Big Dave’s Car and Dog Wash: Kiwi Car Cleaning - Hits & Misses
Big Dave's Car and Dog Wash, located at 45 Kingsford Smith Drive, Rangiora, is making waves (and spraying water!) in the North Canterbury car cleaning scene. With a solid 4.6-star rating, it’s clear many patrons are enjoying what’s on offer. But is it all shiny surfaces and happy pups? Let's dive into what customers are saying about this unique Rangiora establishment. It seems they're open late, something appreciated by those grabbing a quick rinse after a long drive, although official hours remain unconfirmed. The card-tap payment system is a definite plus, adding convenience to the overall experience.
Sparkling Results & a "Best Ever" Wash
Several reviews highlight the exceptional quality of Big Dave’s automatic, brushless car wash. One long-time car enthusiast, boasting 60 years worth of car wash experience, emphatically declared it “easily the best car wash [they] have ever used!” This praise stemmed from the spotless results on wheels and under door sills, a detail often overlooked by other washes.
Here's a summary of what customers love about the automatic wash:
- Brushless Technology: Gentle on vehicle paint, avoiding scratches.
- Superior Clean: Particularly impressive on wheels and undercarriage.
- Natural Drying: Some reviewers appreciate the lack of blow dryers, finding that natural drying achieves a more thorough result than many powered options.
- Dave’s Expertise: Mentioned specifically - “Dave’s help put [their] MG ZS through the Automatic brush less car wash." Suggests attentive and knowledgeable staff.
It's not just about cars, either. Big Dave’s caters to our furry friends too, leading nicely to the next section.
Pawsitively Refreshing: Dog Washing Delights
Big Dave's isn't just a car wash – it’s a haven for happy hounds! Many reviews specifically mention the dog washing service, and the feedback is overwhelmingly positive.
- Happy Pups: Even nervous pups seem to enjoy the experience once the warm water hits.
- Value for Money: The $11 dog wash price is perceived as a worthwhile investment for a clean and happy pet.
- Soothing Experience: Warm water and gentle handling make it a pleasant experience for dogs.
Here’s a quote that perfectly captures the canine experience: "Worth the 11$ to wash the dog. He was a little nervous at first but once he realized it was a bath and the warm water hit him had a very happy puppy."
Room for Improvement & Location Considerations
While the enthusiasm for Big Dave’s is undeniable, some reviewers point out areas where improvements could be made. The most common concerns revolve around the thoroughness of the initial wash and the lack of a drying service.
- Wash Thoroughness: "Did not clean the vehicle thoroughly." This suggests inconsistencies in the cleaning process or a need for more powerful jets.
- No Drying Option: The absence of a dryer is a point of contention. While some appreciate the natural drying, others feel it leaves their car needing further attention, particularly relevant with the increased dust and mud from nearby construction, with one customer suggesting Kaiapoi as a better alternative "even."
- Location Context: The recent construction in the area adds a layer of complexity. As new builds emerge, cars are accumulating more dirt and grime on their journeys home, potentially highlighting any shortcomings in the washing process.
Despite these points, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many attributing this to friendly and helpful staff and impressive results with the automatic wash. The splatter wax option also gets a mention, adding a fun element to the cleaning process.