Do Auto Repair and Car Washes Earn Rewards?
How auto services code
A mechanic, body shop, or dealership service department rings up under an automotive-service category that is not a standard bonus bucket, so most cards earn their base rate on repairs. Auto-parts stores have their own code and are also usually base rate. The general rule is explained in merchant category codes explained.
Car washes can earn a gas bonus
A car wash located at, or operated by, a fuel station frequently shares the gas-station category code, so a card with a fuel bonus can earn its elevated rate on the wash. A standalone car wash that is not tied to a station typically codes as an automotive service and earns the base rate. If gas is a big category for you, our best gas cards guide shows which cards pay the most at the pump and, sometimes, the wash.
Getting the most on car costs
Because repairs rarely earn a bonus, a strong flat-rate card is the best tool for the shop, while a gas card handles fuel and station car washes. Keep in mind that a car loan payment is a different question, since financing usually does not earn rewards at all. Value points at a flat 1 cent as you compare.
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