Main Cast:
* Richard Pryor as Dwayne
* Bill Cosby as Mr. Washington
* Franklyn Ajaye as Lloyd
* Ivan Dixon as Washing Machine
* Antonio Fargas as The Kid
* Garrett Morris as The Mechanic
* Helen Martin as The Lady
* Sharon Paige as Louise
* Laura Dean as Marilyn
* Malcolm-Jamal Warner as Young Kid
Other Notable Cast Members:
* Sydney Lassick as The Owner
* John Carradine as The Old Man
* C.J. Williams as The Preacher
* Michael Conrad as The Cop
* Olivia Cole as The Mother
* Melvin Van Peebles as The Reverend
This is not an exhaustive list, as the film features a large ensemble cast. "Car Wash" was notable for its use of an almost entirely African-American cast, and many of the performers were rising stars or experienced comedians.