When was the last time you had your car detailed?
If you can’t remember, then it’s been too long. Some experts suggest doing it every four to six months, which means you should have at least two sessions on the books annually.
As you get ready to send your vehicle for this intensive cleaning session, you might find yourself wondering, how much does it cost to detail a car? The answer to this question depends on many factors — read on to find out how much it could cause for your ride.
How Much Does It Cost to Detail a Car?
There’s no single answer to this question. Instead, we have to look at what makes car detailing more or less expensive for vehicle owners.
1. The Size of Your Car Matters
You can probably guess how this part will work. Smaller sets of wheels cost less to detail.
On the other hand, an extra-large SUV or truck will probably require more time and energy. Therefore, it will be pricier if you have such a large vehicle in your garage.
2. The Package You Choose Will Change the Price
Most car detailers provide you with an array of packages. You can choose the service which best suits your car — and how dirty it is.
In general, every detailing session should include the following:
- A car wash, including windows, trim and tires
- Vacuuming
- Waxing
- Interior polishing
Beyond that, you can opt for a more intensive or specialized cleaning — but it will cost you more. For example, you might want your car’s built-in sporting equipment holders detailed. Or, you might have a vintage car that needs a gentle-yet-thorough wash.
All of these scenarios will mean you will owe more for your detail. But, remember, you usually get what you pay for — and, if you have a car that needs closer care, it could be worth forking over the extra cash.
3. The State of Your Car Will Factor In, Too
Any car detailer will tell you that they charge less for cars that require less work. Meanwhile, if you’ve never cleaned your vehicle since it has been in your possession, it’ll probably be a much costlier service to have it detailed.
The Bottom Line
Car detailing prices depend on the size of your vehicle, what treatment you choose and how dirty it is in the first place.
So, how much does it cost to detail a car? In general, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $125 to have your car detailed if it’s an average-sized sedan. Meanwhile, it can cost anywhere between $75 and $150 for larger vehicles — think SUVs, trucks, vans, etc.
Of course, these are only estimates — car detailing costs will change, and each proprietor will set their prices to match the quality and intricacy of their services. So, find a provider whose prices and services match what you need. Then, sign up for car detailing — and feel great driving your sparkling vehicle once again.
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