What is car detailing?
Car detailing is professional vehicle care that includes thorough cleaning, restoration, and protection of all surfaces — both exterior and interior. It is not the same as a regular car wash: where a wash removes surface-level dirt, detailing goes deeper.
- Detailing includes washing, clay bar treatment, polishing, and paint protection
- A full detail takes 2–8 hours depending on the car's size and condition
- Especially valuable after a Norwegian winter or when buying a used car
- Polish with ceramic coating from 5 500 NOK
What is car detailing?
The term comes from "auto detailing" — working with every single detail of the car. A full detail covers the car from top to bottom:
Exterior
- Thorough wash and foam pre-wash — removes dirt without creating new scratches
- Clay bar treatment — removes industrial contamination, tar, and iron fallout that a regular wash can't tackle
- Paint polishing — removes fine scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation, restoring the shine
- Paint protection — wax, sealant, or ceramic coating for long-term protection
- Wheels and wheel arches — deep cleaning of brake dust and grime
Interior
- Vacuuming and airing — all seats, mats, and crevices
- Plastic and dashboard cleaning — without leaving greasy residue
- Leather care — cleaning and conditioning to prevent cracking
- Fabric cleaning — deep cleaning of upholstery and mats
The difference between detailing and a car wash
| Car wash | Detailing | |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 15–30 min | 2–8 hours |
| Paint | Cleaned | Cleaned, polished & protected |
| Interior | Vacuumed | Deep cleaned |
| Result | Clean car | Restored and protected car |
| Frequency | Weekly/monthly | 1–2 times per year |
Ready for a detail?
Send us photos of your car and tell us what you'd like done — we'll send a no-obligation quote.
Get a quoteWho needs detailing?
Detailing suits all car owners, but is especially valuable if you:
- Want to preserve your car's value — a well-maintained car is worth more when you sell
- Have bought a used car — a full detail restores its appearance
- Are preparing your car for the season — especially after a Norwegian winter with salt and slush
- Are proud of your car and want it to look its best
After a Norwegian winter, your car has been exposed to salt, moisture, and grime. A thorough spring detail restores the paint and provides a fresh start — ideally combined with ceramic coating for the summer.
What does detailing cost?
For most people, a full detail 1–2 times per year is sufficient, supplemented by monthly washing and maintenance treatment.