Auto Detailing VS Car Wash

Car Wash

Running your car or truck through a tunnel wash can be efficient, affordable, and quick when you're in a hurry. Are they good for your paint? Do they save money over time?

Im going to break down the questions into 3 different factors.

1. Longevity of the paint

2. Affordability

3. Level of cleaning

4. Paint on your car is durable, but we have to remember that it is exposed to the elements 24/7 for the life of the vehicle. This means that protecting it is crucial to maximize the life span of the paint. Part of protecting it is not letting dirt and grime sit on the surface for too long. We do this by regular washing. A car wash can be quick and affordable, however, it can be far too aggressive on the paint, leaving micro scratches. Over time these micro-scratches degrade the clearcoat, thus decreasing its lifespan

5. Affordability seems straightforward. A car wash costs $10-15. This seems cheap enough, even if it is used regularly. Its worth considering, however that the cost down the road may be significant if the paint is degraded prematurely and has to be repaired, or worst case re-painted!

6. The level of cleaning that a car wash provides may be fine in some cases, but I cant tell you how often cars come to me after going through a car wash, and all the cracks and crevasses are still dirty!

Detailing

Sticking with the theme, I will address the same 3 factors as I did above!

1. Longevity of the paint

2. Affordability

3. Level of cleaning

4. A car that is detailed by hand, will reap the benefits in the short and long term! Hand washing the paint allows for the deepest clean possible, while also being gentle enough to not introduce micro-scratches. Every car that comes through our shop leaves with some level of protection, a wax being the absolute minimum, with many clients opting to add a ceramic coating!

5. Detailing is always going to be more expensive than a car wash. Luckily, however, you get what you pay for! The level of attention we can give to the smallest details, allows us to deliver a truly unique service compared to a tunnel wash. In addition to this, we have services ranging from $200 up to $2000, ensuring a detailing package that fits your needs and budget regardless of the car you drive.

6. A car wash can effectively clean the large panels on a car. But what about the door jambs? What about tree sap? What about inside the gas tank door? Or even inside the wheel wells? Each of these items is addressed on every single car that receives our services. Have a request specific to your car? we can take care of that too!

So maybe I am biased... But now you have a little more information so that you can make an educated decision about your own car! If you have any questions please reach out to us via our booking form found HERE

Oh and if you do go through a car wash and notice the swirls on your paint? we can fix it. Check out this before and after.