That is an actual quote from a client (a current monthly client) and requires some clarity. A 3 month old garaged Camry that rarely sees a passenger and is washed weekly will not cost the same as a 5 yr old Camry that is rarely washed, stored under a pine tree and transports pets and kids on the daily.  Nobody can explain what a “Full Detail” is so you will never hear me say it. Detailing is just an umbrella term for a service that includes various levels of effort, expense, expectations, processes and results. Expecting a “concours level detail” (e.g. white glove inspection) for a couple of hundred bucks on a daily driven Civic is just not going to happen.

I bring this up because vehicles come in many shapes and sizes.  Some are new, some are old, some get driven hard and some are rarely out of the garage.  History has taught me that the best response to, “I need a detail, and it’s not in too bad of shape…” is physically going over the vehicle with the owner and determining a solution together.  Expecting a quote sight-unseen is unreasonable, especially if you do not know what is included or what you really want.  For example, as much as it may be needed, I will not automatically polish paint, dye/restore faded trim or acid wash hard water (mineral) damage if it has not been requested/discussed and the price agreed to.  It works best when clients know what they want, ask questions, point out concerns and then we both agree on what can and cannot be accomplished for a specific price. I don’t like shortcuts, confusion, upselling or surprises, nor should my clients.