Car detailing in one sentence
Car detailing is cleaning, correcting and protecting every part of a car by hand, from the paint and wheels to the seats, carpets and vents, so it looks as close to new as possible.
What car detailing includes
- Exterior: a careful hand wash, decontamination with a clay bar, and often a machine polish to remove swirls.
- Protection: a wax, sealant or ceramic coating to keep the finish glossy and easier to clean.
- Interior: vacuuming, shampooing or steam cleaning seats and carpets, and cleaning every surface and vent.
- Details: door jambs, wheels, tyres, glass and sometimes the engine bay.
Car detailing vs car wash vs car valet
A car wash cleans the outside quickly, often with brushes. A car valet or car groom is a thorough hand clean inside and out. Detailing goes further again, correcting paint defects and adding long-lasting protection. In Auckland the words get mixed up, so always check what's included.
How long does detailing take?
A full detail usually takes half a day. Paint correction with a ceramic coating can take one to two days, because the paint needs polishing and the coating needs time to cure.
When is detailing worth it?
- Before selling a car, to lift its value and appeal
- After buying a used car, to start fresh
- Once a year, to deep clean and re-protect the paint
- Before or after a ceramic coating
Frequently asked questions
Is car detailing worth the money?
For most cars, yes, once or twice a year. It protects the paint and interior, and a well-kept car is worth more when you sell it.
What's the difference between a valet and a detail?
A valet is a thorough clean. A detail adds paint correction and protection, so it takes longer and restores more.
Can car detailing remove scratches?
Machine polishing removes light scratches and swirls. Deep scratches through the clear coat need paint repair.
More guides
- What is car grooming? What you get and how to choose a groomer
- Mobile car detailing near me: how it works in Auckland
- How to clean your car interior like a pro
- Is ceramic coating worth it? An honest guide for NZ drivers
- Headlight restoration: DIY kit or professional?
- How much does car detailing cost in Auckland?
- Best ceramic coating in NZ: DIY kit or professional?
- Steam cleaning your car interior: is it worth it?
- How much does ceramic coating cost in NZ?
- Mobile car wash prices in Auckland: what you're paying for
- Paint correction cost: what affects the price
- PPF vs ceramic coating: which does your car need?