Auto Service in Ellicott City

Next Level Handwash Carwash spruces up metal chariots with five different levels of washing that remove dirt and oil by hand and shine car coats so that their hides resemble that of a seal catching waves atop a newly waxed surfboard. During services, patrons relax inside one of two lounges, staring up at plasma TV screens instead of down at their watches. Car-wash customers can also request mobile service, which dispatches Next Level car cleaners to home driveways so washes can be witnessed through the venetian blinds in your living room. Next Level also offers paintless dent-removal services and auto detailing, in addition to pickup and drop-off services.

One of the area's oldest full-service tire dealers in operation, Hillen Tire & Auto Service opened in 1917 under the helm of the late Joseph Schnitzer, whose sons, Marvin and Jerry, maintained the tradition of trustworthy service. Now, under the new ownership of former manager and lead technician Brian Smith, the auto shop tends to the needs of almost every car and motorized pogo stick manufactured since 1974. An inventory of 38,000 tires from brands such as Michelin and Firestone set cars atop quality rubber, and ASE-certified technicians keep cars healthy with auto services that include tune-ups, heating and air conditioning, and maintenance packages.

The 1958 Chevrolet Impala’s black paint had seen its fair share of dirt, but then again so had the detailers. They had traveled from driveway to driveway—a method perfected by Louis and Clarke—cleaning all types of vehicles along the way. This day was no different. They hauled their wax, cloths, vacuum, and cleaning products up the driveway and next to the vintage ride. A few hours later, after a hand wash, hand wax, and bug-and-tar-removal treatment, they wiped down the last window and stood back to admire the sparkling finish. They snapped a photo, took one last look, and headed back to Bridges Auto Detailing to await their next mobile assignment.