How much does a car wash cost?

A clean car will always go far. Whether your vehicle needs washing, quick cleaning, or interior vacuuming, a car wash specialist can get it ready in a jiffy. But how low or high are car wash prices?

Car wash prices start at $15 for basic, exterior wash and cleaning but go up to $40 for big cars. Of course, car wash prices depend on your service type and location. A full luxury wash costs around $40 to $125. However, these costs do not include add-ons.

Service providers offer a variety of car wash services, pricing and packages. Considering the number of choices, finding the best service for your budget might be challenging. If you want to learn about car wash costs, Airtasker made a comprehensive guide to help you set the proper budget as you go about your journey.

Factors affecting car wash costs

Numerous things affect nearby car wash prices. We've outlined the key things to consider before booking a service:

Car size

You need more resources to wash big cars. Often, washing bigger cars is $5 to $20 more expensive per vehicle than washing smaller cars, resulting in higher final costs.

Car condition

If dirt, droppings, stains, and other debris have accumulated in the interior of your car, you might have to spend more money. If your last car wash was a very long time ago, ask someone to inspect it to ensure safety while you're on the road.

Wash type

The cheapest option is an automatic car wash at $11 or $14 for two washes, followed by a basic hand wash at $15. Comprehensive and complete in-and-out services cost $40 to $60, while luxury packages reach up to $125.

Location

Depending on your location, car wash costs can increase. Big cities often charge more due to the higher demand for car washing services and cost of living. Here is a breakdown of average prices on a city-by-city basis:

Additional services

When booking a car wash service, you can avail of other benefits to make the most of your visit. Some specialists offer tyre cleaning, engine cleaning, interior vacuuming, and pet hair removal. Pet hair removal starts at $10, while engine cleaning starts at $30. 

If you want a more comprehensive cleaning and detailing service, a full-detail car wash costs around $200. Some detailing specialists offer bundles and packages to help customers save money.

Different types of car wash services and estimated costs

Hand car wash

This full exterior wash costs $15 to $40, depending on the size of your car. Hand car wash prices are usually high due to the particular care and attention to detail it requires. It involves manually soaping, rinsing, and drying the car. Although it takes more time than automatic methods, its specialists perform it safely and clean it gently.

Automatic car wash

This is the cheapest and quickest option, starting at $7. Still, some car owners prefer traditional methods due to the risk of machine scratches, water spots, and paint damage.

Mini-detail service

If you want thorough car cleaning, a car interior detail service is a good idea. It includes cleaning windows, tyres, mirrors, carpets and upholstery. These additional steps will make your car look brand-new and increase its service life. A mini-detail service costs $45 to $80, while a full-detail one costs $205 to $310.

☞ Related guide: How much does car detailing cost in Australia?

Mobile car wash

If you don't have the luxury of time in your hands, the most convenient option for vehicles is a mobile car wash. You can save time and gas and enjoy a clean and shiny car wherever you are. However, it costs more than hand or automatic methods to clean it.

The benefits of booking a car wash service

A quick DIY project can help you save money, but working with a professional has significant benefits:

• It gives you more quality time with your loved ones.

• It helps bring back the aesthetic appeal of your car without the stress and hassle of typical methods.

• It increases the life and value of your vehicle.

• It prevents damage resulting from inappropriate products or tools.

Getting ready to book a car wash specialist

Are you excited to book a car wash service? Describe your situation, explain what you need, and post your listing on Airtasker.

Here's what to include in your post:

• Your car's size and model

• Your location

• Your preferred start and end dates

• Your budget

Once your post is up, you'll receive offers from different specialists near you. As you go through each request, get to know the Taskers. You can also look at reviews to understand how they work. Afterwards, it's time to move forward and complete your journey to a clean car.