Carolina Car Wash and Detail has stayed family-run for nearly three decades

Carolina Car Wash and Detail in Carrboro has been owned by Tom Tucker since 1997 and operated by the Tucker family for nearly 30 years; the Black-owned business is active in local fundraisers, donations and community engagement.

Carolina Car Wash and Detail is a Black-owned, family-run business on 414 E. Main St. in Carrboro that opened in 1968 and has been owned by Tom Tucker since 1997. The Tucker family has operated the business for nearly three decades and many family members have worked there at various times. The business emphasizes careful work on each car and treating customers and employees like family. It also participates in local fundraisers and makes donations to churches and nonprofits. Key details: - The car wash opened in 1968 and has been owned by Tom Tucker since 1997. - Family members help run the business; Tom Tucker’s mother, Willie Dee Tucker, has worked as a receptionist and his brother Bruce Tucker manages daily operations. - The business emphasizes quality over quantity and a customer service approach described as treating people like family. - Carolina Car Wash and Detail is active in community support through fundraisers and donations to local churches and nonprofits, and customers cite friendly human interaction as a reason for loyalty. - The site sits on land that formerly housed the Freedman School; after noticing this on the deed, Tom Tucker contacted the Town of Carrboro and a truth plaque was placed across the street at St. Paul AME Church describing the school’s history. - Town officials say Carrboro aims to attract and sustain Black-owned businesses and provide support and resources; the town is partnering with Chapel Hill on an accelerator program this year. Summary: The business serves as a community pillar in Carrboro and the greater Chapel Hill area through long-term family operation, customer service and charitable activity. Town officials say they provide support to local businesses and are coordinating an accelerator program with Chapel Hill this year.