Prime Car Wash Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)

Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Noblesville, Indiana, Prime Car Wash has become a leader in the car wash industry since its inception. Recognizing the potential for growth beyond individual locations, they began franchising in 2013, allowing qualified individuals to join their network of successful car washes.

Prime Car Wash goes beyond a typical wash, offering express tunnel washes, detailing services, and a variety of membership packages catering to busy customers who value convenience.

What sets Prime Car Wash apart is its focus on a customer-centric experience. Their facilities are known for being clean, well-maintained, and equipped with modern washing technology. 

Initial Investment

How much does it cost to start a Prime Car Wash franchise? It costs on average between $1,685,000 – $3,280,000 to start a Prime Car Wash franchised facility.

This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount varies based on factors such as the type of car wash model selected, the location, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or purchase the property.

Type of ExpenditureAmount
Initial Franchise Fee$50,000
LEASING OPTION: Rent (5 months) and Security Deposit$50,000 – $90,000
Leasing Option: Construction Period Interest and Initial Down Payment$100,000 – $180,000
Purchase Option: Mortgage Payment (5-7 months) and Initial Down Payment$125,000 – $225,000
Utility Deposits$500 – $25,000
Business Licenses, Permits, Architect Fees, and Professional Services$150,000 – $600,000
Site Evaluation$0 – $5,000
Signage$120,000 – $200,000
Computer Equipment$75,000 – $90,000
Point of Sale Equipment$85,000 – $160,000
Tunnel Equipment, Vacuum Equipment and Supplies$900,000 – $1,400,000
Inventory$20,000 – $40,000
Insurance$4,000 – $10,000
Training Expenses$20,000 – $50,000
Grand Opening Advertising$15,000 – $25,000
Development Services$20,000 – $55,000
Project Management Services$0 – $100,000
Additional Funds$100,000 – $200,000
Total$1,709,000 – $3,280,000 (Leasing Option)
$1,688,000 – $3,235,000 (Purchase Option

Average Revenue (AUV)

How much revenue can you make with a Prime Car Wash franchise? A Prime Car Wash franchised location makes on average $1,786,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.

Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:

Prime Car Wash  fdd item 19 extract

This compares to $1,047,000 yearly revenue for similar car wash franchises. Below are a few Prime Car Wash competitors as a comparison:

Prime Car Wash Franchise competitors

Prime Car Wash Franchise Disclosure Document

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Prime Car Wash locations are there?

As of the latest data, Prime Car Wash operates 10 locations across Indiana, Tennessee, and Florida, with an additional site in Waukee, Iowa, listed as “Coming Soon.”

What is the total investment required to open a Prime Car Wash franchise?

The total investment required to open a Prime Car Wash franchise ranges from $1,685,000 to $3,280,000.

What are the ongoing fees for a Prime Car Wash franchise?

Prime Car Wash franchisees are required to pay an ongoing royalty fee of 4% of their gross sales, which is payable weekly. Additionally, franchisees must contribute up to 2% of their gross sales to the Brand Development Fund for collective marketing efforts, also payable weekly.

Furthermore, franchisees are obligated to allocate a minimum of 2% of their gross sales to local advertising, with the possibility of this requirement increasing to 3%.

What are the financial requirements to become a Prime Car Wash franchisee?

To become a Prime Car Wash franchisee, you should have a minimum net worth of $1 million and liquid capital between $300,000 and $500,000. These financial thresholds can be met individually or collectively among partners within a franchise group.

How much can a Prime Car Wash franchise owner expect to earn?

The average gross sales for a Prime Car Wash franchise are approximately $1.79 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $1.79 million yearly revenue can result in $269,000 EBITDA annually.

Who owns Prime Car Wash?

Prime Car Wash franchise is owned by its co-founder Bobby Hatfield, who transitioned from a career in chiropractic to entrepreneurship and has overseen its growth and franchise expansion.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This content has been made for informational and educational purposes only. We do not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the information presented in the article. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.

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