If you’ve ever booked a professional detail, you’ve probably wondered how long the process actually takes. A full car detail isn’t like a quick wash — it’s a deep cleaning and reconditioning service that restores your vehicle inside and out. The time it takes depends on a few factors, including the size of the vehicle, its condition, and the level of detail you choose.
At M&J’s Mobile Car Detailing, we focus on delivering high-quality results that never cut corners. Whether you drive a small sedan or a full-size SUV, our goal is to leave your car looking and feeling brand new while saving you the hassle of driving to a shop.
So, how long does a full detail take?
Average Time for a Full Car Detail
On average, a full interior and exterior car detail takes 2 to 5 hours for most vehicles. Compact cars and sedans tend to fall on the shorter end of that range, while larger vehicles — like trucks, vans, or SUVs — take a bit longer.
If the vehicle hasn’t been detailed in several months or has heavy buildup, pet hair, or staining, it may take closer to 6 hours or more to get everything fully cleaned and protected. The goal isn’t speed — it’s thoroughness.
Professional detailing involves deep cleaning, polishing, and protecting every surface. That’s why a quality detail takes time. Each step builds on the last to ensure your paint, upholstery, and trim are cleaned safely and preserved for the long run.
What’s Included in a Full Detail
A full detail covers both the inside and outside of your vehicle. At M&J’s Mobile Car Detailing, we take pride in offering a complete package that rejuvenates every part of your car. Here’s what that typically includes:
Exterior Detailing: The exterior process can involve washing, claying, polishing, and applying protection. We start with a foam pre-soak to loosen dirt and grime, followed by a hand wash and rinse. A clay bar treatment removes bonded contaminants like tar, sap, or road film. Next comes paint polishing, which enhances shine and removes light scratches or swirl marks. Finally, we apply a wax or sealant to protect the paint and keep it glossy for weeks to come. Keep in mind, all jobs are based on what the vehicle needs.
Interior Detailing: The inside of your car gets just as much attention. We vacuum and shampoo the carpets, clean upholstery and floor mats, and use specialized tools to remove dust from vents, crevices, and seams. Leather seats are cleaned and conditioned to restore softness, while dashboards and trim are treated with UV protectants to prevent cracking or fading. Windows and mirrors are polished for a streak-free finish.
Each of these steps adds up — and doing them properly takes time. A rushed job might look clean at first but won’t deliver lasting results.
Factors That Affect Detailing Time
No two cars are exactly the same, and neither are detailing jobs. Several factors can influence how long your full detail will take.
The size of the vehicle plays the biggest role. A compact car has less surface area and smaller interior space than a three-row SUV, meaning less time is needed for washing and vacuuming.
The condition of the vehicle is just as important. Vehicles that see heavy daily use, have pet hair, or haven’t been detailed in a long time will require more attention. Stains, odors, or built-up grime take additional time to treat safely.
Finally, the type of detailing package you choose affects timing. A basic full detail focuses on cleaning and protection, while advanced services — like paint correction, ceramic coating, or engine bay cleaning — can add several more hours.
Mobile Detailing vs. Shop Detailing Time
One of the biggest advantages of working with a mobile detailing service like M&J’s is convenience. Instead of dropping off your car and waiting all day at a shop, we come directly to your home or office in Viera, Palm Bay, Melbourne, FL, or anywhere in Brevard County.
Mobile detailing times are similar to shop detailing, but the experience is smoother and more personalized. Our setup is fully self-contained — we bring the water, power, and tools needed to get the job done anywhere. Most customers schedule a morning appointment, and by lunchtime, their car looks brand new again.
Because we work by appointment only, there’s no waiting in line or overlapping jobs. You get focused attention from start to finish, and we never rush through a detail just to move on to the next one.
Why Taking the Time Matters
Detailing isn’t about speed — it’s about precision. Every extra minute spent cleaning seams, buffing panels, or conditioning materials helps preserve your vehicle’s appearance and value.
A proper full detail doesn’t just make your car shine; it also protects it. Removing dirt, contaminants, and oxidation prevents long-term damage to paint and interior surfaces. Regular detailing keeps your car newer for longer and maintains resale value down the road.
At M&J’s, we believe in doing the job right the first time. That’s why we spend the time needed to make sure your car looks flawless when we’re done.
How Often Should You Get a Full Detail?
Most drivers benefit from a full detail every 4 to 6 months, depending on driving conditions, weather, and lifestyle. Cars exposed to Florida’s intense sun, salt air, or daily commuting may need more frequent care.
If you’re part of our monthly maintenance plan, your car will stay in great condition year-round. Regular upkeep shortens future detail times because dirt and buildup don’t have a chance to accumulate.
By scheduling consistent maintenance, you can enjoy that “freshly detailed” feeling all the time without long wait periods between services.
On Average, 2 to 5 Hours
So, how long does a full car detail take? On average, expect 2 to 5 hours for most vehicles — longer if you drive a large or heavily used one. The real difference lies in the quality and attention to detail.
At M&J’s Mobile Car Detailing, we believe your car deserves the best care possible. We take our time to make sure every surface — inside and out — looks its absolute best before we leave.
If you’re in Viera, Palm Bay, or Melbourne, FL, and want your car detailed by professionals who care about craftsmanship, schedule your next service today. You’ll see why taking the time makes all the difference.
