Custom Detail Vs Full Detail: What Is the Difference

Photo of author

(Newswire.net — September 23, 2021) — Proper car care stretches far beyond keeping to a service schedule and regular washing. If your car is to remain in good condition, it is a good idea to go above and beyond whenever you can. For example, you can attempt to be proactive in making necessary changes. For instance, try changing the tyres before the tread completely wears off. In addition, you may opt to have it detailed more often. Consistent detailing is very beneficial as it can help preserve and increase your car’s value.

There is a significant disparity between car washing and detailing; it all lies in the name. Washing a vehicle starts and ends at shampooing and rinsing away all accumulated surface dirt. Conversely, detailing requires more effort. In this instance, you must see to every detail of cleaning the car, including removing some parts and clearing the hidden spots.

Even detailing has more to it than a one-size-fits-all procedure. Many technicians offer different services where your selection depends on your preferences. The two most common options are a custom detail or a full detail. And while they may sound like two descriptors of one thing, there are some differences between the two. Read on to learn more.

What does detailing involve?

Before you make comparisons, you must understand the car detailing process. 

On average, a typical detail involves a multi-step procedure that includes extensive cleaning of your car’s interior and exterior. Your technician uses a variety of specialised tools and products to attain the desired result. So, to detail the interior, you will observe that they:

  • Vacuum and shampoo the carpeting and upholstery.
  • Clean, condition, and restore leather seats.
  • Clean and polish every surface, including areas under the seats.

Detailing the exterior includes:

Thoroughly shampooing, rinsing and drying the car body.

  • Performing paint care by eliminating as many scratches and contaminants as possible before applying a sealant.
  • Polishing and restoring headlights and taillights as needed.
  • Cleaning the wheel wells, tyres, rims and even undercarriage.
  • Washing the engine and its surrounding bay.

A car detailing technician does not always have to perform every action listed above each time you request a detailing service. Here is where the difference between a custom and a full detail comes in.

Custom Detail

Custom detailing is the most basic form of the service. For comparison, if the different types of detailing were a building, this option would be the ground floor. You get to select what exactly you prefer to be done. However, even though it sounds bare-bones and straightforward, a custom detail is anything but. It is still a thorough process that takes several steps to complete.

A custom detail is the best option if your car is relatively clean or you have it detailed regularly. When you select this option, the cleaning does not have to be as extensive as it often is if the service is seldomly performed. Typically, if you routinely go for detailing, your technician will most likely rotate the steps taken and perform a full detail when necessary.

This level of detailing is also the most budget-friendly. Since the extent and number of steps are comparatively few, a custom detail will most likely cost less than full, depending on the number of treatments you request.

Full Detail

A full detail is the building’s penthouse. It sits firmly at the top service tier and is accordingly involving. Taking your car for this service means that you need your detailer to give it the complete treatment. As such, the process will entail everything from washing the interior roof lining to removing minor dents and treating the plastic pieces. 

Considering how thorough a full detail is, the best time to request one is when your car is dirtiest. If it is the first time you are doing so, or even if it has been some time since your last appointment, then this is the right choice. Alternatively, a full detail is an ideal way for getting your car ready to sell; it is a surefire method of getting it to look like a showroom model. With such an appearance, the likelihood of success will be much higher.

The cost of full detailing matches the level of work you can expect your technician to do. You may also opt for additional treatments.

Stop missing out on giving your car all the care it needs. Instead, consider contacting your local detailer to make a detailing appointment. Rest assured that you will get a chance to discuss what you want before any work is done. That way, you can go with the option that works best for you both in service and your pockets. Once you make it a part of your car care routine, every moment you spend in the vehicle will be something to look forward to and enjoy.