Car Care, Editorial

Can You Pressure-Wash Your BMW?

Keeping your Bimmer clean is more than just taking pride in your car. It’s also an important part of making it last as long as possible, so you want to do it right. Pressure washing seems like a convenient way to do that, but is this a safe way to clean your BMW?

In most cases, yes, you can safely pressure-wash your BMW — or any car, for that matter. That said, it poses some risks you don’t have to worry about with other washing methods.

Concerns With Pressure Washing

The biggest concern with pressure washing your BMW is, well, the pressure. Some power washers can deliver upwards of 4,000 pounds per square inch (psi) of force. That’s more than enough to take your paint off or damage sensitive parts. 

However, most washers also allow you to use much lower pressure, especially if you’re using an electric one. Most surfaces on your BMW should withstand anything below 2,000 psi.

The other big concern with pressure washers is that they could send loose debris flying if you hit it at the right angle. Those tiny projectiles, in turn, could hit and damage your Bimmer — especially the windows. While auto glass is four times stronger than normal window glass, a tiny, fast-moving pebble can still crack it by putting a lot of force in a small area.

Still, you can avoid that if you approach power washing carefully. None of these risks make pressure washing too dangerous to be worth it if you know what you’re doing.

How to Safely Pressure-Wash Your BMW

Given these risks, you’ll want to take a few precautions when pressure washing your BMW. Here’s how you can do it without damaging your car.

1. Find the Right Pressure Washer for the Job

First, you need to use the right kind of power washer. You’ll want an electric one instead of a gas-powered alternative, as these are much less powerful. Look for a washer with adjustable pressure settings and, ideally, wheels to make it easier to use.

Pay attention to the nozzles that come with your pressure washer, too. A 40-degree nozzle is best for most car surfaces because it creates a less concentrated stream, leading to less pressure on your BMW’s paint. A 25-degree nozzle is fine for wheels or other strong but grimy parts, but you’ll want to avoid 0-degree nozzles altogether.

2. Mind Your Environment

You’ll also want to be careful about what’s around you when pressure washing your BMW. Park it on a hard, flat surface before starting. Gravel or dirt driveways won’t work because you may accidentally send debris from these surfaces flying if you hit it with the power washer.

It may help to clear the area of any small objects like rocks and twigs before getting started. You could do this with your power washer on a low-pressure setting before moving your BMW there or sweep it away with a broom. Ensure your car is ready for washing, too, including rolling up the windows and closing the sunroof, if you have one.

3. Rinse, Wash and Rinse Again

Now you’re ready for washing. Start by rinsing off loose dirt and debris by putting your washer on a water-only setting and spraying your BMW from the top down. Use a wider nozzle and set the pressure to around 2,000 psi. Take a few steps back when spraying windows or other delicate surfaces.

Next, it’s time to add some soap. Your pressure washer should have a setting for detergent, so set it to that and turn the pressure as low as possible. Remember to dilute your cleaning fluid according to the manufacturer’s directions. Because you’re using low pressure, you may need to take a sponge and scrub some areas by hand to remove tougher stains.

Let the soap sit for a few seconds, then switch your washer back to a water-only setting and rinse it off from top to bottom. Dry your BMW immediately after rinsing, as leftover water can leave mineral deposits on your paint.

4. Avoid Delicate Areas

You’ll want to be extra careful around certain parts of your Bimmer as you work. Most importantly, never power wash the engine bay. While some authorities say you can hose your engine, there are a lot of delicate and electronic parts in there. It’s best to avoid getting them wet or applying too much pressure.

Similarly, you’ll want to avoid power washing any spots where your paint is chipping. These areas are prone to flaking under pressure, so you’ll make them worse if you don’t go around them.

You Can Pressure-Wash Your BMW if You’re Careful

Pressure washing your BMW is a great way to get it clean quickly. It can be risky if you don’t watch out for a few areas of concern, but you’ll be OK by following these steps. Once you know the do’s and don’ts of power washing, it’s perfectly safe.

Editorial, Information

Can You Afford Another BMW? Answer These 7 Questions

If you’re itching for another Bimmer, you’re not alone — the only question now is if you can afford it. As you already know, you also need to account for rising gas prices and auto insurance premiums when calculating the value of a second luxury vehicle.

The cost of living has been on the rise and everyone is feeling the squeeze, so it’s natural to want to assess your financial preparedness before going through with the purchase. Answering these questions can help provide clarity.

1. Do I Need it? 

The only thing better than owning one BMW is having two, but do you really need another car? For some families, owning a second vehicle is a necessity and for others, it’s a luxury. Ultimately, it comes down to why you’re considering it in the first place.

Is it because your current vehicle no longer meets your needs regarding functionality, space or features? Will another BMW address any specific limitations or requirements in the current car?

2. What’s My Current Financial Situation Like?

If you’ve got the cash to buy a BMW, just get it outright. However, if you’re looking at financing with an auto loan, it’s time to review your finances. Experts say a car loan repayment should not exceed 15% of your monthly income, but the requirements might be more stringent, especially if you’re still making repayments on the first car.

Consider your existing financial obligations, such as mortgage payments, utilities, insurance premiums and other recurring expenses. Can you pay for the BMW and still keep up with these? Will you still have enough to cover emergencies without dipping into your regular budget? It’s essential to have a safety net in place before committing to a new luxury car purchase.

3. How Much Car Can I Afford?

The quickest way to answer this question is to use an auto loan calculator. Use the tool to calculate how much you can afford based on set parameters like the down payment, loan term and highest monthly payment you can make.

Everything is interconnected, so your specific inputs will impact the end result. For instance, a higher down payment means a lower loan amount and a longer loan term typically means a higher interest rate. Adjusting variables allows you to compare different loan scenarios and choose the most suitable option for your budget.

The calculated amount includes additional charges like taxes and documentation fees. However, it’s not an official guarantee you’ll qualify for the loan or be approved for that specific amount.

4. Is This the Best Time to Get Another Vehicle?

Even if you can afford another BMW, you should still consider if the timing is right. Car prices tend to fluctuate and you could save a ton of money just by buying during more favorable periods. Generally, October, November and December are the best months to purchase a vehicle, as auto retail prices tend to be more negotiable.

5. Am I Buying a Regular BMW or an EV?

Electric vehicles are all the rage now and you’ll find no shortage of BMW options. Around 15% of the 2.5 million units sold in 2023 were EVs. 

BMW’s electric cars boast the same superior performance and sleek design as their fuel-powered counterparts. They’re also equipped with innovative features to address the usual limitations of EVs, such as driving range and charging time. For instance, the BMW i5 eDrive40 has an electric range of 498–582 kilometers and a DC charging time of 30 minutes.

Of course, you can expect to pay more for an EV. At the same time, several rebates and incentives can offset the cost, so feel free to explore your options.

6. Does It Align With My Long-Term Financial Goals?

You might be able to afford it now, but will owning another BMW fit your long-term financial objectives? Consider whether the purchase impacts other targets, such as saving for retirement, purchasing a home or family-related expenses. Remember — balancing luxury desires with prudence is the key to sustaining financial health.

7. Will I Get it New or Used? 

If budget is an issue, consider getting a second-hand Bimmer. BMWs are notorious for their five-year depreciation rates, typically above 50% compared to other vehicle brands. However, that can be a good thing if you’re looking to buy a used car. You already know what it takes to keep a BMW running smoothly, so maintenance is less of a concern.

Can You Afford Another BMW? 

BMWs are a considerable expense. If you catch yourself justifying your rearranging your money to buy one, it’s a good idea to step back and evaluate your financial capacity. Answer these essential questions before deciding to go to the dealership.

Car Care, Maintenance

6 Long-Term Maintenance Practices All BMW Owners Should Know

BMWs look incredible rolling off the lot, so how can you keep your vehicle in shape for a long time? It all comes down to how you maintain it over time. 

Long-term care preserves BMWs by detecting problems early and limiting wear and tear. Here are six long-term maintenance practices all BMW owners should know.

Get a BMW Checkup

Regular checkups help you maintain your physical health, so give your bimmer the same treatment by bringing it in for inspections. Find a BMW-certified mechanic in your area to let an experienced professional handle your machine in the best way. If your car is under warranty, the terms may require a certified technician to work on it— otherwise, you risk voiding the contract.

When at the shop, the mechanic will perform a complete inspection by reviewing the engine, brake system and other integral parts. Stop by every 5,000 miles to keep your vehicle in the best condition possible.

Find BMW-Friendly Products

While a mechanic performs many maintenance tasks, you can take some things into your own hands. For example, oil changes are a popular job to do by yourself on your days off. However, you should proceed with caution when gathering the supplies for fluid changes because BMWs need specific products.

For example, the manufacturer recommends using synthetic oil over regular in most of its vehicles, so check the owner’s manual to ensure you’re putting the right stuff in your car. Synthetic oil is preferable in BMWs because it has better viscosity and protects your engine for the long haul.

Learn Electric Maintenance

Exciting times are ahead as BMW introduces fully electric vehicles (EVs) to its yearly lineups. These machines have a battery range of over 300 miles, depending on the model and trim you get. This transition emphasizes the need for BMW owners to learn electric maintenance.

EVs typically require less work, but your electric BMW will need love and care to last as long as possible. Here are a few tips for long-term EV maintenance:

  • Battery charging: You might fully charge your electronics, but don’t use this approach with EVs. Limiting its time at 100% or 0% charge extends your machine’s life by optimizing battery health.    
  • AC unit: When the air conditioner breaks, driving in the summer gets uncomfortable quickly. Ensure your BMW mechanic inspects the air conditioning, especially before the hot weather arrives.
  • Software updates: Modern vehicles rely on software updates to ensure smooth rides. Update your EV as soon as possible to verify your BMW has the tools it needs to run well.

Monitor Your Garage Temperature

Some of the best maintenance practices you can implement don’t pertain to a specific BMW part. For long-term care, you should be mindful of where you store your BMW. Bringing the vehicle inside is best to protect it from the weather when it’s hot, cold, dry or wet. However, indoor conditions can still negatively affect your vehicle.

For instance, suppose you keep your BMW in your home garage. Nighttime can bring cold temperatures inside, even if you lock up for the evening. If this sounds familiar, add insulation to the garage door because it regulates temperatures and prevents moisture buildup.

Additionally, add insulation to the garage walls to keep cold air outside and away from your bimmer. When freezing temperatures arrive, your vehicle’s fluids thicken and become less effective, making climate control even more important.

Check Your Tire Pressure

When considering BMW care, you may imagine oil changes and engine tune-ups. These tasks are critical, but it’s important to remember your tires as part of your tasks.

The first step in tire maintenance should be to check the pressures regularly. Review your BMW owner’s manual for the recommended psi. Most suggest keeping the tires between 32 and 35 psi for safe driving.

Additionally, checking your tread levels is wise for long-term care. Driving your BMW to work or on fun road trips will wear the tread over time, so test it to ensure the depth is safe. The penny test is a solid home method, requiring you to stick an upside-down coin inside the tread. If you can see Abraham Lincoln’s entire head, it’s time to get new tires for your bimmer.

Drive Carefully

The best way to put long-term maintenance into your hands is to drive carefully. Follow the speed limits everywhere, and don’t accelerate or brake too rapidly. Overusing the gas and brake pedals makes your BMW work harder than necessary. Caring for your car now will pay dividends with fewer trips to the mechanic later.

Driving Your BMW for the Long Haul

Modern cars are more durable than ever, thanks to technology and improved manufacturing processes. However, the life of a vehicle is still up to you, the owner and how you treat it. Use these six long-term maintenance tips to get the most out of your BMW.

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