How Much Is a Used In-Bay Automatic Worth?
In-bay automatics are the backbone of the single-site car wash market, and they are the most frequently traded equipment category on ShopCarWash. Whether you are upgrading your bay or buying your first machine, understanding fair market value is critical to getting a good deal.
Quick Summary
Used in-bay automatics typically sell for $10,000 to $70,000 depending on brand, age, wash count, and condition. PDQ units dominate the secondary market, with LaserWash 360 models being the most commonly listed. Equipment in good working condition with documented maintenance history commands the highest prices.
Price Ranges by Brand
These ranges reflect typical asking prices on ShopCarWash for equipment in working condition. Actual sale prices depend on negotiation, urgency, and local market dynamics.
| Brand / Model | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
PDQ LaserWash 360/360Plus The most widely traded in-bay automatic on the secondary market. Units under 100K wash counts with functional lasers and chemical systems command the highest prices. Older 360 models trend toward the low end; 360Plus units with the latest software trend higher. | $25,000 – $55,000 |
PDQ G5 Newer generation with advanced friction wash technology. G5 units hold value well because of the robust design and PDQ parts availability. Higher-mileage units with documented service history still trade above $40K. | $40,000 – $70,000 |
Ryko SoftGloss Popular for multi-site operators who standardized on Ryko. Pricing depends heavily on the generation — newer SoftGloss Maxx units sit at the top of the range, while older models with limited parts availability trade lower. | $15,000 – $35,000 |
Washworld Profile Known for reliability and low maintenance costs. Profile units with updated controls and chemical systems tend toward the higher end. The brand has a loyal operator following, which supports resale values. | $20,000 – $45,000 |
D&S 5000/9000 D&S friction machines are workhorses, but parts availability has become a concern since the brand changed hands. Well-maintained units with recent brush replacements still find buyers quickly. | $10,000 – $30,000 |
Belanger Vector/Kondor Belanger has gained market share with the Vector series. Newer models with intact chemical and drying systems hold value well. Older Kondor units trade at the lower end of the range. | $20,000 – $50,000 |
What Affects the Value?
Two identical machines can differ in value by tens of thousands of dollars. Here are the factors that matter most.
Wash Count
High ImpactThe single biggest factor in value. An in-bay automatic with 50,000 washes is worth substantially more than one with 300,000. Ask the seller for the lifetime wash count from the control board.
Age
High ImpactExpect 5–8% depreciation per year as a general rule. However, age matters less than wash count and condition — a lightly used 10-year-old machine can be worth more than a heavily used 5-year-old one.
Maintenance History
Medium ImpactDocumented service records significantly increase value. Buyers pay a premium for machines with regular preventative maintenance, recent brush replacements, and up-to-date chemical system calibration.
Chemical System Condition
Medium ImpactA working, properly calibrated chemical delivery system adds $2,000–$5,000 in value. Clogged or replaced systems reduce value and signal potential neglect.
Software and Controls
Medium ImpactUp-to-date control software and functioning touch screens matter to buyers. Outdated or glitchy software can reduce value by 10–15%.
Location and Removal
Lower ImpactEquipment that is easy to remove and ship is worth more. If the buyer needs to arrange a crane, rigging crew, and cross-country transport, they will factor those costs into their offer.
Tips for Buyers
- Always ask for the lifetime wash count before making an offer. If the seller cannot or will not provide it, proceed with caution.
- Factor in removal and shipping costs. Rigging a machine out of a bay and transporting it can run $3,000–$8,000 depending on distance.
- Check parts availability for the specific model before you buy. Orphaned equipment with scarce parts is a liability.
- If possible, see the machine run before finalizing the deal. A video of a full wash cycle tells you more than any listing description.
Tips for Sellers
- Include the wash count, age, and any recent maintenance in your listing. Transparency builds buyer confidence and speeds up the sale.
- Take clear photos of the machine, control panel, chemical system, and any wear or damage. Listings with 5+ photos sell significantly faster.
- Price competitively. Browse ShopCarWash for comparable listings and price within the market range — overpriced equipment sits for months.
- Respond quickly to inquiries. Serious buyers often reach out to multiple sellers simultaneously, and the fastest response wins.
Market Insight
In-bay automatic prices have remained relatively stable over the past two years despite supply chain disruptions. New machine lead times of 8–16 weeks have kept demand for used equipment strong, particularly for PDQ LaserWash and G5 models.
Browse In-Bay Automatics on ShopCarWash
Search available in-bay automatic systems from verified sellers. Filter by brand, price, condition, and location to find the right machine for your operation.