What's your window washing routine?

[juneau99803]

Our leaf is our first EV, and we're enjoying never stopping at the gas station. But with with that change in routine, I realized I'm no longer doing my all-windows wash and squeegee while I wait for the gas to pump. My routine would also include a swipe across the head and tail lights, so that is now seldom being done. For those of you who used to do such things at the gas pump, what's your replacement routine?

I've thought about a bucket and squeegee next to our charge point (on the back of the house), to remind me to do an occasional quick walk-round. But that ain't gonna work in the winter time (due to freezing temperatures), just when regular window/light cleaning is most needed. Maybe I need to install a birdbath warmer in it the bucket?

 

[atikovi]

You car doesn't have windshield washers?

 

[Drew21]

The combination of the window washer fluid/wipers plus washing the car (including windows) on a semi-regular basis works for me.

In a pinch I have pulled the Leaf into a gas station and used the tools provided there.

Speaking of, during the colder months I suspect that the fluid in the wash bucket at your gas station is the same winter-spec windshield washer fluid they sell inside. There's nothing saying you couldn't do the same, although I would keep the bucket closed between uses.

 

[juneau99803]

You car doesn't have windshield washers?

Sure it does. But those don't clean the entire windshield, nor do they clean any of the side windows, mirrors, or lights. Visibility is seriously degraded (particularly in the rain) if the door-windows and mirrors are not cleaned with some regularity. Headlight output is noticeably diminished if the lenses are dirty.

 

[atikovi]

Why can't you do all that at home? Or when you wash the car. I've only seen people do as you describe, cleaning the side windows, mirrors, lights, a few times at a gas station, but it was like their car/truck just came from muddin. If those parts are so dirty, you probably need to wash the car.

 

[juneau99803]

Why can't you do all that at home?

That was kind of my original question. "For those of you who used to do such things at the gas pump, what's your replacement routine?"

Spending more time with a bucket and sponge washing the car is a valid response.

 

[MillerLF]

The local gas station is friendly. I can stop by for a quick window and windshield wipe and give a little tip.

 

[Chad E. Mo]

Some charge stations have the squeegees and towels... you could pop in there if you don't want to keep a bucket at home.

I'm lucky enough to have a $20/month all-you-can-eat car wash subscription with all the trimmings... microfiber towels, vacuums, compressed air, and they will wash the floor mats in a feed-through machine. I'm in and out in about ten minutes, including my diy wipe-down.

I clean the inside of the glass once or twice a year, now that I don't have dogs.

I realized that I was spending a lot of time at home washing the car in the warm months and in the winter, the coin-operated stalls were overpriced.

I am also now a big fan of the Turtle wax ceramic hybrid spray coating... glass, plastics, tires, paint... Holds up great.