The Difference between car washes and car detailers. Today I received a call from a potential client interested in having the exterior of their SUV wash because it was full if dirt from travelling. Also, vacume his interior. I have a base price of $225 for exterior treatments on SUV and larger vehicles. The customer wanted the vehicle done today, and I agreed. But then came the pricing. They said they had their vehicle cleaned regularly at a car wash and it only cost $150 to have done.

I advised that they could have their car cleaned at a local car wash form uch cheaper then myself, but declined as they wanted a hand wash. Now here is what I feel the difference is, my average exterior wash is up to 2 hours for a “regular dirty” vehicle. I have done work on farm vehicles, which I assumed how dirty this vehicle was, I feel I would have spent 3 hours cleaning just the exterior of this vehicle plus a minimum 30 minutes vacuuming the interior. All for only 265. I cannot say for sure, but I am understanding that they are there to make you car look decent quickly while detailers are there to make your car look new in the amount of time they have.
Conclusion; Prices are set prices, I am the only one to negotiate pricing, not the customer. The customer declined because they wanted his price on a job that would have been hours, not minutes like a car wash business. Detailers emphasize detail, car washes emphasize quickness.

Absolutely! Here's a polished and engaging blog article based on your story and insights:

🚗 Car Wash vs. Car Detailing: Why the Difference Matters

Today I received a call from a potential client who had just returned from a long trip. His SUV was caked in dirt, and he wanted both the exterior washed and the interior vacuumed. A straightforward request—until we got to the pricing. I quoted my standard base rate of $225 for exterior treatments on SUVs and larger vehicles. He wanted the job done today, and I was ready to make it happen. But then came the comparison: “I usually get my car cleaned at a car wash for $150.” I didn’t argue. I simply explained that yes, he could absolutely go to a local car wash and pay less. But he declined—he wanted a hand wash. And that’s where the real difference begins.

🧼 Speed vs. Precision: What Sets Us Apart

Car washes are built for speed. Their goal is to make your vehicle look decent in a short amount of time. You drive in, wait a few minutes, and drive out with a cleaner car. It’s convenient, it’s fast, and it’s budget-friendly. But detailing? That’s a different world. My average exterior wash takes up to 2 hours for a “regular dirty” vehicle. For heavily soiled vehicles—like farm trucks or post-road-trip SUVs—I’ve spent 3 hours just on the exterior. Add 30 minutes minimum for a thorough interior vacuum, and you’re looking at a 3.5-hour job. All of that for $265. Not bad when you consider the time, effort, and attention to detail involved.

🛠️ Detailers Make Your Car Look New—Not Just Clean

Detailing isn’t about surface-level shine. It’s about restoring your vehicle to its best possible condition. We treat every inch of your car with care, from the paintwork to the upholstery. We don’t rush. We don’t cut corners. We aim for excellence. Car washes? They’re great for a quick refresh. But if you want your car to look new, not just clean, detailing is the way to go.

💬 Final Thoughts: Value Over Price

Here’s the bottom line: Prices are set. I’m the only one who negotiates them—not the customer. The client declined because he wanted a car wash price for a detailing job. But that’s not how it works. Car washes emphasize quickness.

Detailers emphasize quality. If you’re looking for a fast fix, a car wash will do. But if you want your vehicle treated with care, precision, and pride—then detailing is worth every cent.

Book Your Appointment Today at (555)-123-4567 or visit customautoclean.com

Why Choose Custom Auto Clean & Detail?

Every car wash promises a quick fix. We go further. Our detailing process: Takes up to 2 hours for a standard exterior hand wash Extends to 3 hours for heavily soiled vehicles Includes at least 30 minutes of interior vacuuming This isn’t about speed. It’s about meticulous, hands-on care that brings out your vehicle’s best.

The Detailing Difference

Deep-clean exterior treatment targeting dirt in every crevice Gentle but thorough hand wash to protect paint and trim Interior vacuum and cabin refresh to restore a like-new feel Quality-grade products and tools ensuring lasting protection Your SUV will emerge not just clean but rejuvenated, with attention paid to every panel, seam and surface.

Pricing and Value

Our set prices reflect the time, skill and premium materials required to deliver superior results. SUV & larger vehicles Base exterior treatment: $225 Comprehensive exterior + interior: $265 No hidden fees. No shortcuts. Just exceptional results.

Ready for Your Best-Looking Ride?

Schedule your hand wash and detailing service now. Call (555)-123-4567 Email hello@customautoclean.com Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @CustomAutoCleanDetail for before-and-after showcases and special offers.