Introducing Inspections
We are excited to introduce a new feature in WashConsole: Inspections.
Inspections give your team a simple way to walk the site, test functions, document condition with Pass/Fail, and make sure problems turn into action.
If something fails during an inspection, it can automatically create a Work Order so the issue gets repaired and nothing gets missed.
Why We Built It
Car wash operations usually have three different kinds of work:
- Work you already know needs to be done
- Things that need to be checked and verified
- Equipment that needs recurring maintenance
Before Inspections, operators had to force those into either To-Dos or Equipment PMs.
Now there is a better fit.
When To Use To-Do
Use a To-Do for work you already know needs to be done.
Examples:
- Empty garbage bin
- Clean paystation
- Replace paystation receipt paper
A To-Do means:
This task already needs to get done.
When To Use Inspection
Use an Inspection when someone needs to walk an area, test functions, and document whether things are working properly.
Examples:
- Tunnel close-up inspection -- walk the tunnel, check every system, document condition with Pass/Fail.
- Self-serve bay walkthrough -- test every function, document whether they work with Pass/Fail.
- Property inspection -- walk the lot, check signage, lighting, landscaping, and curb appeal.
An Inspection means:
Go check this and report what you find.
This is what makes Inspections different:
- Each item gets a Pass or Fail
- Your team can add notes and photos
- Failed items can automatically turn into Work Orders
That means your team is not just saying something is broken. They are documenting exactly what failed and pushing it straight into the repair workflow.
When To Use Equipment PM
Use Equipment PM for recurring maintenance on a specific piece of equipment at a set schedule.
Examples:
- Replace Reverse Osmosis system filter every month
- Change Cat pump oil every 6 months
Equipment PM means:
This machine needs scheduled maintenance.
The Simple Difference
To-Do
Work you already know needs to be done.
Inspection
Checking condition to decide if something needs attention.
Equipment PM
Inspecting, cleaning, or replacing a specific piece of equipment at a set recurrence.
A Real-World Example
Here is what a Tunnel Close-Up Inspection looks like in WashConsole. This is the kind of checklist most operators already do at the end of the day -- walking the tunnel, checking every system, and documenting what needs attention.
Each section becomes a checklist item with Pass/Fail:
- Bearings -- Check seals, wear, and alignment. Any obvious issues? -- Pass/Fail
- Air cylinders and shocks -- Are they connected? Do they travel freely? Need lubrication? -- Pass/Fail
- Hydraulic components -- Check fittings for leaks and tightness. Inspect hoses for wear. Check motors for leaks. -- Pass/Fail
- High-pressure components -- Check fittings, hoses, and look for any leaks. -- Pass/Fail
- Conveyor and belt -- Look for cracks, missing pieces, or excessive wear. Does the trench need cleaning? -- Pass/Fail
- Air lines -- Listen for leaking air. Check fittings are sealed. Flag any lines with excessive wear. -- Pass/Fail
- Wetters -- Are they spraying properly onto the wraps? Any clogs? -- Pass/Fail
Your team walks the tunnel, marks each item Pass or Fail, and adds notes and photos on anything that needs attention. If something fails, WashConsole can automatically create a Work Order so it goes straight into the repair queue -- no clipboard handoff, no forgotten notes.
Set it to run daily, weekly, or on-demand. You get a documented record of who ran it, when they ran it, and exactly what they found.
This is the same checklist that used to live on a clipboard or a PDF. Now it is digital, trackable, and connected to the rest of your operations.
Why This Matters
Inspections help operators:
- Catch issues earlier
- Standardize walkarounds
- Document site condition
- Create accountability across shifts
- Turn failures into repairs automatically
Instead of relying on memory, text messages, or verbal handoff, your team has a clear process for checking what is working and what needs attention.
Start Simple
You do not need to build a huge inspection on day one.
Start with one:
- Tunnel Inspection
- Self-Serve Bay Inspection
- Opening Inspection
- Closing Inspection
Keep it simple. Focus on the items your team already checks every day.
Then let WashConsole document the results and turn failures into action.
Built by Carwash Operators - For Carwash Operators. Learn more at [WashConsole](https://www.washconsole.com/blog).