Do high pressure hoses ruin your paint?

I have heard mixed stories on this subject and was wondering if any of you could possibly give me some insight on the matter.

Every now and then I don't have the time to wash my car by hand and take it to the car lot to go get washed, does the high pressure hose there ruin your paint?

Also I was thinking of buying a high pressure attachment for my home hose, would this effect the paint job in any way?

Thanks for info.

I used to professionally detail and high pressure hoses do not ruin paint. However if your paint is peeling or you have existing problems , ie...chips, rust, whatever, it can make them worse. Remember its not the pressure but the brushes they use. They will scratch your paint.

i partially agree, alot of it has to do with the condition of the paint as well as how much pressure.

you have to be very careful because if you get to close it can and will peel your paint. especially if the car has been repainted. if you can put your hand up to it full pressure without it hurting then you should be good at any distance........otherwise i'd keep a couple feet back since you shouldn't need direct high pressure on the whole car anyway. i've seen plenty of people make the mistake using those dirty brushes and getting to close with the high pressure.

I just want to add my uncle had a brand new Grand Prix and went to the car wash and tried removing bugs from teh front bumper with the pressure washer and it removed his NEW paint. Don't get right on top of the bumper and the paint should probably stay on. That story always scares me though, I just use a sponge to be safe.