Detailing services
Exterior Detailing
Exterior detailing is a comprehensive cleaning and restoration service focused on all external surfaces of a vehicle. It's designed to protect paint, restore shine, and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal, making it essential for car owners who want to maintain their vehicle's appearance and preserve its value.
$40–$1299Typical cost
$150Median
Typically 2-6 hours, depending on vehicle size and conditionTypical time
What exterior detailing includes
- Thorough exterior wash and decontamination
- Clay bar treatment to remove embedded contaminants
- Paint correction (polishing) to remove light scratches and swirl marks
- Application of wax, sealant, or ceramic coating for protection
- Wheel and tire cleaning and dressing
- Exterior trim restoration and protection
- Window cleaning and streak-free finish
Best for: Ideal for vehicle owners looking to restore their car's showroom shine, protect its paint from environmental damage, or enhance its curb appeal for resale.
Price comparison
Exterior Detailing cost by state
| State | Typical range | Median | Providers |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $40–$1299 | $120 | 34 in 15 cities |
| Georgia | $40–$275 | $123 | 24 in 12 cities |
| Texas | $40–$600 | $137 | 84 in 34 cities |
| Oregon | $40–$575 | $149 | 19 in 5 cities |
| Arizona | $50–$750 | $150 | 30 in 8 cities |
| Florida | $40–$575 | $150 | 90 in 43 cities |
| California | $40–$800 | $175 | 132 in 47 cities |
| Nevada | $80–$490 | $175 | 11 in 6 cities |
| Colorado | $40–$499 | $182 | 42 in 12 cities |
| Washington | $40–$649 | $215 | 57 in 13 cities |
Aggregated from detailers that publish exterior detailing pricing across the states we cover. Ranges widen with vehicle size and condition — request a quote to confirm.
What affects the price
- Vehicle size and type (e.g., sedan vs. SUV)
- Current condition of the paint and exterior surfaces
- Type of protection applied (e.g., wax, sealant, ceramic coating)
- Inclusion of additional services like headlight restoration or paint correction levels
- Geographic location and expertise of the detailer
FAQ
Exterior Detailing — FAQs
What is exterior car detailing?
Exterior car detailing is a meticulous process of cleaning, correcting, and protecting all external surfaces of your vehicle, including paint, wheels, trim, and glass, to restore its aesthetic appeal and provide long-lasting protection.
How much does exterior detailing cost?
Exterior detailing typically ranges from $40 to $1299, with a national median cost of $150, depending on the service provider, vehicle size, and the specific services included.
How often should I get exterior detailing?
Most experts recommend getting your car's exterior detailed every 6 to 12 months to maintain paint protection and appearance, especially if your vehicle is frequently exposed to harsh weather or environmental contaminants.
What's the difference between a car wash and exterior detailing?
A car wash is a quick surface clean, primarily removing loose dirt. Exterior detailing, in contrast, is a multi-step, in-depth process that cleans, decontaminates, corrects imperfections, and applies protective coatings to all exterior surfaces, offering a far superior and more lasting result.
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