Car Wash Business

All About Car Washes

There are three main types of car wash facilities: self-service, full-service rollover equipment and tunnel conveyor belts.

  1. The self-service stalls are targeted towards the bargain individual. Many of these coin-operated systems include a high pressure water spray gun, foam scrub brush and vacuum nozzles. This self-service customer is usually looking for basic products. Some business owners sell "time-saving equipment" like faster drying wands or waxes that increase profit margins.
  2. The full-service rollover equipment is a popular drive-in bay option for gas stations. The machines move backwards and forwards while cleaning the cars. These vehicle washing bays are very quick and convenient.
  1. The tunnel conveyor belt pulls vehicles through the cleaning facility. This is the high-end luxury system for washing vehicles. It has many cycles:
    1. Pre-soak soaping up
    2. "Mitter curtain" of soft, cloth strips
    3. "Foam applicator" with deep-cleaning detergent
    4. "Scrubbers" with spinning cloth or foam strips
    5. "High-pressure" water jet washer, might get up to 1000 pounds per square inch (psi)
    6. Rinse nozzle arch
    7. Wax for chrome, glass, metal, plastic and rubber

Most of these full-service tunnels have attendants who towel dry and squeegee the vehicle. They also offer numerous packages including special exterior services (like "undercarriage wash applicators" for removing snow, dirt and salt) and interior detailing services (like fabric care, mat cleaning and carpet shampooing). An air freshener makes a vehicle smell like new.

Local areas have different weather patterns which require different products and services. Windshield wiper fluid is a popular seller during the winter. Many car washes close when precipitation is forecasted.

Environmental concerns are increasing. Business owners must learn local waste disposal and contamination rules. Many use recycled water.

Vehicle wash investors need to select proper equipment to best fit customer needs - choosing between different brushes, nozzles and soaps. Another option is the "touchless" system which uses strong detergent chemicals and high water pressure for those concerned with "brush marks" damaging their vehicle finish.

The start-up entrepreneur should locate the business near big shopping malls with heavy traffic. Franchises are a possibility. The successful car wash owner can start a chain of car washing facilities.

Maintenance, replacement and advertising are all necessary expenses. Video surveillance adds security so customers feel safe.

Growth options include easier payment, large bays for trucks and more car accessories. Coupons, gift cards and monthly packages are also popular.