Car wash vs. detailing package: What’s the difference?

Washing and detailing is a crucial part of any car maintenance routine. But when does your vehicle need which service? 

Let’s go over the differences between car washes and car detailing packages, including what they involve and how much they typically cost. 

Car wash services 

Car washes eliminate surface dirt and debris from the exterior of your vehicle, which it collects over time. This process involves a mixture of water, soap, and other chemicals that are applied to your vehicle with tools like brushes and sponges. 

Most drivers take their car to an automatic car wash where the vehicle either sits stationary inside a cleaning bay or is slowly brought through a bay along a conveyor belt, providing a 360° clean. You can also employ a professional hand wash service for a more thorough scrub. 

For general maintenance, take your car for a wash every two or three weeks. You may need a wash more or less frequently depending on the weather and the terrain you drive on. 

Cost 

Most automatic car washes will cost between $15 and $30. For a hand wash, you can expect this price to increase to $30 to $50, depending on the vehicle type. 

You can save some money in the long run by learning how to DIY your car wash. With the right products, you can give your car a good clean from your own driveway. Always use the right products for the surface you’re working on. Keep in mind, DIY washing uses more water than professional washes. Also double-check local bylaws to ensure car washing on private property isn’t illegal. 

For general upkeep, a standard car wash may be all you need. If your vehicle has collected some serious stains or is a luxury model, a detailing package may be a worthwhile investment. 

Car detailing packages 

Detailing is an in-depth clean of your car, both inside and out, to get it to the best cosmetic condition possible. If your car has collected some deep stains, scratches, or any other imperfections, you’ll need a detailing package to fix it up. 

Detailing will include vacuuming, washing, drying, polishing, and more. Aside from cleaning, detailing is also about improving the condition of your car’s surfaces. After cleaning everything, a professional detailer will lock in their work with protective products, like wax and sealant. Detailing can help preserve the condition of your car by eliminating cumulative debris so it doesn’t turn into corrosion. This is a service car washes don’t guarantee. 

If you’re planning to sell your vehicle, a thorough detailing session can help it look brand new. 

Cost 

Car detailing takes significantly longer than car washing, involves many more products, and requires a certain amount of skill. These factors make detailing more expensive than simply washing. Unlike car washing, however, detailing isn’t needed very often. If you keep up with a regular washing schedule, you may only need to detail your car twice per year. 

Most detailing packages will cost a minimum of $100. The final price will vary depending on the vehicle type and what exactly the package includes. 

If you’re trying to stay within a budget, consider learning how to detail your car yourself. You’ll need to invest in some quality products and tools to do this task properly. Be sure to carefully read through your owner’s manual and confirm you are using the right solutions for your vehicle. 

For questions about car washing and detailing, visit a NAPA AUTOPRO service centre to speak with an expert.