Pros 
Cons Splash N Dash Riccarton: A Mixed Bag of Suds & Opinions
Splash N Dash Riccarton, situated at 101 Blenheim Road, Addington, Christchurch, is a 24/7 car wash facility catering to a wide range of cleaning needs. With a rating of 4.000000, it has clearly garnered a significant following. The facility’s convenience, particularly for those needing a quick and efficient wash, is often cited as a major draw. Payments are accepted via debit cards and NFC mobile payments, though credit cards are unfortunately not supported. While a drive-through option is available, it’s also suitable for those wanting a self-service wash. However, recent customer feedback reveals a more complex picture, suggesting areas of both strength and significant improvement.
The Good, The Great, and the “Could Be Better”
Many customers praise Splash N Dash Riccarton for its practicality and ease of use. Here's a breakdown of the positives frequently mentioned:
- 24/7 Availability: The constant accessibility is a huge perk for busy individuals.
- Self-Service Flexibility: The ability to choose your wash level—from a simple rinse to a full soap and wax—appeals to those with varying budgets and car cleaning needs.
- Powerful Equipment (Generally): Strong hose pressure effectively removes grime, and the vacuums are typically described as powerful.
- Friendly Attendants: Some customers have highlighted the presence of helpful and friendly staff members on site.
- Card Payment Convenience: The implementation of card ATM readers at each booth provides handy top-ups.
However, this rosy picture is tempered by recurring criticisms. A significant number of reviewers pointed out a clearer direction is needed for renters. Here's a summary of recurring positives and negatives:
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
|---|---|
| 24/7 Operation | Price (considered high by some) |
| Self-Service Options | Wait times during peak periods |
| Strong Hose Pressure | Equipment needing more maintenance |
| Powerful Vacuums | Blasters sometimes not functional |
| Convenient Card Payments | Foam/detergent spray during DIY washes |
Addressing the Concerns: A Spotlight on Reported Issues
Recent reviews reveal concerning issues that management needs to urgently address to maintain customer satisfaction. The following is a summary of significant complaints:
- Cleanliness of Premises: Several customers reported that the facility was unacceptably dirty, lacking regular maintenance. A particularly worrying experience involved a completely unusable wash brush.
- Water Pressure Issues: Inadequate water pressure in both the tyre/engine cleaner and presoak functions was a common complaint, rendering these features ineffective.
- Automatic Wash Arm Malfunction: One customer's vehicle sustained damage when the automatic wash arm dangerously close to and then hit their car mirror. This raises serious safety concerns.
- Discontinuation of Dog Washing: A customer was disappointed to find that the advertised dog wash service was no longer available, highlighting a need for website updates.
- Vacuum and Hose Maintenance: Fallen-off vacuum cleaner hoses and leaking hoses contributed to a frustrating experience. The cost of vacuuming ($1/min) was also flagged as expensive, especially for an unattended site.
These issues are not just minor inconveniences; they point to a potential decline in maintenance standards and a need to ensure the safety and functionality of the car wash equipment.
Is it Worth a Visit? Weighing Up the Value
Splash N Dash Riccarton presents a mixed proposition. Its 24/7 availability and self-service flexibility are undeniable advantages. However, the pricing and, more importantly, the maintenance concerns highlighted by recent customers raise questions about overall value.
- For a Quick Rinse: A brief 5-10 minute rinse in the self-service bays could be worthwhile, especially if convenience is paramount.
- Automatic Wash Consideration: Some find the $16 automatic car wash a worthwhile option for minimal effort, though the risk of equipment malfunction (like the reported mirror incident) needs consideration.
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those on a budget might want to explore alternative options, considering the higher pricing and potential maintenance issues.
- Dog Owners: Do not assume a dog wash is available, as the service has reportedly been discontinued.
Ultimately, whether Splash N Dash Riccarton is "worth the soap" depends on your individual priorities and a willingness to accept the potential for maintenance-related issues. Management's prompt response to these concerns will be crucial in restoring customer confidence and ensuring a consistently positive experience. Phone: +64 3 348 4455.