Auto Detailing Cost

Typical costs:

• A basic hand-wash and -wax with interior cleaning typically costs $20-$150,depending on the make and model of vehicle. This generally takes from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the detailer, and might include a hand wash and chamois dry; hand waxing; vacuuming/blowing out the interior and trunk; minor bug and tar removal; cleaning the tires, rims and wheel wells; dressing the tires (applying a product that makes them look shiny, clean and new); and cleaning the windows & mirrors. For example, CostHelper readers report paying $40-$90 for a basic wash and wax, at an average cost of $72; Mobile Works Auto Detailing[1] in Chambersburg, PA, has a wash-wax-vacuum package for $75 for a car, $100 for a mid-size truck or SUV, $125 for a full-size truck or SUV, and $150 for a full-size van or large SUV.
• Expect to pay $100-$300 or more for a standard auto detailing that typically takes two to five hours. The process includes the basic wash, wax and interior cleaning. It may also include clay bar cleaning[2] to remove embedded surface contamination; cleaning door jambs and wiper blades; machine buffing and polishing the exterior; cleaning all vents, gauges and knobs; cleaning and dressing/conditioning interior vinyl or leather; cleaning seatbelts, headliner, steering wheel, column and console; and degreasing and cleaning the engine compartment and underbody. For example, CostHelper readers report paying $155-$160 for a mid-range detailing, at an average cost of $136; Shine & Style Mobile Detail[3] in Raleigh, NC, offers a Full Detail Econo Package (3.5-4.5 hours) for $195 for a car or $245 for an SUV or van.
• A deluxe auto detailing can cost $150-$500 or more, and can take four to 18 hours, depending on the detailer and the condition of the vehicle. The process can include every step of a full interior and exterior detailing with high-end materials and products, plus close attention to every detail, including cosmetic touch-ups. CostHelper readers report paying $150-$300 for a complete auto detailing, at an average cost of $233. Shine & Style Mobile Detail[4] in Raleigh, NC, has an Ultimate Detail package for $375 for a car or $475 for an SUV or van.

• CarsDirect.com describes services that might be included[5] in a complete car detailing service.

• There can be additional fees of $10-$100 for extra services or if some areas need additional cleaning. For example, Painless Auto Detailing[6] in Denver, CO, charges $35 and up for dog hair removal, and $74-$88 for smoke removal. If it's not included in the package, Mobile Works Auto Detailing[7] in Chambersburg, PA, charges $15 for clay bar cleaning, $24 for an engine shampoo or $30 to Scotch Guard carpet or upholstery.

• Many detailing businesses offer discounts for pre-paid services or multi-vehicle customers, either as dollar amounts ($5-$50) or percentages (5%-50%). For example, for every $100 that is prepaid on its VIP card Riverhead Auto Wash[8] in Riverhead, NY, offers a $10 credit plus 10% off any purchase; and Karmichael Auto Salon[9] in Washington discounts 15% off a second vehicle (within the same calendar month) for all full-service packages.
• Detailing services with a fixed location, like a car wash, may offer free pickup and delivery of the vehicle.
• CarsDirect.com offers Do-it-yourself detailing tips[10] . Basic supplies like buckets, cleaners and wax can cost $5-$100 or more, depending on what is needed. A car wax buffer can cost $30-$120 or more, and Jorgen's Shine Shop[11] offers DIY kits for $33-$250.

• Auto detailing services are typically offered at car washes, specialty stores and auto body repair shops, or by mobile companies using specialized trailers.
• Ask to see photographs of recently detailed vehicles and ask how long the company has been in business.

1.  mobileworkswash.com/services/pricelist/
2.  www.detailedimage.com/Auto-Detailing-Guide/Clay-Bar/
3.  www.shinenstylemobiledetail.com/pricelists.cfm
4.  www.shinenstylemobiledetail.com/pricelists.cfm
5.  www.carsdirect.com/car-maintenance/what-should-a-full-car-detailing-service-include
6.  www.painlessautodetailing.com/pricing.html
7.  mobileworkswash.com/services/pricelist/
8.  www.riverheadautowash.com/home.html
9.  www.karmichaelauto.com/discounts_specials.php
10.  www.carsdirect.com/car-maintenance/8-diy-car-detailing-tips
11.  www.jorgensgarage.com/home.php?cat=18&catexp=18

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