Guide
What Is Included in a Full Detail?
A step-by-step breakdown of a genuine full detail.
The term full detail gets used loosely. Some businesses mean a wash and vacuum; others mean a multi-hour service covering every surface of the vehicle.
Here is what a genuine full detail includes, so you can compare quotes on equal terms.
Exterior steps
Wheels, tires and wheel wells cleaned with dedicated tools; pre-rinse and foam; contact hand wash; chemical decontamination for iron and, where needed, clay treatment; thorough drying; a protective sealant or wax; exterior glass; door jambs; tire dressing; and exterior trim attention.
Interior steps
Full vacuum including under seats, seat rails, trunk or cargo area; mats removed and cleaned separately; hard surfaces cleaned including vents, console and door cards; leather cleaned and conditioned or fabric spot-treated; interior glass cleaned last.
What a full detail does not include
Paint correction is separate. Ceramic coating is separate. Engine bay cleaning, headlight restoration, heavy pet hair removal and severe odor treatment are add-ons at most reputable operations.
How to spot a real one
Time is the giveaway. A genuine full detail on a mid-size vehicle takes at least three hours. Anything advertised as complete in 45 minutes is a wash and vacuum.
What this includes
- Exterior: wash, decontaminate, protect, glass, jambs, tires
- Interior: vacuum, surfaces, upholstery, glass
- Correction and coating are separate services
- Expect at least three hours for a mid-size vehicle
- Ask for the step list before you book
Frequently asked questions
Is a full detail the same as a deep clean?
A full detail covers both halves of the vehicle. A deep clean usually refers to heavier interior work specifically.
Does a full detail remove scratches?
No. That requires machine paint correction.
How often should I get one?
Two to three times a year for most Jacksonville vehicles, with maintenance washes in between.
Want us to handle it instead?
Mobile detailing across Jacksonville, at your home or workplace.