#1 Supreme Carwash: Bubbles, Brushes & Behaviour - Auckland's Wash Woes

#1 Supreme Carwash: A Mixed Bag of Sparkle and Service

#1 Supreme Carwash, located at 347 Ti Rakau Drive, Huntington Park, Auckland, boasts a solid 4.2-star rating and extended opening hours – 7 AM to 10 PM daily – catering to Auckland’s busy cleaning schedules. Its convenient location within Huntington Park makes it easily accessible, and the facility accepts debit card payments and NFC mobile payments. However, credit card facilities are not available. The car wash touts itself as a self-service option, intending to provide an alternative to automated washes with brushes, frequently praised for their quick and relatively inexpensive cycles (around $20 for the most detailed ‘#1’ wash). But is the sparkle truly supreme? Recent customer experiences paint a picture of both impressive technology and some frustrating shortcomings, alongside contrasting accounts of customer service.

The Wash Itself: Performance and Punch

The core function of any car wash is, of course, cleaning the car. Here's a breakdown of what customers are saying about the wash quality and the equipment:

• Positive Feedback: Many commend the high pressure and abundant foam, particularly highlighting the "fantastic" wash bay. Several users endorse the touchless wash as "the best [they’ve] experienced." The self-service nature is valued, allowing for direct control and a hands-on cleaning experience.
• Areas for Improvement: Not all customers are entirely satisfied with the results. Several have reported that bugs, bird droppings, and dust remain after the wash, even after utilizing the 'most detailed' cycle. One user specifically mentioned "poor" results, pointing to lingering dirt despite the investment. The self-cleaning timeframe is another recurring complaint, with some noting that it's "not long enough," requiring multiple runs, especially for larger vehicles like a Honda Odyssey, to achieve satisfactory soap coverage.
• Auto Wash Concerns: A significant and serious concern has been raised regarding the automatic wash feature. One user reported damage to their car's boot lid, with the rolling brushes causing physical harm. This incident underscores the importance of caution and potentially avoiding the automatic wash altogether.
• Equipment Quirks: The change machine has reportedly malfunctioned, dispensing car wash fee tokens instead of coins after debit card payment, creating a frustrating experience – and with no readily available person to resolve it. Vacuum nozzle malfunction is another reported maintenance issue.

Customer Service: From Helpful to Hostile

Experiences with the staff and owner at #1 Supreme Carwash have been remarkably varied, representing the most controversial aspect of the car wash.

• The Shining Examples: Numerous customers have lauded the exceptional customer service provided by staff, with specific praise directed towards an individual named Matt, described as going "way beyond" in his assistance. His helpfulness and positive attitude are highlighted as a significant reason for repeat visits. The general consensus is that the staff is welcoming, helpful and genuinely cares about helping customers to make the correct choice of wash.
• The Owner's Approach: Unfortunately, the experience isn’t universally positive. One customer encountered a starkly different interaction with the owner, who reacted aggressively when the customer used a bucket and sponge instead of the provided brush (a preference to avoid potential paint damage). The owner's behaviour was described as abrupt, bordering on aggressive, and lacking in basic courtesy, with the customer noting a potential disconnect between the owner's personal struggles and his interactions with paying customers. This incident has sparked concerns among potential customers.
• Lack of Complaint Resolution: One customer also reports being in a situation where it was difficult or impossible to complain about damage caused to their car during a wash cycle, raising concerns about accountability and dispute resolution processes.

Worth the Wash? - A Summary of Feedback

The reviews for #1 Supreme Carwash are a complex mix, demonstrating strengths and weaknesses. Here's a table summarizing the key areas:

Ultimately, a visit to #1 Supreme Carwash is a gamble. While the facilities offer modern technology and the potential for a great wash, potential customers should be aware of the mixed reviews regarding service and the risks associated with the auto wash feature.