Buc-ee’s Car Wash: Prices, Hours & the World’s Longest (2026)

I’ll admit I once bought “the works” at a Buc-ee’s car wash purely for the spectacle, and honestly, watching my car roll through a 255-foot tunnel complete with a light show was worth it. Buc-ee’s does car washes the way it does everything: bigger than it needs to be. But there are a few things worth knowing before you pull in, because not every store has one and the hours aren’t 24/7 like the rest of the place. Here’s the honest guide to prices, hours, and the world-record wash.

Key takeaways

• The Buc-ee’s car wash in Katy, Texas is the world’s longest at 255 feet, a Guinness record since 2017.
• A basic wash runs around $13 and “the works” around $16, and both typically include free vacuums.
• Not every Buc-ee’s has a car wash, only select locations do.
• Car washes run limited hours (often about 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.), even though the store is open 24/7.

Where is the world’s longest car wash?

The world’s longest car wash is at the Buc-ee’s in Katy, Texas, at 255 feet, a Guinness World Record it has held since 2017. It takes about five minutes to roll through, and it’s genuinely entertaining, with a light show and even a Buc-ee’s hologram along the way. The Katy tunnel has 17 blowers and dozens of vacuum stations. The Daytona Beach, Florida store holds a smaller record: Florida’s longest car wash at 235 feet.

The logic behind going so long is pure Buc-ee’s: a longer tunnel runs more cars per hour, which means more volume. It’s the same “bigger equals better” philosophy behind the giant stores and endless gas pumps.

How much is a Buc-ee’s car wash?

A Buc-ee’s car wash typically costs around $13 for a basic wash and about $16 for “the works,” which adds extras like tire shine. Prices can vary a little by location and over time, but that’s the general range. The nice bonus: the wash usually comes with free vacuum stations and air, so you can clean the inside while you’re there.

Here’s the quick breakdown:

• Basic wash: around $13.
• The works: around $16 (adds tire shine and extras).
• Free vacuums and air: included at many locations.

You choose your wash at automated lanes as you approach, then an attendant lines you up on the conveyor (remember to shift into neutral and off the brake).

What are the Buc-ee’s car wash hours?

Here’s the part that surprises people: the car wash is not 24/7, even though the store never closes. Buc-ee’s car washes typically run limited hours, often around 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., though this varies by location and can extend a bit on weekends. Washes are also weather-dependent. So if a car wash is the reason for your stop, plan for daytime, and don’t assume you can wash your car at 3 a.m. like you can grab a brisket taco. For more on the store’s around-the-clock hours, see our is Buc-ee’s 24/7 guide.

Do all Buc-ee’s have a car wash?

No. Not every Buc-ee’s has a car wash, only select locations do. Many of the larger travel centers include one, and several stores are known for them (the Kentucky stores in Richmond and Smiths Grove both have full car washes, for example), but plenty of locations don’t have a wash at all. If a car wash is part of your plan, check that your specific store offers one before you go.

Is the Buc-ee’s car wash worth it?

Honestly, yes, especially the record-holder in Katy. For around $16, you get a genuinely fun, five-minute, light-show car wash plus free vacuums, which is a solid deal compared to most standalone washes. Even at a standard location, the equipment is high-quality and the free vacuums add real value. It’s a nice bonus while you’re already stopping for gas, snacks, and a bathroom break.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Buc-ee’s car wash cost?

A basic wash is around $13 and “the works” is about $16, with prices varying slightly by location. Free vacuums are often included.

Where is the world’s longest car wash?

At the Buc-ee’s in Katy, Texas, at 255 feet, a Guinness World Record since 2017. It takes about five minutes to go through.

Are Buc-ee’s car washes open 24 hours?

No. Car washes typically run limited hours, often about 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., even though the store itself is open 24/7.

Do all Buc-ee’s have a car wash?

No. Only select Buc-ee’s locations have a car wash. Check your specific store before planning a wash.

Does the Buc-ee’s car wash include vacuums?

At many locations, yes. The wash typically comes with free vacuum stations and air so you can clean the interior too.

The bottom line

The Buc-ee’s car wash is another oversized win, home to the world’s longest wash in Katy, reasonably priced, and usually bundled with free vacuums. Just remember it’s not 24/7 and not at every store, so time it for daytime and confirm your location has one. Then enjoy the light show while you grab your brisket and Beaver Nuggets. Find your nearest store on our Buc-ee’s locations map.