Car Wash vs. Car Detail

When people think about cleaning their car, most imagine a quick car wash—but there’s a big difference between that and a professional detail. A car wash is a surface-level clean that removes visible dirt and grime, usually in 10–15 minutes. It's cheap and fast, but often misses the deeper buildup and can even leave micro-scratches behind.

Detailing, on the other hand, is a thorough, top-to-bottom reconditioning of your vehicle. It includes deep cleaning, polishing, and protection for both the interior and exterior—think steam-cleaned carpets, hand-polished paint, and UV protection for your dashboard. Detailing not only makes your car look amazing but also extends its life, preserves resale value, and protects finishes from sun, salt, and contaminants.

In short: a car wash gets your car clean; a detail keeps your car like new.