Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a car wash and a full detail?
A basic car wash focuses on quickly cleaning the exterior of your vehicle, often using automated equipment. A full detail, on the other hand, is a deep-cleaning service that covers both the interior and exterior of your vehicle. This includes paint decontamination, interior shampooing, protective coatings, and attention to every surface for a like-new finish.
How long does a detailing service take?
Detail times vary based on the service package and vehicle condition.
Express Detail: 1–1.5 hours
Superior Detail: 2.5–4 hours
Superior Plus Detail: 4–6 hours
For enhancements like paint correction or ceramic coating, please allow a full day or more depending on the level of service.
Do you offer mobile detailing?
Yes! We are a mobile service. That means we come to you—whether you're at home, work, or anywhere convenient. Our setup is self-contained, and we bring all the tools, products, and expertise needed to deliver top-tier results without you having to leave your location. Only thing we require is water and power access.
What products do you use?
We use only professional-grade, industry-trusted detailing products from brands like Meguiar’s, CarPro, Aerospace 303, Adams, and P&S . Our chemicals are pH balanced, safe for all finishes, and chosen to deliver long-lasting results.
What’s the difference between a single-stage and two-stage paint correction?
A single-stage correction lightly polishes the paint to remove 40–60% of visible defects—great for newer vehicles or mild imperfections. A two-stage correction includes both penetrating and refining steps, removing 60–80% of defects and restoring deeper gloss and clarity.
How long does ceramic coating last?
Our ceramic coatings can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years, depending on the package you select and how well the vehicle is maintained. Regular washing and avoiding harsh chemicals will help extend its performance.
Can I wash my car after ceramic coating?
Yes—but we recommend waiting at least 7 days after application before washing. After that, regular maintenance washes using pH-neutral soaps and soft mitts are best. We also offer coating-safe maintenance washes to help keep the finish protected.
How often should I get my car detailed?
It depends on your driving habits, climate, and expectations. Most customers benefit from a full detail every 3-6 weeks to maintain appearance, cleanliness, and resale value. Ceramic-coated vehicles may require less frequent full details but still benefit from maintenance washes and decontamination services.
Will detailing remove stains and odors from my interior?
Yes, our interior detailing includes stain extraction, odor neutralization, and deep cleaning of carpets, seats, and surfaces. For severe cases (e.g., smoke, pet odor), we offer advanced treatments like steam cleaning and ozone treatments.
What is included in an "Enhancement Service"?
Enhancements are specialized services that add protection, restore surfaces, or improve finish quality. These include:
Engine bay cleaning
Headlight restoration
Clay bar treatment
Spray wax
Interior protectant
Leather conditioning
Odor neutralizing
They can be added à la carte or bundled with detail packages.
How do I book an appointment?
You can easily book online through our website, call us directly, or send a message through our contact form. We recommend booking a few days in advance—especially for larger services like paint correction or ceramic coating.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
We understand things come up! Please give us 24 hours' notice for cancellations or reschedules so we can adjust accordingly.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. If you didn’t find the answer you were looking for, feel free to contact us directly or speak with one of our knowledgeable representatives. We’re happy to walk you through our services, provide personalized recommendations, and ensure you feel confident in choosing S3 Detailing.