The U.S. car wash services market size was estimated at USD 14.74 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.1% from 2025 to 2030. The growing consumer focus on vehicle maintenance, as well as damage caused to the car body due to bird droppings, dirt, acid raindrops, particulate matter, and salt deposits during the winter months have increased the demand for car wash services in the U.S.

Additionally, in the week of March 16, 2020, the weekly revenue dropped by 53%, as compared to the same period in the preceding year. This led to many car washing operators providing free vehicle disinfection services, and value-added services to stay ahead in the competition. For instance, seven Southern California carwashes reopened in May 2020, included free vehicle disinfection service to help customers safeguard themselves from the virus.

New technological developments are bringing changes in on-demand car wash services. Consumer adoption of the service via mobile applications and online portals has resulted from the e-commerce industry's tremendous growth. For instance, WashCard developed payment portals, especially for car wash service providers that allowed customers to make mobile payments and set up automated billing and cleaning schedules.

Roll-over/in-bay car wash services accounted for a revenue share of over 42% in 2024, driven by Roll-overs/in-bay are one of the most widespread express car wash types. They feature compact machines with brushes, water jets, wheel-wash, and the application of products such as waxes, dryers, or foams. Also, these types offer very versatile machines and their compact nature ensures a thorough washing in a small area. Automatic in-bay car washes are the most common type of car wash in the U.S., with nearly 29,000 facilities across the country by 2020. It provides a variety of wash options and is a quick, convenient, and inexpensive way to clean a vehicle.

Cashless payments accounted for over 70% of the revenue share in 2024. With the deep rooting of online payments among consumers, car wash service owners have increasingly started installing integrated payment solutions, across pay stations. Along with boosting sales, these payment systems also offer detailed insights into their clientele. Millennial consumers especially expect the availability of convenient methods, including tokens, debit cards, loyalty cards, EMV-enabled credit card payments, or mobile payment options.

The increasing demand for 24-hour car wash services has been driven by the fast-paced urban lifestyle of consumers and the constantly growing suburban districts. Car wash companies catering to consumers in the Northeastern part of the U.S. are expanding their offerings to meet this rising demand.

For instance, the self-service bays and automatic car wash services at Spotless Auto Laundries in Hackensack, New Jersey are operational 24 hours a day. The car wash service provider also offers other services such as quick lube, oil change, and soft cloth wash. In addition, regular customers can make the most of unlimited car wash passes and coupons for oil change and detailing services. The presence of such players fuels the regional market for car wash services.