Car Detailing Vs Car Wash | What’s The Difference?

Many people confuse car washing and car detailing, but the truth is that they’re very different in many aspects. Some people believe detailing is related to mechanic work, so there’s some apparent confusion. This article will clear up the difference between the two so you’ll always know what your car needs.

Car Wash

A car wash is a straightforward process that most people would tell you they know how to do. It’s simply removing the dirt and contaminants from the exterior paint. 

Of course, there is a proper and improper way of washing a car, but that’s what it is at its core. Many people bring their vehicle to an automated car wash which can be dangerous. This is because the brushes accumulate dirt and abrasives from all of the vehicles passing through it, and those are lashed at your car’s paint at high speeds. One instance of taking your car to this type of wash may leave you with noticeable swirl marks on your paint, but improper wash techniques by hand can also cause this. An example would be using a dirty mitt or not preparing the paint for washing.

Car Detailing

Car detailing includes the basic car wash process, but with more precision, attentiveness, and a methodical approach. A full car detailing service can take hours or even all day depending on the size, condition, and type of services you request from the car detailing business you select. 

Some examples of common auto detailing services most companies will offer are interior detailing, car washing, clay bar treatment, paint correction, waxing, ceramic coating, and headlight restoration. 

All of this being said, detailing services often cost a minimum of a few hundred dollars, and depending on things like your budget and needs, you may only need this type of service annually or semi-annually. 

The Takeaway

Car detailing and car washing are in the same family, but there are some notable differences. A good way to compare the two is going by the sizes of clothing provided by the store vs taking your clothes to a tailor, both will do the job but the tailor is going to be very precise and attentive to the fitting of your clothing.

author avatar
Darren Burgard

Neon 8Neon 8
18:55 05 Apr 24
We are extremely well satisfied with the work done by Darren on our two cars; an eleven year old Audi and an eleven year old Lexus. The cars look almost new. Darren showed up on time, did the work efficiently and thoroughly, and the price was very competitive. We will definitely use his service again.
Hugo ContrerasHugo Contreras
23:07 30 Mar 24
I enjoyed collaborating with Sumptuous detailing services! Definitely recommend to anyone looking for great detailing services!
Gareth EvansGareth Evans
16:01 21 Mar 24
Darren did a great job on my pickup truck I use for construction. I was surprised how clean he got it inside.
TJ EdwardsTJ Edwards
00:58 13 Mar 24
Tyrone came out today and detailed my dad’s Tesla model X for us. Let me tell you - that man is so incredibly positive. You just feel good talking to him. He spent a large amount of time detailing his car and it looks better than it did the day he bought it! We could not be more thrilled and will continue to use Tyrone every month to detail and keep it looking great! The pricing is extremely competitive and even on the lower end compared to other mobile retailers! We are extremely pleased all the way around!
Anne HucksAnne Hucks
00:30 13 Mar 24
It was a wonderful experience. My car has not been this clean since I bought it.
millenyn soaresmillenyn soares
01:46 10 Mar 24
If I could put 10000+ Stars I would. Words can't explain how satisfied, I am. Tyrone did a phenomenal job, he took his time and you can tell he loves what he does. My car looks brand new, the seats are so clean and when I opened my car the smell of brand new car hit me. If you are looking for someone to detail your car STOP LOOKING, Because you found them and the customer service is excellent! I highly strongly recommend them you will not be disappointed!
Gregory TrenaryGregory Trenary
02:21 09 Feb 24
02/08/24 We are not local to this area, visiting with our son. Three large cups of coffee were accidentally split in our vehicle this morning... What a mess! Found some one online who didn't do interior detailing, however recommended Darren. He made arrangements to clean our truck that day. His men were here at scheduled time, did a fantastic job! Highly recommend Sumptuous Mobile Detailing!
Pam McCloudPam McCloud
12:24 06 Oct 23
Amazing and meticulous! Darren did such a great job with my vehicle that his services were requested the very next day by my hubby. My vehicle is so clean that I’m afraid to get in and undo all of his hard work. Most importantly, he took his time and didn’t rush the job.
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Fundamental Detailing Package
  • Exterior wash
  • Towel dry
  • 25-60 day wax (beads water and dirt off the paint, offering superior protection compared to traditional wax)
  • Tire conditioning
  • Window cleaning
  • Detailed vacuuming
  • Detailed cleaning of all hard, plastic, leather, and vinyl surfaces
  • Pressure wash for hard floor mats
    For a deeper clean with added surface protection and attention to detail.
Full Decontamination Package
  • Includes all features of Fundamentals
  • Clay Bar Treatment: Removes embedded contaminants like tar and sap that washing alone can't eliminate.
  • Iron Remover: Dissolves bonded iron particles from brake dust, protecting the paint from long-term damage.
  • Steam cleaning or extraction for seats and carpets if needed
    Perfect for vehicles requiring a thorough clean and contamination removal. Interior only is available in this package & higher only.
OCD Package
  • Includes all features of Full Decontamination
  • Special Stain Removal Attention: Attempts to target and remove stains, though results are not guaranteed.
  • 1-step Paint Correction: Removes minor surface defects like swirl marks and light scratches to restore the car’s shine.
  • 6-12 month Ceramic Wax: Adds a durable layer of protection and shine, lasting longer than standard waxes.
    For clients who want every detail perfected and their paint protected.
    Highly recommended to add the 5-year ceramic coating for long-term protection.
The Exterior Wash, Clay, & Seal
  • Wash
  • Clay Bar Treatment
  • 6-12 month sealant/wax.
  • Exterior Only
The Express Wash (4+ Vehicles Required)
  • Exterior wash (exterior)
  • Vacuum
  • Dash cleaning

It is not very detail-oriented, but it is convenient for daily drivers that aren't particular.

Interior Only

Select full decontamination or OCD package, then specify interior only.

Add Ons
  • 6-12 month Wax: Upgrade for longer-lasting protection is available for Fundamentals and Decontamination packages.
  • Headliner Cleaning: Can be added to any package to remove dirt and stains from the ceiling fabric.
  • 5-year Ceramic Coating: A long-lasting, high-gloss protective layer that repels water, dirt, and UV rays, making maintenance easier.
  • Ozone Treatment: Eliminates odors, bacteria, and mold by oxidizing and destroying airborne contaminants for a fresher, cleaner interior environment.
  • Paint Correction: Restores the car’s original shine by removing surface defects like swirl marks, oxidation, and light scratches. This results in a deeper and more natural shine compared to the superficial gloss added by wax.
  • Headlight Restoration: Increases nighttime visibility, improves front-end aesthetics, and compliments shiny paint.
  • Clay Bar Treatment: Removing embedded contaminants from the paint, which the wash will not remove.
  • Pet Hair Removal: Extensive pet hair removal beyond vacuuming.
  • Leather Conditioning
  • Spot Stain Removal
  • Decal/Sticker Removal