How much does car detailing cost? A guide to pricing factors

If your car’s paint is dull, its headlights are cloudy, the interior smells musty, or there are stains on the seats and carpets that won't come out with regular cleaning, then it needs a full detail.

But how much does car detailing cost, and what does it include?

Keep reading for a comprehensive breakdown of the costs, including key factors that influence them, and tips on selecting the right car detailing service.

Key takeaways

• Average cost: Most car detailing packages fall between $150 and $500, with premium or specialty services reaching $1,000+.
  
  
• What drives price: Vehicle size, condition, service package, and extras like ceramic coating or paint correction.
  
  
• Biggest savings tip: Stick with mid-range packages and only add extras that match your needs — like headlight restoration or odor removal.

What is car detailing?

Car detailing is a deep, top-to-bottom cleaning of your car’s interior and exterior — more like a makeover than a wash. The aim is to restore that “like-new” feel, remove built-up grime, protect surfaces, extend your vehicle’s lifespan, and even boost resale value.

Unlike a quick car wash, which rinses dirt from the outside and maybe vacuums the floors, detailing goes much further. It tackles every nook and cranny, treats surfaces for long-term protection, and leaves your car looking and feeling noticeably different.

How much does it cost to detail a car?

The cost of car detailing typically ranges from about $100 to $900 or more, depending on the package you choose, the condition of your vehicle, and whether you drive a compact car or a larger SUV or truck. For most cars, a standard detail falls in the $150–$500 range, while premium packages with extras like ceramic coating can exceed $1,000.

A basic package usually costs between $100 and $175. This level of service covers the essentials, such as a hand wash and dry of the exterior, vacuuming of the seats, carpets, and trunk, wiping down the dashboard and interior panels, and a simple window clean.

A mid-range detail costs between $200 and $350. It typically includes everything in the basic package plus shampooing or steaming carpets and seats, spot cleaning minor stains, waxing the exterior paint, restoring headlights, and cleaning and dressing wheels and tires.

A premium package generally runs from $400 to $900+, depending on your car’s size and condition. Premium services go much deeper, with paint correction to remove swirl marks and scratches, polishing, ceramic or long-term sealant application, and thorough interior restoration. Upholstery and carpets are steam-cleaned, larger stains are treated or removed, and leather or vinyl surfaces are conditioned with protective coatings.

If you drive a larger SUV, truck, or van, you can expect to pay an additional $50 to $150 due to the extra time and materials required.

What’s included in a car detail?

A full car detail usually includes two main parts: interior detailing and exterior detailing. Together, these services restore your car’s look, protect its surfaces, and improve comfort and resale value.

Interior car detailing

Interior detailing covers everything inside the vehicle — from seats and carpets to vents and cup holders. It typically begins with a deep vacuuming of the seats, carpets, trunk, and edges. Detailers then use brushes and tools to clean tight spaces, such as cup holders and air vents, while floor mats are removed and either steam-cleaned or power-washed.

Fabric seats are shampooed or steam-cleaned to lift stains and odors, while leather seats are cleaned and conditioned to prevent cracking. Hard surfaces, including the dashboard, center console, and door panels, are wiped down and treated with protectants. Interior glass, mirrors, and the windshield are also cleaned to remove smudges and film.

By the end, your car smells fresher, looks cleaner, and feels more pleasant to drive.

Exterior car detailing

Exterior detailing focuses on cleaning, restoring, and protecting your car’s exterior. It starts with a thorough hand wash to remove dirt, bugs, and road grime, followed by a clay bar treatment to lift debris stuck to the paint.

The paint is then polished to minimize scratches, dull spots, and swirl marks before being sealed with wax or a paint protectant for extra shine and durability. Detailers also clean exterior features such as door handles, trim, mirrors, and badges for a uniform finish. Wheels and tires are degreased, scrubbed, and dressed for a glossy look, while windows, headlights, and mirrors are polished for clarity.

The result is a cleaner, shinier car that’s protected from the elements.

Calculating the cost of car detailing

The cost of car detailing is a mix of your base package (basic, mid-range, or premium) plus any extras you decide to add. Vehicle size, frequency, and specialty services can all increase the total. Use the breakdown below to get a realistic idea of what you’ll spend.

How to calculate your car detailing total

1. Pick your base package: Basic ($100–$175), Mid-range ($200–$350), or Premium ($400–$900+).
   
   
2. Adjust for vehicle size: Add $50–$150 for SUVs, trucks, or vans.
   
   
3. Add extras: Choose relevant add-ons like headlight restoration ($75–$200) or ceramic coating ($700–$2,500). Use the cost calculator table below for estimated prices of common add-ons.
   
   
4. Factor in frequency: For an annual total, multiply by how often you plan to detail your car each year.
   
   
5. Get your total: Add it all up for your annual or one-time cost.

Base package costs

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Common add-ons

Cost by vehicle type

Vehicle size plays one of the biggest roles in pricing. Larger vehicles require more labor and supplies, so detailers add a surcharge.

Cost by condition of vehicle  

The condition of your car plays a big role in how much a detail costs. Well-maintained cars with light dirt are quicker to clean, while vehicles with stains, pet hair, or smoke odors require more time, labor, and products.

Factors that affect the cost of car detailing

Car detailing prices vary widely depending on your vehicle and the type of service you select. These are the main factors that influence the final cost:

Vehicle size and type

Smaller cars, such as sedans and coupes, are generally quicker and easier to detail, so they cost less. Larger vehicles, like SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks, take more time and cleaning products, which often adds $50–$150 to the package price.

Condition and cleanliness 

Light dirt is fast to remove, but deep stains, pet hair, sticky spills, or heavy grime require extra labor. Vehicles that need stain removal or odor treatments will always cost more than a car that’s already well-maintained.

Level of service package

The more comprehensive the detail, the higher the cost. A basic wash and vacuum sits at the bottom of the scale, while packages with shampooing, waxing, polishing, or ceramic coatings increase the price.

Location and market rates

Urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living usually charge more to cover overhead and demand. Mobile detailers may add a convenience fee, while highly competitive markets sometimes offer package deals or discounts.

Premium products and specialty services

Add-ons like ceramic coatings, paint correction, odor removal, and engine bay cleaning can each add hundreds of dollars to the bill. Premium brands of waxes, polishes, or protectants also raise costs compared to standard products.

Common add-ons and their prices

In addition to basic, mid-range, or premium packages, you can add extra services to customize your detail. These upgrades enhance protection, restore surfaces, or target specific problem areas. They can also be purchased individually without a full detailing package.

Paint correction: Typically ranges from $300 to $1,200, depending on the severity of scratches or swirl marks and the size of the vehicle. Multi-stage correction for luxury or dark-colored cars can exceed $1,500.

Ceramic coating: Usually runs from $700 to $2,500, depending on the brand, warranty, and number of layers applied. It provides long-lasting protection against UV rays, water spots, dirt, and light scratches, often lasting several years with proper care.

Headlight restoration: A relatively inexpensive upgrade, costing $75 to $200. It improves visibility, safety, and the overall look of the car by polishing away yellowing and oxidation.

Engine bay cleaning: Costs between $125 and $450, depending on the level of buildup and the level of detail required. A clean engine bay not only looks better but can also make spotting leaks or maintenance issues easier.

DIY vs. professional car detailing

DIY car detailing is a good option for light upkeep. It can save you money and allows you to clean your car on your own schedule. That said, it takes significant effort, the right products, and some experience to avoid mistakes. Using the wrong cleaner or technique can actually damage your car’s surfaces.

Professional detailing costs more but delivers a deeper, longer-lasting clean. Trained detailers use high-end tools, techniques, and protective products that restore your car’s finish and protect it over time. This makes professional detailing the better choice if you want your car to look showroom-ready, prepare it for resale, or preserve its value long-term.

Car detailing alternatives (with costs)

Professional detailing isn’t the only way to keep your car looking good. Depending on your budget and needs, there are lower-cost or quicker alternatives. While they don’t deliver the same deep clean or long-lasting protection, they can be a good fit for regular upkeep or in-between professional details.

Drive-through or automatic car washes

These are the cheapest and fastest options, usually $10–$25 per wash. Machines spray, scrub, and rinse the exterior, sometimes with a quick wax. While convenient, they don’t touch the interior and can leave swirl marks on paint over time.

Car wash subscription services

Many national chains now offer unlimited monthly plans for $20–$40. These allow you to wash your car as often as you like, keeping the exterior looking fresh. Subscriptions are great for daily drivers but don’t include any deep cleaning, stain removal, or interior protection.

Interior-only or exterior-only services

Some shops and mobile providers offer partial packages, focusing only on what you need. Interior-only services ($50–$150) include vacuuming, wiping surfaces, and glass cleaning. Exterior-only services ($75–$150) typically include a wash, wax, and wheel cleaning. These save money if just one area of your car needs attention.

Mobile quick cleanings

Mobile detailers sometimes offer express packages in the $75–$200 range. These usually cover an exterior wash, interior vacuum, and wipe-down. They’re a middle ground between a car wash and a full detail, offering more thoroughness than a drive-through wash but without the full polish, shampoo, or protective coatings.

Quick tips for choosing the right car detailing service

Selecting the right car detailing service takes more than just picking the cheapest option. Here are some quick tips to help.

• Compare detailers and their packages: Look closely at what each service includes. Don’t just focus on the price. Check whether they offer extras, such as waxing, shampooing, or stain removal, as part of the package.
  
  
• Check reviews and certifications: Read customer reviews to see if others have been satisfied with their results. Choose detailers with certifications or training that demonstrate their expertise in handling the specific materials and finishes of your car.
  
  
• Ask questions: Before booking, find out exactly what’s included in the price, how long the service takes, and the products used by the detailer. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
  
  
• Clarify the pricing structure: Some detailers list a “starting from” price, which means the car detail cost may increase depending on the vehicle's size or condition. Always clarify whether the quoted prices are fixed or just a base estimate.

Choosing the right car detailing option for you

Car detailing may feel like an extra expense, but it often saves money and stress over time. A clean, well-maintained car is easier to care for, holds its value longer, and can sell faster — and for more — when it comes time to upgrade.

Think about your car’s condition, how often you use it, and your long-term goals. If you’re on a tighter budget or only drive occasionally, a professional detail once or twice a year, combined with regular at-home cleaning, is often enough. If you rely on your car daily or want to maximize resale value, more frequent professional detailing may be worth the investment.

How much does car detailing cost FAQs

How much does a full car detail normally cost?
A full car detail usually costs $150–$500, though premium services with paint correction or ceramic coating can run $900+.

Is detailing worth the money?
Yes. Detailing restores your car’s look, protects paint and interior surfaces, and can boost resale value, often saving money long-term.

Is it better to wax or detail a car?
Waxing protects paint, but detailing is more complete. A detail includes cleaning, interior care, and waxing, so it’s the better all-around option.

How often should I fully detail a car?
Most cars benefit from a full detail 1–2 times per year. Daily drivers or resale prep may need quarterly detailing.

What are the disadvantages of car detailing?
The main downsides are cost and time. Premium packages can be expensive, and without maintenance, results won’t last as long.

How much should I tip for a $100 car detail?
A tip of $10–$20 (10–20%) is standard for good service, though some people give more for exceptional results.

What happens if I never wax my car?
Without wax, your car’s paint is more vulnerable to fading, oxidation, and water spots, which can dull the finish and lower resale value.

Can detailing fix scratches on a car?
Detailing can remove light scratches and swirl marks through polishing or paint correction, but deep scratches usually need body shop repair.

What’s included in a basic car detail?
A basic detail includes an exterior wash and dry, vacuuming, wiping interior surfaces, and a simple window clean.