The cost of a professional exterior car detailing service in the U.S. typically ranges from $100 to $400+. The final price depends heavily on the vehicle's size, its condition, the specific services included, and your geographic location. A basic wash and wax for a sedan might cost around $100-$150, while a full exterior correction for a large SUV could easily exceed $400.
The primary factor influencing cost is the level of paint correction, which is the process of removing surface imperfections like light scratches (swirl marks) and oxidation to restore gloss. A basic detail focuses on cleaning and protection, while more expensive packages involve multi-step polishing and the application of long-lasting sealants like ceramic coatings.
| Service Tier | Typical Price Range (Sedan) | Common Services Included | Ideal For |
|---|
| Basic Package | $100 - $175 | Hand wash, clay bar decontamination, application of a spray wax or sealant. | Regular maintenance, preparing for sale. |
| Standard Package | $175 - $275 | Basic services plus a single-stage machine polish to enhance gloss and remove minor swirls. | Owners wanting significant visual improvement. |
| Premium/Correction | $275 - $450+ | Multi-step machine polishing (compound & polish) to remove deeper defects, followed by a high-quality ceramic coating or sealant. | Show cars, new car prep, or correcting severe oxidation. |
Additional costs can include services like headlight restoration ($50-$100), wheel polishing ($75-$150), and engine bay cleaning ($50-$100). For a precise quote, it's always best to get an in-person or virtual inspection from a reputable local detailer, as a heavily contaminated or swirled paint job will require more labor and time.
