Ioniq 5's Convenient Car Wash Mode Preps for Cleaning

Exploring Hyundai's Innovative Car Wash Mode in the Ioniq 5

Hyundai's first dedicated battery electric vehicle, the Ioniq 5, aims to make electric mobility more convenient than ever. One standout feature that helps achieve this goal is the Ioniq 5's specialized car wash mode. This mode intelligently prepares the vehicle for commercial car wash facilities, optimizing the experience for drivers.

Activating Car Wash Mode in the Ioniq 5

Using car wash mode in the Ioniq 5 is easy. It can be activated through the touchscreen display. Simply tap on the car wash icon, and the system will automatically disable certain features to ready the vehicle.

For example, car wash mode will turn off the welcome/goodbye light function. This prevents the distinctive pixel lights from accidentally opening and closing during the washing. The mode also deactivates ultrasonic sensors and the auto hold brake system. This allows the Ioniq 5 to roll freely throughout the facility.

Why the Ioniq 5 Needs a Specialized Car Wash Mode

You may be wondering why Hyundai felt a dedicated car wash mode was necessary. After all, generations of car owners have run their vehicles through commercial wash stations without any special preparation.

However, the Ioniq 5 has unique characteristics that benefit from disabling certain intelligent vehicle systems ahead of a wash. Let's look at a few reasons why this mode can improve the car wash experience.

The Vehicle's Aerodynamic Profile

The Ioniq 5 features a sleek, aerodynamic exterior profile characterized by continuous lines, air curtains, and a flush surface design. This look improves driving range and efficiency. However, it also increases the risk of catching or holding onto excess water during a wash.

Car wash mode helps mitigate this issue by ensuring closure panels and windows are securely shut before entering the facility. Sensors are also disabled to avoid false opening signals due to water pressure.

The Location of Exterior Sensors

Modern vehicles like the Ioniq 5 use sensors for advanced driver assistance features. Some of these sensors are mounted low on the exterior body. For example, ultrasonic sensors on the Ioniq 5's front and rear bumpers detect nearby objects when parking.

Running these systems during an automated wash risks water infiltration and sensor damage. Thus, car wash mode proactively deactivates ultrasonic parking sensors to protect system integrity.

The Vehicle's Battery Electric Drivetrain

Perhaps most importantly, the Ioniq 5 runs solely on battery-supplied electric power. Its water-cooled battery pack and high voltage electrical architecture require precise control and monitoring for optimal performance.

Putting the vehicle through a vigorous wash risks tripping onboard diagnostic systems. Car wash mode essentially puts the drivetrain to sleep. This prevents false alerts or interruptions while cleaning.

Customizing the Car Wash Mode Experience

While Hyundai's embedded car wash mode automatically handles most of the proper vehicle preparations, Ioniq 5 owners can also customize a few preferences.

For example, you can select whether the welcome/goodbye light function resumes after exiting the wash. This means you don't have to remember to manually reactivate this unique feature.

You can also program the system to hold the charge port door open. This ensures washing attendants can easily spray down the charging inlet after standard soap and rinse cycles.

Additional Precautions For Drivers

The Ioniq 5's car wash mode handles many of the necessary adjustments to ready the vehicle for a wash. However, drivers should still take a few additional precautions:

• Remove loose objects from the cabin and cargo area
• Check closure panels like windows or doors for a tight seal
• Make sure wiper arms are properly parked along the windshield
• Retract or protect exterior mounted accessories like antennas
• Place the vehicle fully in neutral gear with parking brakes disabled

Taking these simple steps, in addition to activating car wash mode, will provide the best cleaning experience possible.

The Ioniq 5 Sets a New Standard for Electric Mobility

The Ioniq 5's specialized car wash mode exemplifies Hyundai's commitment to optimizing every aspect of the electric vehicle ownership journey. Clever use of the vehicle's onboard technology enhances functionality and convenience beyond just driving.

Hyundai promises the car wash mode experience will continually improve via over-the-air software updates. As the system collects vehicle data and user feedback, algorithms will fine-tune preparation steps even further.

With innovations like this, Hyundai aims to set a new benchmark for seamless, stress-free electric mobility. Judging by features such as the well-designed car wash mode, they are certainly on the right track.

FAQs

How do I activate the Ioniq 5's car wash mode?

You can activate car wash mode through the touchscreen display in the Ioniq 5. Simply tap on the car wash icon and the system will automatically disable certain features to ready the vehicle.

What vehicle functions get disabled in car wash mode?

Car wash mode disables the welcome/goodbye light function, ultrasonic parking sensors, and the auto hold brake system. This allows the vehicle to roll freely and protects components from water exposure.

Can I customize the car wash mode experience?

Yes, you can select preferences like resuming the welcome light function after the wash and holding the charge port open for attendants to clean.

Does car wash mode completely prepare the vehicle?

It handles most of the preparations but drivers should still take extra steps like removing loose objects, checking closure seals, parking wipers, and retracting antennas.

Will the car wash mode improve over time?

Yes, Hyundai will refine the mode via over-the-air updates using data and feedback collected from Ioniq 5 owners over time.