How Much Should I Spend on Car Detailing?
What is Car Detailing?
Car Detailing is the process of cleaning a car, inside and out. A detail is much more than a cleaning; it's a rejuvenation of all areas of the vehicle. In general, an interior detail will include a full vacuum, cleaning of all interior plastics, seats, leathers, and so on and so forth, giving a car that feels like new. On the contrary, an “exterior detail” can include many different services, whether it be a quick wash, a wash & wax, a paint correction, and even up to a ceramic coating, which all come with different price tags. When comparing prices, it is important to keep in mind both price AND the specifics of the service provided, as, in the end, the phrase “you get what you pay for” is often true.
So, How Much Should I Spend on Car Detailing?
The price you pay for a detail depends on the service provided, but, for a generalized full interior and exterior detail, the price can range from $200-$300, with the interior job typically costing more than the exterior detail when looked at individually. This price can vary depending on both size of the vehicle and condition of the vehicle, and, in the case of some less honest detailers, the price of the vehicle itself. A bigger, dirtier vehicle equals a longer job, and thus a higher price.
For an Interior Detail, most detailers offer a standard detail at a standard rate, with certain things such as pet hair removal and carpet shampooing being upsells in the $30-$50 range. Some detailers also offer a “mini” interior detail for >$100, but given the simple “vacuum and go” nature of these details, a full detail makes more sense in most situations.
In terms of the exterior, there are plenty more options to choose from. So, to minimize confusion, here’s a list of the most common exterior detailing packages, their general price range, and included services/benefits:
Basic Exterior Wash (>$100) - A quick contactless and contact wash to remove a surface level of dirt and grime.
Wash & Wax (>$100-$200) - A contactless and contact wash, a detail of the wheels and tires, and a wax in the form of a spray wax (less expensive) or hand wax (more expensive). This is the standard “exterior detail” for most providers.
Clay & Seal ($100-$250) - All things included in a Wash & Wax, as well as a full clay bar of the exterior (to remove contaminants inside of the paint), as well as often included a hand wax over a spray wax.
Paint Correction ($200-$1000) - All things as a Clay & Seal, but also includes a polishing/correcting of the paint with the use of a polisher. An “All-in-One” or one-step correction will be cheaper and provide less results, while a two or even three-step correction will provide a deeper level of swirl and scratch removal, albeit at a higher price tag.
Ceramic Coating ($500-$1500+) - Is often paired with a paint correction, and provides the ultimate level of protection from dirt and water on your paint. The most expensive, but the best results.
In the end, the cost of getting your car detailed depends on the car itself, as well as the desired level of service. And, at the end of the day, more expensive is not always worse, and cheaper is not always better. A quality job takes time, investment in the proper training and tools, and hours of work, so don’t be afraid to spend the money to protect your second-largest investment other than your home–your vehicle.
And, if you happen to live on the South Shore or Cape Cod, we at CB Detailing would love to be able to help you get the clean car you deserve, all at a price you can afford. If that sounds good to you, click here and let us know!
