automatic car wash safe for the whip antenna???

[bapsdds]

Dear folks,

has anyone one had any problems with the fixed whip antenna going thru the automatic car washes???

thx

Bapsdds

 

[limamike]

Dear folks,

has anyone one had any problems with the fixed whip antenna going thru the automatic car washes???

thx

Bapsdds

I did it once or twice when I had it installed without issue. It's extremely easy to remove before going into the carwash, though. Or, just buy a stubby antenna!

 

[cbielat]

My antenna is always loosening up. It also smacks and scrapes along the top of the garage. I want to get a stubby.

 

[cbielat]

With the technology we have today, why would any auto manufacturer still use such an antenna?

 

[Tallicon]

to save $$$

I want to get a stubby but I kinda like the fact that it's a good clearance indicator for covered parking etc...

 

[philsey]

I do it all the time - no problemo.

 

[kmiller8821]

Dear folks,

has anyone one had any problems with the fixed whip antenna going thru the automatic car washes???

thx

Bapsdds

I have had no issues, although I do notice that it loosens my antenna. I tighten it back up after I go thru. It hasn't hurt the antenna so far, and I've been using those car washes for years.

 

[TOPDECK]

The stock antenna really bugged me. When the Sun was in the right position it would cast a shadow across the windshield. On my last car the antenna was in the back and I never noticed it, and I found the stock antenna to be distracting.

I picked up this one at Pep-Boys for $12. It installed in less than a minute.

 

[LOCKED&LIFTED]

The stock antenna really bugged me. When the Sun was in the right position it would cast a shadow across the windshield. On my last car the antenna was in the back and I never noticed it, and I found the stock antenna to be distracting.

I picked up this one at Pep-Boys for $12. It installed in less than a minute.

TOPDECK, sorry to resurrect such an old post, but how is the radio reception with your shorter antenna? I just bought a 2010 SR5 and am considering swapping out my OEM antenna for a stubby.

 

[bamma]

Mine broke off doing this, right in the threads. Tried to remove, but have not been able too.

 

[tparr17]

Mine broke off doing this, right in the threads. Tried to remove, but have not been able too.

I have the same issue from going through an automatic car wash. Stud from antenna broke off in housing. It is a standard mast that does not retract. I am unsure how to proceed with installing a new piece. All the searches I find oinly show install instructions for motorized units. Any help is appreciated.

 

[bofa]

Fellas... avoid carwashes that make direct contact with your paint. Touchless or bust.

 

[Mariner]

And if touchless, make sure you apply some sort of sealant or wax to your paint every few washes because the chemicals in touchless washes are harsh!

 

[philsey]

Fellas... avoid carwashes that make direct contact with your paint. Touchless or bust.

Well, to each his own. I've been using an automatic wash since day one, and I see no adverse effects at all. It brush-washes the sides, and has those dingle-dangley-slappy things for the front/top/rear.

Mind you, I'm not AR about my finish, but it still looks great AFAIC. To me, it's like grandma's plastic sofa covers ... I'm like "who you saving it for, the next guy"? Bah!

..... and never a problem with the ant either ...

 

[bamma]

Fellas... avoid carwashes that make direct contact with your paint. Touchless or bust.

I use one on my silver 4r all the time, paint is flawless.

My black 200 LC only receives pressure washes and blot drying.

 

[bofa]

Well, to each his own. I've been using an automatic wash since day one, and I see no adverse effects at all. It brush-washes the sides, and has those dingle-dangley-slappy things for the front/top/rear.

Mind you, I'm not AR about my finish, but it still looks great AFAIC. To me, it's like grandma's plastic sofa covers ... I'm like "who you saving it for, the next guy"? Bah!

..... and never a problem with the ant either ...

I use one on my silver 4r all the time, paint is flawless.

My black 200 LC only receives pressure washes and blot drying.

If you guys are happy with, by all means keep at it. But it does affect the painted surface. Some care more than others I suppose... but an added benefit is no snapped antennas. :thumb: