How much does car detailing cost?

Taking care of your car isn’t just about oil changes and checking tire pressure—it’s also about keeping it clean. Think about it: your car faces all kinds of wear and tear daily, from salty winter roads to the harsh summer sun. Dirt, UV rays, and even corrosion can take a toll on both the inside and outside of your vehicle. That’s why car detailing isn’t just about making your ride look shiny—it’s about protecting and maintaining it. Let’s break down why detailing matters and what you can expect it to cost.

Understanding the cost of car detailing

On average, you’re looking at anywhere from $100 to $500 or more, depending on your vehicle and how much detailing it needs. Just add it to your regular car maintenance costs.

Professional car detailing prices in Canada can vary quite a bit depending on a few things. The city you’re in, the services you choose, and how much grime your car has built up all play a role. But the biggest factor? The size and type of your car. We will explore each one in detail below:

Your car's size and type

One of the biggest factors that impacts the cost of car detailing is your vehicle's size. A small two-door compact car is much quicker and easier to detail than a full-size SUV or van, which takes more time and resources to get the job done.

For example, a small car in Ontario may cost around $150 for a basic interior detailing service, while larger vehicles like a minivan or SUV may cost $200 or more.

Your car's condition

The condition of your car and the vendor you choose plays a big role in the cost of detailing. If you keep up with regular cleaning and your upholstery is already in good shape, you can skip the deep-cleaning packages. But if your car needs serious attention—like stained upholstery or dirty mats—you’ll likely need a more intensive option. Services like interior shampooing, steam cleaning, and fabric extraction can work wonders to restore your car’s interior to its former glory.

Your chosen detailing package

You can go for interior detailing, exterior detailing, or full detailing, and your price can vary significantly depending on which one you choose. Many professional car detailing services offer add-ons as well that you may be interested in, like engine detailing or pet hair removal, which will also affect your overall price.

Your location

Prices can also vary based on the province or city/town in which you live. That's why it's best to call around to a few different professional car detailing services when looking to have your car professionally cleaned.

Why you should have your car detailed

Car detailing is a deep-cleaning process that restores your car to feel and look almost brand new. It’s much more thorough than regular cleaning and typically covers both the interior and exterior of your vehicle. Since it’s such a detailed process, it takes longer than your standard car wash—but the results are worth it. Here’s what makes detailing a smart choice and some of the benefits it offers:

Boosts your car’s value

If you’re planning to sell, a clean and well-maintained car can fetch a higher price. Buyers are more likely to pay extra for a vehicle that’s spotless inside and out, with a well-running engine and a polished interior.

Prevents costly repairs

Regular detailing helps protect against issues like rust, corrosion, and buildup on engine parts, tire rims, and wheels. It can even catch small problems early, saving you from major repairs later on.

Extends your car’s life

If you want to keep your vehicle running for as long as possible, regular detailing helps protect it from wear and tear, making it more enjoyable to drive for years to come.

Improves Air Quality

A deep clean removes allergens like pet dander, pollen, and dust from your car, improving the air quality and making it a safer space for allergy sufferers.

Restores your car’s beauty

Detailing can turn back the clock on your car’s appearance by removing scratches, cleaning stains, and clearing away dust. A professional wax job adds that showroom shine, which is especially helpful if you’re putting your car on the market.

Types of car detailing services

Not all cars are in the same condition, so the type of detailing service you need can vary. Understanding the options can help you pick the one that’s just right for your vehicle. From basic to interior to exterior to full detailing, here's what you can expect from each type of car detailing service:

Interior car detailing

Interior car detailing is all about giving your car’s interior a deep clean and leaving it spotless. Professionals use tools like steam cleaners and vacuums to reach those tricky spots most of us miss. Here’s what interior detailing may cover:

• Cleaning and conditioning leather and vinyl surfaces
• Shampooing/steam cleaning carpets
• Thorough vacuuming of interior and trunk
• Cleaning the windows, glass, and mirror
• Wiping down the full interior, including dashboards, console, air vents, door handles, cup holders, etc.
• Odor removal/deodorizing the cabin
• Pet hair removal (sometimes an add-on instead)

Exterior car detailing

Exterior car detailing focuses on making your car’s exterior shine like new. It’s not just about looks—professional detailing also protects key parts, like the engine, from damage caused by high temperatures. Keep in mind that engine cleaning and similar services might cost a bit extra. Here’s what may be included in exterior detailing:

• Handwashing the exterior
• Polishing and waxing
• Paint correction
• Engine bay detailing (sometimes an add-on instead)
• Restoring headlights
• Cleaning and conditioning plastic and rubber trim
• Cleaning tires, rims, and wheel wells
• Repairing minor dents and scratches
• Removing bugs and tar
• Cleaning exterior doors and windows

Full car detailing

Full car detailing is the complete package—it combines both interior and exterior detailing to give your car a thorough makeover. It’s perfect if you want your car cleaned inside and out. Services usually include vacuuming and cleaning the interior, trim painting, engine detailing, bumper repairs, and more. While it’s the priciest option, a professional detailing service can have your car looking as good as new in just a few hours.

How often should I have my car detailed?

It’s generally a good idea to get your car detailed 2-3 times a year to keep it in great shape and avoid the need for more expensive fixes down the road.

That said, how often you detail depends on your car’s usage, whether you’re driving through dirt and mud regularly, and your personal preference.

A good rule of thumb? If your car looks like it needs detailing, it probably does. Winter is a key time for detailing to combat salt and ice buildup, so adding it to part of your winter car maintenance routine can be really essential. As for summer, the dirt and heat can also take a toll, which means having your car detailed can be a beneficial part of your summer car maintenance. Professional detailing not only makes your car look its best but also helps protect its paint and interior for the long haul.

Learn more with BrokerLink

Getting your car detailed is a great way to protect it, but don’t forget about another important layer of protection: the right car insurance. It’s not just about safeguarding your car—it’s about protecting yourself on the road.

While mandatory coverages like liability and accident benefits are a must, optional coverages like collision coverage can be a lifesaver if you're ever in an accident.

At BrokerLink, we’re here to make insurance simple. Our team is ready to help you find personalized quotes and coverage options that fit your needs and budget. You can connect with a local BrokerLink advisor by phone, email, or by visiting one of our locations across Canada. Want something quick and easy? Try our free online quote tool—it only takes a few minutes to get a competitive quote!

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