what is the best car wash

Short answer: the best car wash is a proper hand wash you do yourself, because machines are about as gentle as a kookaburra with a fork.

Use a two-bucket method, pH-neutral shampoo, a microfibre mitt, and a microfibre drying towel; work in the shade and rinse thoroughly.

If you’re apartment-bound, a touchless automatic is the safest paid option; avoid brush rollers unless you fancy swirl marks as a new paint colour.

Add a quick spray sealant every few washes and keep the pressure washer 30–50 cm off the paint; your car will look schmick and your pride will be unbearable.