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In the Car Wash!
In the Car Wash! by Günter Hentschel (CC BY-ND)

Costco Wholesale is known for its bargain prices, bulk products, inflation-proof hotdogs, and cheap gas. But did you know the warehouse retailer also offers affordable car washes? If the answer is no, don’t beat yourself up. Costco car wash services are only available at 12 locations in five states, and it seems like even Costco enthusiasts are unaware of this little-known member perk. That’s why we’re bringing the service to your attention — along with the top four things to know before using the Costco car wash.

How Much Does a Costco Car Wash Cost?

At $8, Costco’s car wash is affordable, though the service itself is pretty basic. But it’s nice that the warehouse store has become a one-stop shop for pretty much everything Costco members need, from gasoline to groceries and electronics. That said, you can get the same service — if not better — from similar car wash chains like Quick Quack, which charges roughly the same price for its most basic wash.

What Does the Service Include?

Costco’s drive-thru (aka conveyorized) car wash includes the following:

  • Exterior wash and wax

  • Tire shine and wheel cleaner 

  • Undercarriage wash with rust inhibitor

  • Spot-free rinse

  • Ceramic protective coating 

In other words, it’s a pretty standard car wash on par with most gas station services.

Which Costco Locations Have a Car Wash?

  • Arizona: Glendale, Scottsdale
  • California: Lancaster, Oxnard, Poway, San Juan Capistrano, Torrance, and Victorville
  • Idaho: Boise
  • Tennessee: Brentwood, Murfreesboro
  • Washington: Seattle

What Do Costco Enthusiasts Say About the Service?

Costco customers on Reddit recently weighed in on the obscure member perk. Some lamented the car wash’s lack of vacuums, while others said that Costco’s service was cheaper than other premium washes in their areas. The bottom line seems to be that Costco’s car washes are nothing to write home about, but if you’re already at the store, you could do a lot worse than Costco’s service.

Meet the Writer

Maxwell is a California-based writer who got his start in print journalism, a career that satisfies his love of research. That penchant for learning also fuels his desire to be a discerning consumer — whether he’s looking for his next pair of headphones or rock-climbing shoes. When he’s not hunched over his laptop, you can find Maxwell sending routes at the crag, playing Magic: The Gathering, or hanging out with his buddies at the bar. As a UCSC alumnus, he’s also a proud banana slug. You can reach him at [email protected].