Overview
Traffic counts can influence car wash valuations because they help explain exposure and demand potential. However, traffic counts are not a direct substitute for performance. Appraisers and lenders treat traffic as a supporting factor that must be interpreted through the lens of access, convenience, and the ability of the site to convert passing cars into customers.
Why traffic counts matter in valuation
High traffic can support stronger retail capture, membership growth, and long-term durability of the location. It can also improve real estate resilience by signaling that the corridor is active and likely to remain relevant over time.
What traffic counts do not tell you
Traffic counts do not measure conversion. A site with very high ADT can still underperform if access is poor, if turning movements are restricted, or if the wash is on the wrong side of the road for dominant commuter patterns.
How appraisers interpret traffic data
- Exposure and visibility from primary travel lanes
- Ingress and egress including turn lanes, signal proximity, and ease of entry
- Drive-time barriers such as medians, limited crossings, or highway separation
- Site function including stacking space and circulation during peak periods
Traffic counts versus financial performance
For operating car washes, revenue and cash flow still drive valuation outcomes. Traffic supports the story, but the valuation must hold up to real operating results. Appraisers may treat traffic as a reason a wash should perform well, then confirm whether the financials reflect that.
Bottom line
Traffic counts can support car wash valuation, but they are not the valuation. The strongest valuation story combines strong exposure with strong access and credible operating performance.