Finding a good site for a new car wash business is often difficult for many investors. Location is by far the most important factor for the success of a new car wash site. However, it is our experience that the levels of competition and market segmentation are equally important factors to consider when selecting a car wash site.

Unfortunately, many investors put far too much emphasis on naïve methods such as using only capture rates and traffic counts to evaluate the eligibility of a site. Determining eligibility of a location requires in-depth research and comprehensive analysis.

The first step in finding a good car wash site is to identify the trade area where you want to look for property. Unfortunately, the type of property characteristics varies by the type of car wash business that is being considered.

Although it is now possible to remotely monitor most types of car wash operations via the internet and wireless technology, it is recommended that investors find suitable land that is no more than a one-way ride of 30 to 45 minutes from where they live.

The general recommendation for a full-service conveyor car wash is in a metropolitan area or large city or community that has a viable central business district (CDB) or suburban business district (SBD).

The consumer profile for a full-service car wash user tends to be economical shoppers that have above average household income and personal spending habits.

The general recommendation for a self-service car wash is a rural or semi-rural area where the majority of consumers do not have access to the facilities necessary for cleaning vehicles at their place of residence.