The 10 Best Automotive Pressure Washers For Detailing

In the course of operation, vehicles tend to collect dust, bird droppings, exhaust residue and so on which lead to an assortment of aesthetic issues. Since no one wants to drive around in dirty vehicles if they can help it,  washing is known as an essential part of vehicle maintenance. 

Nowadays, once it comes to giving vehicles like cars and RVs a wash, numerous tools exist so vehicle owners get to use whatever they wish . That being said, regarding the amount of time and effort that goes into the washing, few could outperform pressure washers.

Simple to use and easy to manipulate, pressure washers would restore the appearance of vehicles that have seen extensive use in a matter of moments. By getting a RV pressure washer for your rig, you should be able to keep it in top shape for many years with relative ease. 

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The Basics About Pressure Washers

What is a pressure washer?

In layman’s terms, a pressure washer is a tool that can spray high-pressure water and remove everything from stains to dirt build-ups. Depending on the requirements, people may pair their pressure washers with a number of attachments: soap dispensers, power brushes, etc.

Owing to the strength of their water sprays, pressure washers must be used with care to minimize the odds of physical injuries and unwanted damages. Also, it’s important to match the supply of water to the pressure rating as water starvation could damage the pump of the pressure washers.

How does it work?

Different models often have different characteristics but all pressure washers share the same operating principle: Water flows into the pressure washer via the inlet hose.

Next, the water pump (powered either by a gas engine or an electrical motor) of the pressure washer would accelerate the water to increase pressure.

At the user’s discretion, the pressure washer is going to run pressurized water through the high-pressure hose and out of the hose nozzle.  

Why do I need a pressure washer for car, RV detailing?

It’s your vehicle so you could choose any tool you want to clean it. If you happen to have a flexible schedule, you can even scrub the vehicle using a few pieces of cloth.

Still, being capable of blasting surfaces with high-pressure water, pressure washers for RV have superior efficiency and effectiveness.

Because of that, if you wish to spend more time enjoying yourself and less time cleaning your rig, pick up a RV pressure washer immediately. 

Here are the key benefits of automotive pressure washers:

• Adaptability: By changing nozzles, you should be able to change the pressure setting of your pressure washer at any time. As a result, you could adapt your pressure washer to light, medium and heavy-duty pressure washing with relative ease. 
• Time: All in all, it may take hours of scrubbing to remove the stains on the exterior of recreational vehicles. However, in the case that you have a pressure washer, you only need minutes to get the result you wish. 
• Money: With a pressure washer by your side, you could maintain the look of your rig by yourself instead of relying on professional detailing service. That is a big plus if you plan to cut down nonessential expenses and save a couple of bucks. 
• Environment: While you always have the option of using detergent, your pressure washer would be capable of washing away the undesirable elements with water alone. Thus, if you happen to be a eco-conscious vehicle owner, it’s widely advised that you grab an pressure washer as soon as possible.

Types of pressure washers

Today’s travel trailer washers come in all shapes and sizes but the market just contains four types of models: hydraulic, electric, gasoline and diesel. 

Hydraulic Pressure Washers: Utilizing a hydraulic mechanism to increase the pressure of water, hydraulic pressure washers have a quiet operation. Furthermore, models of the type don’t require electricity, fuel and alike to stay running. Therefore, hydraulic pressure washers prove popular among full-time RVers that like going off-grid. 

Electric Pressure Washers: As the name suggests, electric pressure washers rely on their electric motor to deliver pressurized water sprays. To keep models of the type in working order throughout the washing session, people must supply them with enough electricity. Noteworthily, the absence of emission means it’s possible to turn on electric pressure washers indoors as well as outdoors. 

Gasoline Pressure Washers: Equipped with a gas engine, gasoline pressure washers excel once it comes to heavy-duty vehicle washing. Models of the type generate exhausts in use though so vehicle owners could only use them in well-ventilated space. In addition, to get the most out of gasoline pressure washers, it’s important to maintain a stock of gasoline. 

Diesel Pressure Washers: They resemble their gasoline counterparts in certain regards but instead of gasoline, diesel pressure washers consume diesel. Able to raise the water pressure in plenty of conditions, models of the type give a good account of themselves. Diesel also lasts longer than gas and that is advantageous for those that travel extensively. 

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Best Pressure Washers For Cars, RVs

Due to differences in preferences, the model that other RVers believe to be the best RV washer on the market may appear mediocre to you. Nonetheless, if you like to make a wise investment, it’s strongly recommended that you check out the following models:

1. Sun Joe SPX3000 – Best Of The Best 

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 2,030
• Flow Rate: 1.76 GPM
• Electric
• Safety lock switch 
• Dual detergent tanks 

Why This Is The Best:

Versatile and flexible, Sun Joe SPX3000 is able to give a good account of itself in a lot of situations. Possessing dual detergent tanks that happen to be removable, this pressure washer for RV could should different detergents for different washing projects with relative ease. Also, upon purchase, it’s accompanied by various accessories for pressure washing so RVers have an easy time adapting this pressure washer to their needs. Thus, plenty of reviews that cover auto-detailing pressure washers consider it to be the best electric power washer for RV in its price range. 

The majority of our testers appreciate the fact that the pressure washer made by Sun Joe incorporates a safety lock switch for the nozzle trigger. The moment we release the trigger, the pump would shut down on its own which reduces power consumption and maximizes the longevity of the pump. Since this pressure washer is designed with a long power cord as well, camper owners can reposition it in just a blink of an eye. That is advantageous for those that travel in big vehicles. 

As proof of confidence, Sun Joe backs its pressure washer with a two-year warranty. If your SPX3000 fails due to manufacturing defects within the warranty period, you could claim a replacement free of charge. 

Pros:

• Resilient
• Long-lasting 
• Maintenance is a breeze

Cons:

• Quality control requires improvements 
• People complain about leaks on occasions 

2. Westinghouse WPX2700 – Editor’s Choice 

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 2,700
• Flow Rate: 2.3 GPM
• Gas 
• Steel frame 
• Recoil start engine 

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:

Engineered from the ground up for heavy-duty pressure washing, Westinghouse WPX2700 could remove even the stubbornest of stains on the exterior of recreational vehicles. Packing a strong recoil start engine, it’s capable of delivering water sprays with high pressures for a long time. Moreover, thanks to the inclusion of quick-connect nozzle tips, this camper pressure washer allows RVers to wash their rig thoroughly. That is why this pressure washer earns a shower of praise from people who care about comprehensiveness during washing sessions. 

In terms of portability, WPX2700 contains two built-in wheels that would navigate all types of terrains without a hitch. Hence, getting this pressure washer into position is child’s play and only takes a couple of minutes to complete. For durability, it features a steel frame and that means this pressure washer can handle a lot of things from physical impacts to outdoor elements. Assuming that you pick it up, years should pass before you have to think about finding a pressure washer replacement. 

The Westinghouse pressure washer is not exactly the most affordable model but it’s far from a bank-breaking one. With a couple of calculations, RVers could squeeze this pressure washer into the spending plan. 

Pros:

• Enduring 
• Great handling
• Dependable and reliable 

Cons:

• Reports of stoppages show up sometimes 
• Delivery service is less than ideal 

3. Simpson Cleaning MegaShot (MSH3125) – Editor’s Choice

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 3,200
• Flow Rate: 2.5 GPM
• Gas 
• Pneumatic wheels
• Quick-connect nozzle tips

Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:

Boasting everything that people need in an automotive pressure washer, Simpson Cleaning MegaShot (MSH3125) rarely lets people down in use. Outfitted with a flexible high-pressure hose, this pressure washer provides excellent reach to users which is a big plus. In addition to that, it possesses an ergonomic gun so people don’t have to do much to guide water sprays of this pressure washer. Needless to say, once it comes to convenience, this pressure washer is superior to the average models on the market. 

Owing to the Honda gas engine, the RV pressure washer from Simpson Cleaning is able to consistently spray water at pressures as high as 3,200 PSI. That and the flow rate of 2.5 GPM permit us to restore the look of our rigs in a few moments. Aside from that, the presence of welded steel in the construction of this pressure washer leads to tip-top ruggedness. Naturally, to full-time RVers that place resilience above all else, it’s the best pressure washer for RVs nowadays. 

While it’s indeed expensive, the values that MegaShot (MSH3125) offers justify its price tag. To reassure customers, Simpson Cleaning backs its model with a superb warranty: 5 years for the frame, 2 years for the engine and 1 year for the pump. 

Pros:

• Compact
• Quick shipping 
• Simple to use 

Cons:

• Steep price 
• Customer service still leaves something to be desired 

4. Briggs & Stratton S1800

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 1,800
• Flow Rate: 1.2 GPM
• Corded 
• Turbo nozzle 
• Integrated detergent tank

Why We Love It:

Despite its plain appearance, Briggs & Stratton S1800 is a solid car cleaning pressure washer that could meet most power washing needs of modern vehicle owners. Featuring a turbo nozzle, this pressure washer is capable of cutting the length of washing sessions by 40% and that helps save a lot of time. Furthermore, designed with an integrated detergent tank, it allows people to optimize the washing effects. As a result, this pressure washer is popular among those that travel regularly and have little time for vehicle maintenance.

When the need arises, our testers can move S1800 from spot to spot without breaking a sweat thanks to wheels. Also, the steel frame of this pressure washer packs terrific resistance against external forces so it won’t break apart after taking a few hits. Thus, it’s going to last longer than many of its competitors on the market. Since the maintenance of this pressure washer is basic as well, keeping it in working order is by all accounts a walk in the park.

Reaching the market at a reasonable price, the pressure washer of Briggs & Stratton is a good match for the shopping budget of regular vehicle owners. For post-purchase support, it’s backed by a one-year warranty that covers defects.

Pros:

• Economical
• Space-saving 
• Pressure rating is decent 

Cons:

• A couple of units arrive with missing accessories 
• Users notice squealing sound every now and then 

5. WholeSun Electric Pressure Washer 

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 3,000
• Flow Rate: 2.4 GPM
• GFCI protection
• Soap bottle 
• Total Stop System (TSS)

Why We Love It:

Want to get a quality pressure washer for your rig but your wallet is kind of tight at the moment? If that is the case, there is a good chance that you would come to like WholeSun Electric Pressure Washer. Available at a price that everyone could accept, this camper pressure washer permits you to keep your RV clean in a wide range of conditions. Additionally, it’s backed by a two-year manufacturer warranty so you should have something to count on if troubles occur out of the blue. 

With a high-pressure hose of twenty feet and a power cord of thirty three feet, the pressure washer made by WholeSun boasts fantastic flexibility. Therefore, we could position it anywhere we see fit to give our vehicle a washing. Interestingly, this pressure washer for RV is put together with Total Stop System (TSS) so the pump operates based on the need for pressurized water. Hence, the pump only activate  when our testers squeeze the nozzle trigger which is why it’s possible to minimize expenses and wear-and-tear. 

Regarding safety, WholeSun Electric Pressure Washer incorporates GFCI protection that severs the flow of current as soon as issues surface. Unsurprisingly, this travel trailer pressure washer possesses a stellar operating record compared to its contemporaries. 

Pros:

• Affordable 
• Easy to relocate 
• Well-written owner’s manual 

Cons:

• RVers report inconsistencies between units 
• Water leak from time to time 

6. Suyncll Electric Pressure Washer

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 3,800
• Flow Rate: 2.6 GPM
• Leakproof
• Environmentally friendly 
• Flexible power cord 

Why We Love It:

Capable of restoring the appearance of well-used rigs, Suyncll Electric Pressure Washer is a must-have for RVing enthusiasts that travel around the year. With a PSI rating of 3,800 and a flow rate of 2.6 GPM, it could remove everything that people don’t want to see on their vehicles. Moreover, furnished with leakproof connectors, this camper pressure washer eliminates the hassle of addressing puddles of water during washing sessions. Because of that, if you don’t make a mess while cleaning your rig, it’s the best RV washer for you on the market. 

Following the trend, the pressure washer of Suyncll comes alongside quick-connect nozzle tips  that can reach hard-to-access areas. Thus, with it onboard, we have no trouble washing our recreational vehicles from top to bottom in times of need. Noteworthily, despite its strength, the motor of this pressure washer features a low noise level in the course of operation. That means we don’t have to worry about deafening people around us as we give our RV a wash. 

Suyncll Electric Pressure Washer is an economic model so its purchase would have inconsequential impacts on upcoming spendings of RVers. On arrival, this pressure washer for RV is backed with a two-year manfacruer warranty that put people at ease 

Pros:

• Reasonable price 
• Terrific level of safety 
• Control is no-nonsense 

Cons:

• People complain about pressure deviations 
• Mediocre packaging 

7. Powerhouse Electric Pressure Washer

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 3,000
• Flow Rate: 2.2 GPM
• Universal spray gun 
• Power cord storage
• Removable wheel cart 

Why We Love It:

Put together with adaptability in mind, Powerhouse Electric Pressure Washer could maintain a consistent performance in quite a few settings. Boasting a removable wheel cart with four casters, it outmatches classic pressure washers for automotive once it comes to portability. In addition, since the length of its power cord is thirty five feet long, this pressure washer is able to operate far away from outlets. As a result, people seldom have to deal with reach restrictions as they reposition this pressure washer in washing sessions. 

After bring turned on, the motor of the pressure washer made by Powerhouse provide a suitable water pressure for car wash without making a ruckus. The flow rate of this pressure washer is decent too so our testers have an easy time getting rid of stains, dirt and similar stuff. In terms of storage, thanks to the compact construction, it occupies a bit of space. The power cord storage and the hose reel also help us keep the cord and hose organized outside of use.

For accessories, Powerhouse Electric Pressure Washer is sold with two lances, two propriate nozzles and five quick-connect nozzle tips for its universal spray gun. It’s noteworthy that the accompanying adaptor even permits the use of aftermarket spray guns. 

Pros:

• Robust
• Intuitive operation 
• Handy gun accessories 

Cons:

• Quality control could use some work 
• Sporadic leaks

8. Teande Electric Pressure Washer

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 3,800
• Flow Rate: 2.8 GPM
• Soap bottle 
• Adjustable water pressure 
• Electromagnetic induction power motor 

Why We Love It:

Owing to the integration of an electromagnetic induction power motor, Teande Electric Pressure Washer manages to simultaneously deliver high water pressures and fast flow rates. Furthermore, it features a TSS switch and that means its pump only runs if people hold down the gun trigger. Hence, this pressure washer for travel trailer is an economical model that would work for many years without experiencing issues. The inclusion of built-in overheating protection ensures that this pressure washer never gets too hot in use as well. 

By using quick-connect nozzle tips, our testers could adjust the pressure of the pressure washer from Teande whenever they like. Since this RV pressure washer contains a purpose-design storage compartment for accessories, we don’t have to worry about losing the nozzle tips. Aside from that, it happens to possess two solid wheels so moving it around vehicles is a piece of cake. The long power cord guarantees a splendid range of movement in all sorts of environments. 

For post-purchase support, Teande gives everyone that decided to pick up its camper pressure washer a two-year warranty. Needless to say, many RVing enthusiasts that seek peace of mind regard it as the best pressure washer for detailing.

Pros:

• Great reach 
• Budget-friendly price 
• Positioning is child’s play 

Cons:

• Irregular drops in pressure 
• Customer service is somewhat unresponsive 

9. Karcher K1700

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 1,700
• Flow Rate: 1.2 GPM
• Storage bin 
• On/off foot switch
• Compatible with industry standards 

Why We Love It:

As an entry-level model, Karcher K1700 fails to exceed in any particular aspect but most vehicle owners could still use it to good effect. Manufactured with a convenient on/off foot switch, this car pressure washer eliminates the hassle of bending over from time to activate and deactivate it. Therefore, it’s well-received by vehicle owners who have back pain and don’t want to exacerbate the condition. Additionally, the pressure washer for automotive packs outstanding handling characteristics so people never have to strain themselves to position it. 

Carrying a detergent tank, K1700 allows our testers to use a wide range of detergents to improve the washing power. Of the three nozzles that come with this pressure washer, one is optimized for power spray for car wash using mixtures of water and detergent. That is why regarding washing results, this pressure washer earns plenty of good scores from reviews of pressure washers. Last but not least, it incorporates a storage bin for accessories so vehicle owners have the option of keeping everything together. 

When it shows up, people only need a couple of minutes to get the Karcher pressure washer up and running. Being compatible with industry standards, it could accept plenty of aftermarket accessories without requiring modifications. 

Pros:

• Silent 
• Nice price 
• Sublime delivery service 

Cons:

• Occasional water leaks 
• Hose connection must be overhauled 

10. Stanley SHP2150

Specifications And Features: 

• PSI: 1,700
• Flow Rate: 1.2 GPM
• Storage bin 
• On/off foot switch
• Compatible with industry standards 

Why We Love It:

Slim and sleek, SHP2150 from Stanley is a good buy for vehicle owners who don’t want to lug around cumbersome and unwieldy pressure washers. Owing to the integral wheels, people could get it into position in a matter of seconds regardless of the terrain. Moreover, there is a tray for nozzle tips on the spray gun so this automotive pressure washer adapts well to an assortment of washing demands. Because of that, in terms of convenience, few models on the market can outperform it. 

In the course of operation, the pressure washer of Stanley is barely audible and that is why there is no need to bother with noise. A combination of 35-feet power cord and 25-feet high-pressure water hose results in extended reach which is vital in washing vehicles with large dimensions. Besides that, this washer pressure boasts a garden hose connector that is compatible with a lot of hoses for households. Naturally, keeping it supplied with water during washing sessions is a walk in the park. 

Once it comes to power, SHP2150 consumes a small amount of electricity as it runs so its presence won’t cause spikes in utility bills. If you like to save power, this washer pressure is going to be the best power washer you can get. 

Pros:

• Portable 
• A breeze to set up
• Noise level is low 

Cons:

• Plug should be redesigned 
• Post-purchase support is hardly adequate 

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Best RV Pressure Washer Buyer’s Guide

The RV community is at odds about the best pressure washer for RV but to get your money’s worth, memorize the criteria down below 

Power

To put it plainly, the power of a RV pressure washer indicates its ability to get rid of stains, dirt and other things like them. In most of the cases, you could deduce the power of a model by taking a look at its PSI (Pound per Square Inch) rating. The higher the PSI rating, the stronger the water spray. However, keep in mind that the finish of your rig may even sustain damages if the pressure washer you use happens to be too powerful. 

Nozzle

Once it comes to managing the spray of pressurized water from RV pressure washers, the nozzle plays a key role. Because of that, while assessing pressure washers for camper on the market, you must pay special attention to the nozzle. Usually, models with narrow nozzles can produce thin sprays in the course of operation which proves ideal for spot cleaning. On the other hand, if you want to do some area cleaning, it’s widely advised that you go for pressure washers with wide nozzles. 

Hose Length

As you wash your recreational vehicle, you have to move around it in order to cover every nook and cranny. Hence, to get the best pressure washer for your rig, it’s essential to take the hose length into account. For your information, the hose length varies between market models but if you desire convenience, make 25 feet your minimum limit. If you grab pressure washers with hose lengths less than 25 feet, there is a good chance that you have to reposition them repeatedly during washing. 

Soap/Detergent Tank

On occasions, water alone is not enough and people have to resort to soap, detergent, … to bring the exterior of recreational vehicles back to normal. To facilitate that, manufacturers of camper washers incorporate a built-in soap/detergent tank into the design of their models. By checking out the owner’s manual of your RV pressure washer, you could tell whether it comes with a tank for soap and detergent. The capacity of the soap/detergent tank changes from model to model so you should choose one that lasts through the entire washing session. 

Price 

$100 – $150: Basic and practical, pressure washers in the range work well in lots of environments despite the lack of exceptional qualities. Additionally, with excellent affordability, models that cost from $100 to $150 fit the shopping budget of RVers. 

$150 – $300: With top-notch adaptability, pressure washers in the range could meet the washing demands of most modern-day camper owners. You seek a solid RV pressure washer but cannot spend big bucks at the moment? Then you should prioritize models with price tags between $150 and $300. 

Above $300: As high-end models, pressure washers in the range rarely fail to please RVers. Thanks to state-of-the-art technologies and top-of-the-line materials, models that cost more than $300 guarantee comprehensive washing for the average rigs. 

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Top Brands Of RV Pressure Washers

All things considered, the brand of a pressure washer for car seldom dictates its values. That being said, if you care about reputability, you should keep an eye out for models made by these names  

Sun Joe

Once it comes to consistency in use, pressure washers of Sun Joe don’t have many competitors on the market. Able to maintain high water pressures for a long period of time, Sun Joe models earn plenty of compliments from those that own big vehicles. 

Westinghouse

By investing heavily in optimization, Westinghouse could create robust pressure washers that remain uncompromised no matter how much abuse people put them through over time. Moreover, reaching the market across the price points, models Westinghouse suits the wallet of RVers. 

Simpson Cleaning

Thanks to the application of innovation into production, Simpson Cleaning manages to keep the price of its pressure washers down without sacrificing their field performance. To reassure customers, Simpson Cleaning back offers everyone that buy its models limited manufacturer warranties. 

Briggs & Stratton

With decades of experience designing pressure washers, Briggs & Stratton knows what it takes to match the demands of vehicle owners. Needless to say,  Briggs & Stratton is the number one choice of people who desire no-nonsense pressure washers for RV. 

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How To Clean Your Cars/RVs With A Pressure Washer

You don’t have to be an expert to clean vehicles with a pressure washer. Nonetheless, in the case that you need a couple of instructions, follow the following steps 

Step 1: Search for a good spot 

Park your vehicle in open space away from anything that you don’t want to be damaged by pressurized water. Aside from that, if your pressure washer is an electric model then you should position your vehicle near an outlet. 

Step 2: Rinse the vehicle 

Roll up the windows, close the doors and lock the trunk to keep water out. Next, proceed to rinse your vehicle to get rid of loose dirt, mud, debris, etc. 

Step 3: Select the nozzle 

Take some time to determine the kind of wash you need and equip your pressure washer with an appropriate nozzle. Narrow nozzles provide high water pressures but only cover small areas while wide nozzles boast broad coverage but their water pressure is a bit low.

Step 4:  Pour soap/detergent 

If your pressure washer possesses an integral soap/detergent tank, you could pour your chosen soap or detergent into it. If your pressure washer happens to lack such a tank, feel free to pour the soap/detergent on your vehicle. In any case, you have to pour a bit of water as well in order to dilute the soap/detergent.

Step 5: Spray the vehicle 

Aim the nozzle of your pressure washer toward your vehicle and then squeeze the trigger. Move around as you spray your vehicle with pressurized water to give a comprehensive washing. At the end of the washing session, you may use towels to dry your vehicle. 

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FAQs About Pressure Washers

Can I repair a punctured high-pressure hose? 

When the high-pressure hose of pressure washers gets punctured, it’s no longer usable. Even if you attempt to repair the punctures, the pressurized water should exacerbate the weakness in structural integrity as you turn on your pressure washer. As a result, it’s strongly recommended that you replace instead of repairing punctured hose. 

How come my nozzle keeps clogging?

A wide range of issues could lead to clogged nozzles. For instance, if you run hard water through your pressure washers from time to time, minerals would build up in the nozzle and clog it. In addition to that, the nozzle of your pressure washers is going to end up clogged if you leave it idle for a long time. 

Is it wise to leave fuel inside pressure washers outside of use?

After you finish cleaning your vehicle, you should drain the fuel inside your pressure washer if it’s either a gas or a diesel model. If you don’t do that, your pressure washer may experience fuel leaks during storage which presents a fire hazard. 

What PSI is safe for washing cars?

Quite a few factors affect the PSI limit for pressure washing of cars but for good measure, stay between 1,200 and 1,900. Nowadays, a number of models let vehicle owners change the PSI rating by switching nozzles.