How Often Should You Detail or Maintain Your Car?

Taking care of your car isn’t just about keeping it looking good — it’s about protecting your investment and making sure it stays in great condition for years to come. But how often should you actually detail or maintain your car? The answer depends on a few things, but here’s a practical guide that fits most lifestyles.

Do You Have Any Protection on Your Car’s Paint?

Whether your car has a ceramic coating, a sealant, wax, or no protection at all makes a big difference in how often you need to maintain it.

- With protection: The surface is shielded from dirt, contaminants, and UV damage, so maintenance is mostly about preserving that layer.

- Without protection: Your car’s paint is exposed and will need more frequent cleaning and care to prevent damage.

How Often Should You Wash and Maintain Your Car?

For cars with protection (ceramic, sealant, or wax):

- Wash every 3 to 4 weeks to keep dirt and grime from building up.

- Interior cleaning every 3-4 weeks to keep the cabin fresh.

- Professional maintenance (removing stubborn contaminants like tar or iron deposits) every 6 to 12 months.

- A light top-up of protection helps keep the paint further protected, like a spray on wax added during maintenance, as well as boosting the protection of your original coating.

For cars without any protection:

- Wash every 2 to 3 weeks to avoid dirt and contaminants damaging the paint or clinging to the paint.

- Interior cleaning more often if needed.

What About More Frequent Detailing?

If you enjoy the process and want your car to always look showroom fresh, more frequent washes and maintenance can be done — think every 1 to 2 weeks for washing, and regular touch-ups. But for most people, this isn’t necessary.

 

The Bottom Line

- The better the protection on your car, the less often you need to do heavy detailing.

- Regular washes and light maintenance are key to keeping your car looking great and preserving your investment.

- Professional detailing every 6 to 12 months keeps things in top shape without hassle.

- Most importantly, tailor the routine to how often you use your car and the environment you drive in.

Need help keeping your car in perfect condition without lifting a finger?

That’s what we’re here for — expert care, tailored schedules, and a finish that lasts.