Is This The Best Pressure Washer For Car Detailing? (Comparison & Reviews)

Are you interested in buying the best pressure washer for car detailing? In this guide, we’ve reviewed the best pressure washers so you can find the right one for your individualistic needs.

Finding the best pressure washer for car detailing can be tough. Nevertheless, it’ll pay off dividends in the long run. After all, a pressure washer will allow you to perfect the appearance of your automobile. You could pay a professional to detail your car but this would be very expensive. It is best to do it on your own. The only problem here is that finding the best pressure washer for this purpose is going to be harder than you might imagine.

We’ve done the hard work for you. We’ve reviewed the best pressure washers that will work exceptionally well for car detailing. It is pertinent to use this information to your advantage so you can get the best unit for your money. Below, you will find tips for buying a good pressure washer and you’ll discover reviews for the best units.

Best Pressure Washer For Car Detailing Comparison Table

Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Max PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp Electric High Pressure Washer, Cleans Cars/Fences/Patios
Sun Joe SPX3001 2030 PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5 AMP Electric Pressure Washer with Hose Reel, Green
Best choice
Powerhouse International - Electric High Power- Pressure Washer - 3000 PSI 2.2 GPM - Power Washer - Patio Cleaner - Hose Reel - Spray Gun (Red - Platinum Edition)
Stanley SHP2150 Portable Electric Pressure Washer, 2150 PSI, 1.4 GPM, 13 AMP, with Metal Lance, Foam Cannon, Quick Connect Gun, 25' Hose, 25lbs
Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Max PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp Electric High Pressure Washer, Cleans Cars/Fences/Patios
Sun Joe SPX3001 2030 PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5 AMP Electric Pressure Washer with Hose Reel, Green
Powerhouse International - Electric High Power- Pressure Washer - 3000 PSI 2.2 GPM - Power Washer - Patio Cleaner - Hose Reel - Spray Gun (Red - Platinum Edition)
Stanley SHP2150 Portable Electric Pressure Washer, 2150 PSI, 1.4 GPM, 13 AMP, with Metal Lance, Foam Cannon, Quick Connect Gun, 25' Hose, 25lbs
Pressure
2030 PSI
2030 PSI
3000 PSI
2150 PSI
Gallons per minute @ Max pressure
1.76 GPM
1.76 GPM
2.2 GPM
1.4 GPM
Motor
14.5 AMP
14.5 AMP
14.5 AMP
13 AMP
Hose
20 ft (6m)
20 ft (6m)
30 ft (9m)
25 ft (7.6m)
Power cord
35 ft (10.6m)
35 ft (10.6m)
35 ft (10.6m)
35 ft (10.6m)
Item weight
31 lbs
32 lbs
32 lbs
26 lbs
Price
$169.00
$166.90
Price not available
$249.00
Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Max PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp Electric High Pressure Washer, Cleans Cars/Fences/Patios
Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Max PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp Electric High Pressure Washer, Cleans Cars/Fences/Patios
Pressure
2030 PSI
Gallons per minute @ Max pressure
1.76 GPM
Motor
14.5 AMP
Hose
20 ft (6m)
Power cord
35 ft (10.6m)
Item weight
31 lbs
Price
$169.00
Sun Joe SPX3001 2030 PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5 AMP Electric Pressure Washer with Hose Reel, Green
Sun Joe SPX3001 2030 PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5 AMP Electric Pressure Washer with Hose Reel, Green
Pressure
2030 PSI
Gallons per minute @ Max pressure
1.76 GPM
Motor
14.5 AMP
Hose
20 ft (6m)
Power cord
35 ft (10.6m)
Item weight
32 lbs
Price
$166.90
Best choice
Powerhouse International - Electric High Power- Pressure Washer - 3000 PSI 2.2 GPM - Power Washer - Patio Cleaner - Hose Reel - Spray Gun (Red - Platinum Edition)
Powerhouse International - Electric High Power- Pressure Washer - 3000 PSI 2.2 GPM - Power Washer - Patio Cleaner - Hose Reel - Spray Gun (Red - Platinum Edition)
Pressure
3000 PSI
Gallons per minute @ Max pressure
2.2 GPM
Motor
14.5 AMP
Hose
30 ft (9m)
Power cord
35 ft (10.6m)
Item weight
32 lbs
Price
Price not available
Stanley SHP2150 Portable Electric Pressure Washer, 2150 PSI, 1.4 GPM, 13 AMP, with Metal Lance, Foam Cannon, Quick Connect Gun, 25' Hose, 25lbs
Stanley SHP2150 Portable Electric Pressure Washer, 2150 PSI, 1.4 GPM, 13 AMP, with Metal Lance, Foam Cannon, Quick Connect Gun, 25' Hose, 25lbs
Pressure
2150 PSI
Gallons per minute @ Max pressure
1.4 GPM
Motor
13 AMP
Hose
25 ft (7.6m)
Power cord
35 ft (10.6m)
Item weight
26 lbs
Price
$249.00

Last update on 2023-03-25 at 06:06  / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1. Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Electric Pressure Washer

The Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Pressure Washer is a moderately affordable solution to your car cleaning problem. This versatile pressure washer can be utilized for many purposes. For instance, it can clean your RV, truck, car, driveway, and siding. If you need to get rid of tough dirt and debris, you can guarantee that this pressure washer will get the job done right. It is powerful enough to remove the toughest stains. On top of that, this pressure washer is protected by an excellent warranty. We’re confident that the Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Pressure Washer is going to satisfy most consumers.

Sale
Sun Joe SPX3000 2030 Max PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5-Amp Electric High Pressure Washer, Cleans Cars/Fences/Patios
  • [POWERFUL]: 14.5-Amp/1800-watt motor generates up to 2030 PSI (at initial discharge per CSA internal pressure testing) and 1.76 GPM (with nozzle open at minimum pressure) of water flow.Water Inlet Pressure (max) 0.7 Mpa
  • [VERSATILE]: Tackle a variety of cleaning tasks: homes, buildings, RV’s, cars, trucks, boats, decks, driveways, patios, lawn equipment, and more. With two 0.9 L onboard detergent tanks, removable tanks carry and store different types of detergent to simultaneously tackle different cleaning projects.

Last update on 2023-03-25 at 06:06  / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Warranty

First and foremost, you should take a glance at the warranty. Well, this pressure washer is covered for two years. If anything goes wrong during the first two years of ownership, you can guarantee that the company will remedy the problem for you. Sun Joe has excellent customer service so you can guarantee that they’ll fix your problem without putting up any resistance.

Saves Energy

The Sun Joe pressure washer is equipped with an innovative total stop system. This will make a big difference. It ensures that the pump is going to shut off automatically when the trigger is no longer engaged. This will solve two problems. It’ll ensure that you’re going to save money on energy. Simultaneously, this guarantees that the pump is not going to be used under unnecessary circumstances. Therefore, the pump will last a bit longer.

PSI

While you’re at it, you should know that this pressure washer has an excellent PSI rating. The maximum internal pressure rating is 2030 PSI. When placed under a normal load, you’ll receive a working pressure of 1450 PSI. This should be sufficient for most uses.

Pros

  • Protected by a 2-year warranty
  • Maximum internal pressure of 2030 PSI
  • Total stop system prevents problems
  • Can be used for cars, trucks, RVs, and so much more

Cons

  • Does not work with a regular hose
  • Motor will run constantly in the wrong situations

2. Greenworks 1500 PSI 13 Amp Pressure Washer

The Greenworks 1500 PSI 13 Amp Pressure Washer is a good option for many people. We’ve analyzed this unit and we’re confident that it is going to satisfy many consumers. This pressure washer can provide you with a maximum of 1500 PSI. With this type of power, you can guarantee that it is going to deal with though grime without any issues. On top of that, the compact size ensures that you’re not going to have any issues moving the unit around. You will receive plenty of power cord so you won’t have to move the unit around too much.

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Power Cord

First and foremost, you should know that the Greenworks 1500 PSI Pressure Washer is equipped with 35 feet of power cord. This will make your job much easier. Once you’ve plugged it up and have positioned it, you can guarantee that you won’t have to move the unit again. With 35 feet of power cord, you won’t have to worry about unplugging and plugging up elsewhere.

Vertically Or Horizontally

Another thing to note is that the Greenworks 1500 PSI 13 Amp Pressure Washer can be used horizontally and vertically. If you’re worried about it tipping over, you can lay it down. This ensures that it is going to remain stable at all times. This prevents problems such as the unit tipping over and crashing to the ground.

Applies Soap

Sometimes, the stain isn’t going to disappear unless you use soap. The Greenworks Pressure Washer is great for this purpose. It features a soap applicator. It can apply soap as you use the pressure washer. You won’t have to do it manually. By adding soap to the equation, you can rest assured knowing that this pressure washer is going to get rid of those tough stains.

Pros

  • Very powerful at 1500 PSI
  • Soap applicator can help get rid of tough stains
  • 35 ft power cord is sufficient
  • Can be used horizontally or vertically

Cons

  • Feels a bit cheap
  • May leak at the hose connection

3. Sun Joe SPX3001 2030 PSI Electric Pressure Washer

Sun Joe is a leader in the pressure washer industry. This is why you’ll want to check out the Sun Joe SPX3001. This unit is one of the best on the market and we’ve tested it thoroughly. It is equipped with a powerful 1800 watt motor to ensure that you’re going to receive plenty of power. Simultaneously, this unit features a unique total stop system to ensure that the pump will last a lifetime. The pressure washer is moderately priced making it a good option for many people. This unit features a good warranty to ensure that you’re going to be protected.

Sale
Sun Joe SPX3001 2030 PSI 1.76 GPM 14.5 AMP Electric Pressure Washer with Hose Reel, Green
  • [POWERFUL MOTOR]: Powerful 14.5-amp/1800-Watt motor generates up to 2030 PSI/1.76 GPM for maximum cleaning power
  • [ONBOARD REEL]: Onboard reel keeps 20 ft. (6m) high pressure hose organized for quick and easy clean-up and storage

Last update on 2023-03-25 at 06:06  / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pressure

First, you should analyze the pressure washer’s motor. It features a 14.5 amp or 1800-watt motor. This guarantees that you’re going to receive plenty of power. In total, the Sun Joe SPX3001 Pressure Washer is capable of generating a maximum of 2030 PSI. This should be sufficient for most applications. Even if you’re dealing with tough stains, you can guarantee that this unit will take care of it.

Good Warranty

Another good thing about the Sun Joe SPX3001 is the warranty. This pressure washer is protected for a duration of 2 years. If you’re worried about your investment, you should stick with this pressure washer. You can guarantee that the company will remedy any problems that you encounter during the first 2 years of ownership.

Hose Storage

You need to understand that using a pressure washer without hose storage can be frustrating. You’ll have to find a way to deal with the hose. This is not going to be a problem with the SPX3001 Pressure Washer from Sun Joe. It is equipped with an onboard reel. It is capable of holding 20 feet of high pressure hose. Once you’ve finished cleaning your vehicle, you can use the handle to roll up the hose. This will remove the hassle from the picture and help you get things done easier.

Pros

  • Protected by a 2 year warranty
  • Delivers 2030 PSI
  • Onboard reel is great
  • Total stop system makes a difference

Cons

  • May have motor issues
  • Slightly heavy

4. Powerhouse International 3000 PSI Electric Pressure Washer

The Powerhouse International Pressure Washer is somewhat expensive but it’ll be worth it in the long run. It offers numerous functions that cannot be found with the alternatives. On top of that, it is going to provide you with additional pressure. In total, you’ll receive 3000 PSI of pressure so you can get the best results. It is better than many gas units because the motor is much quieter. And, you can guarantee that the motor is going to stop as soon as you let go of the trigger.

Last update on 2023-03-25 at 06:06  / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Excellent Hose

The Powerhouse International Pressure Washer comes with plenty of hose and cord. The hose is very flexible. The company claims that the flexibility is 30% more than what you’re going to find with the older model. This ensures that you’ll be able to reach those tough spots without much trouble.

Not Too Loud

Another thing to note is that this pressure washer isn’t too loud. You can guarantee that it is going to be moderately quiet. And, the motor is going to stop as soon as you let go of the trigger. This ensures that you’re not going to bother your neighbors. If you have nosy or disgruntled neighbors, you’ll want to buy this pressure washer. It’ll ensure that your neighbors have nothing to complain about.

Accessories

Finally, you should know that the Powerhouse International Pressure Washer comes with many accessories. For instance, you’re going to receive turbo and angle nozzles. Plus, you’ll get a surface cleaner, brush, soap foam sprayer, and much more. If you want to get your money’s worth, you should think about buying this one.

Pros

  • Features 5 quick connect tips
  • Comes with many accessories
  • 3000 PSI
  • Motor is very quiet

Cons

  • Somewhat expensive
  • Soap sprayer is cheaply made

5. Stanley SHP2150 Pressure Washer

Stanley is a brand that you can count on. This is why you’ll want to spend a few minutes analyzing our Stanley SHP2150 review. This pressure washer offers numerous perks and you can guarantee that it is going to get rid of those tough stains. On top of that, it features a high pressure foamer. It will help you deal with the stains that cannot be removed with the alternatives. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the pressure washer gun and wand. Both are going to make your job much easier.

Stanley SHP2150 Portable Electric Pressure Washer, 2150 PSI, 1.4 GPM, 13 AMP, with Metal Lance, Foam Cannon, Quick Connect Gun, 25' Hose, 25lbs
  • HIGH PRESSURE FOAMER INCLUDED: The specially designed detergent bottle doubles as a high pressure foamer to get tough stuff loose or remove deep-down stains.
  • POWERFUL CLEANING FORCE: Perfect for siding, decks, cement, pavement, pools, outdoor furniture, cars, trucks, RVs, ATVs, garbage cans, animal cages and more.

Last update on 2023-03-25 at 06:06  / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Warranty

First and foremost, you should know that Stanley is a company that you can count on. This unit features a 2-year limited warranty. If anything goes wrong, you can rest assured knowing that Stanley will remedy the problem. The company offers excellent customer support and that makes this pressure washer even better.

Leak Proof Connections

While you’re at it, you should know that the Stanley features leak-proof connections. With many of the alternatives, the connection will spew water. This one will not do that. This ensures that you’re not going to be wasting any water or money!

Portable

Finally, you should know that the Stanley Pressure Washer is very portable. It is lightweight, compact, and easy to move around. The wheels at the bottom ensure that you’re going to be able to haul this unit around without any trouble whatsoever.

Pros

  • Protected by a great 2-year warranty
  • Very easy to move around
  • Connections will not leak
  • Delivers 2150 PSI

Cons

  • Might be less powerful than you expect
  • Foamer isn’t perfect

Buying Guide

Pressure washers are utilized for a broad range of applications and in many different industries. Unfortunately, not all pressure washers are created equal. There are many factors to consider when shopping for a pressure washer for car detailing. These factors include a warranty, connectors, detergent bottle design, pressure hose length, nozzle design, and PSI capability. Below, you will discover an in-depth buying guide for pressure washers.

Warranty

Every customer is at risk of investing in a flawed pressure washer. This is true even if the brand is reputable and trustworthy. Most brands back their pressure washers with a manufacturer’s warranty, which will vary from one manufacturer to another. In most cases, the warranty will cover a year, beginning with the initial purchase. Pay very close to attention to the warranty because it will protect you from financial loss associated with faulty pressure washers.

PSI

The Pounds Per Square Inch, better known as PSI, is extremely important when it comes to pressure washers. This measurement is related to the pressure capabilities of the pressure washer. If the PSI is not powerful enough, the pressure washer will not render good results. In fact, it may not produce enough water pressure to remove dirt and debris. When it comes to car detailing, pressure washers play a major role are creating a clean, smooth surface, which will eventually be primed and painted. If the pressure washer fails to perform correctly, it will not produce a clean surface. Tiny pieces of metal, sand, dirt, or other particles will alter the overall finish.

For a pressure washer to work flawlessly in the car detailing industry, it must be able to produce at least 2,150 PSI.

Length Pressure Hose

Flexibility plays a major role in detailing vehicles. Unfortunately, too many tools and machines utilized in the industry do not offer much flexibility. The pressure washer is one such machine. To extend flexibility to a maximum, manufacturers utilize long high-pressure hoses with their pressure washer. If flexibility is an issue for you, we recommend only brands that include a high-pressure hose that is no shorter than 25-foot.

Connector Design

Productivity is important for car detailing companies. This is especially true for companies with a large number of work orders. To help these companies maintain a high level of productivity, many manufacturers utilize quick-connect connectors. This design allows the technician to quickly and easily connect and disconnect the high-pressure hose and other accessories.

Another major issue that is a problem with pressure washer connectors is leaking. If the connectors are not properly designed they will leak. To eliminate the risk of leaks, the connector must create a seal when connected to the pressure washer. Since it very common to constantly disconnect and connect the connectors, the construction must be able to endure the action, even if it is performed a thousand times a day. Connectors constructed from brass is going to be your best option.

Energy-Efficiency

If you own a car detailing business, you know the importance of saving money. One thing is for sure, you do not want to waste energy because it will lead to a hefty, unnecessary cost. To ensure energy-efficiency, manufacturers are designing their pressure washers to only utilize the minimum amount of water and electricity.

Detergent Bottle Design

Pressure washers have definitely changed over the last decade, thanks to state-of-the-art technology and design. Just the mere fact that the pressure washer is capable of dispensing detergent during operation. Detergent is very beneficial because it can help breakdown caked-on grease, oil, dirt, and other debris. To enhance the capabilities of the detergent, some manufacturers are creating their detergent bottles so they can produce a thick foam, which will speed up the process of breaking down a broad range of substances.

Conclusion

Pressure washers are a necessity in the car detailing industry. However, if these machines do not perform up-to-par, they will be rendered useless. We highly recommend only considering brands that offer the capabilities and warranty as included in this buying guide. To get the most out of your money, you may need to invest a little extra cash but it will pay off in the long run.

Related Questions

How important is the detergent bottle design?

If the detergent bottle design is flawed just slightly it will not perform correctly. Some manufacturers are utilizing detergent bottles that are designed with multiple capabilities. These capabilities include a foamer, dispenser, and reservoir.

How to eliminate the risk of dealing with faulty, leaky connectors?

The best way to eliminate that risk is to only consider investing in brands that come with professional-grade brass connectors or fittings. Brass is a durable material that will endure normal wear and tear.

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