucket had wash .

 

Don't even use those " brushless" car washes. Search threads and you will find all kinds of damage and problems.
The S is really pretty small and you will learn how to bang out a basic (or more in depth) wash quickly. If you have one of those dusters and keep the windows clean, you can extend the time line. Sometimes I will use a damp micro fiber cloth to wipe down the panels, especially the back, if it is just dusty.
If you really need to use a car wash, find the kind with lots of teenage girls in bikinis who will wash it by hand.

 

Try using a rinseless car wash unless the car is filthy. I use it in my detailing business and you pour the product in a bucket and use another bucket to wring out the MF towel or lambswool mitt. No hoses except for the wheels. No water to dry out of the cracks and crevices so it saves time.

 

You may find these videos helpful; pick your favorite personality!

1) Larry Kosilla AMMO NYC
http://www.ammonyc.com/detailing/basic-car-wash/

2) The Junkman / A Brother in His Garage
A five part video series covering the correct way to properly wash your car without creating damage within your paint

Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w09r6m6sRCA
Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWAbo3RvW_A
Part 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQklBySgv9M
Part 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWnbAxhjgrE
Part 5: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnjeHGhFepw

 

I will only let Lucille wash my car.