2010 LE antenna in automatic carwash?

[markuspreppus]

After trading in my 98 LE for a "new to me" 2010 LE, I noticed that the antenna is a skinny, flexible type that I used to see on friends Tacos. My 98's antenna quit going up and down years ago so I was no longer able to go through automatic car washes. Now that I have the newer model with the flexy antenna, can I send this through an automatic car wash? Should I take it off beforehand or maybe switch it out for a stubby?

Wanting to avoid possible damage.....

Markus

 

[GrantK]

I believe my TE has the same antenna and I've been through several automagic car washes without issue.

 

[DigableKid]

I believe my TE has the same antenna and I've been through several automagic car washes without issue.

Ditto. I've gone through the ones that still use large rollers with rubber bristles. No problem so far.

 

[mikey's2010SR5]

Yup no problems with mine. Although I do take my Firestik off the front bumper.

 

[Lineman]

No Runner should be put through a car wash.

Want to avoid damage to an antenna? How about damage to the paint?

I like to spoil my Runner. Feel her whole body with my hands, massage her, wet her down and then hand dry off.

 

[JohnJerk]

I think it is wise to unscrew it and do that most times. Use brush washes as little as possible - like 1 or 2 times per year or suffer the consequences...

 

[Grizzld]

I have the CravenSpeed Stubby antenna, and I take my 4Runner through the car wash once a week. No problems at all after 7 months of ownership.

Personally, I don't have a problem with automatic car washes—it's a truck. I'd rather have the convenience of running it through the car wash and pay to have it professionally detailed once every year or so.

I certainly appreciate the dedication and pride people take in detailing their vehicles themselves; I'd just rather spend the time with my 3-year-old son.

 

[markuspreppus]

How is the reception with the Stubby? I have heard that the radio doesn't pick up well after using them???

 

[Grizzld]

How is the reception with the Stubby? I have heard that the radio doesn't pick up well after using them???

The reception is definitely not as good as the OEM antenna, but the only station I listen to on FM comes in just fine. If you listen to a lot of FM, I wouldn't get the stubby.

 

[Jtraskell]

Taken mine through a normal "brush type" car wash at least 10 times now. THEY take the antenna off prior to the vehicle entering the wash. No problems. Not sure why some are concerned regarding the oem paint, it does have a pretty good clear coat over it. I have zero problems even with the auto car washes, almost 3 years now. I did however, put a good coat of "Nu-Finish" on the rig when I first got it in Feb of 2010. To this day, still beads water and has a great finish once washed and dried. I do feel another coat of Nu-Finish is about due though. Next weekend......maybe. Be safe.

 

[Natey]

No Runner should be put through a car wash.

Want to avoid damage to an antenna? How about damage to the paint?

I like to spoil my Runner. Feel her whole body with my hands, massage her, wet her down and then hand dry off.

I've put my '12 Limited through the wash at Shell about 4 times now with no problems. I've also tossed my dog in the back, let my kid eat in it, taken it offroad and I might have even got some surfwax on the cargo mat!!

I'm crazy like that.