Once you finish reading this article, you’ll know every step of a full car detail and why it’s worth the investment. As enthusiasts ourselves, we think it’s the best way to show your vehicle the love it deserves.
Like you, we want to make vehicles look their best and have spent years in professional detailing. We know everything about the topic, including why some outlets get it wrong and what it takes to get it right.
That’s why we wrote this post. Many detailing services don’t really offer what we’d consider “full” detailing, skipping many of the important steps we think are essential, but we do!
What “Full” Really Means
So, what does “full” really mean when it comes to car detailing Orlando?
Usually, car owners go to a detailer expecting a full service but only get something that partially meets their needs. Then, they return home with their vehicles feeling disappointed that they don’t look as they want.
For us, “full” means going beyond “express” services that most car detailing outfits provide. Instead, we go deep into every facet of the vehicle, ensuring it is clean, perfect, and like it just rolled off the factory floor.
For example, our full annual detailing service includes:
- Wax and UV paint protection (that lasts 12 months)
- Clay bar treatment to remove embedded contaminants on smooth surfaces
- Deep carpet cleaning and sanitizing the interior with disinfectants
- Vacuuming every carpeted surface
- Providing a two-step machine polish paint to remove surface scratches
- Using a high-foam wash to eliminate residual dirt and grime
- Using leather renewal products to bring the material back to life
- Applying eco-friendly steam cleaning where appropriate for additional sanitation
- Using windshield rain protection to improve visibility in harsh weather
- Purifying the vehicle’s ventilation systems
- Cleaning the components in the car’s interior, including the door jams and cup holders
- Using a hard water stain remover to add shine to the tires
Compare this to a basic detail that might only:
- Remove a few surface scratches
- Enhance paint and shine
- Use a clay bar treatment
For car fanatics like us, we want every inch of our vehicles cleaned inside and ou
Exterior Perfection: From Decon Wash to Ceramic Protection
Starting with the exterior, we take the following steps:
- Pre‑rinse
- Snow‑foam
- Two‑bucket hand wash
- Wheel & tire cleaning
- Iron remover
- Clay bar
- Single‑ or multi‑stage polish
- Sealant/wax/ceramic coating.
Deep‑Clean Interior: Seats, Carpets, Panels & Vents
Next, we move to the interior detailing – everything in the cabin – taking the following steps:
- Full vacuum
- Hot‑water extraction or steam shampoo
- Leather clean & condition
- Plastics dressed
- Compressed‑air vent purge
- Glass polish
Under the Hood: Engine Bay Refresh
The engine bay also needs some love in our book. Here’s how we work:
- Degrease
- Rinse
- Dress plastics/rubber
- Safety precautions
Finishing Touches That Separate Pros from Hobbyists
Finally, we treat you to the finishing touches. These include:
- Door‑jamb wipe‑down
- Exhaust tip polish
- Trim restoration
- Glass hydrophobic coating
- Tire dressing.
Why Full Car Detailing Orlando Protects Value & Saves Money
Full detailing might seem extensive, and it is. But it also brings incredible benefits you simply can’t find if you opt for express services.
For example, you can increase the longevity of your car’s paintwork. Carefully cleaning and protecting with wax is best practice.
You can also increase your vehicle’s resale value with professional detailing. Cleaning it inside and out and protecting the components is highly desirable and something that a lot of buyers want.
Finally, car detailing Orlando saves money by reducing maintenance. You aren’t waiting for components to wear out, but being proactive to ensure they stay in tip-top con
How Often Should You Book a Full Detail?
We sometimes say vehicles need a full annual detail. However, the answer really depends on the following factors:
- The mileage your vehicle travels – the further your car goes, the sooner it will require a complete detail
- The climate in your area – icy or snowy parts of the country with salt on the road increases the need for proper detailing
- How you use your vehicle – dogs and children can age it faster
Fortunately, you can get car detailing services on a maintenance plan with Detailing Express. These give you consistent, high-quality car detailing when you need it to keep your vehicle looking its best.
Ready for the Ultimate Transformation?
So, is it time you transformed your ride with full detailing?
Visit our repeat service page to get started, or get a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a full car detail take from drop‑off to pickup?
A full car detail is an in-depth process that takes around 4 to 8 hours, depending on the vehicle’s requirements. Larger SUVs are the most time-intensive because of their sheer size and the internal and external areas that require proper coverage.
Our in-house detailing tends to be faster than mobile detailing options because we can assemble more crew to work on your car. We also have access to fixed equipment that mobile providers don’t always offer.
What’s the difference between a polish and a wax in an all-inclusive detail?
Polishing involves removing small scratches from the paintwork and swirl marks in a full car detail using abrasive compounds with tiny particles embedded in them. Rubbing these on the vehicle removes roughness and restores natural shine.
Waxing is a protective layer that keeps the paintwork safe once polishing ends. It contains special ingredients to shield against pollution and UV.
Is engine bay cleaning safe for modern electronics?
We perform engine bay cleaning safely to protect your vehicle’s modern electronics. In the old days, you could often spray engines, and didn’t need to be precise. However, these days, it is more like cleaning a work of art.
We usually cover the electronics in your vehicle first and then start the cleaning process. For extra safety, we also use non-conductive degreasers (which don’t contain metallic particles).
How much does a full car detail cost in Orlando?
Car detailing packages in Orlando cost between $150 and $350, but you get what you pay for. Express Detailing’s full detailing service provides the ultimate vehicle shine while cleaning all the internals to a high standard.
Can I add ceramic coating to a full detail?
You can add a ceramic coating to your vehicle during a full detail. We apply this after paint correction and polishing to give you an even smoother and more robust surface.
People who love their vehicles can’t get enough of ceramic coatings because they protect against UV and minor scratches. That’s why we include it as a standard part of our full service.
Will a full detail remove scratches and swirl marks completely?
Full detailing can remove most minor scratches, swirl marks, as well as paint imperfections. However, deep scratches require specialist services or touch-ups (which is something we offer).
The more stages of polishing we add, the more likely you are to see positive results. However, there is a risk of removing the clear coat, so we will always discuss the right strategy with you beforehand.
How soon after a detail can I wash my car again?
You can wash your car within one to two days after we finish detailing, if we applied wax or sealant. If we don’t for some reason, you can start washing it immediately. Just be wary of automatic car washes because they use harsher methods than hand car washes, which can damage the finish.
