How Much Is a Full Car Detail? 2025 Cost Breakdown & What to Expect

The Short Answer: Full Car Detail Pricing (2025)

If you're looking for a quick answer, here's what you can expect to pay for a full car detail in 2025:

Average Cost Range: $175-$400

More specifically:

• Small Cars (Sedan/Coupe): $175-$275
• Mid-Size Vehicles: $200-$325
• SUVs & Crossovers: $225-$375
• Large SUVs/Trucks: $275-$450
• Luxury/Exotic Vehicles: $350-$600+

Typical Time: 4-8 hours for a thorough full detail

But pricing varies significantly based on your location, vehicle condition, and the detailer's experience level. Let's break down everything you need to know.

What Exactly Is a "Full Car Detail"?

Before we dive deeper into costs, it's crucial to understand what you're actually paying for. A legitimate full car detail is comprehensive inside and out—not just a fancy car wash.

Exterior Detailing Includes:

Washing & Preparation

• Multi-step hand wash using pH-balanced soap
• Wheel and tire deep cleaning
• Wheel well cleaning and degreasing
• Paint decontamination spray
• Clay bar treatment to remove embedded contaminants
• Door jamb cleaning

Paint Treatment

• Single-stage machine polishing or hand polishing
• Light scratch and swirl removal
• High-quality wax or paint sealant application
• Paint protection for 2-6 months

Finishing Touches

• Tire dressing and shine
• Trim restoration (black plastic conditioning)
• Chrome/metal polishing
• Exterior glass cleaning (inside and out)
• Exhaust tip cleaning

Interior Detailing Includes:

Deep Cleaning

• Complete vacuuming (seats, carpets, trunk, under seats)
• Floor mat deep cleaning or shampooing
• Carpet shampooing or steam cleaning
• Upholstery cleaning (fabric or leather)
• Leather conditioning and protection
• Stain removal treatment

Surface Care

• Dashboard cleaning and UV protection
• Center console detailing
• Door panel cleaning and conditioning
• Cup holder and storage compartment detailing
• Air vent cleaning with detailing brushes
• Steering wheel and shifter cleaning

Final Details

• Interior glass streak-free cleaning
• Odor elimination treatment
• Headliner cleaning (if needed)
• Trunk/cargo area vacuuming and wiping

Total Time Investment: A proper full detail takes 4 to 8 hours depending on vehicle size and condition.

Detailed Pricing Breakdown by Vehicle Type

Compact & Subcompact Cars

Examples: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, VW Jetta

Price Range: $175-$275 Average: $215 Time: 4-5 hours

Why This Price?

• Smaller surface area = less product and time
• Easier to maneuver and reach all areas
• Less interior space to clean

Mid-Size Sedans

Examples: Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion

Price Range: $200-$325 Average: $250 Time: 5-6 hours

Why This Price?

• More surface area than compact cars
• Typically more features and trim to clean
• Larger trunk space

Compact & Mid-Size SUVs/Crossovers

Examples: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester

Price Range: $225-$375 Average: $285 Time: 5-7 hours

Why This Price?

• Higher vehicle profile = more exterior surface
• More interior cargo space
• Third-row seating in some models adds time

Full-Size SUVs & Pickup Trucks

Examples: Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford F-150, Toyota Sequoia, GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram

Price Range: $275-$450 Average: $350 Time: 6-8 hours

Why This Price?

• Significantly larger surface area
• Truck beds require additional cleaning
• More interior seating and cargo space
• Often have more heavy-duty dirt and grime

Luxury & Performance Vehicles

Examples: BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Lexus, Tesla, Porsche

Price Range: $350-$600+ Average: $450 Time: 6-10 hours

Why This Price?

• Requires premium products safe for delicate finishes
• More intricate details and sensitive materials
• Higher stakes = more careful, time-intensive work
• Often includes paint correction expectations

Minivans & Large Passenger Vehicles

Examples: Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica

Price Range: $250-$400 Average: $310 Time: 6-8 hours

Why This Price?

• Large interior space with multiple rows
• Often family vehicles with significant dirt/stains
• Many storage compartments and crevices
• Sliding door tracks need detailed cleaning

5 Major Factors That Affect Your Final Price

1. Vehicle Condition: The Biggest Variable

Your car's current state has the most significant impact on cost:

Light Cleaning Needed (Regular maintenance)

• Vehicle detailed within last 3-6 months
• No major stains or odors
• Minimal pet hair
• Price Impact: Base price

Moderate Cleaning Needed

• Detailed 6-12 months ago or never
• Some stains, dust buildup, minor odors
• Moderate pet hair
• Price Impact: +$50-$100

Heavy Cleaning Needed

• Not detailed in 1+ years
• Significant stains, heavy dirt, strong odors
• Extensive pet hair throughout
• Price Impact: +$100-$200

Extreme Cleaning Needed

• Neglected for multiple years
• Severe stains, smoke damage, or mold
• Excessive pet hair embedded in upholstery
• Price Impact: +$150-$300 or separate quote

Pro Tip: Regular detailing (every 4-6 months) keeps costs predictable and prevents premium charges for heavy cleaning.

2. Geographic Location

Where you live dramatically affects detailing costs:

High-Cost Metro Areas

• San Francisco, NYC, Los Angeles, Boston, Seattle, Miami
• Range: $300-$600 for standard full detail
• Why: Higher labor costs, rent, insurance, demand

Mid-Cost Cities

• Austin, Denver, Portland, Charlotte, San Diego
• Range: $225-$425 for standard full detail
• Why: Moderate cost of living, competitive market

Low-Cost Regions

• Suburbs, smaller cities, rural areas
• Range: $150-$325 for standard full detail
• Why: Lower overhead, less demand density

Regional Cost Multiplier:

• California/Northeast: 1.3-1.6x base price
• Texas/Southeast: 1.0-1.2x base price
• Midwest/Mountain: 0.9-1.1x base price

3. Mobile vs. Fixed Location Service

Mobile Detailing (Comes to Your Home/Office)

Pricing: Typically 15-25% higher than shop-based

Example: $250 shop detail = $290-$315 mobile

Why More Expensive?

• Travel time and fuel costs
• Portable equipment investment
• Water and power hookup challenges
• Convenience premium

Best For:

• Busy professionals
• Multiple vehicles at one location
• No transportation to shop
• Fleet services

Fixed Location Detailing (You Drop Off Your Vehicle)

Pricing: Standard rates

Why Less Expensive?

• No travel overhead
• Full access to professional equipment
• Consistent power and water supply
• Higher efficiency

Best For:

• Complex services (paint correction, ceramic coating)
• Major restoration work
• Budget-conscious customers
• Those with transportation flexibility

4. Detailer Experience & Business Model

Budget/Entry-Level Detailers

• Price: $100-$200
• Experience: 0-2 years, learning
• Products: Consumer-grade or budget professional
• Risk: Inconsistent results, possible damage

Mid-Tier Professional Detailers

• Price: $200-$350
• Experience: 2-5 years, established
• Products: Quality professional products
• Reliability: Solid results, insured, reviews

Premium/Master Detailers

• Price: $350-$600+
• Experience: 5+ years, certified training
• Products: Top-tier professional products
• Value: Exceptional results, guarantees, specialized services

Dealership Detailing

• Price: $150-$400 (varies widely)
• Quality: Inconsistent (often outsourced)
• Best For: Convenience if already at dealership

5. Add-On Services

Most full details include standard services, but these extras increase cost:

What's NOT Included in a Standard Full Detail?

To avoid surprise charges, know that these services typically cost extra:

• ✗ Paint correction beyond light polishing
• ✗ Ceramic coating or graphene coating
• ✗ Major stain removal (biohazard, severe damage)
• ✗ Convertible top treatment
• ✗ Engine detailing
• ✗ Undercarriage cleaning
• ✗ Headlight restoration
• ✗ Glass chip repair
• ✗ Dent removal
• ✗ Windshield treatment (Rain-X)

Always ask: "What's included in your full detail package?" Get it in writing.

Cost Comparison: National Chains vs. Local Detailers

National Chains (DetailXPerts, Zips, etc.)

Pros:

• ✓ Standardized pricing
• ✓ Consistent service protocols
• ✓ Multiple locations
• ✓ Corporate accountability

Cons:

• ✗ Less personalized service
• ✗ May use lower-tier technicians
• ✗ Limited customization

Typical Pricing: $150-$350 for full detail

Local Independent Detailers

Pros:

• ✓ Personal attention
• ✓ Flexible customization
• ✓ Often more passionate about craft
• ✓ Build ongoing relationships

Cons:

• ✗ Quality varies widely
• ✗ May lack insurance or professionalism
• ✗ Less predictable scheduling

Typical Pricing: $175-$500+ for full detail

Premium Boutique Detailers

Pros:

• ✓ Highest quality work
• ✓ Premium products
• ✓ Certified technicians
• ✓ Guarantees and warranties

Cons:

• ✗ Highest prices
• ✗ May have waiting lists
• ✗ Limited availability

Typical Pricing: $400-$800+ for full detail

Money-Saving Tips: Get More Value for Less

1. Book During Off-Peak Times

• Weekdays vs. weekends: Save 10-15%
• Winter months: Less demand, possible discounts
• Early morning/late afternoon: Some detailers offer off-hour pricing

2. Bundle Services

• Book full detail + ceramic coating = save $100-$200
• Multiple vehicles = 10-20% discount per vehicle
• Annual packages = prepay for 4 details, get 5th free

3. Maintain Regular Schedule

• Clean car = less time = lower cost
• Quarterly details prevent premium "heavy cleaning" charges
• Build relationship with detailer for loyalty pricing

4. Handle Simple Tasks Yourself

Before your detail appointment:

• Remove all trash and personal items
• Take out floor mats
• Clear trunk/cargo area
• Some detailers reduce price for "prep-ready" vehicles

5. Compare Quotes (But Don't Just Pick Cheapest)

• Get 3-5 estimates
• Compare what's included (not just price)
• Read recent reviews
• Ask about satisfaction guarantees

6. Avoid "Deal" Sites (Groupon, etc.)

• Detailers often cut corners on deep-discount deals
• May be bait-and-switch with upcharges
• Limited time means rushed work
• Exception: Legitimate new customer discounts (15-25% off)

When Is a Full Detail Worth the Investment?

Absolutely Worth It:

Before Selling Your Car

• Investment: $200-$400
• Return: $500-$2,000 increase in sale price
• ROI: 150-400%

After Buying a Used Car

• Remove previous owner residue
• Eliminate odors and bacteria
• Start fresh with protective coatings
• Value: Peace of mind + baseline maintenance

Seasonal Deep Clean (2x per year)

• Spring: Remove winter salt, grime, and damage
• Fall: Protect paint before harsh winter
• Value: Prevents long-term damage, maintains appearance

Special Events

• Weddings, anniversaries, photoshoots
• Car shows or meets
• Important client meetings
• Value: Make the best impression

Lease Returns

• Avoid excessive wear-and-tear charges
• Investment: $250-$400 detail
• Savings: $500-$1,500 in dealership fees

Maybe Not Worth It:

• ✗ Brand new car (just needs maintenance wash)
• ✗ Car scheduled for trade-in at dealership (they won't pay more)
• ✗ Very old car with minimal value (detail may cost more than value added)
• ✗ You detail regularly yourself with quality products

How Often Should You Get a Full Detail?

Frequency affects your annual investment:

Every Month ($2,400-$4,800/year)

• For: Show cars, exotic vehicles, detailing enthusiasts
• Overkill for: Most daily drivers

Every 3-4 Months ($600-$1,600/year)

• For: Daily drivers, well-maintained vehicles
• Sweet Spot: Balance of cost and protection

Every 6 Months ($400-$800/year)

• For: Average use, garage-kept vehicles
• Reasonable: Seasonal deep cleans (spring/fall)

Once Per Year ($200-$400/year)

• For: Minimal use, rarely driven vehicles
• Minimum: Prevents neglect-related damage

Between full details: Maintenance washes every 2-4 weeks ($15-$35 each)

How to Spot Fair Pricing (Red Flags & Green Flags)

🚩 Red Flags (Walk Away)

• ❌ Full detail under $100 (likely just a wash, not true detail)
• ❌ No itemized service list provided
• ❌ "Full detail in 2 hours!" (proper detail takes 4-8 hours)
• ❌ No photos of previous work
• ❌ Mostly negative or no reviews
• ❌ Can't name products they use
• ❌ No insurance or business license
• ❌ Pressure to add expensive services
• ❌ Full payment required upfront (no contract)
• ❌ Refuses to give written estimate

✅ Green Flags (Trustworthy)

• ✓ Detailed price breakdown by service
• ✓ Realistic time estimate (4-6+ hours)
• ✓ Portfolio of before/after photos
• ✓ 4+ star rating with 20+ reviews
• ✓ Names specific product brands (Meguiar's, Chemical Guys, etc.)
• ✓ Proof of insurance upon request
• ✓ Written estimate or contract
• ✓ Satisfaction guarantee or warranty
• ✓ Professional website or social media presence
• ✓ Answers questions thoroughly and honestly

Questions to Ask Before You Book

Get clarity on pricing and services:

1. "What exactly is included in your full detail package?"

   • Should get itemized list

2. "How long will it take for my [vehicle type] in [condition]?"

   • Red flag if under 3 hours

3. "Will my car's condition affect the price, and by how much?"

   • Honest detailers assess before quoting

4. "What products and equipment do you use?"

   • Quality brands = quality results

5. "Do you guarantee your work? What if I'm not satisfied?"

   • Shows confidence in service

6. "Are there any additional fees I should expect?"

   • Avoids surprise charges

7. "Do you have insurance, and can I see proof?"

   • Protects you from liability

8. "Can I see examples of your work on similar vehicles?"

   • Proves experience with your car type

The Real Value: Why Professional Detailing Is Worth It

Protection of Your Investment

Your car is likely your second-largest purchase after your home.

• Paint protection: Wax/sealant prevents oxidation and fading
• Interior preservation: UV protection prevents cracking and fading
• Rust prevention: Removing contaminants prevents paint damage
• Resale value: Well-maintained cars sell for $1,000-$3,000 more

Time Savings

DIY full detail: 8-12 hours of your time Professional detail: 0 hours of your time (drop off/mobile)

Your hourly rate (even conservatively at $25/hr): 8 hours × $25 = $200 of your time

Professional detail cost: $200-$350

The math: You break even or save by having a professional do it, plus they do it better.

Expertise & Results

Professionals have:

• Specialized equipment (extractors, polishers, steamers)
• Professional-grade products (not available to consumers)
• Training and experience (avoiding damage)
• Warranty/guarantee on work

Bottom line: Better results, less risk of damage.

Need Help Growing Your Detailing Business?

If you're a car detailing professional, your website is your 24/7 salesperson. A professional, well-optimized website can double or triple your bookings.

Why Car Detailing Businesses Need Great Websites

78% of customers research online before booking a service. If your website is:

• ❌ Slow or broken on mobile
• ❌ Missing clear pricing
• ❌ Hard to book appointments
• ❌ Not showing up in Google searches

You're losing customers to competitors.

What LoomLogy Builds for Detailing Businesses

✅ Mobile-First Design: Perfect on all devices ✅ Online Booking System: 24/7 appointment scheduling ✅ Pricing Calculators: Instant quotes based on vehicle type ✅ Before/After Galleries: Showcase your best work ✅ Local SEO: Rank #1 for "car detailing near me" ✅ Google Business Integration: Reviews + maps embedded ✅ Payment Processing: Accept deposits or full payment ✅ Blog Platform: Content marketing for more traffic ✅ Service Area Pages: Target multiple cities ✅ Speed Optimized: Load in under 2 seconds

Real Results

Our clients see:

• 📈 150-300% increase in website traffic
• 📞 2-5x more booking requests
• ⭐ Higher conversion rates (visitors → customers)
• 🔍 First-page Google rankings for local keywords

Pricing

Custom websites starting at $2,500 Monthly maintenance plans available Payment plans accepted

Schedule a free consultation →

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Quick Reference: Full Detail Cost Summary

National Average for Standard Full Detail: $275

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Final Takeaway: A full car detail typically costs $175-$400 depending on your vehicle size, condition, and location. For most car owners, investing in a professional full detail 2-4 times per year provides the best balance of cost, protection, and appearance.

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About the Author: Whitney Francis is a Content Strategist at LoomLogy specializing in local service business marketing, pricing strategy, and customer education for automotive industry professionals.