If you’re like me, you probably thought all car detailers are the same. They show up, clean the car, maybe spray some stuff, vacuum the seats, wipe down a few surfaces, and call it a day. But trust me, after being in this game for a while, I’ve learned not all detailers are created equal—and some shouldn't even be touching your car.

There are detailers who genuinely care about what they do, and then there are those who are just chasing a quick buck. So let me walk you through some real things to look out for. I’ll break down the red flags, the green flags, the questions you need to ask, and what some detailers won’t tell you.

Let’s get into it.

Common Red Flags (The Detailers You Should Probably Avoid)

There are way too many detailers out here in San Diego and all over California. Some of them are the real deal, and some are just out here with a bucket and a hose calling themselves professionals. Over the years, from my own experience and from what clients have told me, here are some red flags that I see way too often.

1. No process at all
   If a detailer can’t explain to you how they clean a car or what steps they follow, that’s already a bad sign. When someone is just winging it, that means inconsistent results, missed spots, and possible damage to your paint.
2. Messy setup or bad equipment
   If they roll up with a dirty van, old crusty towels, or leaking buckets, that’s a red flag. If they don’t take care of their tools, they probably won’t take care of your car either.
3. Zero customer service
   If it’s hard to get in touch with them, they don’t reply, or they give off an attitude, that’s not someone you want handling your vehicle. Communication is part of the job, especially when we’re coming out to you.
4. Lack of knowledge
   Ask them why they use a certain product. If they can’t answer that or say, “It’s just what I use,” walk away. A real detailer should be able to tell you why this ceramic coating works, what a clay bar does, or how to safely clean without scratching the paint.
5. They rush
   If they promise you a full detail in 45 minutes, that’s a car wash with extra steps. Real detailing takes time.

What to Look for (Green Flags That You Found a Pro)

Now that we’ve called out the mess, here’s what you actually want to see when looking for a solid car detailer.

1. They have a system
   They know the order in which they wash, dry, clean interiors, apply coatings, and they follow it every time. Consistency is a good sign.
2. Clear communication
   They reply fast, explain everything clearly, and even send confirmations or reminders. You shouldn’t have to chase someone to give them your money.
3. Solid reviews
   Not just five stars, but actual reviews where people describe what happened. “He got out stains no one else could,” or “She took her time and made it look brand new”—those are the reviews that matter.
4. Knowledgeable without being pushy
   They educate you about your car without making you feel dumb or pressured to buy stuff you don’t need. They’ll tell you the difference between wax and ceramic, but also won’t try to upsell you just to make more money.
5. Well-kept setup
   Their equipment is clean, they have everything organized, and they show up looking like they take their job seriously. They don’t have to be wearing a suit, but at least look ready to work.

Questions to Ask Before You Book

Here are some simple questions you can ask any detailer to separate the pros from the amateurs.

• What products do you use and why?
• How long does a full detail usually take?
• Do you bring your own water and power?
• Can you explain what’s included in this service?
• How do you handle vehicles with pet hair or stains?
• What’s your reschedule or cancellation policy?

If they get annoyed by those questions, that's your answer right there.

What They Might Not Tell You

Some detailers won’t tell you that they’re using the cheapest products they can find or that they’ve only been doing this for two weeks. Others won’t mention that they’re not insured, so if something happens to your car during the job, it’s on you.

Also, be careful of the “too good to be true” pricing. If someone is offering full interior and exterior details for $60, chances are they’re cutting corners somewhere. Quality detailing isn’t cheap, but it also shouldn’t feel like you’re getting scammed. It’s about finding the middle ground: someone who values your money and your car.

Understanding the Process Matters

As a customer, you don’t need to know every single step, but a good detailer should explain enough that you feel confident in what you’re getting. When someone breaks it down for you—like saying, “We’ll foam the exterior, clay bar it to remove embedded stuff, polish out light swirls, and then finish with a ceramic sealant”—you know they’re serious.

If they just say, “Yeah, we clean it really good,” and that’s it... maybe keep looking.

Final Thoughts

Finding a good detailer doesn’t have to be hard, but you do have to ask the right questions. Look for someone who respects your time, understands your car, and actually enjoys what they do. Don’t just go with the cheapest option or the one closest to you. Find the one who shows they care, from the first message to the last wipe of the towel.

I’ve been in this industry long enough to know what separates a quick hustle from a real service. And if you’re trusting someone with your car—something you probably drive every day—it’s worth making sure you’ve got the right person.

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