Consider Riding the Wave of Resurgence in Self-Service and In-Bay Automatic Car Washes

by David Martin, Equipment Sales Manager-Southeast / Howco, Inc.

Our industry is experiencing a meaningful resurgence in the Self-Service and In-Bay Automatic car wash categories, and at Howco, we are seeing that spike in interest firsthand. If you’re new to exploring the car wash business, this guide breaks down the differences between these wash types, why they’re experiencing renewed popularity, and how to determine which option may be the best fit for your venture on the path to Car Wash Success®. 

Understanding the Wash Categories 

Self-Service Car Washes 

A Self-Service wash is an unmanned facility where the customer performs every step of the wash. You provide the bay, tools, and equipment; the customer supplies the labor. There’s no employee interaction, and owners can offer revenue-boosting add-ons such as: 

• Vacuums 

• Fragrances 

• Tire shine 

• Other vending items or detailing tools 

Payment is increasingly cashless, handled through credit cards or app-based prepaid plans; however, some sites still use coin or token systems. 

In-Bay Automatic Car Washes 

In-Bay Automatics require similar lot and building footprints as Self-Serve sites, but machinery does the work for the customer, who remains in their stationary vehicle in an enclosed wash bay while the car wash equipment surrounds and cleans the car. Additional services can be added to increase value and revenue, with payment options identical to Self-Serve models. 

How They Differ From Tunnel/Conveyor Washes 

Tunnel washes use a conveyor system to move vehicles through a series of brushes, sprayers, applicators, and dryers. They offer higher throughput but require: 

• More land 

• More equipment 

• More staff 

• A significantly higher investment 

Many tunnels also incorporate vacuum areas and interior-cleaning options, whether customer- or employee-operated. 

Why Self-Serve and In-Bay Automatics Are Surging 

1. Social Media Influence 

Social media has amplified interest in lower-cost car wash models. Entrepreneurial influencers are showcasing their wash investments, revenues, and the benefits of passive or semi-passive business ownership. These success stories create a snowball effect as viewers seek to replicate similar wins. 

2. A Generational Transition 

Many long-time owners are ready to retire, and not all have successors in place. With the industry’s rapid growth — driven heavily by private equity and large chains scaling aggressively — these owners view now as the ideal time to sell. This creates attractive opportunities for new investors entering the market. 

3. Shifting Consumer Behavior 

Today’s drivers are far more likely to use a professional car wash than clean their car at home. Car washes are increasingly seen as a convenient, affordable time-saver, making lower-cost wash models even more appealing. 

4. Strong Economics: Availability, Affordability & Profitability 

Self-Serve and In-Bay Automatic sites offer: 

• Lower startup and operating costs 

• Reduced spending on staffing, chemicals, utilities, and equipment 

• Longer operating hours, including the potential for 24/7 availability, giving owners the ability to quite literally make money while they sleep. 

These characteristics make them attractive entry-level investments and often pave the way for expansion into additional sites. 

Who These Models Attract 

Self-Serve and In-Bay Automatic washes draw: 

• Budget-minded customers 

• Drivers who prefer to wash their own vehicles, but not at home 

• Those whose vehicles can’t be accommodated in a tunnel/conveyor wash 

• Motorists who want a quick “dust-off” between full washes 

Most sites can operate on a quarter-acre lot (or less), and Howco can help maximize even compact footprints through smart planning and layout design. 

Adding Value Through Features and Upgrades 

In-Bay Automatics, in particular, are highly customizable. Owners can add: 

• Underbody washes 

• Foam brushes 

• Pre-soak chemicals 

• Wheel cleaners 

• Rain repellent 

• Tire gloss 

• Ceramic, graphene, and protective coatings 

• Multiple blower/dryer configurations 

Howco can even integrate profit-boosting add-ons like ice machines or dog washes into your site. We often compare the flexibility of In-Bay Automatics to a Lego® set—components can be added or upgraded as your business grows. 

Considerations and Challenges 

While these models offer strong benefits, potential challenges include: 

• Lower average ticket prices compared to tunnels 

• A need for consistent site maintenance and equipment upkeep by the operator and/or a reliable employee 

However, with proper planning and support, these challenges are entirely manageable—and often outweighed by the lower cost of entry and operational flexibility. 

Howco’s Role in Your Car Wash Success® 

At Howco, we help entrepreneurs choose and Plan/Develop/Operate® the model that fits their budget, goals, and property. Our support includes: 

• Property search and evaluation 

• Demographic and traffic research 

• Optimal equipment and chemical recommendations 

• Construction management 

Connect with Howco today to start your journey toward car wash ownership and be sure to check out the How-To With Howco podcast for deeper insights into these and other car wash topics.