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Auto Detailing Cost


How Much Does Auto Detailing Cost?

 
low costWax and Wash: $20-$150+average costStandard Detailing: $100-$300+high costDeluxe Detailing: $150-$500+

An auto detailer uses specialized products and tools (such as a buffer) to meticulously clean, polish and protect every part of a vehicle. This generally does not include painting or body repairs, but minor cosmetic touch-ups might be included. Consumers typically have a vehicle detailed when preparing to sell it; to maintain a vintage or luxury vehicle in pristine condition; or after auto body repairs.

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.
Related articles: Painting a Car, Window Tinting, Chrome Wheels, Car Alarm Installation

What should be included:
  • CarsDirect.com describes services that might be included[5] in a complete car detailing service.
Additional costs:
  • 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.
Discounts:
  • 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.
Shopping for auto detailing:
  • 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.
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What People Are Paying - Recent Comments

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Basic detail
Amount: $125.00
Posted by: The crow in Champaign, IL.Posted: September 15th, 2021 09:09PM
Car Make: DodgeCar Model: Durango
Detailer: Lizz Pit Perfect Auto Detailing
My paint was pretty rough, red. The interior was nicotine saturated. When she was done my sled was beautiful, everyone thought I had it painted. My interior is soft odor free leather
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Mold Broken Glass windows
Amount: $1,200.00
Posted by: Wilbert Dewitt in Brooklyn, NY.Posted: August 16th, 2020 08:08AM
Car Make: 2010Car Model: Grand Jeep Cherokee Laredo
Detailer: Wilbert Dewitt
It took him 3 weeks to clean out all the mold. Seats had to come out, vents needed to be cleaned, mold needed to soak in solution, car needed to be wet/dry vacuum, windows glass needed to be removed. All parts needed to be air out for days. Then all had to be put back together. Seats, seat belts, carpets.
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Clio Detailing
Amount: $1,000.00
Posted by: Yups in Clio, MI.Posted: September 11th, 2019 05:09PM
Car Make: Cadillac Dark BlueCar Model: Eldorado
Detailer: Brent
Level 5 Interior/Exterior (Best)
Wash / degrease
Decontaminate paint
3 step paint correction
Clean/ protect Leather
Dry vapor steam Interior
Apply 12 month paint sealant
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DETAILED MY 2006 FORD FREESTYLE
Amount: $150.00
Posted by: SHEILA DELOACH in PALM DESERT, CA.Posted: February 3rd, 2019 09:02AM
Car Make: 2006 FORD FREESTYLECar Model: 4 DOOR
Detailer: FRIEND
IS $ 150 TO MUCH TO PAY TO A PERSON TO DETAIL A 2006 FORD FREESTYLE IT WASNT WAX IT CLEAN BUT I THOUGHT DETAILING WOULD BE BETTER THAN IT REALLY LOOKS.
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Detail, paint correction and ceramic coating
Amount: $850.00
Posted by: Dr. Douglas W in Hammonton, NJ.Posted: November 14th, 2018 01:11PM
Car Make: MercededCar Model: S550
Detailer: Dynamics In Hammonton NJ
This is a regular use vehicle for me. Been to Manhattan many time in the snow and salt. Been through many car washes. Had a lot of marring on the paint and its black on the exterior. Interior was pristine already for the most part. Also, had a bad detail job about a year ago that left some holograms in the paint. Eric and Steve id a really nice job. The car looks as good as it did on day one. Very pleased. The best part about this ceramic coating is that now I simply have to wash and shammy dry and the car looks new again. No waxing needed, water always rolls right off like the best wax has been applied. Saves alot of time.
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Caballero Auto Detailing
Amount: $300.00
Posted by: Beast Mode in San Bernardino, CA.Posted: August 16th, 2018 03:08PM
Car Make: GMCCar Model: Yukon XL
Detailer: Anthony from Caballero Auto Detailing
Had an amazing experience with Caballero Auto Detailing. I had their IN-N-OUT Package on my Yukon XL. It was really dirty and had dirt/cement stuck on a few areas(I took it offroading). Anthony made my Yukon look brand new. The did a foam/hand wash, full interior detail, thorough cleaning of the wheels, clay treatment, wax, and removed all the stuck pieces of cement/dirt. Superior results!
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Detail By Daniel
Amount: $50.00
Posted by: Jackie9491 in Akron, OH.Posted: June 26th, 2018 08:06PM
Detailer: Daniel Reynolds
Daniel is running a summer special where they do a basic detail for $50. My car looks like it is rolling off the showroom floor even after not having it cleaned in years.
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Outstanding Detailer
Amount: $175.00
Posted by: Jennifer Lambert in Sapulpa, OK.Posted: April 20th, 2018 07:04AM
Detailer: Myers' Detailing, LLC
This guy did a fantastic job on my car. I haven't really kept my car in great condition and wanted to sell it, so I had William detail it. He took out the foreign paint that was on the outside wich I thought would not come off. Also the pet hair from my dogs as well as all of the stains where my kids spilled their drinks. Even the mold that had started growing is gone! I would highly recommend him if anyone is the area. He's not one of the bigger known names in that town, but he proves he knows what he is doing and the results show it. Worth every penny. I found him using google maps.
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David’s Detail in Wichita Falls, TX
Amount: $300.00
Posted by: Cody Bryant in Wichita Falls, TX, TX.Posted: February 14th, 2018 10:02AM
Detailer: David
I bought my car used and it was covered in swirls and little scratches. I was a bit hesitant to spend that type of money on my car, but after reading his Facebook page reviews, I decided that he is who I wanted to get my car looking show room ready! It took him longer than we both expected, but I am extremely happy with the results.
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Ultra quality detailing
Amount: $300.00
Posted by: Jeff Romitti in Oklahoma City, OK.Posted: October 30th, 2017 11:10PM
Detailer: Hollywood Auto detail okc,ok
Fantastic work done by this husband & wife team. They do a pick up & delivery high quality detail service. Took my 2014 Bently to Mr. Maserati the owner & 6 hours later showroom condition was AWESOME & I RECOMMEND THIS COMPANY IN OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma as the Best I have ever seen!!! Keep up the great work.
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Detailed
Amount: $110.00
Posted by: Raymond Jones in Miami, FL.Posted: December 28th, 2016 02:12PM
Detailer: Jp mobile car wash
Not the best job on the inside but the clay job on the paint and the wet sanded headlights look fantastic!
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RICH'S DETAILING
Amount: $225.00
Posted by: Richard Helton in Mira loma, CA.Posted: October 13th, 2016 03:10PM
Detailer: RICH'S DETAILING
My car was in bad shape, stains, scratches, smelled bad. When my car was finished it looked brand new. It was amazing, on top of that, they come to you. Didn't even have to leave my house. Thank you
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Sacramento Mobile Detailer
Amount: $165.00
Posted by: Marc T. in Sacramento, CA.Posted: October 11th, 2016 01:10PM
Car Make: HondaCar Model: Civic Si
Detailer: Drive Clean
I had my Civic detailed at my house. All upholstery steam cleaned with complete detail inside and out. The guy they sent out was clean cut and professional. Great service
Drive Clean (916)529-0568
www.drivecleandetail.com
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Car detailing
Amount: $130.00
Posted by: Suzzieq54 in Leesburg, IN.Posted: September 27th, 2016 07:09PM
Car Make: MKXCar Model: Lincoln
Detailer: Soft Touch Detailing
They did a fantastic job cleaning my MKX and MKZ. Its a New business who also has golf carts and services.
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car detailing
Amount: $100.00
Posted by: peter harper in salt lake city, UT.Posted: September 4th, 2016 08:09PM
Detailer: eagle eye detailing
Eagle eye detailing were very polite and informative on the difference between a car wash and a auto detail after the service he proposed the a deal that I couldn't pass up he said for the price of two auto detail they would be able to service my car 4 Times a month
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Sun up Sun Down Mobile Detail
Amount: $150.00
Posted by: Mustang Rose in Charleston, SC.Posted: March 8th, 2016 12:03AM
Car Make: FordCar Model: 1965 Mustang
Detailer: Jason
I wanted to surprise my husband before he got home from Afghanistan. The first company made it look worse, it had scratch looking circles all over and a cloudy film that just kept coming back. So, I called my brother in law freaking out and he told me to try this guy he knows. I called, He looked at it and said that it would cost 250. Other companies offered 150 but he stated that if I didn't like the results, it was free so I scheduled it for wed. My husband Calls and says He will be in wed morning. So, I freak out, call Jason and he came over and worked into night in the garage with spinning tools. I couldn't believe the paint could shine like that and he also fix the holes in the seats. After paying him he gave me back a hundred and thanked me for my husbands service. I couldn't believe it.
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Car detailing
Amount: $1,000.00
Posted by: Corvetteowen in Rio Vista, CA.Posted: February 27th, 2016 06:02PM
Detailer: Corvette Detailing by Greg
I had Greg from Corvette Detailing, prepare my 2005 Corvette convertible for a Western States Corvette Council Car Show. Exterior, Interior, Wheels
And Tires, and Engine Compartment are judged in this very competitive car show series. Greg had the car three days. The car scored 99.75 out of 100 points. The car looks fantastic! It looks brand new and the car is ten years old! The best detail by knowledgeable people.
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detailing
Amount: $60.00
Posted by: Jannalou Jones in Inverness, FL.Posted: January 9th, 2016 12:01PM
Car Make: ChevorletCar Model: Camaro
Detailer: David Jones Detailing
He is a mobile detailer(if you need) and he has a shop. I had a problem with some stains on carpet and he used a extractor on them and they were like new..my car looked like a new car..he even did the headlights, crystal clear..and cleaned headliner..the best I have ever gotten and I picked him because of the name.. all for 50.00..what a deal
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Lemonade Auto Stand
Amount: $130.00
Posted by: Shannon Wynne in Naples, FL.Posted: August 25th, 2015 02:08PM
Detailer: Jeremy Webb
He was on time when he came to my office to detail my car offered me a Ice cold lemonade,with a smile as bright as a lemon! Every teeth in this guy mouth is Gold pretty impressive, very respectful. He educated me on the difference in car detailing,I chose a complete detail, which means a complete cleaning of the interior exterior and engine. He did a Great job and I will definitely recommend Lemonade Auto Stand!! As they would say Get your shine on! With Lemonade Auto Stand!
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Steam cleaning
Amount: $90.00
Posted by: [email protected] in Asheville, NC.Posted: August 4th, 2015 09:08PM
Detailer: A1 Auto Shine
07/ 25 /2015
139 Holland Ave
Asheville,NC 28802
828-252-2378
Excellent steam cleaning / odor removal job on front passenger seat and rear seats and floor board. Highly recommend!
90 minutes and well worth the $1 / minute charge . Looks better than when in purchased the car.
S.Beck
WNC
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Detailing
Amount: $145.00
Posted by: flower22 in Bay Shore, NY.Posted: June 7th, 2015 12:06PM
Car Make: mini vanCar Model:
Detailer: WHY WAIT AUTO DETAILING
Great job, Great people. Call looked better then when I bought it. They also did my headlights and came out like new. I will be calling them again
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De'lux'e Detailing
Amount: $125.00
Posted by: Raphael in Newport News, VA.Posted: February 2nd, 2015 07:02PM
Detailer: Benjamin
Went this shop in Va..Coming from Ny...Audi was horrible from road trip..I'm very picky about who Details my vehicle..Benjamin really did much more and a better job then those so called Professionals in Ny you see on YouTube...In threw in Free engine clean...I ve been there 4times now...De'lux'e Detailing is highly recommended if your on NN.Va..
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External Resources:
  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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