Car Detailing Questions: The Ultimate Guide

Many car owners don't fully understand the difference between a basic car wash and professional detailing, the cost of different detailing services, or how long each process takes. Some attempt DIY detailing, only to realize they lack the right tools, products, and expertise.

Without clear guidance, drivers neglect detailing, leading to paint damage, interior wear, and loss of vehicle value. This guide answers common car detailing questions so you can make informed decisions about protecting and maintaining your vehicle.

Car detailing is a deep cleaning, restoration, and protection process that enhances both the interior and exterior of a vehicle. Unlike a simple car wash, detailing uses specialized tools, premium products, and advanced techniques to restore and protect every part of your vehicle.

What Does Car Detailing Include?

• What is Exterior Detailing? - Hand wash, clay bar treatment, paint correction, wax or ceramic coating.
• What is Interior Detailing? - Deep cleaning of carpets, seats, dashboards, and leather conditioning.
• Car Protection Treatments - Ceramic coatings, paint sealants, and fabric protectants to extend your vehicle's longevity

The cost of car detailing varies based on the level of service, vehicle size, and overall condition.
How much is a full detail? Our full detailing package starts at $299+ (varies based on size & condition).
How much is an interior detail? Our interior detailing package starts at $199+ (varies based on size & condition).
How much is an exterior detail? Our exterior detailing package starts at $179+ (varies based on size & condition).

How much does Car Detailing Cost?

• Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks) cost more.
• Condition: More dirt, stains, and scratches require extra labor.
• Additional Services: Paint correction, ceramic coatings, and engine detailing add to the total cost.

The time required for car detailing depends on the service level and vehicle condition.

How Long Does a Full Detailing Take?
A full detail generally takes 2.5-3.5 hours to complete. A full detail includes deep interior and exterior cleaning, paint sealant, and fabric/leather conditioning.

How Long Does an Interior Detailing Take?
An interior detail generally takes 1.5-2.5 hours to complete. An interior detail includes vacuuming, deep cleaning & leather cleaning & conditioning.

How Long Does an Exterior Detailing Take?
An exterior detail generally takes 1-1.5 hours to complete. An exterior detail includes exterior wash, paint decontamination, wheels & a paint sealant.

How Long Does Paint Correction Take?
A 1 step polish takes 4-6 hours (1 Detailing Specialist). while a 2 step correction & 3 step correction take 8-24 hours (1 Detailing Specialist). The total time a paint correction takes depends on the vehicle's condition & size.

Key Takeaway: Detailing takes time-high quality results can't be rushed.

Paint correction removes swirls, scratches, oxidation, and imperfections from your car's clear coat using high-speed polishing and cutting compounds.

Benefits of Paint Correction:

• Restores mirror-like shine.
• Removes swirls, holograms, and scratches.
• Protects against oxidation and water spots.

Ceramic coating is a long-lasting liquid polymer that bonds to a car's paint, creating a hydrophobic and durable protective layer.

Why Get a Ceramic Coating?

• Repels Dirt & Water - Prevents dirt buildup and makes washing easier.
• UV & Chemical Resistance - Shields paint from sun damage, bird droppings, and road salt.
• Enhances Gloss - Creates a deep, showroom-like shine.