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Detailing services

Wash & Wax

Wash & Wax is a fundamental car detailing service that cleans your vehicle's exterior and applies a protective layer to enhance shine and guard against environmental elements. It's ideal for vehicle owners seeking to maintain their car's appearance and paint integrity without opting for a full, comprehensive detailing package.

243Verified providers
$65–$120Typical cost
$80Median
1-3 hoursTypical time

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What wash & wax includes

  • Exterior hand wash and rinse
  • Wheel and tire cleaning
  • Tire dressing application
  • Exterior wax or sealant application
  • Exterior window cleaning
  • Door jamb wipe-down

Best for: This service is best for routine vehicle maintenance, protecting paint from light contaminants, and enhancing the car's gloss between more intensive detailing sessions.

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A wash-and-wax price should identify the cleaning scope and the protection applied.

Wash & Wax: scope and possible extras
Part of the jobConfirm the scopePossible difference
WashRemove routine exterior dirtConfirm wheels, jambs and glass.
PreparationAdditional contamination treatment if neededA basic wash may not remove bonded deposits.
ProtectionNamed wax or sealantDurability depends on product and use; ask about renewal.

Questions to ask before booking

  • Is the protection a separate application or a wash additive?
  • What contamination costs extra?
  • Which maintenance routine should I follow?

Send each provider the same vehicle details and photos. Ask for approval before extra work begins, and keep a written copy of the agreed package.

Top-rated providers

Best-rated wash & wax providers nationwide

243 verified detailers across 21 states offer wash & wax, 152 of them mobile. Here are the highest-rated:

By state

Wash & Wax providers & cost by state

StatePublishing a priceTypical rangeMedian
Florida 7 $65–$88 $80
California 6 $95–$125 $120

Advertised rates read from each business's own website, shown only where at least 5 separate businesses in the state publish one. Ranges are the 25th to 75th percentile of per-business midpoints, not quotes. Full cost breakdown →

What affects the price

  • Vehicle size and type (e.g., sedan vs. SUV/truck)
  • Initial condition of the vehicle's exterior
  • Type and quality of wax or sealant used
  • Detailer's experience and location
  • Any additional add-on services requested
FAQ

Wash & Wax FAQs

How much does a Wash & Wax service typically cost?
A Wash & Wax service typically costs between $20 and $545 nationally, with a median price of $95.
How often should I get a Wash & Wax for my car?
It's recommended to get a Wash & Wax every 1 to 3 months, depending on your driving conditions, local climate, and desired level of paint protection.
What is the main difference between Wash & Wax and a full car detail?
Wash & Wax focuses specifically on exterior cleaning and applying a protective wax or sealant, while a full car detail involves comprehensive cleaning, restoration, and protection of both the interior and exterior, often including paint correction.
Does a Wash & Wax remove scratches from my car's paint?
No, a Wash & Wax service primarily cleans and protects the paint; it does not remove scratches. Paint correction services are required to effectively remove swirl marks and scratches.
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