Image that illustrates Car washer

Car washer

29 500 kr

Car detailers, window cleaners etc.

23 700 - 32 600 kr / month

Women earn 92% of what men do.

Sanering och renhållning

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Car washer

Average salary 29 500 kr
Males 30 100 kr
Females 27 600 kr

What does a car washer do? – Tasks and work environment

A car washer is responsible for cleaning, maintenance, and sometimes basic reconditioning of vehicles, both interior and exterior. Tasks can range from washing the body and wheels to vacuuming, wiping down the interior, and applying protective treatments. The work is often performed in car wash halls, at car care facilities, or outdoors depending on the business. The environment can be humid, noisy, and the pace may be high during busy periods. Physical activity, attention to detail, and resilience to water and cleaning agents are important aspects of the daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary for car washers has shown some variation in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,700 SEK, which increased to 30 700 SEK in 2023 – a rise of approximately 15% compared to the previous year. In 2024, however, the average salary has decreased slightly to 29 500 SEK, corresponding to a drop of just over 3% from the previous year. This trend may be due to changes in demand, competition, or collective bargaining within the profession. Generally, salaries are also influenced by regional differences, work experience, and employment type. The profession has experienced a positive salary trend over a three-year period, despite temporary fluctuations.

Car washer salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 29 500 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 23,700 SEK/month (female, public sector)
  • Highest salary: 32,600 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
  • Hourly wage: 177 SEK/hour
  • Gender differences: Women earn 92% of what men do (27 600 SEK/month vs 30 100 SEK/month)
  • Regional differences: Data varies depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

The profession of car washer rarely requires formal education, but some experience or introduction can be advantageous depending on the workplace. Many employers offer internal training and practical supervision on-site. Basic knowledge of vehicle care, environmental regulations, and safety routines is valuable. For those wishing to develop within the profession, courses in car reconditioning and environmentally friendly washing techniques can be beneficial.

  • Formal education: Often not required, sometimes high school automotive programs
  • Certifications/courses: Courses in car care or reconditioning can be advantageous
  • Internship/trainee: Common to have internships or introductory periods at the workplace
  • Prerequisites: No formal requirements, but driver's license and good physical condition are often desirable
  • Self-study/online: Possible via industry organizations and training platforms

During certain periods, such as seasonal changes or before holidays, the workload for car washers can increase significantly. Speed and efficiency are then particularly valued qualities, and many workplaces appreciate staff who can handle high tempo with maintained quality.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and allowances

Car washers are often offered basic employment benefits such as holiday pay, overtime premiums, and sometimes staff discounts on car care services. Some employers may also provide wellness allowances or bonuses for achieved results. Compensation levels vary and are influenced by employment type, collective agreements, and the size of the employer.

Competition and challenges

The market for car washers is characterized by high demand but also some competition from automated washing systems and larger car care facilities. The recruitment situation is marked by both recruitment difficulties and relatively high turnover among employees. Physical strain, risk of contact with chemicals, and varying working hours can pose challenges. Despite these factors, opportunities for employment are good for those who are flexible and willing to work practically. Adaptability and attention to detail are highly valued in the profession.

Tips for those wanting to become a car washer

To succeed as a car washer, it is good to have a positive attitude towards practical work and a willingness to learn new tasks quickly. Attention to detail is crucial, as customers expect a sparkling result every time. Being resilient and able to handle physically demanding tasks facilitates the workday, especially during busy periods. Service-mindedness and the ability to interact politely with customers can lead to repeat assignments. Flexibility is also important, as tasks may vary from day to day. Staying updated on environmentally friendly washing methods and safety routines provides an advantage. Finally, punctuality and reliability are highly valued by many employers, traits that always make a good impression.

Key facts about Car Washers

  • Education level: Often no formal education required
  • Work environment: Physically active, often humid and noisy environment
  • Demand: Great opportunities for work nationwide
  • Employment type: Common with both full-time and hourly employment
  • Gender distribution: Men earn on average more than women in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, car washers can advance to supervisor, site manager, or specialize in reconditioning and car care. Some choose to start their own business or further educate themselves in related areas, such as automotive mechanics or sales of car care products. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that opportunities for work as a car washer, and within the automotive reconditioning group, are large and expected to remain stable over the next five years. This indicates solid future prospects, although the industry is affected by technological development and environmental requirements. According to the Public Employment Service, there are nationwide recruitment difficulties but also high turnover, creating good chances for new job seekers.

Frequently asked questions about Car Washers

  • What is the average salary of a Car Washer?
    - The average salary is 29 500 SEK per month.
  • Are there large salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn on average 92% of what men do in the profession.
  • What education is required to become a car washer?
    - Often no formal education is required, but practical training or on-the-job learning is common.
  • What is the job market like for car washers?
    - The job market is considered good with ample opportunities nationwide.
  • What personal qualities are important?
    - Attention to detail, endurance, and a service-oriented attitude are especially valuable in the profession.
  • What is the hourly wage for a car washer?
    - The hourly wage is on average 177 SEK.
  • Is there room for advancement in the profession?
    - Yes, there are opportunities to become a supervisor, site manager, or start your own business.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Car washer is 32600 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a pre-secondary education shorter than 9 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 29200 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Car washer is 23700 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Government sector. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 25200 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 91% 26800 kr 27600 kr
25-34 106% 25900 kr 26500 kr
35-44 89% 29900 kr 31000 kr
45-54 90% 29000 kr 30300 kr
55-64 96% 29500 kr 30500 kr
Snitt 92% 28600 kr 29500 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Car washer has the SSYK code 9120, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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