Pricing guide
How Much Does Car Detailing Cost?
Updated June 2026
Car detailing is priced by package and vehicle size, from a basic wash to a full interior-and-exterior detail or a ceramic coating. Below are honest, typical U.S. ranges so you know what to expect and where the premium services add up.
Average car detailing
$50 to $300+
By package and vehicle size. Basic washes are at the low end; full details and ceramic coatings cost considerably more.
Quick answer
Car detailing typically costs $50 to $300 or more depending on the package and vehicle size. A basic wash and wax runs $50 to $100, a full interior-and-exterior detail $150 to $300, and a ceramic coating $500 to $2,000.
Car Detailing price list
| Service | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Basic wash and wax | $50 to $100 |
| Interior detail | $75 to $200 |
| Full detail (interior + exterior) | $150 to $300 |
| Clay bar and polish | $100 to $250 |
| Ceramic coating | $500 to $2,000 |
| Headlight restoration | $50 to $150 |
Prices are typical U.S. ranges and vary by region, scope, and condition. Always get a written quote.
Cost by vehicle size (full detail)
| Vehicle | Full detail |
|---|---|
| Sedan / compact | $150 to $225 |
| SUV / crossover | $175 to $275 |
| Truck / large SUV | $200 to $350 |
| Minivan | $200 to $325 |
Cost by package
| Package | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Express wash | $25 to $50 | exterior wash and dry |
| Wash and wax | $50 to $100 | wash plus wax |
| Interior detail | $75 to $200 | vacuum, shampoo, wipe-down |
| Full detail | $150 to $300 | interior plus exterior |
| Ceramic coating | $500 to $2,000 | multi-year paint protection |
What affects the cost
Vehicle size
A compact car costs less than a large SUV, truck, or van, which have more surface area and interior to clean.
Package level
A basic wash is quick; a full detail with clay bar, polish, and interior shampoo takes hours and costs more.
Condition
Heavily soiled interiors, pet hair, stains, or oxidized paint take extra time and may carry a surcharge.
Mobile vs shop
Mobile detailing that comes to you may add a convenience surcharge, while a shop may have package deals.
Where the money goes
Most detailers price by package, with premium services like clay bar, polish, and especially ceramic coating priced separately because they are time-intensive and high-skill. Ceramic coating is the biggest single line because it can take a full day and protects the paint for years.
Should you DIY or hire a pro?
A basic wash is easy to DIY. A full detail (clay bar, machine polish, interior shampoo) and especially a ceramic coating need professional skill and equipment: a botched coating has to be stripped and redone, which costs more than paying a pro the first time. For protection and resale value, a pro detail is usually worth it.
How to save on car detailing
- Book a package rather than à la carte services.
- Maintain the car between details so each one is lighter and cheaper.
- A ceramic coating costs more up front but cuts future detailing needs.
- Mobile detailing saves you the trip and is often priced similarly.
- Ask about membership or repeat-customer discounts.
Run a car detailing business? Here is what to charge
If you run a detailing business, price your packages clearly and break out premium services like ceramic coating as separate lines, they are your highest-margin work. Memberships and repeat customers are far more valuable than one-off washes.
Frequently asked questions
How much does car detailing cost?+
Car detailing runs $50 to $300 or more depending on the package and vehicle size. A basic wash and wax is $50 to $100, a full interior-and-exterior detail $150 to $300, and ceramic coating $500 to $2,000.
How much is a full car detail?+
A full detail (interior and exterior) typically runs $150 to $300 for an average vehicle, more for large SUVs and trucks or heavily soiled interiors. It usually includes wash, wax, interior shampoo, and detailing.
How much does ceramic coating cost?+
Ceramic coating commonly runs $500 to $2,000 depending on the vehicle size, the number of coats, and the prep (clay bar and polish) required. It protects the paint for years, which is why it costs more than a wax.
How much does interior detailing cost?+
An interior detail (vacuum, shampoo, wipe-down, and conditioning) typically runs $75 to $200 depending on the vehicle size and condition. Pet hair and heavy stains may add a surcharge.
Is mobile detailing more expensive?+
Mobile detailing that comes to you may add a small convenience surcharge over a shop, but it saves you the trip. Pricing by package is otherwise similar.
More pricing guides
How we research these prices
These figures are typical U.S. market ranges, cross-checked against our own industry research where we have it, and reviewed periodically. Prices vary by region, scope, condition, and the pro you hire, so treat them as a starting point and always get a written quote. Last updated June 2026.
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