Car Washes
Key Figures
Figures are published for NAICS 811192 directly.
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Official definition
This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in cleaning, washing, and/or waxing automotive vehicles, such as passenger cars, trucks, and vans, and trailers.
Source: US Census Bureau, 2017 NAICS Definitions. Public domain.
Illustrative examples
- Automotive detail shops
- Mobile car and truck washes
- Car washes
Which code does this activity belong in?
Car washes comprise establishments whose primary activity is cleaning, washing, and waxing vehicles. This distinguishes them from automotive oil change and lubrication shops, which focus on motor oil changes and chassis lubrication, and from all other automotive repair and maintenance establishments, which provide services such as air-conditioning repair, tire repair, and rustproofing.
Where this sits
Related classifications
Related guides
Get verified car wash profit margins data from federal sources. Average Car Wash Profit Margin: 10–20% (Industry Benchmarks, 2024).
The median car wash sells for about $987K asking at ~2x revenue (BizBuySell). How car washes are valued, financed, and vetted, plus the federal market picture.