Car Wash Franchise: Is It Right for You? A Comprehensive Guide to Owning a Car Wash Franchise

A car wash franchise is a business that allows car wash owners the ability to operate a car wash, but under an established brand name and with access to proven systems, training, and ongoing support. In exchange for a franchise fee and ongoing royalties, franchisees can benefit from the reputation, marketing, and scale of the franchisor, while still getting the final say in how the business runs. 

Key Points:

• A car wash franchise is a car wash business model where a franchisor grants a franchisee (the car wash owner) the right to use its brand and operating system to open and run the business.
• There are several types of car wash franchises available, including automatic, self-service, detailing, and mobile car washes.
• The costs of opening and continuously operating a car wash franchise vary widely depending on the franchisor, the location, and the startup equipment offered. Expect to pay between $50,000 and $1 million or more to get started.
• Before investing in a car wash franchise, you’ll need to make sure you meet the franchisor's requirements for experience, capital, and other qualifications.

Understanding Car Wash Franchises

Car wash franchises are just one form of ownership, but in many ways, they provide an advantage over starting your own car wash on your own. Here’s how to start a car wash business, specifically with a franchisor. 

How Does a Car Wash Franchise Work?

When you invest in a car wash franchise, you essentially become a part of an established network of car wash businesses that all share a common brand, operating system, and support structure. Here's how it typically works:

• You pay an upfront franchise fee: This is a one-time upfront payment that grants you the right to use the franchisor's brand name, trademarks, logos, and equipment if provided. The fee can range from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the franchisor and the scope of the franchise.
• You sign a franchise agreement: This is a legal contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the franchise relationship, including your obligations as a franchisee and the franchisor's obligations to you. The agreement usually covers operational standards, best practices, training (typically ongoing), marketing, and more. 
• You receive training: The franchisor should provide you with comprehensive training and ongoing support to help you set up and operate your car wash business. That, after all, is one of the major draws of working with a franchise in the first place. This training can include site selection assistance for those who don’t already have a property in mind, equipment procurement, marketing materials, and operational manuals. 
• You pay ongoing fees (and get ongoing training): In exchange for the use of the franchisor's system and support, you'll be required to pay ongoing fees, such as royalties and advertising fees. With these fees; however, should also come additional training on the part of the franchisor. 

What Types of Car Wash Franchises Are There?

Car wash franchises come in different shapes and sizes, from simple self-serve car washes to automatic car washes with all the bells and whistles. Here are the different options you can consider:

• Automatic car washes: This is a fully automated car wash that uses machinery and equipment to wash, rinse, and dry cars. Customers simply drive their cars onto a conveyor belt which then takes them through the different cleaning stations. Automatic car washes are faster and more efficient, but they’re often the more expensive choice and come with little-to-no customization options.
• Self-service car washes: These car washes allow customers to wash their own cars using equipment and supplies provided by the car wash. This equipment often includes scrubbing wands, water jets, cleaning supplies, and some even include vacuum options. Self-service car washes are typically less expensive than automatic car washes, but they require more time and effort from customers.
• Detailing car washes: Detailing businesses provide a more thorough and customized cleaning service for cars, including hand washing, waxing, polishing, and interior cleaning. Detailing car washes offer different packages or levels of service, depending on the customer's needs and budget. 
• Mobile car washes: This is a car wash that goes to the customer's location and cleans their car on-site. Mobile car washes typically use a truck or van equipped with water tanks, pressure washers, and cleaning supplies, or some owners may offer hand washing and detailing services. 

How Much Does a Car Wash Franchise Cost?

Different types of car washes have different costs associated with them. Typically, a car wash franchise can cost anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, with some high-end franchises exceeding a million dollars in investment. So there’s literally an option for any budget.

In addition to the initial franchise fee, you’ll likely be required to pay ongoing fees, such as royalties, advertising fees, or equipment maintenance fees. These fees can add up to several thousand dollars per month, on top of the initial fee you paid.

Not every franchise offers equipment, either, so you may also need to invest in washing equipment, supplies, land (if you’re building a new car wash), and any other start-up costs that come up.

What Are the Requirements to Own a Car Wash Franchise?

Just because you’re getting the training and other benefits offered by a franchise doesn’t mean you won’t need to contribute a significant amount of time, money, and effort into the endeavor. Here are some of the key requirements to own a car wash franchise:

• Most car wash franchises require franchisees to have a minimum net worth and liquid assets available to pay upfront and ongoing fees. 
• You also need a good credit score and a proven track record of financial stability. The exact financial requirements will ultimately vary depending on the franchise brand you’re working with.
• While prior experience in the car wash industry is not always required, franchisees should have some business experience, such as management, marketing, or customer service. You’ll need to be able to demonstrate strong leadership skills and a commitment to following the franchise system and standards.
• Franchisees must comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations, including environmental regulations, labor laws, and consumer protection laws. Franchisees also need to obtain all necessary licenses and permits on their own, and maintain appropriate insurance coverage.

How to Navigate the Legal and Regulatory Landscape?

Owning a car wash franchise involves complying with a wide range of legal and regulatory requirements, from environmental regulations to labor laws and consumer protection laws. Here are some tips for navigating the legal and regulatory landscape of owning a car wash franchise:

• Understand the franchise agreement: The franchise agreement is a legal contract that outlines all of your (and the franchisor’s) legal rights and obligations. Carefully review the franchise agreement, including the terms of the franchise fee, royalties, marketing fees, and any other ongoing costs, as well as the franchisor's expectations for operations, marketing, and customer service.
• Obtain necessary licenses and permits: Franchisees must obtain all necessary licenses and permits to operate the car wash franchise, including business licenses, environmental permits, and zoning approvals. The franchisor may be able to provide guidance and support in obtaining these licenses and permits, but don’t rely on it, do your research ahead of time. 
• Comply with environmental regulations: Car washes can generate wastewater and hazardous materials, which are regulated by federal, state, and local environmental agencies. Make sure you understand these regulations and ensure that you comply with them.
• Adhere to labor laws: Just like any business owner, franchisees must comply with all applicable labor laws, including minimum wage and overtime regulations, anti-discrimination laws, and workers' compensation insurance. 

How Much Money Can You Make Owning a Car Wash Franchise?

How much you’ll make as a franchisee depends on the franchise you decide to work with, the type of car wash you’re starting, and the location of the business. On average, though, a traditional car wash can make $1,200 - $1,500 per bay, totaling about $80,000 - $800,000 annually. 

How Long Does It Take to Open a Car Wash Franchise?

Opening a car wash shouldn’t be a short-term goal. There are quite a few steps between purchasing the car wash, training, financing, and everything in between. Typically, the process can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Car Wash Franchises

When trying to decide between car wash types, know that there are a lot of benefits to going with a franchise. That said, for some business owners looking for complete control over their business, a franchise might not be the right option.

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of car wash franchises:

Pros of Car Wash Franchises

• You’ll start out with an already-established brand.
• You get access to proven business models and operating systems.
• Most franchisors provide support and ongoing training programs.
• You often get access to bulk purchasing discounts for equipment and supplies.
• Advertising and marketing are easy with support from the franchisor.
• There’s continuous research and development of new products and services offered by the franchisor.
• You may get assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and even construction.
• There may be opportunities for growth and expansion within the franchise system.

Cons of Car Wash Franchises

• Franchises come with high initial investment costs and ongoing royalty fees.
• There’s limited flexibility and autonomy in decision-making.
• You must adhere to strict franchisor policies and procedures.
• You’re dependent on the franchisor's brand and reputation.
• There’s always a potential for conflicts with the franchisor over operations or other issues.

10 of the Top Car Wash Franchises In America

There’s a long list of franchise opportunities in the car wash industry. We’ve narrowed it down to 10 of the best throughout the country.

• Mister Car Wash: With locations all across the United States, Mister Car Wash is one of the largest car wash franchises in the country. 
• Zips Car Wash: Zips Car Wash operates locations in many states and provides customer-centric services that range from simple washes to more advanced detailing.
• Autobell Car Wash: Autobell Car Wash has over 80 locations in the Southeastern United States, with plans for further expansion. They’ve been around for 54 years, so they’ve developed a strong reputation over the years.
• Goo Goo Express Wash: Goo Goo Express Wash operates close to 50 locations in the Southeastern United States. They focus on offering premier services, including high-tech vacuuming.
• Hoffman Car Wash: Hoffman Car Wash operates over 20 locations in the Northeastern United States, mainly New York and Vermont.
• Splash Car Wash: Splash Car Wash is a Connecticut-based car wash franchise with 52 locations throughout the Northeast, and 23 more on the horizon. They offer a range of services, including full-service, express, and detailing. 
• Mr. Clean Car Wash: Mr. Clean Car Wash is a full-service car wash franchise with other locations in Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida. And if you recognize the name it’s because the same Mr. Clean that is used to clean households all across the country is used to clean your car, offering a reputable clean. 
• Detail Garage: Detail Garage is a car detailing franchise that offers a wide range of services such as paint correction, ceramic coating, and headlight restoration. They have 70 stores (and are growing), and tout average revenues of $595,787. 
• Quick Quack Car Wash: Quick Quack Car Wash is an environmentally-friendly car wash franchise with locations all over California, Arizona, Texas, and throughout the Midwest. 
• Delta Sonic Car Wash: Delta Sonic Car Wash has over 30 locations throughout New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. They offer services that range from car washes, oil changes, detailing, and more. 

How to Buy a Car Wash Franchise

Buying a car wash can be a complex process, as it’s more than just buying a piece of land or a real estate property to house another kind of business. Here’s what the process looks like:

• Research different car wash franchises and evaluate the overall market. Consider factors such as brand reputation, franchise fees, training and support programs, the franchisor's requirements, and even your own personal preferences.
• Reach out to the franchisors to request more information. Ask questions about the franchisor's business model, training and support programs, financing options, and franchisee requirements.
• Carefully review the franchise agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of the franchise relationship. You may want to consider consulting with a lawyer to help you understand the agreement.
• Determine how you’ll finance the initial investment and ongoing expenses of the franchise. Consider options such as traditional bank loans, SBA loans, or franchisor financing programs (the bigger names will offer this).
• Work with the franchisor to select a suitable site for the car wash franchise. Consider factors such as location, accessibility, and visibility. 
• Complete the franchisor's training and any necessary preparations for opening the car wash franchise. This may include training on the franchisor's operating systems, equipment, and customer service procedures.
• Open the car wash franchise and begin operating the business! Follow the franchisor's guidelines and procedures to ensure a successful launch.

Factors to Consider Before Investing in a Car Wash Franchise

Before you even get to choose a franchise, you’ll need to get a full picture of what owning a franchise looks like. Here are the factors every potential franchisee needs to consider:

• Initial investment costs: Car wash franchises typically require a significant initial investment, which can vary depending on the franchise system and location. 
• Franchise fees and royalties: In addition to the initial investment costs, car wash franchises typically require ongoing fees and royalties. 
• Brand reputation: The reputation of the franchisor's brand can significantly impact the success of your car wash franchise. 
• Market demand: Evaluate the demand for car wash services in your target market. Consider factors such as population density, demographics, and competition.
• Franchisor support and training: Consider the level of support and training that the franchisor provides to franchisees. 
• Personal preferences and goals: Consider your level of experience in the car wash industry, your preferred management style, and your long-term goals for the business.

Financing for Car Wash Franchises

Investing in a car wash franchise typically requires a significant amount of capital, and chances are, you’ll need to seek financing to cover the initial investment costs. Here are a few car wash financing options available for car wash franchisees:

• Franchisor financing: Some car wash franchisors may offer financing to potential franchisees, either directly or through a third-party lender.
• Traditional bank loans: Many banks and other financial institutions offer small business loans that can be used to finance a car wash franchise. Some of these loans will require collateral (others won’t), a solid business plan, and a strong credit history.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loans: The SBA offers several loan programs designed to help small businesses, including those looking to invest in a franchise. SBA loans are often sought after, as they typically require a lower down payment and offer longer repayment terms than traditional bank loans.
• Alternative lenders: Alternative lenders such as online lenders and peer-to-peer lending platforms have emerged as a financing options for small businesses. These lenders may offer faster approval times and more flexible terms than traditional lenders, but you’ll need to have a good or excellent credit profile to qualify.

Tips for Choosing the Best Car Wash Franchise for You

Investing in a car wash franchise can be a lucrative opportunity, but it's important to choose the right franchise for your skills, interests, and budget. Here are a few tips to help you find the best car wash franchise:

• Do your research: Before committing to a franchise, do your homework. Research different franchise options, compare costs, and talk to other franchisees to get an idea of what it's like to own a car wash franchise.
• Evaluate your personal skills and interests: Running a successful car wash franchise requires a certain set of skills (or at least the willingness to learn). These skills include marketing, customer service, and financial management, just to name a few. Consider your strengths and interests to find a franchise that aligns with your skills and passions.
• Consider the franchisor's support: One of the biggest reasons owners seek out franchisors is due to the built-in training that comes with the fees. A good franchisor should provide ongoing training, marketing support, and operational assistance to help franchisees succeed. 
• Look for a strong, recognizable brand: Investing in a well-known brand (such as Mr. Clean Car Wash or Splash Car Wash) can help attract customers and establish your credibility. Consider the strength and reputation of each franchisor's brand before making a decision.
• Evaluate your potential return on investment (ROI): While it's important to consider the initial investment costs, it's also crucial to also evaluate the potential return on investment. Look at the franchisor's financial performance, franchisee success stories, and market trends to get an idea of the potential profitability of each franchise.

Final Word

Working with a franchisor comes with an already-built brand, ongoing support, and even equipment in some cases. But you’ll need to pay a fee for this assistance and this means relinquishing full control over some decisions. Still, car wash businesses of all kinds can be lucrative.