A clean car feels good. But when it comes to hiring a professional detailer, it’s hard to know who to trust. Some detailers are artists. Others just spray some wax and call it a day.
So how do you find a car detailer who won’t waste your time or money?
This guide breaks it down step-by-step.
Why Does Car Detailing Even Matter?
More Than Just Shine
Car detailing isn’t just a fancy car wash. It protects your vehicle’s paint, restores the interior, and can add years to your car’s life. A good detail can even boost resale value.
According to Kelley Blue Book, a well-maintained car can sell for 10 to 20 percent more than a neglected one. That’s hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
It’s not just about looks. It’s about keeping your car healthy inside and out.
What Makes a Good Detailer?
Tools, Products, and Technique
A solid detailer will:
- Use high-quality, name-brand products
- Have proper tools (like dual-action polishers, steamers, and extractors)
- Know the difference between paint correction and simple polishing
- Offer different packages based on your needs
If they’re using dish soap and rags, walk away.
Real Experience
Experience matters. An experienced detailer can fix common issues like water spots, swirl marks, and faded trim.
Ask what types of vehicles they’ve worked on. Someone who has detailed both daily drivers and exotic cars knows how to treat your ride with care.
What Red Flags Should You Watch Out For?
No Before and After Photos
A good detailer will have photos of their work. If they don’t, they probably haven’t done much worth showing.
Vague Pricing
Avoid detailers who give you a flat price for “everything.” Real detailing depends on your vehicle’s condition. Someone quoting $40 for a full detail on a luxury SUV is either cutting corners or lying.
No Reviews or a Sketchy Online Reputation
Always check what other customers are saying. Read reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. Be cautious if they have no reviews, or only five-star reviews posted in the same week.
A mix of reviews shows authenticity. Bonus points if the business responds politely to negative comments.
If you want an extra layer of protection, tools like Reputation Recharge can show a shop’s full online history, flag fake reviews, and give you a better sense of their real-world reputation.
How to Search for a Detailer Near You
Ask Around First
Word of mouth is still the most trusted form of referral. Ask friends, coworkers, or your mechanic if they know someone.
“I found my guy through a buddy who runs a dealership,” said Kevin, a car enthusiast in Phoenix. “Now I bring all my vehicles to him. He even got coffee stains out of the headliner.”
That’s the kind of referral you want.
Use Local Forums
Check out Reddit, Facebook groups, or enthusiast forums for your city. People in your area will often shout out their favorite local pros.
Search terms like:
- “Best car detailer [your city]”
- “Paint correction [your city]”
- “Mobile car detailing reviews [your city]”
What to Ask Before Booking
1. Do You Offer Paint Correction?
Paint correction removes swirl marks and scratches. Many cheap shops skip this step or claim to do it but just cover the problem with wax.
If you care about the finish of your paint, ask them to explain their process. A good detailer will mention things like “machine polishing” or “multi-stage correction.”
2. What Products Do You Use?
Ask which products they use for ceramic coating, wax, or interior cleaning. Names like Meguiar’s, Chemical Guys, Gtechniq, and 3M are all trusted brands.
If they say “we just use our own mix” and can’t explain what’s in it, that’s a bad sign.
3. Do You Offer Mobile Services?
Mobile detailing is more convenient. Some pros will come to your house or office with everything they need. Just make sure they have their own water and power supply.
What Should a Full Detail Include?
A proper full detail should include:
Exterior:
- Hand wash and dry
- Clay bar treatment
- Paint decontamination
- Polish or paint correction
- Wax or sealant
- Tire dressing
- Headlight restoration (if needed)
Interior:
- Vacuum and shampoo carpets
- Steam clean upholstery
- Clean vents, cupholders, and all trim
- Leather conditioning
- Window and mirror cleaning
If a place skips half of this, they’re just doing a glorified car wash.
How Often Should You Get It Done?
Most people should get a full detail 2 to 4 times per year. If you live in a snowy area with road salt or a hot area with sun damage, lean toward four.
For daily drivers, a mini-detail every month or two can keep the car looking sharp.
If you’re leasing or selling your car soon, a professional detail before photos and showings is worth every penny.
Bonus Tip: Know the Lingo
- Clay Bar: Removes stuck-on contaminants from paint
- Paint Correction: Fixes swirls and scratches
- Ceramic Coating: A long-lasting sealant that protects your paint for up to 5 years
- Interior Extraction: Deep cleaning of carpets and fabric
- Headliner: The fabric on your car’s ceiling (hard to clean properly)
If your detailer doesn’t know these terms, look elsewhere.
What Should It Cost?
Prices vary by location and vehicle size, but here’s a rough guide:
- Basic wash and wax: $50–$100
- Interior detail only: $75–$150
- Full detail (in/out): $150–$300
- Paint correction or ceramic coating: $500+
You get what you pay for. If someone offers a full detail for $30, they’re not doing it right.
Final Thoughts
Don’t trust your car to just anyone with a bucket and a vacuum. Do your research. Ask smart questions. Read reviews. Use tools like Reputation Recharge to make sure the detailer’s reputation is real.
“When someone brings us a car worth six figures, trust is everything,” says Hosam Al-Baderi, CEO of Amari Motors. “We’ve had clients fly in just to make sure their vehicle gets detailed the right way. That kind of care can’t be faked. It’s earned.”
A clean car should feel like new. With the right professional, it actually can.