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How Does Exterior Detailing Differ From a Car Wash?
March 6, 2023

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Exterior detailing and car washing are two different terms that many people have confused with each other for a long time. Although these two activities are somewhat similar, they differ by a mile regarding their benefits to a car's exterior. The misconceptions surrounding both terms have confused many, causing them to ask, "Which is the best between exterior detailing and car washing?".



Perhaps you don't know what each service entails; keep reading to find out the differences between exterior car detailing and a car wash, the benefits of one over the other, and the best option for you.

What is Exterior Detailing?

Exterior auto detailing involves using professional equipment and proper hand-washing techniques to remove blemishes like tree sap, rail dust, bird droppings, and dirt from your car's exterior, protecting the vehicle's clear coat. It is a step-by-step process that helps improve your vehicle's appearance, giving it an almost brand-new look.



Some of the processes involved in exterior detailing include the following:

  • Washing and drying using microfiber towels
  • Cleaning of car wheels, plastic trim, wheel wells, windows, and the engine
  • Exterior polishing to improve luster.
  • Application of paint sealant and car wax.


What is Car Wash?

Car washing is an exterior detailing process that addresses dirt, dust, and grime removal from painted surfaces. The vehicle's exterior gets cleaned in a short period of time, giving the car a relatively clean look. Although, in some cases, not all areas might get properly cleaned due to a lack of professional equipment,

Differences Between a Car Wash and Exterior Detailing

Intensive Cleaning

An exterior detailing company will properly and intensively clean your car's exterior using the right products, equipment, and effective cleaning methods.

On the other hand, a car wash will only clean your vehicle's surface and sometimes leave dirt on visible areas like the door jambs or hood.

Use of Professional Tools and Equipment and the Washing Process

Car washes generally use regular soaps and blowers to wash and dry cars. The lack of proper washing equipment, improper washing techniques, and subpar washing products might leave your car with minor defects after each wash. After a proper two-step wash, an exterior detailer will wax the car's wheels and, in some cases, restore the headlights to give the car a perfect finish on the outside.

Quality Maintenance

A car wash aims to rid your vehicle's surface of dust, dirt, and grime. While it does that, the service isn't entirely satisfactory, and it often leaves souvenirs - swirls - on the vehicle's exterior. In contrast, auto detailing experts focus on making your car appear as new as possible. They pay attention to every body panel and are committed to customer satisfaction, hence the excellent service.

Which Should You Go For Between A Car Wash And An Exterior Detailing Service?

How you use your vehicle and what you use it for can influence your choice. Perhaps you barely drive, and even when you do, it's short distances with less traffic; consider DIYing your car's exterior cleaning alongside periodic professional detailing.



Suppose you drive off-road or on rough terrain and care about your car's appearance; exterior detailing is your best chance at restoring your vehicle's shine.

However, many Americans have dedicated cars for specific duties (farm trips, distribution) and pay less attention to their exteriors. Remember that a clean exterior impacts resale value. Though exterior detailing isn't as cheap as a regular car wash, its benefits are countless.

Benefits of Exterior Detailing Services

Preservation and Correction Of Paint Job

Constant vehicle use means interaction with dust, dirt, and debris that can cause swirl marks and dull the car's paint. Rather than repainting, a professional detailer can help rejuvenate your paint job, making it seem like it never suffered damage. A professional auto detailing package from D.A.C. Custom Detailing will address every imperfection on your car's paint.

Improves Safety

Clean and clear windshields are necessary for a safe and smooth driving experience. Auto detailing companies will help you take care of your car's windshield by washing off any build-up of dirt to improve visibility when driving.

Increases Resale Value

Imagine selling a car above its market value. It's possible. If your vehicle's exterior is impeccable, it'll likely command more value if all other areas are in top shape.

Proper exterior car detailing keeps painted surfaces in the best possible shape. A car sporting an excellent exterior will likely sell faster and for a better price.

Extends Car Life Span

Detailing a car is the best and most affordable way to keep it looking great for a long time. Vehicles encounter contaminants like road salt and chemicals, which can mar the paint's appearance. Regular detailing will help strengthen the paint's protective layer, mitigating the effect of these contaminants on your vehicle's paint job. Rest assured of top-of-the-line service when you entrust your vehicle to companies like D.A.C. Custom Detailing.

F.A.Q.s On Exterior Detailing

How Often Should You Detail Your Car's Exterior?

Professional detailers recommend doing it two to three times a year, depending on the car's use. You can detail the car more than the suggested number of times if you use it often.

How Much Will Exterior Detailing Cost?

The price of an auto detail service can vary according to the size of the car, how professional the detailer is, and the type of detail package.

A typical exterior detailing package costs between $50 and $500, depending on how comprehensive your package of choice is.

How Long Does Exterior Detailing Take?

An exterior detail job can take an average of 3 to 4 hours, and this time frame primarily depends on the selected detailing package and vehicle size.

D.A.C. Custom Detailing Is Your Go-To Agency

D.A.C. Custom Detailing, Temple Hills, offers the best exterior and general auto detailing services throughout Maryland. Our service offerings range from exterior and interior detailing to window tinting, ceramic coating, performance parts, and more.



Perhaps you're sold on getting a professional exterior detailing service; contact us at (703) 298-1864 or email us at david@daccustomdetailing.com to book an appointment and be wowed at how dedicated we are to restoring your car's shine.

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