Car detailing cost in 2026 typically runs $150–$350 in the US for a full interior-and-exterior detail on a sedan — the national average sits around $220, climbing to about $310 for SUVs and trucks. In Canada, expect $250–$450 CAD for the same full package. That’s a big step up from a $20 drive-through wash, and it buys something different: hours of hand work that most owners only book once or twice a year. Here’s what each package costs, what quietly adds to the bill, and how to hire a car washing and detailing pro who’s worth the money.
Car Detailing Prices: US and Canada
| Package | US (USD) | Canada (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic wash & wax | $20–$60 | $60–$120 |
| Interior-only detail | $100–$300 | $150–$280 |
| Exterior-only detail | $75–$200 | $150–$300 |
| Full detail (sedan) | $150–$350 | $250–$450 |
| Full detail (SUV / truck) | $200–$450 | $300–$500 |
| Paint correction | $500–$2,500 | $600–$2,500 |
| Ceramic coating | $750–$2,500 | $700–$2,500+ |
Location moves the needle: coastal US markets like California and New York run roughly 30% above the national average, while Texas and Ohio sit 10–15% below. In Canada, Toronto detailers quote anywhere from $60 for a basic exterior wash to $1,000+ for ceramic work, and Calgary full details land around $250–$450.
What Changes the Price
Vehicle size and condition
SUVs, trucks, and minivans cost $50–$100 more than sedans for the same package — more glass, more carpet, more panels. Condition matters even more: a daily kid-and-dog hauler takes twice the hours of a commuter car, and detailers price accordingly.
Add-ons that surprise people
- Pet hair removal: $25–$75 — it’s genuinely slow work
- Odor or smoke treatment (ozone): $50–$150
- Stain extraction / seat shampoo: $30–$100
- Engine bay cleaning: $25–$75
- Winter salt packages (Canada): commonly a $100 add-on in spring
Mobile vs. shop
Mobile detailing — the pro comes to your driveway — usually runs 10–20% above the equivalent shop package, or carries a flat $25–$50 travel fee. For most busy households it’s worth it: no drop-off, no shuttle, no waiting room.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
A weekend DIY detail costs $50–$150 in supplies (clay bar, polish, interior cleaners, microfiber) and 4–6 hours of your time — a fine deal if you enjoy it. Where pros earn their fee is equipment and judgment: hot-water extractors for carpets, dual-action polishers that won’t burn through clear coat, and knowing which products are safe on modern matte trims and screens. As with most services, the DIY savings end where specialized tools begin. Paint correction and ceramic coating are firmly pro territory — a bad polish job is permanent.
If you’re deciding where the money goes each season, a spring or summer detail pairs naturally with the rest of the exterior checklist — many homeowners book it the same week as pressure washing the driveway.
How to Vet a Detailer
- Ask for a written package list — legitimate pros publish exactly what each tier includes; vague “starting at” pricing invites upsells.
- Check photos of their actual work, not stock images — before/after interiors tell you everything.
- Confirm insurance if they’re working in your driveway or garage.
- Ask what they use on paint — anyone doing polish or correction should name their process and products without hesitation.
- Read reviews for consistency, not just stars: the complaint pattern to avoid is “great first visit, rushed the second.”
You can compare vetted, reviewed pros through the car detailing near-me finder and get quotes without phone tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get my car detailed?
Twice a year is the sweet spot for most drivers — spring (to strip winter grime and salt) and fall. Weekly washes in between maintain the work.
Is car detailing worth it before selling?
Almost always. A $200–$300 full detail routinely adds more than that to resale or trade-in value, and clean listing photos attract faster offers.
How long does a full detail take?
Plan on 3–5 hours for a sedan in average condition, and up to a full day for large vehicles, heavy pet hair, or add-ons like paint correction.
Why is my SUV more expensive to detail than a car?
Surface area. More seats, carpet, glass, and body panels mean more labor hours — which is why most detailers add $50–$100 for SUVs and trucks.
Ready to get that new-car feeling back without spending your Saturday on it? Get quotes on MastersGuild and compare local detailers in minutes.
