What's the difference between a gas station with a car wash & a professional auto detailer?
Time, money, detail... these all play a part in the decision you should make in taking proper care of your car to ensure it's longevity.!
If you're torn between hiring a professional detailer & just going to your nearest gas station for a car wash, this article will break down the differences point-by-point!
Your Time Is Money & It Shouldn't Be Wasted!
When valuing your time is a concern, gas station car washes are probably not your best bet.
According to Fix Auto USA, you can typically have your car washed within 10 minutes.
Not bad time-wise right? Well, quality and risk is a whole different story...
If you've ever been to a car wash at a gas station, there's typically a huge banner that says all the car parts that could be damaged.
Best of all, they state they won't be held responsible for ANY of the repairs.
The repairs could rip you apart in terms of time & money, so choosing the quick 10 minute car wash may not be the best route. Especially if you'd like to keep your car for a long time!
Now you might be wondering what types of repairs you may have to do with going the cheaper route. Let's take a look at the different "issues" that gas station washes tend not to cover.
Is The Cheaper Route The Way To Go?
The most obvious repair that you should be concerned of is your expensive PAINT job.
I've had plenty of friends and family that have taken their car to get a wash at their nearest gas station, and have noticed paint's been chipped off or an outer piece of their car is now loose.
Here's a list of a few accessories that car washes state they aren't liable for if damaged:
- Any radio antennas
- Non-OEM add-ons
- License plates
- Side mirrors
- Tailgate
- The list goes on...
Of course, most of these can be fought with an attorney if your car is damaged, but is it worth it?
You'll be risking $20 for a 10 minute car wash that could potentially lead you to suing the company if your car is damaged?
What makes a professional detailer different from automated car washes
The most important of all, you don't have to hear the car being banged on all ends by jet-speed water or large rotating brushes.
Detailers take their time with ensuring the perfect end result.
With many years of experience, they've been able to pin-point what supplies are the best to use to give your car the desired sparkling finish.
There's passion behind each car that's serviced.
Speaking from experience, detailers absolutely love to see customer's happy with the hard work they put in.
Attention To Detail & Cost Efficiency
If you're looking to be as cost efficient as possible, you may want to look into a gas station car wash membership.
In the end... you get what you pay for, so a moderately washed car for $19.99/month is the best you'll get!
A professional detailing service consists of many different services that helps to showcase your vehicle.
As well as protect it from most harsh elements that may come it's way.
In comparison of a gas station car wash price vs a detailing price, the detailing will be more expensive
However, here's a list of services that are typically added onto just washing your vehicle:
- Ceramic Waxing or Ceramic Coating
- Complete Interior Detailing
- Headlight Restoration
- UV Protection
- Bug & Tar Removal
There are many extras provided as opposed to your regular schmegular car wash.
Here is an example of the car detailing services I provide if you're looking for more services
Final Comparison Between The 2 Washes
To wrap the comparison up, the decision is completely in your hands
If you're comfortable with a basic wash and spending your time in a car wash, then a gas station car wash is best for you
However, if you want ease-of-mind that your car will always look brand new after a detail without you lifting a finger
Then a professional detailer is your best route
How To Find a Professional Detailer Near You:
Looking for a detailer in the greater Sacramento, CA area? Feel free to contact me via email or phone!
Email: service@aveedsauto.com
Phone: (916) 542-0774
Not in the greater Sacramento, CA area? A quick google search will point you in the right direction! Just search "Car detailers near me"
Aveed's Auto Detailing
Experience excellence with Aveed’s Auto Detailing–where every square inch gets the royal treatment.