Cancel

Open app

Search

McKinley Car Wash

3.6 (736 reviews)
Open 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Updated 2 months ago

Services - McKinley Car Wash

Auto detailing work

Paint and exterior protection

Car wash

5 More Services

Interior detailing

Protection

Touchless wash

Tunnel wash

Wheel and rim detailing

McKinley Car Wash Photos

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - McKinley Car Wash

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Allen N.

I normally wash my own car or truck, but I needed a quick wash and decided to give McKinley Car Wash a try after seeing so many mixed reviews. Overall, I'd say my experience landed somewhere in the middle. The process is straightforward once you know the flow, but as a first-timer it felt a little confusing moving from one station to the next. Regular customers probably breeze through it without a second thought, but I had to pay closer attention to where to stop, when to get out, etc. The wash itself was fine, fast and convenient. My truck looked clean when finished, but it's not the kind of detailed, meticulous job you'd expect from a detailer. More of a quick wash to freshen things up, which is exactly what I was looking for today. Like the saying goes, you get what you pay for. Staff worked quickly and seemed organized, and there's even a place to grab a drink while you wait. Prices are reasonable for what you get, but if you're expecting perfection down to every nook and cranny, this isn't the place. All in all, McKinley works if you want something quick, simple, and fairly priced. Just don't expect it to replace a full detailing service.

Wax
Marina C.

This service was fast, efficient, and they were very focused on cleaning all of the sand out of my car. I really appreciate them and also it was only $32 including a wax you can't beat it!

Emari H.

Ghetto as t can get. I came here out of necessity and convenience. There's a bunch if workers but they are so busy getting off work or on break they no one greets you. I stood at the entrance for a while when the guy worked in a car but he only stared me down for a moment without saying anything. Then after that car he took another. I approached him and asked if anyone is working and if he was going to say anything to me while I stood waiting. He initially tried telling me he's closed. Then he said the cashier may be gone already (I guess they are closing early due to weather) so I fought it and told him I've been here waiting for service. Then he finally says "I'll make a bill for you and you can go pay the cashier". Wow. They don't have to operate business this way...It's a choice.

Car wash waiting area
Isaac L.

McKinley car wash is the go-to car wash place in town. The price is worth the value they provide, since they really clean and hand dry your car to ensure all the little nooks are cleaned well. I'm a little bummed there's no $5 car wash in town that just gets you in and out like in the mainland, but this place gets the job done best compared to their competitors or even the neighboring car wash that charges more I think but for lesser quality and service.

Kevin W.

McKinley Car Wash on Kapiolani across from McKinley High School. Locally owned and operated by the Yamashita family. Best car wash in my opinion. Craig, Max, and now Craig's son's team do a good job cleaning up our vehicles. For my money the best deal in town. They have a full service gas station and service (checking your fluids, tire pressure check, and even do Safety Checks). Before you enter the car wash they vacuum your vehicle. Optional wax and tire shine available (they also offer detailing services for your vehicle). After your vehicle wash they hand wipe down your vehicle and clean all the windows inside and out. No wonder they have a loyal following.

Moala P.

Luv it here.I come here when I'm feeling lazy to do it myself and plus it's fast and they do such a great job.Vacuum and Car wash and they do a great job wiping the car dry n cleaning inside as well.Its so convenient in town location.U can even fill your gas here to.

My car getting wiped down and tire dressed
Moneca H.

Had time this morning so went to McKinley car wash .weds mornings might be the time to go since most people are in school and work . I was greeted to drive my car in a lane where I could choose my ala cart what service I needed done . My tires were low so I chose the car wash and vacuum, tire dressing so my tires are shiny and tire check / air . They use to be like $16 back in the days but that was awhile ago . They vacuumed my car . Ended up filling my tire air on the house which was nice . I joked with the vacuum cleaners and smiled at them cause I appreciate their hard work . They then drove my car into the car wash scrubbing it down . Parked it outside and started wiping it down . I got to watch my car go thru the car wash . Kids would get a kick out of it if they are there to watch . There is a clean bathroom for your convenience and snacks and drinks to purchase while u pay for your car . The cashier had a great attitude and was smiling. There was even a free McKinley car wash calendar with recipes in it . I had a good experience and while I waited for my car was a chance to network or meet people while waiting for your car . I drove off and started my day with a clean car and ready to slay the day . I recommend!! Weekday mornings are best to beat the rush . Definitely be back . Don't have to lift a finger. Let them prepare your car and save u time .

Full car wipe down.
Dylan Keith W.

I cannot with this place anymore. I went during the weekday and so barely anyone was here. I was immediately in line for a vacuuming with only one other car ahead of me. All together, to go from arrival to having my car vacuumed to my car on its way on the track into the car wash was less than 10 minutes. So when I went inside to pay it was 1:53 pm. My car was already almost done with the wash and so by about 1:55 my car was outside to get wiped down. There were maybe only like 5 other cars there and more than enough employees to wipe them down. By the time my car was done being wiped, it was 2:15. It took them over 20 minutes, more than twice the time it took to vacuum and wash my car, for them to finish wiping it down. If you like spending half an hour at a car wash, this place might be e for you. The reason for this is because they have no system and keep repeating work. One guy will wipe down the windows and walk away to start wiping another car, and another guy will come up and start wiping the windows all over again because he doesn't know what the last guy did. I swear my tires got wiped down like 3 times by 3 different guys. A girl next to me got so frustrated by how long it was taking she just asked for her car and left.

Rebecca T.

This place is almost always busy! Expect a 45 min ordeal from start to finish for a full service car wash even on a Friday morning! But I can see why they're popular. It's not particularly cheap, but there aren't many full service car wash places around, and for $29 you get a full service car wash including vacuuming interior and wiping down the interior and exterior. Some places don't wipe down the interior, and just vacuuming is not enough. The guys here even took out my car mats, shook them, and vacuumed underneath the mats, given the limited amount of time they had! Overall it's probably the best bang for the buck in town for a car wash, that's why it's popular! Also, there's an inspection spot next to it which is also very busy. This place also has a gas station, so it's really a one shop stop. Theres a tip box by the cash register inside the shop and the tips will be split among all the hardworking workers who have helped make your car clean!

Terry K.

$29 to wash plus $5 +/- each for wax and armor all (4) tires. So yesterday was my lucky day. There was no wait. I'll preface by saying this was my first visit to McKinley Car Wash in maybe a decade plus. I've not one to wash the cars... someone always has to do it for me .... So, this was an experience. Here goes: 1. drive in (I would head east on Kapiolani from Ward Ave rather than to attempt a left turn on Kapiolani a normally busy boulevard 2. Wait to be called then drive up to where they tell you and stop where they tell you to stop 3. Tell them what type of service you want. You can get the wash, wax and tire cleaning or part of the 3 to choose from 4. drive up to the next stop and put the car in park. Get out of the car because that stop is where they will vacuum and clean the interior of your car (ladies, take your handbag or they will tell you to remove it. I guess they don't want to be accused of anything ... 5. they will wave for you, get in your car and drive to the next stop. Put your car in park, turn off auto windshield wipers and then, get out of the car (again) 6. the enclosed breezeway gives you an opportunity to watch your car get washed and cleaned... 7. next stop is the cashier. Pay for your services and grab a coffee or a cold drink. Better yet, grab and buy some swag... 8. there are 2 tip jars if you so decide to leave a tip. Tips are shared equally amongst all the workers on the lot... 9. Wait patiently as they will wipe down you car, double check the cleanliness of the interior as well as the tires.... Now, get in your car and go! Best deal in town. Been there for ages. Founded, Owned and Operated by the Yoshikawa Family. Oh what vision did Grandpa Yoshikawa have!!!

Hannah H.

McKinley Car Wash seems to be a favorite place for locals to get their vehicles washed up. There always seems to be a huge line, and it can take a minimum of 45 minutes or so (if you're lucky) to get through. They could do a better job with the vacuuming and wiping down the interior, but it's better than getting your run-of-the-mill gas station washes. Note that you need to come through Kapiolani, and not through the alley, as the vehicles are in a specific queue. Just be weary of those who cut people in line and not following suit. +decent car wash +enter off of Kapiolani

Washing it all away
Irene M.

Now I remember why I don't come here... The cattle call that they treat you here is just not worth the effort though there were many circumstances of why not really in totally desperation but just to give them a chance. Exterior wash is now $24 for car/sedan and if you want the full service of vacuum it's $29+ I do totally understand the insane prices but that just goes beyond of the service you now get here. They slam their hands on my car to get my attention rather than approach my open window is no different from hitting me personally...it's one thing that they vacuum your car for you but you do that yourself, it's sad how things have...never again.

See all

2 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Nina U.
699
1072
2883

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Lo F.
0
30
5

3 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 15
Thanks 1
Love this 10
Oh no 1

3 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Ria K.
0
57
7

16 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Isaac L.
28
47
38

3 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Rebecca T.
1041
1626
8503

1 year ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 1
Love this 3
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 37
Thanks 16
Love this 38
Oh no 1

5 months ago

Go to car wash spot for a quick and simple clean! Staff is always so friendly and they do a great job

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

10 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 4
Thanks 1
Love this 3
Oh no 1

1 year ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 16
Thanks 3
Love this 9
Oh no 8

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Judy I.
0
10
10

6 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of J Y.
0
2
6

3 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Andy L.
57
108
252

1 year ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1
Photo of Y T.
0
10
2

1 month ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 month ago

Exceptional service. Safety inspection was effective and services offered are great. Super inexpensive as well.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 18
Thanks 4
Love this 16
Oh no 1
Photo of Amy G.
1
12
5

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1
Photo of Jay S.
0
27
28

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 1
Love this 7
Oh no 2

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Bulla E.
15
27
28

9 months ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Lenor M.
0
149
64

9 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

9 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 19

McKinley Car Wash Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - McKinley Car Wash

Is this a touchless car wash so it doesn't ruin the paint on my car?

Aloha, They use large rotating brushes as the car goes through. Then they have many employees hand dry body and ensure wheels are clean. We have used them for years and never… Read more

When is the best day and time to go to minimize wait time?

Is there a monthly membership plan?

No, no monthly membership plan.

Make an apt for safety check?

We didn't make an appointment for the safety check. They are very efficient. A tip for you: if you want to have your car washed AND do a safety inspection, get in line for car wash first, THEN inspection. They way it's laid out it's much easier.… Read more

Do you guys offer a car tint installment service? If I bring my own in?

No, we do not install window tint. Thanks for asking.

Do you still do full car detailing?

Yes, we do full details. Prices depend on the size and condition of the vehicle. Please call to set up an appointment.

What is the process for an exterior only car wash? Do I pay for the service while in my car and then just drive through? Is the payment made with a machine or with a live person?

You stay in your car and drive through. An attendant takes your order, gives you a receipt then you pay inside. $4 less if you skip an interior vacuum.

Can you sit in your car through the car wash?

Yes, you have the option to stay in your car.

Does the full service car wash do the undercarriage of your car?

Sorry it does not when I asked a few months ago!

Does anyone know the maximum height clearance for the car wash?

The highest point of the vehicle cannot exceed 8 feet.

Do they sell gift cards or have specials for Christmas?

We sell gift cards year round. No Christmas specials.

Is the interior vacuuming included in the full service car wash? I don't need mats or interior…

Yes, vacuuming is included.

View All 18 Questions

Review Highlights - McKinley Car Wash

There is a separate line right of the car wash lines that is clearly marked, "Safety Check" on the white wall.

Mentioned in 40 reviews

Read more highlights

You might also consider

Texaco - Car wash

Texaco

(49 reviews)

$$

Kalihi

I said I wasn't going back but I have been back. Sometimes you just want to wait one hour because 6…read morecars are ahead of you. Sometimes there's a guy that knows you want to use the car wash but he goes really fast, parks his car right outside the wash, takes his sweet time to walk and talk to the people in the booth. Then he slowly walks to the car, waits for I dunno - a few minutes. Then slowly goes in. When his wash is finished, he waits until the entire car was turns off then he slowly moves out. All of this before 6am in the morning. Good morning to all! But then it's my turn. I pay $20, get the ceramic coating etc... etc... and in the end, they fix the problem with the car ripping off my back wiper. They fixed it! Because it didn't wash half of the back of my car. Oh well..... So..... would you take this car wash which is the closest to your house? OR drive to Waipio for a 1 min 48 sec car wash for the same price? Choices.......

My car was really dirty! I could see paw prints on the back of my car from our neighborhood cats…read morelol. My sister and I went out today and I said I need to check Yelp for a nearby car wash. Lo and behold, this Texaco car wash place popped up. I read a few reviews and I decided to try it out. There was about four cars ahead of me. The reviews warned us about the wait time. There is wait that depends on the type of car wash package you select. I estimated @10-15 minutes per car. I didn't know where to pay and I asked my sister to run into the convenience store to check if I needed to pay first. You can pay inside and you will receive a receipt with a code that you enter into a machine that is located near the entrance of the car wash. Or you can pay at the machine as well. Your choice. Pay attention to the instructions and lighted signs! It will guide you into the automatic car wash with ease. It's pretty loud inside so be prepared! Pricing is really great at $10 for the basic- Deluxe Wash, $14 for the premium wash, $17 for the ultimate wash, and $20 for Ceramic shine. See photo for more information. It's an automatic car wash , so be prepared to wipe down your car with a towel after you exit and find a place to park. The dryer doesn't get every spot. If you want air for your tires, vacuum, or water, it will cost you. Bring your coins. Appeared that some features are broken. Overall, a good experience for my old and now cleaned up car!

Oahu Auto Detailing - Entry to the parking garage.... Enter here.... On the Alakea Street side of the building.

Oahu Auto Detailing

(2 reviews)

Downtown

I believe this used to be under a different business name. However, the prior owner had to pass on…read morehis business due to personal reasons. I was a little hesitant on how the next business owner would be, but I decided to give him a try. I'm so glad I did because I've been coming here for months now. Booking an appointment is easy and Colby (new owner) is very responsive. He usually gets back to me by the end of the day. LOCATION: They are located in the Pacific Guardian Center... the entry to their building is on Alakea Street. Pull a ticket and drive up to the 10th floor. COST: Depending on what you wanna get, he hand wash and dries your car... I have a black car so I don't trust taking my car to an auto car wash place. Inquire with the business because the prices my change. Overall, for the convenience and quality, it's definitely worth it. SERVICE: Colby is very responsive via text message or phone. I usually drop my car off and then grab a bite to eat downstairs and catch up on some reading. When he's about done with my car, he texts me and then I head back upstairs. The garage ticket is also automated. So you don't have to worry about paying for the garage fee on the way out. I've been coming here for a few month now for a hand wash and quick vacuum of the interior. It's really convenient coming here because I live a very busy life. I'll be sure to add more photos the next time I'm there.

My car was still smelly after a detailing following a house paint spill in it and Colby made it…read morelook even better! He was super pleasant to deal with, friendly, and extremely reasonable in his pricing. I recommend Oahu Auto Detailing to anyone who wants a great job done in a timely manner. Thank you again for the awesome detailing, Colby!

McKinley Car Wash - carwash - Updated May 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...