Choosing between a detail and a car wash
A car wash cleans the surface. A full detail cleans the car. If your paint feels rough after washing, the dash dust returns in a day or the carpet looks tired, a basic wash will not fix it. Our mobile detailing vs car wash comparison sets out the differences.
A full detail also catches things you cannot see. Brake dust in the wheel wells, grease on door jambs and film inside the windscreen all get cleaned. It takes more time than a wash because each area gets a proper product and a proper wipe.
If you are comparing options, the interior vs exterior vs full detail guide shows when each one makes sense.
How the full detail runs
The Full Detail starts from $176 $220 and takes 3 to 5 hours.
- Interior: deep vacuum, steam, carpet and seat shampoo extraction, leather clean and condition, glass, trim and console.
- Exterior: hand wash and dry, iron and tar decontamination, clay bar treatment.
- Wheels and tires cleaned, trim dressed.
- Sealant applied to the paint for protection.
- Final walk-around with you, panel by panel.
The exterior step includes iron decontamination, which is especially helpful in a city with industry and heavy traffic.
Because the interior comes first, the dust and grit that fall during vacuuming do not land on clean paint. By the time the sealant goes on, the whole car is as clean as we can make it, and the sealant has a good surface to hold on to.
Sealant is a modest, durable protective layer. If you want to go further, our ceramic coating is the longer-term option.
Mountain, lower city or condo
Whichever you park in, the setup is the same: we bring water, power and lighting and need space beside the car. For underground spots, our condo and underground parking guide lists what to check with your building.
Hamilton customers sometimes also ask about nearby areas. We also travel to Ancaster, Dundas and Stoney Creek for full details and ceramic work.
Booking early in the week gives the best choice of times, and the tailored quote usually arrives the same day. If you are not sure about access, send us a photo of the parking spot.
Pricing and booking
Starts from $176 $220 for a sedan; SUV +$30, truck +$40, van +$50, exotic +$60. Add-ons: pet hair +$40, odour +$50, heavy stains +$50, salt +$40. See the Full Detail page and the Hamilton car detailing overview, then get your quote.
We work Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 6 PM and send most quotes back the same day. If it rains, we reschedule free or move to a covered spot. Payment is by card, e-transfer or cash. A second vehicle on the same booking is 20% off.