Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
Car washes vary in price depending on the type of service you are looking for and the location of the car wash. An express exterior car wash costs between $6 and $20, with full-service washes typically costing more than $25. The cost is also determined by whether you choose an automated or hand-wash service.
Automated services are less expensive but may not offer as extensive a cleaning job as a hand wash. Additionally, some locations may offer additional services, such as waxing or interior detailing, that can add to the overall cost of the car wash experience. When selecting a car wash service provider, finding an affordable yet high-quality option should be at the top of your list.
Different Types Of Car Washes And Their Cost:
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Automatic Car Wash-$10 To $20.
Automatic Car Wash
An automatic car wash typically costs between $10 and $20. Prices vary by location and the type of service offered. Basic services usually involve only a wash, rinse, wax, and dry, while premium packages may include additional features such as undercarriage cleaning, tire shine, interior vacuum, and window cleaning.
If a customer opts for a more expensive package with extra services, the cost can increase to around $30 or more. Automated washes are often faster than manual washing options but take longer to complete if extra packages are purchased. Customers need to check what is included in each package before paying for the service to get the desired outcome at an affordable price.
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Touchless Car Wash-$10 To $30.
Touchless Car Wash
Touchless car washes are an automated way to wash your car without brushes or physical contact. A touchless car wash can range from $10 to $30 depending on the size and type of vehicle and any additional services that may be included, such as waxing, tire shining, undercarriage cleaning, or interior detailing.
Most touchless car washes use high-pressure water jets and specialty cleaning chemicals to get a deep clean on your vehicle. This method is sometimes preferred over manual washing because it doesn’t require physical contact, reducing the risk of scratches or other damage caused by traditional brushing methods. Touchless car washes also tend to be much faster than manual methods, allowing you to get back on the road in less time with a clean ride!
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Hand Car Wash-$20 To $30
Hand Car Wash
A hand car wash typically costs between $20 and $30. This option is affordable for those on a tight budget or seeking to save money. The advantage of having the car washed by hand is that the car will be thoroughly cleaned, inside and out. During this process, dirt, dust, and debris will be removed from all areas of the vehicle, including deep within the crevices where it can be hard to reach.
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Full-Service Car Wash-$50 To $100
Full-Service Car Wash
A full-service car wash can cost anywhere between $50 and $100. For larger SUVs and vans, the cost can range from $75 to $125. These prices will vary depending on where you get your car washed, as car washes offer various services at different rates. A full-service car wash includes interior cleanings such as vacuuming, windows cleaning, dashboard and console dusting; exterior washing including engine bay shampooing; waxing services; applied sealant protection against ultraviolet rays; rust inhibitor spray treatment; and tire dressing.
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Mobile Car Wash- $60 to $150
Mobile Car Wash
Mobile car wash services typically charge between $60 and $150 for a regular-sized car, depending on the quality of service desired. Mobile car wash services range from a basic exterior wash to an interior clean and wax. Prices may vary based on the location, vehicle condition, and additional services requested.
Mobile car washes can cost between $100 and 175 dollars for larger SUVs or vans due to their increased size and the greater surface area needing cleaning. The price for these vehicles can also fluctuate depending on how dirty or neglected it is when brought in for service.
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Self-Service Car Wash- $7 to $15.
Self-Service Car Wash
Self-service car washes are a great way to get your car looking clean without spending much money. Depending on your destination, a self-service car wash can range from $7 to $15. Generally, the cost of the wash includes access to all the necessary cleaning supplies and equipment, such as soap, sponges, towels, and pressure washers. Some places also offer special packages that may include extras like waxing or detailing services with an additional fee.
Detailing – $125 to $275
Detailing costs vary depending on the size of the vehicle. You can expect to pay between $125 and $275 for a full detailing service for a regular-sized car. For larger SUVs and vans, you can expect to pay between $175 and $325.
Many services offer additional add-ons such as waxing, clay bar treatments, pet hair removal, paint sealants, engine steam cleaning, rust removal, headlight restoration, and more at an extra cost. Depending on the level of detail desired by the customer, these additional services can cause prices to increase significantly from basic packages.
Factors Affecting Car Wash Cost:
Location:
The location of the car wash can have an impact on the cost. For instance, car washes in more affluent areas may charge higher rates than those in lower-income neighborhoods. Additionally, if a car wash is located near other businesses or attractions that draw customers to the area, they may be able to charge a premium for their services.
Type Of Car Wash:
The car wash can also affect its cost. A full-service car wash typically costs more than one that is self-serve or automated because it requires more labor and time from employees. Automated and self-serve washes are often cheaper since they do not require manual labor from employees and can be completed quickly by customers.
Additional Services:
Many car washes offer additional services, such as waxing, interior cleaning, and window tinting, which will increase the overall cost of the visit. Additionally, some car washes offer discounts when multiple services are purchased together, which can help reduce the overall cost of your visit.
Vehicle Size
Compact cars are usually the least expensive to wash. They do not require special tools or supplies, so a basic wash and wax can cost as low as $15. Mid-size cars are slightly more expensive because they require extra attention to get into all the nooks and crannies. A basic wash and wax for a mid-size car can cost around $20.
Full-size vehicles such as SUVs and trucks may be more expensive due to their larger size, which requires additional supplies like sponges and towels. A full wash and wax for these vehicles can range from $25-$30 or higher, depending on the complexity of the vehicle’s design.
Ways To Save Money On Car Washes:
- Do It Yourself:
If you have the time, do it yourself! You can easily find a DIY car wash station and supplies at most auto parts stores or online, allowing you to clean your car for only a fraction of the cost of a professional car wash. Not only is this an economical option, but it also allows you to customize the level of cleaning your vehicle needs.
- Look For Promotional Offers:
Look for promotional offers or discounts on car washes from local businesses or national chains like Jiffy Lube and Valvoline Instant Oil Change (VIOC). These companies often offer special deals throughout the year that can help save you money on your next car wash. Additionally, many gas stations have self-serve car washes that are often more affordable than full-service.
- Use Natural Household Products:
Use natural household products instead of commercial ones to clean your vehicle’s exterior and interior surfaces. For example, baking soda is great for polishing chrome trim, while white vinegar can remove stubborn stains from carpeting and upholstery. Utilizing these items with water from a garden hose can thoroughly clean your vehicle without breaking the bank!
Discounts From Gas Stations When You Purchase Gas:
Depending on the station, customers may get a discount on their car wash simply by filling up their tank or purchasing a certain amount of fuel. Many stations also offer loyalty programs for regular customers, where they can save even more money on car washes and other services.
Conclusion
The price of a car wash depends on several factors, such as the type of wash and the location. A basic hand wash can cost anywhere from $5 to $20, while a full-service car wash can range from $10 to over $50. Many car washes offer additional services or discounts for packages or loyal customers. Therefore, it is important to research your local area and compare prices before selecting a service that meets your needs and budget. Ultimately, finding the best price for a car wash will depend on how much you’re willing to spend and what kind of services you’re looking for to keep your vehicle clean and running well.
