Can I start an auto detailing business with under $5,000?

Yes, a mobile detailing setup is one of the most accessible businesses to start on a tight budget. For under $5,000 you can get a pressure washer, a dual-action polisher, a wet/dry vacuum, a starter chemical kit, towels, and basic branding. Focus on wash-and-wax packages first, then reinvest profits into paint correction and ceramic coating equipment as you build clientele. Many successful detailers started with under $3,000 and scaled up within the first six months.

Mobile vs fixed location -- which is better?

Mobile detailing has dramatically lower startup costs ($3K-$8K vs. $15K-$30K+) and zero rent, making it the safer first move. You go to the customer, which is a strong convenience sell. Fixed locations offer better throughput (more cars per day), climate-controlled workspace for premium services like ceramic coating, and a more professional image. Many detailers start mobile, build a client base and cash reserves, then open a shop once revenue supports it. A hybrid model with a home base and mobile capability gives you the best of both worlds.

How much should I charge for detailing?

Basic exterior wash and interior wipe-down typically runs $50-$100 for sedans and $75-$150 for SUVs/trucks. A full detail with paint correction and interior deep clean commands $150-$300 for standard vehicles and up to $500 for larger ones. Ceramic coating packages range from $500 to $2,000+ depending on the product and prep work involved. Price based on your local market, vehicle size, and condition -- not just time spent. Offering tiered packages (good, better, best) makes upselling natural.

Do I need any certifications?

There are no legally required certifications to start an auto detailing business in most states. However, certification from the International Detailing Association (IDA) adds credibility and can justify premium pricing. Manufacturer-specific training (such as Gtechniq or CQuartz accreditation) is often required to purchase and apply professional-grade ceramic coatings. Investing $500-$2,000 in formal training courses pays for itself quickly through fewer mistakes on customers' paint and the ability to market certified expertise.

How many cars can I detail per day?

A solo operator can typically handle 2-4 vehicles per day depending on the service level. Basic wash-and-wax jobs take 1-2 hours each, while a full paint correction and ceramic coating can take 6-10 hours for a single car. At an average of 3 cars per day at $150 each, that puts a solo mobile detailer at roughly $450/day or $9,000-$10,000/month in gross revenue working 5 days a week. Building a team lets you scale to 8-12+ cars per day and break into fleet contracts.

Home / Auto Detailing Startup Costs

How Much Does It Cost to Start an Auto Detailing Business?

$3,000 – $30,000

Starting an auto detailing business typically costs between $3,000 and $30,000, depending on whether you go mobile or lease a fixed location. The biggest cost drivers are your equipment quality, the range of services you offer (basic wash vs. ceramic coating), and whether you operate from a van or a dedicated shop. Mobile setups keep overhead low, while a fixed location unlocks higher throughput and premium pricing.

Last updated Feb 2026 · Based on International Detailing Association industry surveys (2024-2025), Auto detailing equipment supplier pricing (Chemical Guys, Rupes, Griot's), IBISWorld Car Wash & Detailing industry report

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Where This Data Comes From

International Detailing Association industry surveys (2024-2025)
Auto detailing equipment supplier pricing (Chemical Guys, Rupes, Griot's)
IBISWorld Car Wash & Detailing industry report
Small business insurance marketplace quotes

All figures are estimates based on publicly available data and industry benchmarks. Actual costs vary by location, timing, and business decisions.

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