You knew it was coming. That day when I was going to have to give the CyberTruck its first wash. The felling is kind of like the first time you wash a dog, you really don't know how they're going to respond and thus you take a cautious approach. For those of you wondering if I'm going to put it through a carwash? Let's just say, I don't even know if it will fit. It's one big ass Mother... I've been doing some research and the Tesla Owner's manual says the following (The full document is 6 pages printed, but I saved the best parts for you,
Cleaning the Exterior
To prevent damage to the exterior, immediately remove corrosive substances (such as grease, oil, bird droppings, tree resin, dead insects, tar spots, road salt, industrial fallout, etc.). Do not wait until Cybertruckis due for a complete wash. If necessary, use denatured alcohol to remove tar spots and stubborn grease stains, then immediately wash the area with water and a mild, non-detergent soap to remove the alcohol.
Note:
It is normal for the stainless steel exterior to mature over time, resulting in minor changes to the reflective properties and color of the metal.
Follow these steps when washing the exterior of Cybertruck:
Before washing, flush grime and grit from the vehicle using a hose. Flush away accumulations of mud in areas where debris easily collects (such as wheel wells and panel seams). If salt has been used on the highways (such as during winter months), thoroughly rinse all traces of road salt from the underside of the vehicle, wheel wells, and brakes.
Mix a mild, pH-neutral soap (such as car shampoo) with water until it gets soapy.
Soak a soft cleaning sponge in the soap mixture and hand wash Cybertruck. CAUTION Some cleaners and car shampoos contain chemicals that can cause damage or discoloration, especially for plastic trim pieces, exterior lights, or camera lenses. For example, some car cleaning formulas contain hydroxide or other highly alkaline or caustic ingredients that can damage exterior components. Do not use acidic products either. Damage or discoloration resulting from cleaning products is not covered by the warranty.
After washing, rinse with clean water to prevent soap from drying on the surfaces.
Dry thoroughly with microfiber cloths (ensure the cloths are clean of sand, dirt, rocks, etc.), one in each hand, rotating in circular motions until the surface is dry.
For a waterless wash:
Hand wash using a non-ionic pH-neutral waterless wash with a high quality microfiber towel.
Dry any streaks thoroughly with a chamois.
Remove oil and grease with an organic solvent, such as alcohol or ethyl alcohol. Note Do not use alcohol or ethyl alcohol on the head or tail lights.
For spot cleaning: Use a glass cleaner and microfiber cloth. Spray glass cleaner and wipe in a zig-zag motion when cleaning large areas, such as entire panels.
Use isopropyl alcohol wipes (such as those used to clean glasses or screens) to clean away small stains.
Note
Tesla does not recommend taking Cybertruck through an automatic car wash.
Cautions for Exterior Cleaning
CAUTION
Do not wash in direct sunlight.
CAUTION
Do not use windshield treatment fluids. Doing so can interfere with wiper friction and cause a chattering sound.
CAUTION
Do not use hot water, detergents, highly alkaline or caustic cleaning ingredients or solvents, specifically those containing hydroxide.
CAUTION
If using a pressure washer, maintain a distance of at least 12" (30 cm) between the nozzle and the surface of Cybertruck. Keep the nozzle moving and do not concentrate the water jet on any one area.
CAUTION
Do not aim water hoses directly at windows, door, or hood seals or at electronic modules or exposed cabling.
CAUTION
To avoid corrosive damage that may not be covered by the warranty, rinse away any road salt from the underside of the vehicle, wheel wells, and brakes. After cleaning the vehicle, dry the brakes by going on a short drive and applying the brakes multiple times.
CAUTION
Avoid using tight-napped or rough cloths, such as washing mitts. A high-quality microfiber cleaning cloth is recommended.
CAUTION
If washing in an automatic car wash, use touchless car washes only. These car washes have no parts (brushes, etc.) that touch the surfaces of Cybertruck. Some touchless car washes use caustic solutions that, over time, can cause discoloration of decorative exterior trim. Avoid exposure to soaps and chemicals above pH 13. If unsure, check the product label or ask the staff at the car wash. Damage caused by improper washing is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION
If washing in an automatic car wash, make sure the vehicle is locked. In addition, avoid using controls on the touchscreen that can result in accidentally opening doors or trunks while the vehicle is being washed. Any damage caused is not covered by the warranty.
CAUTION
Ensure the wipers are off before washing Cybertruck to avoid the risk of damaging the wipers.
CAUTION
Do not use chemical based wheel cleaners or pre-wash products. These can damage the finish on the wheels.
Warning
Never spray liquid at a high velocity (for example, if using a pressure washer) towards the charge port while Cybertruck is charging. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious injury or damage to the vehicle, charging equipment, or property.
Who knew that the directions for washing a CyberTruck would be so tedious that they might be confused for stereo instructions? So off I went washing down the CyberTruck. I used mostly a water sprayer from my hose and mild and diluted dish washing detergent as recommended from many sites. It actually worked out pretty well. However after drying it there were still some spots. I attempted to use "denatured alcohol" as Tesla recommended, but I didn't have much luck. However applying mild vinegar and quickly washing the area was most effective. Take a look at my progress.
Luckily, I will be getting the CyberTruck wrapped Monday Morning and so this shouldn't be a problem moving forward. Note: I didn't even attempt to wash the glass or plastic components of the vehicle.
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