A quick stop at the car wash should leave your vehicle gleaming not scratched, dented, or with broken mirrors. But sometimes things go wrong. Brushes malfunction, rollers misalign, or automated systems don’t account for roof racks or protruding parts.
So the big question is:
Will your car insurance cover damage caused at a car wash?
The short answer is: It depends. Whether your insurance covers car wash damage comes down to:
- The type of coverage you have
- Who’s at fault (you vs. the car wash)
- The extent of the damage
- Your deductible and claims history
In this article, we’ll explore:
- When car insurance pays for car wash damage
- What coverage types apply
- How to file a claim (with insurance or the car wash)
- Common types of car wash-related damage
- Steps to take after an incident
- Real-world examples and FAQs
- Let’s clean up the confusion.
Types of Car Wash Damage
Before determining if insurance will help, let’s look at the common types of damage people experience at a car wash:
| Type of Damage | Common Cause |
| Scratches or swirl marks | Aggressive brushes or dirty rollers |
| Broken side mirrors | Misaligned machinery or tight lanes |
| Antenna snapped off | Lack of warning or preparation |
| Paint chipping or peeling | Harsh chemicals or debris |
| Dented panels or bent wipers | Equipment failure or mechanical malfunction |
| Roof rack or spoiler damage | Clearance issues with auto washers |
Does Insurance Cover Car Wash Damage?
The answer depends on:
- Who is responsible
- The type of car insurance you carry
Let’s break it down.
1. Comprehensive Insurance
If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to file a claim for damage caused by:
- Faulty car wash equipment
- Automatic brush malfunctions
- Falling objects (like ceiling tiles or signs)
- Vandalism (at a self-serve wash)
However, your insurer may ask you to:
- First seek compensation from the car wash business
- Provide photos, repair estimates, and receipts
- Pay a deductible, which may make small repairs not worth filing
2. Collision Insurance
Collision insurance typically applies only when your vehicle is damaged by striking another object. So if you:
- Misjudge the entrance and hit a wall
- Drive into a vacuum station pole
- Rear-end another car in line
…then collision coverage could apply, depending on the situation.
3. Liability-Only Insurance
If you only carry state-minimum liability insurance, damage to your own car will not be covered.
Liability coverage only pays for:
- Damage you cause to others’ property
- Injuries to other drivers, passengers, or pedestrians
So unless the car wash is at fault and pays out, you’ll need to pay for repairs yourself.
What If the Car Wash Is at Fault?
If the damage clearly occurred due to the negligence or faulty equipment of the car wash operator, they may be held responsible.
Steps to take:
- Stop immediately – don’t leave the site
- Notify the car wash attendant or manager
- Take clear photos or video of the damage and location
- Get a written incident report
- Ask for their insurance or claims process
- Get witness contact information if possible
Most reputable car washes carry business liability insurance for these situations. If they deny responsibility, you can either:
- File a claim with your own insurer (if you have comprehensive)
- Take legal action (small claims court)
What If You’re at Fault?
Some car washes require drivers to:
- Remove antennas
- Fold mirrors
- Avoid aftermarket add-ons like bike racks or spoilers
- Drive slowly through self-service lanes
If you ignored posted instructions or drove improperly through the wash, the business may not be liable. Your insurer might also decline the claim, depending on how the damage occurred.
Real-Life Scenario
Driver: Melissa, 38
Location: Denver, CO
Car: 2022 Honda CR-V
Damage: Side mirror snapped off during automatic wash
Insurance Coverage: Full coverage (comprehensive + collision)
Outcome:
- Car wash denied liability
- Melissa filed a claim through her comprehensive insurance
- Paid a $500 deductible
- Repair cost: $725
- Insurance paid $225
Melissa said:
“It wasn’t worth going to court over $225. I was glad my insurance at least covered part of it.”
Pros and Cons of Filing an Insurance Claim for Car Wash Damage
Pros:
- May cover high-cost repairs
- Avoids court disputes with business
- Fast repair and processing
Cons:
- You’ll have to pay your deductible
- Claim could affect your future premiums
- Too many small claims could result in policy cancellation or non-renewal
Rule of thumb: If the repair is less than your deductible + $300, consider paying out of pocket.
How to File an Insurance Claim for Car Wash Damage
If you decide to go through your insurer, follow these steps:
Step 1: Document the Damage
- Take clear photos of the vehicle and location
- Note the date, time, and exact wash bay or stall
- Keep any receipts or entry codes
Step 2: Contact Your Insurer
- Call your agent or file online
- Provide a full description and upload supporting documents
- Get a claim number and adjuster contact info
Step 3: Get a Repair Estimate
- Visit an approved or certified body shop
- Submit the estimate to your insurer for approval
Step 4: Pay Your Deductible and Proceed With Repairs
Once approved, get the repairs done and settle the deductible payment. Your insurer will cover the rest.
Tips to Avoid Car Wash Damage
Here’s how to minimize the chance of damage next time:
Use Touchless or Hand Washes
Touchless systems are less likely to cause scratches, especially if your car has:
- Soft paint
- Custom wraps
- Delicate trim
Fold Mirrors and Remove Accessories
Before entering:
- Tuck in side mirrors
- Remove or retract antennas
- Remove roof racks or cargo boxes (if required)
Check Online Reviews
Avoid car washes with a history of:
- Mechanical failures
- Poor maintenance
- Numerous complaints
Google and Yelp reviews can be eye-opening.
Ask About Liability Coverage
Higher-end or luxury vehicle owners should ask the wash operator about their liability insurance before entering the wash.
FAQs: Insurance and Car Wash Damage
If the damage was caused by faulty equipment or another covered peril and you have comprehensive coverage yes, it might. But many scratches are considered cosmetic and may be below your deductible.
Comprehensive coverage is most likely to cover this type of incident. Collision may apply in some scenarios. Liability-only insurance won’t cover your own car’s damage.
Possibly. While a single small claim might not cause an increase, multiple claims in a short time can lead to higher rates or non-renewal.
Yes. If the car wash was clearly at fault, you can file a small claims lawsuit. Be sure to gather detailed evidence before doing so.
No. Car wash subscriptions don’t include damage protection unless explicitly stated in their policy or terms of service.
Final Thoughts
So, will your insurance cover car wash damage?
Yes, if you have the right coverage and the damage meets claim requirements.
To recap:
- Comprehensive insurance usually covers damage from faulty equipment or vandalism
- Collision insurance may apply if you hit something at a self-service wash
- Liability-only insurance won’t cover your own car’s damage
- The car wash may be responsible if they were negligent
Your best protection is a combination of:
- Smart car wash habits
- Documented incidents
- A strong insurance policy through providers you trust
Looking to upgrade to a policy that covers life’s messy surprises? Use Alias Insurance to compare comprehensive auto insurance quotes from top-rated carriers today.
