[abogan]

My dealer offers free exterior carwashes, and I usually go every couple weeks. When they're done, I usually tip them $3 total ($1 for each person).

Am I in an acceptable range, or will the guys call me a cheapskate behind my back?

[bilbarstow]

If you are talking a hand-wash, what would you have to pay locally to have that done at a GOOD carwash or detailer ? Do you specify any special treatment - like hand dry with microfibre only ? If so - then you should probably tip at LEAST what you would tip at the place you would have to pay for it. 20 % maybe for good service ? Sure the BMW Dealer is paying for the car wash, but just like when you get food at a restuarant on a coupon, you should tip like you were paying full price. (That is my Dear Abby / Emily Post moment for today )

[abogan]

Originally Posted by bilbarstow

If you are talking a hand-wash, what would you have to pay locally to have that done at a GOOD carwash or detailer ? Do you specify any special treatment - like hand dry with microfibre only ? If so - then you should probably tip at LEAST what you would tip at the place you would have to pay for it. 20 % maybe for good service ? Sure the BMW Dealer is paying for the car wash, but just like when you get food at a restuarant on a coupon, you should tip like you were paying full price. (That is my Dear Abby / Emily Post moment for today )

Thanks for the quick reply.

Actually, it's a pretty basic exterior wash. They take it through an automated washer and then they dry the car by hand.

Locally, I'd pay $7 for an automated wash at the gas station and tip the guys $2 or $3 to dry the car. I guess that's at least a 28% tip, so I think I'm ok.

[tl_boy]

tip what you want to tip. if they're doing a good job, tip more. otherwise tip less.

i don't run my car through touch automated washers. the laserjet 4000 touchless does surprisingly well. i got it done at exxon.

[Brunotheboxer]

Originally Posted by abogan

My dealer offers free exterior carwashes, and I usually go every couple weeks. When they're done, I usually tip them $3 total ($1 for each person).

Am I in an acceptable range, or will the guys call me a cheapskate behind my back?

they may call you a cheapskate because even though you are tipping them, they cant really do much with a dollar. maybe give them a gift certificate every once in a while to dunkin donuts or similar. on christmas if you are still going to the dealer for the free washes you should get them a small gift. just my opinion.

[bavarian19]

wash it yourself... then tip yourself $1,000