How Does a Coin Operated Car Wash Work?

A coin-operated car wash consists of a bay that you drive your vehicle into to manually wash your car with a spray gun. It is coin operated and usually accepts only quarters. You will need approximately $5.00 in quarters to adequately wash your car because there are several cycles that must be completed.

How to Use a Coin Operated Car Wash

1. Drive your car into an empty bay at the car wash. Make sure the car is in the center because you will need enough room to wash all sides of the car using a spray wand.


2. Locate a change machine on the premises if you do not have enough for the job. Most car washes will only accept quarters.


3. Turn the dial on the washer to "wash", which is the initial phase and is used to put soap on the vehicle.


4. Remove the spray wand from its cradle and point it away from you and insert the quarters into the coin box.


5. Point the wand at the vehicle and press the trigger. Make sure the car is completely covered with soap.


6. Turn the dial on the washer to the "foam brush" setting and remove the brush from its cradle.


7. Use the brush to scrub the vehicle.


8. Turn the dial on the washer to "rinse" and point the wand at the car to rinse all the soapsuds from the vehicle. 


9. Turn the dial on the washer to "wax" and spread a layer of wax on the vehicle.


10. Return the wand to its cradle when the cycle is complete and remove your car from the bay.