Car wash choice: There’s a ‘car’ in care

John North is president of the Dayton Better Business Bureau.

Your car’s exterior and interior can decline quickly without a weekly bath.

Over the last year, your BBB recorded more than 114,500 inquiries and over 1,600 complaints about car wash businesses throughout North America. Locally, more than 1,300 inquiries were filed with your BBB about this industry.

When looking for a reputable car wash company, your BBB suggests you:

• Don’t settle for the lowest price. Many car washes offer the same services.

• Determine what kind of services the car wash company performs (wash, wax, under carriage cleaning, interior cleaning, etc.).

• Find out what kind of wash works best for you and your car. Do you want a car detailer or a touch-free, brush, self-service or hand wash carwash.

• Get references. Check with family and friends. If they’re happy with who they use, most likely you’ll be too. Your mechanic or car dealership can also be valuable resources when looking for a good car wash company.

• Look for a convenient car wash. Location is important because you’ll be more inclined to keep your car clean.

• Make sure the employees, facility and surroundings are clean. You wouldn’t want to bring your car to a dirty facility.

• Determine if the car wash company has proper insurance. Also, make sure car detailers are certified by the International Detailing Association. Someone with this certification has received proper training techniques.

• Determine if the company offers annual or seasonal discounts. Some companies offer discounts during a slow period.

• Get all details, including price, services, guarantees and warranties in writing. Make sure you understand everything before signing.

If you have any questions regarding car wash companies, you can always get help from your BBB, such as a list of BBB Accredited car wash companies and Business Reviews on ones you're considering. Visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.

About the Author