Cory's Car Care

When you’re driving around Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, or Middlesbrough, it’s easy to be tempted by the sign on the roadside: “Car Wash £5.” It’s quick, cheap, and seems like a great deal. But have you ever stopped to wonder what that low price really costs — not just to your wallet, but to your vehicle?

In this blog, we’ll explore the hidden dangers of £5 car washes and why drivers in the North East of England should think twice before pulling in.

1. Scratches and Swirl Marks: Cheap Today, Costly Tomorrow

Most £5 car washes use abrasive sponges or dirty cloths that are reused on dozens of cars throughout the day. That grit and grime builds up, and instead of removing dirt safely, these tools end up grinding it into your paintwork.

Over time, you’ll start to see:

• Swirl marks in the sunlight
• Fine scratches that dull your paint
• Oxidation and fading

What seems like a bargain can eventually lead to hundreds of pounds in paint correction or resprays.

2. Low-Quality Chemicals Harm Your Vehicle

Budget car washes often cut corners with cheap or overly harsh chemicals. These products might remove surface dirt quickly, but they can strip away protective wax, damage your clear coat, and even cause rubber seals and plastic trims to dry out and crack.

If you care about maintaining the value of your car, proper protection is key — and that protection doesn’t come from a £5 wash.

3. Rushed Service Means Missed Spots and Poor Results

Let’s face it — at £5 a wash, there’s no time for quality. These washes are designed for speed, not detail.

You may notice:

• Dirt left in crevices and around emblems
• Water spots on windows
• Missed wheels and arches

A rushed job might make your car look clean at first glance, but it won’t give you the deep clean and long-lasting shine that professional detailing offers.

4. Potential Legal Risks

Some £5 car washes operate without proper drainage, waste disposal, or insurance, which could put you at risk if damage occurs. In the North East, councils are cracking down on unregulated car wash operations that harm the environment and violate water regulations.

If something goes wrong — scratches, broken parts, or even theft — you’re unlikely to get compensation.

5. Support Local, Professional Detailers Instead

Choosing a professional car detailer in the North East — whether in Newcastle, Gateshead, Stockton, Darlington, or beyond — offers you more than just a clean car. You’re investing in:

• High-quality, safe cleaning techniques
• Long-term protection for your paintwork and interior
• Local businesses that care about their reputation

Detailers might charge more than £5, but you’ll walk away with a car that’s clean, protected, and treated with the care it deserves.

Final Thoughts: Cheap Isn’t Always Cheerful

While £5 car washes might seem convenient, they often do more harm than good — especially over time. If you want to protect your vehicle’s value, appearance, and longevity, it’s worth spending a little more for the right care.

For drivers across the North East of England, from Sunderland to South Shields and Hartlepool to Hexham, the message is clear: think before you wash.