What is Touchless Car Wash? Cons, Pros, & Price

Touchless car wash systems have emerged as a revolutionary solution for vehicle and business owners. From preserving paint to environmental impact, I’ve researched and covered definitions, pricing, cons, etc.

Let’s get started!

What is a Touchless Car Wash?

A Touchless car wash is an advanced automated vehicle cleaning system. Unlike other conventional car wash, Touchless functions automatically and doesn’t require physical contact. This method employs high-pressure (water-jets) water systems and specialized detergents to clean the exterior of a vehicle in less time.

Advantages

• Preserving Paint and Finish: It provides a gentle and effective cleaning process in less time. Here, high-pressure water guns and advanced detergents are used to ensure a thorough wash without compromising the vehicle’s paint and finish. As you’ve experienced, the traditional method involves brushes and harsh chemicals, which can lead to scratches and damage.
• Eco–Friendly Aspects: Beyond preserving your car’s aesthetics, Touchless car washes contribute to a greener environment. The reduced need for chemical detergents and the efficient use of water make Touchless systems eco-friendly alternatives.
• Time Efficiency: You get a fast yet comprehensive car cleaning experience. The automated systems ensure you get a clean car in a fraction of the time compared to traditional handwashing methods.
• Paint and Finish Preservation: Traditional car wash methods, particularly those involving brushes, can lead to micro-scratches and swirl marks on the paint. Touchless car washes are gentle on a vehicle’s paint and finish. This system uses high-pressure water and specialized detergents, ensuring a thorough cleaning without compromising the integrity of the vehicle’s exterior.
• Versatility: Whether you own a compact car, SUV, or luxury vehicle, Touchless systems are designed to cater to a wide range of vehicle sizes and shapes. Thanks to automated hands and levers, Touchless car wash is capable of washing all types of vehicles, making them a convenient choice for all vehicle owners. 
• Reduced Risk of Damage: Unlike other car washing systems, you won’t see any physical contact in Touchless systems means there is no risk of brushes causing scratches or dings. This gives me peace of mind as a vehicle owner.
• Increasing Popularity and Accessibility: As the demand for efficient and environmentally friendly car cleaning methods grows, Touchless car washes are becoming a standard offering at car wash businesses. This increasing accessibility means more consumers can experience the benefits of Touchless technology.
• Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty: The effectiveness of Touchless car washes translates to heightened customer satisfaction. I think satisfied customers are more likely to become repeat users.
• Water Conservation: Unlike conventional car washing systems, the Touchless mechanism is more efficient in using water.
• Business Sustainability: From a business perspective, Touchless car wash technology contributes to long-term sustainability. Reduced water usage, lower operational costs, and increased customer satisfaction contribute to the economic viability of car wash establishments. Compared to other mechanisms, Touchless ensures the long-term success of enterprises that adopt Touchless technology.

Also read:

• Touchfree vs Soft-Touch car washing
• Difference between car washing and detailing – Which is Best?
• How often should you wash your vehicle? Each owner should know

Disadvantages

• Incomplete Dirt Removal: While high-pressure water is efficient for general cleaning, it may not always be sufficient for deeply embedded dirt, road tar, or other stubborn substances. In such cases, traditional handwashing or brush-based methods might be more effective.
• Dependent on Harsh Chemicals: Some Touchless car washes may use strong chemicals to compensate for the limitations of water pressure. This can raise concerns about the environmental impact and potential harm to the vehicle’s paint over time. Users with specific eco-friendly or paint preservation preferences might find this aspect undesirable.
• Limited Cleaning of Certain Vehicle Parts: I’ve seen Touchless systems struggling to clean certain vehicle components undercarriage, wheel wells, or intricate parts effectively. Whereas, traditional methods are efficient for these specific areas.
• No Physical Contaminant Agitation: While the absence of physical contact is a key advantage, it also means that Touchless car washes rely solely on water pressure and detergents. In situations where a bit of scrubbing is necessary, Touchless systems might fall short compared to traditional methods.
• Initial Setup Costs: For car wash business owners considering adding a Touchless system, the initial investment in high-quality equipment and advanced technology is high. This might pose a barrier for smaller businesses or those with budget constraints. However, if I compare Touchless with a conventional car wash business, it will give positive ROI in the long term.
• Limited Personalization Options: While some Touchless systems provide customization options, they might not match the level of personalization achievable through traditional handwashing. Enthusiasts who prefer specific cleaning techniques or products may find Touchless systems less accommodating.
• Potential for Water Wastage: Despite being more water-efficient than some traditional methods, Touchless car washes can still contribute to water wastage. The high-pressure water used in Touchless systems can lead to water runoff. Ensuring proper drainage and water recycling systems is crucial to minimize environmental impact.
• Limited Drying Capability: The absence of physical contact means that Touchless systems rely on air drying. In certain conditions or climates, this might result in water spots on the vehicle’s surface, requiring additional manual drying.

How Touchless Car Wash Works?

• Pre-Wash: Wash the vehicle with normal clean water. This removes major dirt in the first stage of washing.
• Pre-Soaking: The process typically begins with a pre-soaking stage. The car is sprayed with a specially formulated detergent to loosen dirt, grime, and contaminants on the surface.
• High-Pressure Washing: High-pressure water jets thoroughly blast away the loosened dirt. These jets are strategically positioned to cover the entire vehicle, reaching into crevices and hard-to-reach areas.
• Chemical Treatments (Optional): Some Touchless car wash systems may include additional chemical treatments, such as waxing or spot-free rinse, enhancing the cleaning and protective aspects of the process.

Unlike other car washing systems, a Touchless car wash uses advanced sensors to detect the size and shape of the vehicle. This ensures that the water jets are positioned optimally, providing a comprehensive and effective cleaning without the risk of scratches or damages.

Cost of Touchless Car Wash

On average, prices range from $10 to $25. However, I suggest checking with your nearby wash providers available for accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Below are more price details:

Please note: Final cost varies based on factors such as location, service offerings, car type, and additional treatments or packages.

Cost Analysis of Touchless Car Wash vs. Traditional Methods

Equipment Used in Touchless Car Wash

A Touchless system uses a wide range of automation and equipment. Below are the major and most important:

• High-Pressure Water Jets: This is for pre-soaking and rinsing without physical contact.
• Detergent Application System: Automated application of specialized detergents. It uses a spray mechanism.
• Chemical Treatments (Optional): Additional treatments like wax or coatings.
• Advanced Sensors: These sensors are used for precise detection and monitoring for optimized jet positioning.
• Controlled Water Recirculation System: Manages water usage efficiently.
• Drying Systems (Optional): It combines a set of high-powered air blowers or fans for post-cleaning.
• Automated Conveyor System: Transports the vehicle through wash stages.
• Central Processing Unit (CPU): Controls and coordinates system components.
• Safety Features: Emergency stop buttons and safety sensors.
• Maintenance Monitoring Systems: Monitors equipment health.
• User Interface (Optional): Touchscreen or app interface for interactions.
• Water Recycling System (Optional): Collects, filters, and recycles water.

Famous Touchless Car Wash Brands in the World

• Wash&Drive
• Beacon Mobile
• National Car Wash Sales
• 24Hr Car Wash
• Valet Auto Wash
• Wilcomatic Wash Systems
• Wash Tec

FAQs

Conclusion

A Touchless car wash system emerges as a game-changer from both user and business perspectives.

• For users, the efficiency, scratch-free cleaning, and environmental sustainability make it an attractive choice for maintaining their vehicles.
• From a business standpoint, the system offers streamlined operations, reduced labour costs, and the potential to attract a diverse clientele.

I recommend exploring the benefits of Touchless car washes, considering the long-term savings, environmental impact and fast cleaning.

I hope you got your query resolved. Do share your insights or questions in the comment section below.