San Francisco, CA
How Much Does Car Detailing Cost in San Francisco?
Pricing depends on vehicle size, condition, and the level of cleaning needed. Here's the simplest way to understand it.
Understanding Detailing Pricing
Car detailing prices vary widely because every vehicle is different. A lightly used sedan takes less time than a family SUV with years of accumulated mess. This makes it hard to give exact prices without seeing the vehicle—but we can explain exactly what drives pricing and give you realistic ranges.
San Francisco detailing prices are generally in line with other major metro areas. Mobile detailing sometimes costs slightly more than shop work due to travel time, but many clients find the convenience worth the premium. And when you factor in your time (not driving to a shop, not waiting), mobile often provides better overall value.
This guide breaks down everything that affects detailing cost so you can understand what you're paying for and get an accurate quote for your specific situation.
Typical Pricing Ranges in San Francisco
These are starting prices that increase based on the factors described below:
| Service | Sedan/Compact | SUV/Crossover | Large SUV/Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance Detail | $120-140 | $140-170 | $170-200 |
| Full Detail | $180-220 | $220-280 | $280-350 |
| Interior Only | $140-170 | $170-210 | $210-260 |
| Exterior Only | $100-140 | $140-180 | $180-220 |
| Deep Interior Clean | $220-280 | $280-350 | $350-450 |
| Paint Correction (1-step) | $300-400 | $400-550 | $550-750 |
| Ceramic Coating | $400-600 | $600-900 | $900-1200+ |
What Impacts Detailing Cost Most
These factors determine where your vehicle falls within the price range:
- Vehicle size: Larger vehicles take more time and product—a 3-row SUV takes significantly longer than a sedan
- Current condition: Light dust vs heavy stains is a big difference—heavily soiled vehicles need more labor
- Pet hair: Embedded pet hair is extremely time-consuming to remove properly
- Stains and odors: Shampoo extraction and steam cleaning adds time; odor treatment adds products
- Time since last detail: Regular maintenance clients stay in lower ranges; neglected vehicles need more work
- Add-on services: Decontamination, correction, ceramic coating all add cost and time
Service Types Explained
Understanding what's included in each service type helps you choose the right one:
Maintenance Detail
Quick refresh for vehicles that are regularly maintained. Vacuum, wipe-down, exterior wash, light protection.
- Best for: Monthly upkeep between full details
- Time: 1-1.5 hours
- Includes: Vacuum, interior wipe-down, windows, exterior wash, wheel clean, spray protection
Full Detail
Comprehensive inside-out cleaning with protection. The standard service for most clients.
- Best for: Quarterly maintenance, before/after road trips
- Time: 2-4 hours
- Includes: Deep vacuum, interior surfaces detailed, windows, full exterior wash, wheels/tires, sealant protection
Deep Interior Clean
Intensive interior work with shampoo extraction and steam. For stains, odors, and serious mess.
- Best for: Post-kids-disaster, pet damage, smoke/odor issues, lease returns
- Time: 3-4+ hours
- Includes: Everything in interior detail plus shampoo extraction, steam cleaning, stain treatment, optional odor treatment
Paint Correction + Ceramic Coating
Premium services for paint restoration and long-term protection. Investment-level work.
- Best for: Swirl removal, showroom finish, long-term protection
- Time: Half day to full day (or more for multi-stage)
- Includes: Machine polishing to remove defects, ceramic coating application, cure guidance
Why 'From' Pricing?
Detailers use 'from' pricing because condition varies so much. Here's how to think about it:
- At the 'from' price: Well-maintained vehicle, regular client, no major issues
- Mid-range: Average condition, some accumulation, normal wear
- Higher end: Heavy soiling, pet hair, stains, odors, neglected maintenance
- Custom quote: Extreme conditions, specialty work, unusual situations
- Sending photos helps get an accurate quote before booking
How to Get the Most Accurate Quote
We can give you a precise quote quickly if you share:
- 2-3 photos of interior (front seats, back seats, cargo area) in good light
- 1-2 exterior photos showing paint condition
- Vehicle make, model, and year
- Your San Francisco neighborhood
- Specific concerns: stains, pet hair, odors, scratches, etc.
- What you're trying to achieve: maintenance, restoration, prep for sale, etc.
Is It Worth Paying More?
The cheapest detail isn't always the best value. Consider:
- Paint safety: Cheap washes often use damaging techniques
- Product quality: Professional products cost more but protect better
- Thoroughness: Quick jobs leave areas unaddressed
- Protection: Proper sealant/coating extends results
- Long-term: Better care now means less restoration later
FAQs
Why Choose Us
The Golden Bay Difference
Transparent Pricing
Understand exactly what affects cost.
Accurate Quotes
Get a real price before booking.
No Surprises
We quote based on photos and stick to it.
Value Focus
Find the right service for your budget.
Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
"I have a dog and had a lot of her hair embedded in the back seats. He got all of it out. Excellent detailer. On time, friendly, professional."
La Nette W.
Pet Hair Removal
"Looks better than new. Muza was on time and got right down to business. He brought his own power and water. He spent about 2 hrs and 15 minutes just cleaning the interior, and the results are incredible."
Sid B.
Interior Detail
Want an accurate price fast?
Text photos + your vehicle type — we'll recommend the right package and quote quickly.
Or call us directly: (415) 483-5686
Golden Bay Detailing
Mobile Car Detailing • San Francisco Bay Area
(415) 483-5686 • goldenbaydetailing@gmail.com
Serving: San Francisco, Sunset, Richmond, SoMa, Mission, Pacific Heights, Daly City, San Bruno, Burlingame