While a bucket of water, soap, and a sponge is a feasible way to clean a car, it can be a pain. Plus, it can take forever!
That’s why I recommend choosing one of the best pressure washers for cars. You can now get your car sparkling clean in a much shorter time. No more trips to the cleaners — do it all from your driveway.
Because you need specific pressure washers for cars, I’ve rounded up the best seven for you. These are based on each product’s type, pressure, attachments, and hose length, to ensure the product is easy to use and effective.
Sit back, relax, and prepare for the tool to help you achieve spotless, sparkling vehicles.
- 1800 watt universal motor
- High quality 20 ft hose
- Comes with foam blaster
- Has on-board detergent tank
- High quality steel construction
- Has 3 spray nozzles
- Durable metal frame
- Has 4 nozzle attachments
- Has on board 42 oz soap tank
- Cordless & lightweight at 5.72 lbs
- 960 PSI
- 6 nozzle attachments
- Compact at 12.95 pounds
- Eco-friendly and energy-efficient
- Adjust pressure with a twist
- Gentle washing at 870 PSI
- Cordless & handheld
- Purifying filter pipe included
- Adjustable spray nozzle
- Long 35-ft hose plus extension
- 13-amp motor
The Best Car Pressure Washers of 2024
I’ve spent hours researching real customer reviews, expert advice, and product descriptions. I studied the construction of each product, the PSI, and all the attachments.
With that in mind, you can trust my comprehensive list of the seven best pressure washers for cars. Next time you wash your vehicle, you’ll be glad you made this handy purchase!
Cat Electric Pressure Washer
Best Electric Pressure Washer
This is one of the most highly-rated electric pressure washers on the market. And being 1800 PSI, it’s perfect for washing cars while still being gentle on the exterior.
What do customers love about?
Firstly, it’s a nice size. Not too big, so you can easily transport it and store it.
Customers also love the foam sprayer, which makes washing cars easier than ever before.
If you’re looking for something to deep clean a range of outdoor surfaces, this may just be one of your best purchases this year.
What We Like
Powerful Cleaning at 1800W
This provides incredible cleaning power to tackle dirt and stains on all kinds of surfaces. It has an 1800-watt universal motor, a five-piston pump, and a cleaning output of 3600 units.
The PSI is 1800, which is super strong. The flow rate is 2.0 GPM which ensures you’ll get a lot of water coverage.
High-Quality Hose
The hose is made from kink-free and crack-free rubber. While rubber is heavier, it’s flexible, which makes it easy to use. The hose is 20 feet long to give you a lot of freedom while you move.
Foam Blaster
I love that this comes with a 600 ml detergent foam blaster. This takes you to the next level for removing dirt and grime.
It’s no match against this machine. Just fill the bottle with detergent and connect it to the spray gun.
Many Handy and Quality Accessories
This kit comes with four nozzle tips so you can clean various surfaces. It also includes a metal gun and lance so that you can accurately clean specific objects.
What We Don't Like
Difficult for Cleaning Driveways
While you can use this pressure washer for many jobs, you will need a bit of patience when cleaning driveways. For driveways, I recommend a higher PSI.
Has a Tendency to Leak
After a few months or a year, a few customers began to notice leaks from the bottom. Not only was this a problem, but it also caused the unit to lose pressure, making it ineffective.
Product Specs
| Type | Electric |
| Hose Length | 20 feet |
| PSI | 1800 PSI |
| Attachments or Nozzle Settings | Four nozzle tips and foam blaster |
| Detergent Tank | Yes |
Our Ratings
Simpson CM61083 Clean Machine
Best Gas Pressure Washer
If you want a gas pressure because you’re after high power, then this is one to consider. The PSI isn’t too high, so it shouldn’t damage your car if you stand a few extra feet back.
With a PSI of 3400, it is strong enough to remove all kinds of stubborn stains on your cars. You can trust it to deep clean cars, but it can also be suitable for pressure washing your house.
Feel free to use this for cleaning siding, driveways, fencing, patios, outdoor furniture, all kinds of vehicles, and much more.
What We Like
On-Board Detergent Tank
This comes with an onboard detergent tank, which is great, especially when cleaning cars. Now you can use this machine as an all-in-one device for applying detergent and rinsing it off.
High-Quality Construction
This setup is made with high-quality materials. Firstly, the frame is made from a fully assembled steel frame with a fold-down handle. This makes it easy to transport but also compact when storing.
As for the hose, it’s 25 feet long, made from super flexible and kink-resistant materials. It’s also non-marring, so it’s safe to move around your driveways without causing damage.
Three Spray Nozzles
This comes with three spray nozzles: a 0-degree one, 15 degrees, 40 degrees, and a soap spray nozzle. The soap and 25-degree spray nozzle are the only ones you should use for your vehicles.
For Using All Around the Home
As mentioned, you can use this carefully for your cars. But it’s also excellent for your driveway, garage, fences, home siding, decks, and more.
What We Don't Like
High Vibration
This machine vibrates quite a bit which leads to a few issues. Firstly, the pins often come loose and fall out.
Secondly, the vibrations cause the unit to sometimes fold in on itself or fall over. Lastly, the extra nozzles sometimes fall out of the rubber socket.
Stops Working After a Few Uses
Quite a few customers noted that the pressure washer stopped working properly after the first few uses. It was almost like the frame couldn’t handle the unit’s power. Thankfully, there is a great warranty.
Product Specs
| Type | Gas |
| Hose Length | 25 feet |
| PSI | 3400 PSI |
| Attachments or Nozzle Settings | Three nozzle settings |
| Detergent Tank | Yes |
Our Ratings
Worx WG604 Electric Pressure Washer
Best Wheeled Pick
This pressure washer is on wheels, or more specifically — a rolling cart.
This makes it a total breeze to maneuver around, which is especially good when washing your car since you need to switch up positions often.
It has a PSI rating of 1600, so it has just the right amount of power for deep cleaning your car while treating it well.
What We Like
Durable Metal Frame
The rolling cart is made from a durable metal frame, so it’s sturdy, well-built, and long-lasting. The attached wheels make it easy to use and move. Plus, the wheels are big 8-inch wheels designed to move over all kinds of terrain easily.
On Board Storage for Accessories
The frame has onboard storage for both your nozzle attachments and your hose. There are four nozzle attachments that are easily stored on the front of the frame. As for the hose, the attached hose reel saves space and keeps everything well-contained.
Soap Tank on Board
This also comes with an onboard 42-ounce soap tank. This is great for tackling heavy messes and challenging stains. Plus, it has a soap nozzle that allows you to customize the amount of water you use.
1600 PSI
As mentioned, anything between 1200 and 1900 PSI is excellent for washing cars. At 1600 PSI, this provides adequate pressure for cleaning your car and removing stains. But it won’t damage, scratch, or dent your vehicle.
What We Don't Like
Hard To Store Power Cord
There is onboard storage for the hose and the attachments. Unfortunately, there is none for the power cord, which customers found frustrating.
Stiff Plastic Hose
The hose is made of a stiff plastic material. It’s not flexible, which can make washing your car inconvenient. And if you maneuver it in a certain way, it can break.
Product Specs
| Type | Electric |
| Hose Length | 25 feet |
| PSI | 1600 PSI (with a max of 2240) |
| Attachments or Nozzle Settings | 4 nozzle attachments |
| Detergent Tank | Yes |
Our Ratings
Mrliance Battery Power Washer
Best Portable Pressure Washer
Do you want a portable pressure washer for cleaning your car? This is an excellent option as it has a PSI of 960 and comes with a range of attachments. Plus, the cordless design makes it super easy to maneuver around your car.
Besides cleaning your car, this is suitable for other outdoor surfaces. This includes gates, benches, garden furniture, bikes, steps, and swimming pool tiles. So you can use this handy product for deep cleaning everything in the back and front yard!
What We Like
Cordless and Lightweight
This only weighs 5.72 pounds, so it’s easy to transport around your car as you clean. Bonus? It has no cords, so nothing will get in your way and tangle you up!
960 PSI Power
For a portable pressure washer, this is high pressure. It’s great for cars, too, as there’s no risk of chipping paint or scratching up the exterior. The PSI of 960 is enough to remove stubborn dirt and maintain your car’s clean appearance.
Six Nozzle Options
We’ve mentioned how important attachments are, but so are nozzle options. This one comes with six nozzle options, making it super easy to change your setting. The settings include 0°, 20°, 20° slant direction, 40°, foam jetting, or shower mode.
Use It Around the Home
This versatile unit is great for cleaning cars, but it’s also fantastic for watering your plants, cleaning your patio furniture, and washing windows.
What We Don't Like
May Not Remove Stains
Because the PSI is less than 1000, it’s not got the strongest water pressure. You may find that this can’t remove super stubborn stains like bird poop or sludge on your vehicle.
Poor Quality Batteries
The included batteries aren’t the best quality. They may randomly stop working after some time. They also damage easily, specifically by water.
Product Specs
| Type | Electric (portable) |
| Hose Length | Cordless |
| PSI | 960 PSI |
| Attachments or Nozzle Settings | 6 nozzle options |
| Detergent Tank | Yes |
Our Ratings
AR Blue Clean 383 Electric Pressure Washer
Safest Choice
If you want something with extra safety to put your mind at ease, especially if you have kids and pets, then this electric pressure washer from AR Blue Clean is a great choice.
Firstly, it’s CSA approved, which means it’s been tested against North American standards requirements. Secondly, it automatically shuts down the pump and motor when the trigger gun isn’t being used.
In addition, this pressure washer can generate up to 30 times more pressure than the ordinary garden hose producing up to 1900 pounds per inch pressure.
Last but not least, it’s good for the environment, too, because it is energy efficient. This appliance saves water and electricity where possible.
What We Like
Compact and Convenient Design
This little guy is pretty compact, making it easy to store and maneuver. It only weighs 12.95 pounds. Still, it’s on wheels, so even if you’re worried about that being too heavy — it’s designed to be easy to maneuver.
Eco-Friendly
This was made with a high-quality pressure washer pump with 50 years of pump-building experience to ensure strong power and high water pressure. It has a comprehensive triple axial pump motor, yet it still performs quietly.
Overall, this is an energy-efficient and durable design.
Adjustable Pressure Nozzle
This has an adjustable pressure nozzle rather than nozzle attachments, so you don’t need to swap and change them over. Just adjust the pressure nozzle. Twist it to change to light, medium, or heavy-duty cleaning.
Also, it has a soap dispenser for tackling tough stains.
Versatile Cleaning Ability
Use this powerful guy for cleaning your cars, fencing, siding, and more. Combined with the foam cannon, the pressure is fantastic for deep cleaning your home.
What We Don't Like
Leaks Are Common
The biggest drawback to this product is that many customers found that after a few months, it started to leak. Water would come out from the hose connection, causing various issues.
Product Specs
| Type | Electric |
| Hose Length | 20 feet |
| PSI | 1900 PSI |
| Attachments or Nozzle Settings | Adjustable nozzle |
| Detergent Tank | Yes |
Our Ratings
Rockpals Cordless Pressure Washer
Best Cordless Option
This is an excellent option if you’re hunting for something cordless. This allows you to pressure wash surfaces without any wires getting in your way.
It’s also very lightweight and compact, so you can easily transport it from place to place. Better still, put it in the back of the car if you want to take it with you camping.
I also love that it’s handheld, so it’s very easy to use. This gives you great control over every inch of your car since it’s easy to navigate.
What We Like
Gentle PSI of 870
If you’re worried about damaging a custom paint job, this is a great pressure washer. The PSI is 870, so it’s still strong but also gentle. It won’t cause damage, scratches, or chip paint.
Clean Mostly Anything
This can do more than cleaning cars. It’s excellent for cleaning motorbikes, bikes, driveways, fences, and much more.
Purifying Filter Pipe
This product includes a filter type that removes leaf residue, sediment, and other impurities. So no matter what kind of water source you’re drawing from, this will keep the water as clean as possible. It also protects the pump from nasty gunk, ensuring a longer lifespan for this product.
Portable and Lightweight Design
At 6.6 pounds, this is as easy to carry around as a newborn baby! Plus, it’s shaped more like a drill, making it exceptionally simple to use and aim.
What We Don't Like
Not for Tough Stains
Because the PSI is only 870, it isn’t ideal for getting off tough stains. I recommend this for light cleaning and maintenance.
30-Minute Battery Life
Between charges, this battery has a 30-minute lifespan. This is pretty average, but it can become pretty frustrating if you’re planning to clean a few cars in one go.
Product Specs
| Type | Electric (portable) |
| Hose Length | Cordless |
| PSI | 870 PSI |
| Attachments or Nozzle Settings | 6 nozzle options |
| Detergent Tank | No |
Our Ratings
Sun Joe Electric Pressure Washer
Budget Pick
This is a fairly budget-friendly pressure washer for cars. You don’t need to spend an absolute fortune on getting an absolute beast of a pressure washer. With 1800 PSI, this is a fantastic and forceful pressure washer that will deep clean your car without causing damage.
With a 13-amp motor and a 1.8 GPM, this has a maximum cleaning blast that will fire off any nasty gunk or stains on your precious vehicle.
It’s available in a nice lime green color, or red, so you can choose one that you like best.
What We Like
Adjustable Spray Nozzle
With this pressure washer, you can easily twist the spray nozzle to change the angle. You can go from 0 degrees to 45 °, making it easy to choose your preferred setting.
Long Hose, Plus Extension
This comes with a 35-foot power cord, giving you plenty of stretch between the power outlet and your vehicle. But it also comes with a 20-foot hose, giving you even more flexibility.
That’s not all! It also has a 33-inch extension wand in case you need that extra length.
Versatile Uses
Because it has a strong but relatively gentle PSI, you can use it for various jobs. It’s excellent for light to medium-duty cleaning of cars, decks, driveways, and pavements. It can also handle docks, boats, patios, sidings, and more.
Packs a Powerful Punch
For a budget price point, I’m super impressed by this unit’s power. It runs at 13-amps with a PSI of 1800, ensuring you can blast all kinds of dirt and stains away with no problem.
What We Don't Like
Poor Wheels
Being on wheels, this is an attractive purchase, as you’d think it would be easy to transport. But customers complain that it isn’t easy to push around and often tips over. Even worse, a few customers reported the wheels snapping off.
Finnicky To Use
If you like user-friendly products that are straightforward to use, this pressure washer might get on your nerves. Customers report it takes a while to set up and that there are very specific ways and angles you have to use it at.
Product Specs
| Type | Electric |
| Hose Length | 35 feet |
| PSI | 1800 PSI |
| Attachments or Nozzle Settings | Adjustable nozzle and one extension wand |
| Detergent Tank | No |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Type | Hose Length | PSI | Attachments or Nozzle Settings | Detergent Tank |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cat Electric Pressure Washer | Electric Pressure Washer | Electric | 20 feet | 1800 PSI | 4 nozzle tips & foam blaster | Yes |
| Simpson Clean Pressure Washer | Gas Pressure Washer | Gas | 25 feet | 2400 PSI | 3 nozzle settings | Yes |
| Worx Electric Pressure Washer | Wheeled Pick | Electric | 25 feet | 1600 PSI | 4 nozzle attachments | Yes |
| Mrliance Battery Power Washer | Portable Pressure Washer | Electric/Portable | Cordless | 960 PSI | 6 nozzle options | Yes |
| AR Blue Clean 383 | Safest Choice | Electric | 20 feet | 1900 PSI | Adjustable nozzle | Yes |
| Rockpals Cordless Pressure Washer | Cordless Option | Electric/Portable | Cordless | 870 PSI | 6 nozzle options | No |
| Sun Joe Electric Pressure Washer | Budget Pick | Electric | 35 feet | 1800 PSI | Adjustable nozzle & extension wand | No |
Do I Need a Pressure Washer for My Car?
A pressure washer is not necessary, but there are some seriously attractive benefits.
- Deep clean: Most pressure washers come with a variety of nozzles, so you can adjust the pressure for lighter cleaning or removing tough stains. You can more effectively remove tough stains, sticky messes, and bird poop.
- Quick: It takes less time to clean the car.
- Easy to rinse: You can rinse off the soap a lot better.
- Add detergent: Some pressure washers have a space for detergent. If yours has a soap cannon, you can better distribute the soap.
- Nooks and crannies: You can get in hard-to-reach spots, like around wheels.
- Save money: You can save money over time since you don’t need to go to the car wash anymore.
Caution
What PSI Is Safe for Washing Cars?
It’s best to stick to anything below 1900 PSI. Anything between 1200 PSI and 1900 PSI is most effective. Regardless, we also have some recommendations below that for those looking for portable or cordless options.
Something To Note
Is Pressure Washer Bad for Car Paint?
It can be. If you use a pressure washer with a super high PSI (above 1900), you risk chipping or scratching the paint. On the other hand, you need to use the right type of nozzle for washing your car.
Here’s a guide for which nozzle to use:
- Red or 0 degrees: Not used for cars.
- Yellow or 15 degrees: It can be used for removing stuck-on mud.
- Green or 25 degrees: Good for general cleaning and removing mud or dirt.
- White or 40 degrees: Good for rinsing.
- Black or 65 degrees: Good for applying soap.
Types of Car Pressure Washers
There are four main types of car pressure washers: hydraulic, diesel, gas, and electric. I’ll explain the main differences, pros, and cons, so you can decide which is best for you.
Spoiler alert: it’s electric.
Gas
Gas washers are similar to diesel engine washers, but they are more common. They use gas to power the pump. Likewise, they are good for medium to heavy-duty cleaning.
Pros
- Widely available on the market.
- They have a high PSI, so they’re good for heavy-duty cleaning.
- They’re available in a variety of sizes.
Cons
- The high PSI means they’re not always recommended for cars.
- They generate fumes, so they’re not eco-friendly or suitable for indoor use.
Electric
This is the best pressure washer type for washing your car. Electric pressure washers are widely available and come in a range of PSI numbers, which make them suitable for your car.
Pros
- Best for cars, as you can find them in lower PSI numbers.
- Portable options.
- They’re still strong, so they can deep clean cars and remove stains.
- Many affordable options.
- Electric power means they’re more eco-friendly.
Cons
- If it’s corded, you’re limited to where you can take it.
- Some are quite heavy.
Diesel
These pressure washers are best for medium to heavy-duty work. They are similar to petrol engine pressure washers, but instead of fuel, they use diesel.
Pros
- Good for medium to heavy-duty work.
- Strong pressure.
Cons
- They generate fumes, so it’s not eco-friendly.
- Because of the fumes, they can’t be used indoors or in garages.
Hydraulic
Hydraulic pressure washers are quiet, lightweight, and more compact. They use a hydraulic mechanism to create energy, so no need for fuel or electricity.
Pros
- Quiet.
- More sustainable and eco-friendly.
- Best for farms or agriculture environments.
- No need for fuel.
- You don’t need to be near an electric power outlet.
Cons
- Not suitable for home or garden use.
- Not readily available.
- Most suited for commercial use.
How To Choose the Best Pressure Washer For Cars
When shopping for the best pressure washer for your car, there are some essential details to consider.
Type
Of the four types of pressure washers, we recommend electric. Gas is suitable, but always check what type it is so you know what to expect.
Hose Length
You should also consider the pressure washer hose length. Make sure it’s long enough to maneuver around the car easily.
Some are portable or cordless, though. These are good for car cleaning but typically have a lower PSI.
On my list, I have hose lengths between 20 and 35 feet.
PSI
Speaking of PSI, this is one of the most important details to consider. The ideal PSI for car cleaning is between 1200 and 1900, but we do have some recommendations above and below that.
Attachments
Ensure the pressure washer is designed for cleaning cars or comes with a wide range of attachments. This ensures that it’s suitable for car cleaning. If it only has a 0° attachment, for instance, it will be too strong for car cleaning.
Detergent Tank
Does the pressure washer come with a detergent tank? If not, no big deal, but it definitely makes car washing easier if it can emit soapy water. This allows you to distribute it over your car evenly.
Budget
Last but not least, consider your budget. Pressure washers come at various prices, but they are typically quite expensive tools. My recommendations range from about $110 to $400.
Make sure to shop within your budget. You’ll still find a great pressure washer!
FAQs
What is the Difference Between Pressure Washing and Power Washing?
The difference between pressure washing and power washing comes down to water temperature. Pressure washing uses cold water under extreme pressure, whereas power washing uses hot water to remove dirt.
How Do You Pressure Wash a Car?
The best way to pressure wash a car is to plug the washer in, attach the hose and a 25-degree nozzle, and spray the entire car with water. You can use dish soap and water to clean the car first and use the pressure washer to remove the suds and stubborn dirt.
Who Makes the Most Reliable Pressure Washer?
I think one of the most reliable pressure washers is the Cat Electric Pressure Washer. It has a powerful 1,800-watt electric motor, a high-quality 20 ft hose, and it comes with a foam blaster.
Can You Use Dawn Dish Soap in a Pressure Washer?
You can use Dawn Dish Soap in a pressure washer if you dilute it with water. Read the manufacturer’s guidelines to check whether your model accommodates dish soap.
Can I Use Vinegar in My Pressure Washer?
You can use vinegar in your pressure washer, provided you dilute it with water to reduce acidity. Add a cup of vinegar to your pressure washer reservoir and switch it on.
Can I Use Hot Water in My Pressure Washer?
You should only use hot water in your pressure washer if it is a specific hot water model. Hot water could damage the pump and inner housing in standard pressure washers and cause a leak.
Cleanest Car on the Block
With these best pressure washers for cars, you and your family will have the cleanest vehicles around. Maybe neighbors will even ask you to help out with their cars!
When shopping for a pressure washer, remember that electric ones are best. However, I do have a gas recommendation (just stand further back to avoid damage to your car’s paint) as well as portable options. Portable ones aren’t as strong, but they are super easy to use.
You should also consider the hose length, the PSI, and how many nozzle settings it has. Don’t forget to check if it comes with a detergent tank!
