Blog - Page 5 of 9 - Caliber Car Wash

Will Your Car Fit In Car Wash Tunnels?

August 14, 2021

Car wash tunnels come in all shapes and sizes, but there are a few tips to keep in mind before you enter an express wash.

Before deciding on which wash is right for your vehicle, be sure to check out whether or not it will fit in the tunnel.

While each car wash has its own dimensions, many tunnels have similar dimensions. For example, Caliber Car Wash tunnels have a 7’2” clearance and will fit most standard-sized vehicles and tires.

Most washes are able to cater to factory-standard vehicles, however, add-ons or after-market features may prevent your vehicle from entering tunnels as they are more likely to widen vehicles or create surfaces that can get tangled in the wash.

If you’re able to enter a wash with these after-market add-ons, please note that washes may have to retract brushes to prevent damage to your add-ons. Your vehicle will still get all that great shine, but you may notice spots around your add-on aren’t wiped down as much.

This principle also applies to truck hitches. No car wash wants your car to get stuck in brushes. It can cause damage to your vehicle or the vehicle behind you. That’s why car washes will retract brushes if you have a hitch.

If your truck, jeep, or other vehicle has bike racks or wheelchair racks, please consider removing them before entering an express tunnel wash. These are at risk of damaging equipment, cars, and your racks.

And for all you truck lovers, make sure anything in your truck bed is permanently attached before entering any car wash. Items that aren’t firmly attached may fly out causing damage to your truck or another vehicle in the tunnel. Common items that are known to fly out are tools, brooms, hay bails, hooked straps, and other items left in the back of trucks. These items will make it through the wash, but face their biggest challenge at the blowers where any remaining water and truck bed items are known to blow away.

Will My Tire Fit In Car Wash Tunnels?

All stock vehicle tires will fit in car wash tunnels, including 35s. Caliber’s tunnels can also fit most 37s if there are no spacers on the vehicle. Please note that if you have spacers, your vehicle will not fit in standard car washes.

How Can I Check If My Vehicle Will Fit In Car Wash Tunnels?

If you are still not sure if your vehicle will fit, we encourage you to stop by your nearest Caliber Car Wash to have our team take a look. We also recommend checking your vehicle’s owner’s manual for any other specifications.

Cheering for the Palatka High School Panthers This Year

August 13, 2021

At Caliber, we’re committed to serving and supporting our local communities and schools. This year, we’re proud to announce our sponsorship with the Palatka High School football team!

As the 2021-2022 season comes to a start in early August, Caliber will cheer on the Panthers as they go head-to-head with surrounding schools to fight for a championship title. Caliber employee Rhett is a former student at Palatka High and says support from students, community members, and local businesses makes all the difference.

“As a current/former Panther, I have seen first-hand how the community support keeps our teams and activities going. Everyone in the area looks forward to Friday night lights. It’s a time for our members to spend time together and experience comradery over a mutual love of sports and supporting our local schools,” said Rhett.

If you are interested in cheering on the Panthers, you can check out their schedule here.

Caliber is proud to fundraise for and sponsor local schools, community events, and organizations. For more information, visit our fundraising page.

Three Ways to Make Your Car Shine

August 10, 2021

Maintaining a shiny car doesn’t have to involve a ton of work. From ceramic coatings to tire shine, here are three ways to make your car shine while protecting your auto investment!

Ceramic Coating
Protect your paint and shine with ceramic coating. Ceramic coating is a non-metallic, transparent liquid material that bonds to your car’s clear coat to offer more preservation and protection. The ceramic coating protects a car’s paint from natural components such as acid rain, UV rays, and other environmental elements. This coating also helps to prevent scratches and repel against mud, ice, and road salts.

“Ceramics” can be applied by hand, which will last longer but cost hundreds of dollars more. Another option is to visit express car washes where you can add ceramic coating protection from $5-30 more. Caliber Car Wash customers receive it for free on the top wash.

Dry Entirely
After a car wash, it’s essential to dry your vehicle entirely. Although it seems more convenient to allow your car to air dry, you won’t achieve as much shine as desired. Not only will your vehicle not reach its full shine, but the excess water will create residue leaving behind spots, streaks, and deposits while degrading your paint over time.

To dry your vehicle, be sure you choose a soft micro-fiber towel to prevent small paint scratches. Also, consider using detailing air or air compression guns to dry side mirrors and prevent streaking.

Tire Shine
Go the extra mile to make your tires shine! We recommend washing your tires frequently as tires hold grit, grime, and dust in which you wouldn’t want to risk transfer to your vehicle’s paint. Once your tires are clean and dry, apply tire shine to give your car an overall luxurious look and feel. Tire shine wax is included in every Caliber Wash or can be found in many express wash tunnels.

What’s The Difference Between An Express, Flex, And Full-Service Car Wash?

August 2, 2021

Are you someone who considers convenience over perfection? Or maybe you need a little personal touch? Here, we’ll compare express, flex, and full-service car washes so you know which is right for you.

What is an Express Car Wash?

In a hurry? Express is the way to go. Express car washes are quick, easy, and automated. This type of wash uses conveyor belt equipment to transport vehicles through wash tunnels. Before entering, customers are greeted by an attendant or an automated machine at the pay station. Customers then select their wash package, enter the tunnel, and exit in less than five minutes. Once the clean is completed, customers have the option to utilize self-serving interior detailing tools such as vacuums, multipurpose cleaner and towels.

Here at Caliber, our tunnel washes average around two minutes. We also provide a ton of detailing freebies to get that perfect interior clean.

What is a Flex Serve Car Wash?

Flex service washes are a combination of express and full service models. Similar to express washes, the customer selects their desired automated wash, and glides through the cleaning tunnel. Instead of detailing your car, trained professionals will do it for you. Once you exit the cleaning tunnel, staff will perform interior detailing and additional requested services instead of the customer. Altogether, this service usually takes 15 minutes or more and requires you to wait in a room or other area as your vehicle is cleaned. This style tends to be more expensive than express washes.

What is a Full Service Car Wash?

Full service car washes are a hands-on labor experience, where staff cleans and details your vehicle from start to finish, regardless of the chosen package. Similar to the detailing portion of the flex serve wash, you’ll park your vehicle in the desired location, and a team will handle the rest. This service typically takes 30 minutes or more to complete, in addition to line wait time. This is the most expensive wash type and generally takes longer. In some cases, you may be able to schedule appointments.

So which wash type is best? We recommend express for speed and convenience and full service for days when you need a really deep clean and have more time and money to spend.

Race Car Driver Brooke Storer Shares What Drives Her On and Off the Track

July 26, 2021

At a young age, Brooke Storer knew what she wanted to do. Racing was a family tradition, and Brooke was ready to carry that torch.

“I started racing go karts at 7 years old. My dad, uncles and grandfather all raced so I wanted to carry on the tradition,” said Storer.

*Photos property of Brooke Storer. All rights reserved.*

In 2021, Caliber Car Wash partnered with Brooke to help support the Florida natives racing career. In turn, her support for Caliber has garnered far-reaching impacts as she takes the stage at racetracks across the southeast.

“Caliber Car Wash has been great to partner with, [at] every Caliber location the staff is extremely helpful and friendly. It’s the only car wash I trust to take my vehicles to,” said Brooke.

Brooke’s story is a unique one, and her success has captured the attention of thousands of fans, racers, and other sponsors. After starting racing at the age of seven, Brooke quickly became a well-recognized name in the racing world. At 12-years-old, she picked up six race victories in her first season. Just a few years later, at the young age of 14, Brooke became the youngest female to ever qualify and start a 100 lap Super Model Late Feature.

*Photos property of Brooke Storer. All rights reserved.*

Today, Brooke is a successful racer with multiple championships and feature wins to her name. She’s had the chance to travel across the country doing what she loves, and was even given the chance to join the 2019 NASCAR Drive for Diversity Program. As a young racer, Brooke is proud of the wins she already has under her belt.

“I currently have 5 wheelman wins and every one of those is a big accomplishment with such a stacked field. I have over 150 feature wins,” said Storer.

And Brooke is not ready to stop. Just as our Caliber teams work day and night to make the best possible experience for our customers, Brooke spends her days training, working and always getting ready to win that next big race. As for what keeps her going, Brooke says it’s simple.

“My family, partners and fans are my biggest motivation. They give me the opportunity to do what I’ve loved since day one.”

Brooke has always kept her family close to her heart, and credits her dad as one of the major influences in her life. Even when she’s not working, you can find Brooke hanging out with her dad in the shop, working on her race car.

“He has stuck by my side through every step of my career. From karting, pro trucks, super late models, pro late models, late model stocks and late model sportsman cars,” said Brooke.

It’s that support that Brooke says is so vital in the racing world. As a young woman in a typically male-dominated career, she says it’s all about who you surround yourself with. Brooke wants young women everywhere to know that anything is possible, and has some advice for those that are looking to get started in a racing career.

“Young women need to have a very strong support system around them every step of the way. As well as confidence. Confidence is key in this industry,” she says.

Like Brooke, Caliber Car Wash is also striving to break stereotypes with female leadership exceeding industry standards. Caliber has more than double the amount of female leaders than the industry average and we’re proud to support drivers that have similar values. Caliber’s commitment to diversity drives quality washes just as Brooke’s confidence shows on the racetrack.

Brooke’s talent and support system have continued to catapult her racing career leaps and bounds as she heads into her future. When she’s not on the track, you can find Brooke hanging out with her dog, Nikita. She also enjoys working with her partners and sponsors.

As a partner with Brooke, Caliber is proud to support her as she takes the next steps in her racing career. If you’re interested in learning more about Brooke Storer, you can check out her website, Facebook or Instagram. And stay tuned to both Brooke’s and Caliber’s social accounts for a variety of giveaways and free washes.

3 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Car Wash

July 14, 2021

It’s wash day, and you decide to search for the nearest car wash, hoping to find one best suited for your vehicle and you. When you arrive at the nearest car wash, it’s not what you expected because you forgot to consider some essential things. Below, we’ll explain what you should consider before choosing a car wash.

What Services Are Offered?

Before visiting a car wash, we recommend searching their website for listed services and wash plans that fit your auto needs. There are several types of car wash services to choose from such as automatic, self-serve, and full-service. Cars undergo many challenges on the road and need attention to all parts, even the underbody. We suggest choosing a car wash that offers multiple services such as ceramic coating, underbody wash, rain guard, and other add-ons that fit your vehicle’s needs.

How Much Does It Cost?

When seeking a car wash, be sure to choose one suitable for your car and your pockets. Many car washes offer basic cleans for a reasonable price, but beware anything too cheap as it suggests you aren’t getting quality products and cleaners. The primary treatment usually involves a simple clean, dry, and wheel clean. If your vehicle needs extra love, of course, the price will increase. We recommend looking into monthly wash plans to save money and time.

Do They Offer Interior Detailing?

Depending on the type of car wash service, some are likely to offer interior detailing for an additional charge, some may not offer it at all, or if they’re like Caliber, they offer free detailing tools. Typically, automatic, and self-serve car washes will provide customers with free vacuums and towels to use, while full-service or mobile washes will have their employee’s detail for you.

We understand you’re seeking a car wash with quality, efficiency, and excellent service. If you’re looking for a high-quality wash at an affordable price, stop by Caliber on your next wash day!

Car Tips: Avoid Leaving These Items In Your Car This Summer

July 12, 2021

During the summer season, leaving certain items in your car can be risky and dangerous not only to you but to your car as well. With summer in full swing, here are items you should avoid storing in your car during the hottest season of the year:

Plastic Bottles

Water bottles, baby bottles, and other plastic containers should not sit in a hot car for too long. Plastics that have been sitting in extreme temperatures could potentially release dangerous substances such as Bisphenol A (BPA) —a common chemical found in plastic— into your liquid. It’s best to avoid consuming anything in plastic that has been sitting in your vehicle for a while.

Electronics

Mobile phones, laptops, cameras, and other electronic devices are not produced to deal with severe temperatures. All electronics have operating temperature ranges that are designed for safe usage. When electronics are left in hot vehicles for hours at a time, they are likely to become heat damaged where batteries can overheat, expand, or burst. Plastic components of electronic devices could melt and create a huge mess to clean up.

Medications

Many medications are meant to be stored in non-extreme temperatures. You shouldn’t keep medicines in your car, whether it’s hot or cold, as either condition can affect the drug. If medicines are left outside of the temperature instructed, the medication can be altered and compromised.

Lighters

Lighters are made of flammable material that will expand and possibly burst, creating a fire hazard if left in intense heat. Although temperatures would have to be extreme for a lighter to burst, it is best to remove this item as it is possible to happen during the summer.

Food

Whether it’s perishable food, pet food, or canned food, food items should not be consumed if left in a vehicle for 1-2 hours, depending on the temperature of your car. Not only can food items damage your interior, but it is risky to consume as bacteria can form and cause illness.

Aerosol Cans

Aerosol cans such as hairspray, deodorant, and spray paint have warning labels alerting purchasers to avoid placing cans in temperatures above 120 degrees. When aerosol cans are stored in conditions above 120 degrees, pressure will increase, which could cause the can to burst, damage your car, harm what’s near, and even release chemicals into the air.

Whether you park indoors or outside, play it safe by keeping these items out of your car. And, for all those fast food wrappers and Cheerios under seats, stop by Caliber. We have plenty of trash cans and vacuums to prevent food aromas from heating up and scenting your vehicle. And, of course, don’t forget all those free air fresheners too!

We hope to see you soon!

This Army Veteran and Caliber Customer Has a Passion for Cars

June 22, 2021

At six years old, Antoine Patterson received his first hot wheels. Antoine says it was that small gesture as a young boy that ignited a life-long passion for cars. Since that day, his passion has only grown. Today, not only is Antoine a car enthusiast – he’s also a veteran and important part of our Caliber community.

For more than 20 years, Antoine served his country as an Army flight medic, a position that requires incredible strength, skill, and determination. Every year, when Independence Day rolls around, he thinks back on the time he spent serving his country. As a veteran, there are a few moments in his life he’s most proud of.

“I am a retired Army flight medic after 20 years, two weeks, and two days, but who’s counting? One thing I am most proud of that I rarely talk about is when I received the Army Combat Medic Badge for treating casualties under fire in a combat environment. The award has been around since the Vietnam War but was never awarded to flight medics,” he said.

As an army veteran born to a military family, he followed his father’s lead. Antoine’s father spent also spent over 20 years serving his country but in the Air Force. Growing up, Antoine traveled the world with his family, living in many new cities and military bases. When his time serving was finished, he finally decided to retire to Phenix City- where he is a man of many talents and hobbies.

Throughout his years serving his country, Antoine never forgot about his passion for cars. But in the early ‘90s, he developed a new passion – videography and photography – and decided to combine them. Those two talents led to the creation of Eye Candy Visual Arts- where Antoine creates and edits all of his own video and photo content and is a published photographer. Much of his content focuses on cars, where he tells stories through his own lens of creative automobile shots, music, and much more.

And of course, Antoine tells us Caliber is part of his daily routine, as he takes pride in keeping his Charger spotless at all times.

“I was excited when Caliber Car Wash came to town since the other washes in the area prompted me to buy a pressure washer to keep my Charger clean at home. It has been over a year, and I have since got my other two vehicles on the Limitless wash plan. The ceramic coating is a giant plus to why I keep me and my family coming back daily,” said he said.

As a dedicated Caliber community member and army veteran, we want to thank Antoine for his service on this Independence Day. To say thank you year-round, we offer a special military discount for all retired and active-duty military at Caliber Car Wash. If you are interested in more of Antoine’s content, you can check out his Instagram or YouTube page.

Caliber In Ocala Breaks Industry Stereotypes

June 18, 2021

Over a year ago, Shanti Green started her career with Caliber Car Wash as a tunnel attendant. She loved working with customers and had a passion for clean cars, but Shanti wanted more. She wanted to be a leader. Today, Shanti manages our flagship Ocala location, which helps thousands of cars daily and manages a team of more than a dozen employees.

Over the years, the car wash industry has been stereotyped as a male-centric career path. Still, according to the Women in Car Wash organization, about twenty percent of leaders today are women. As the industry continues to expand, opportunities are increasing for all those looking for a long-term career in the wash world. As a result, women are quickly coming to the forefront as major leaders in the industry, and Caliber is one of the companies helping lead the way. Of the twelve Caliber locations currently in operation, over 80% of Caliber sites have female leadership on staff. Ocala, the company’s flagship store, continues to lead this trend.

“I love coming to work because it feels like a family,” Shanti said. “It doesn’t matter where you came from; we come together to help customers and clean cars. That’s what makes this industry great.”

Shanti, who continues to break site goals in Ocala, is supported by teammate Abby who was promoted to assistant manager early this year.

“I understand the value of having a strong team around you, and we’re here to lift our team up and show that both women and men belong car wash industry,” said Abby. “Our team has worked together well, and that’s shown in the major success of our Ocala location.”

Ocala’s leadership has propelled the company locally and provided a path for expansion in the region, including the recently announced wash coming to Maricamp Road in Ocala next year. Caliber also has plans to expand in Citrus County and throughout the Central Florida region.

“Having strong teams who are willing to care for customers and the tunnel are vital to providing the highest quality wash,” said Caliber District Manager Mitchell Goodman, who also works in the region. He also points to the success and increase in customer compliments Caliber’s Ocala wash has seen to its current leadership.

“Shanti, Abby, and the team have brought a unique experience to Ocala,” Goodman said. “They’ve created career paths and opportunities for employees that we hope are reflected in the everyday interactions customers have when they visit the site.”

If you’d like to join the Ocala team feel free to apply online as we’re always looking to grow our family. Just fill out the application and select “Ocala.” We hope to meet you soon.

Caliber Car Wash Announces Major East Coast Expansion Plans

May 18, 2021

Leading-edge car wash to open over a dozen new locations through 2022

ATLANTA, GA – Caliber Car Wash today announced its growing expansion plan that includes over a dozen new locations throughout the Southeast and its first dive into providing the Northeast quality showroom shine.

“Whether you’re in Florida or Pennsylvania, your vehicle needs a quality clean to prevent bug splat damage and other weather-related issues,” said Caliber spokesperson Mac McCall. “That’s one reason why we’re looking forward to expanding our footprint so we can provide great service and free detailing tools nationwide.”

With more than a dozen washes currently open in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and North Carolina, the rapidly-growing company’s plans include more than 24 washes completed and in operation on the East Coast by the end of 2022.

FLORIDA

Caliber Car Wash will further expand throughout central Florida with future locations in Sanford, Florida and Orlando on Narcoosee Road Corridor. Other locations include sites in Lecanto and Sebastion, Florida. The company also recently announced the development of a wash in Ocala, Florida, in Silver Springs Shores.

“Central Florida has played a vital role in shaping the company’s community presence and houses our first wash,” said McCall. “We look forward to growing our relationships in the area and providing more of our neighbors a better car wash experience.”

NORTH CAROLINA & GEORGIA

Caliber will follow up its southeast expansion with a location in Granite Falls, North Carolina, and Douglasville, Georgia. These additions are the next in the company’s ongoing growth throughout both states, with more washes currently in the works. Both sites are currently in development and will open late next year.

PENNSYLVANIA

The rapidly-growing company also plans to have at least six locations in the Northeast completed by the end of 2022, including three facilities in Scranton, Pennsylvania and three in the greater Philadelphia area.

“We’ve established strong standards by constantly adding more value to our customers’ lives,” said McCall. “Our teams are dedicated to serving our customers by providing the highest-quality wash with the most innovative technology and great customer service, which is why we’re proud to grow our presence in new parts of the country.”

Like all of Caliber’s washes, these locations will provide complimentary detailing tools and amenities, including individualized booms, air fresheners at every station, and innovative ceramic coating with no upcharge. Each of the wash locations will employ approximately 15 team members year-round.

Caliber opened its first wash in Ocala, Florida, in 2019 and quickly became a customer favorite thanks to its free detailing tools, Limitless wash packages, and military discounts. In 2020, the company opened new facilities in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina.

These developments are expected to move quickly. For more information on official opening dates and news, motorists can visit calibercarwash.com.