ABOUT US
Welcome to Elephant Car Wash, where your car’s shine meets our passion for excellence! Founded in 1951 and headquartered in the Puget Sound, we’ve grown into a trusted name in car care, known for delivering premium car wash services with a personal touch. At Elephant Car Wash, we combine advanced cleaning technology, eco-friendly practices, and exceptional customer service to create a car wash experience like no other.
With our iconic pink elephant as a symbol of quality and innovation, we’ve become a favorite for families, businesses, and car enthusiasts alike. Our unlimited wash memberships, convenient locations, and community-focused approach make keeping your car spotless easier and more enjoyable than ever. Join us for a clean car, a big smile, and a little bit of nostalgia with every visit!
We are proud to be a family owned Puget Sound tradition; offering exceptional car washes to generations of loyal customers.
Our History
1951
Elephant Car Wash opened on 4th Avenue and Lander Street in Seattle. Started by Dean, Archie, and Eldon Anderson, The Elephant was the first fully automatic car wash in the US. Dean and Eldon invented hands-free machines, which cleaned cars safely and reliably, eclipsing the plastic-bristle brushes in use at that time.
1956-1963
The Anderson family opened their second location in 1956 on Battery Street in downtown Seattle, home of the world-famous rotating elephant!
In 1963 they opened another location on Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma, cementing Elephant Car Wash’s reputation for exceptional, safe, hands-free car washing throughout the Puget Sound.
1982
The Anderson brothers sold Elephant Car Wash to Bob Haney in 1982. Bob ushered the Elephant’s evolution from plastic-bristle brushes to high-pressure water cleaning, and soft-cloth wraps.
Multiple locations were opened throughout the Puget Sound: Auburn, Burien, Bellevue, Federal Way, Maple Valley, and Redondo.
2010???
Elephant Car Wash took another step in innovation by building its first touchless automatic car wash site in Auburn, Washington. Touchless car washing represents a new era of vehicle care, using high-pressure water jets and advanced cleaning agents to deliver a thorough clean without brushes or physical contact.
2020
Although the original Seattle location closed in 2020, the legacy of Elephant Car Wash endures. Its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community involvement remains at the heart of its operations, making it a symbol of both nostalgia and progress. You can still find the iconic downtown sign at the Museum of History and Industry, as well as the smaller sign blocks away at Blanchard St & 7th Ave.
2024
Continuing the legacy of family ownership a new generation has stepped in. Bringing fresh leadership
Who We Are
Helping others succeed while preserving the values and legacy of a family-owned business for future generations.
Work hard and take initiative, work toward continual self and company improvement
Have fun, a good attitude and a sense of humor, represent Elephant with respect and professionalism
Service over self, serve our community and each other, give the customer more than they expect
Show up, take ownership, be responsible, always act with honesty and integrity, optimize our financial resources