The short answer
In Melbourne, a basic wash can cost well under $50, while a full interior and exterior detail typically sits in the low-to-mid hundreds. Packages that add machine polishing, paint correction or ceramic coatings can run well into four figures. Those are different services — comparing them on price alone is comparing a haircut to a hair transplant.
Our own price is simple: $150 for a full mobile detail, inside and out, at your home. No tiers.
What drives the price
1. What’s actually included
This is the big one. “Full detail” at one business might mean a vacuum and a wash; at another it might include paint correction. Always ask for the list of what’s done, step by step. See what a full car detail should include.
2. Vehicle size
A seven-seat SUV or a dual-cab ute simply has more surface — more carpet, more glass, more panels — than a small hatch. Many detailers price by size.
3. Condition
Heavy pet hair, sand, mould, spilled milk or a car that hasn’t been cleaned in years takes far longer. A good detailer will ask about condition before quoting rather than surprise you on the day.
4. Paint work
Machine polishing to remove swirls and scratches is skilled, slow work, and coatings add product cost on top. This is where prices jump from hundreds to thousands. If you don’t need it, don’t pay for it.
5. Mobile vs workshop
Mobile detailers save you the trip and the waiting room. Workshops have controlled lighting and equipment suited to paint correction. For a full clean, mobile is usually the more convenient option.
How to compare quotes properly
| Ask this | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| What exactly is included, inside and out? | Stops you comparing a wash to a full detail |
| Is the boot / door jambs included? | Common hidden add-ons |
| Is there a travel fee? | Some mobile operators add it on |
| What products do you use? | Cheap chemicals = cheap result |
| What happens if it’s worse than described? | Avoids a surprise bill on the day |
Red flags
- A “full detail” price that seems too good to be true — something’s usually missing
- Packages named like credit cards (gold, platinum, black) designed to push you up a tier
- No clear list of what’s included
- Promises that a wash will “remove scratches”
What $150 gets you at VANTA
Full interior — vacuum, vents, dash, console, door cards, leather, jambs and glass — plus wheels, snow foam pre-wash, two-bucket hand wash, microfibre dry, glass and tyre dressing. No polishing, waxing or coatings. Seven days a week across Melbourne’s north. Full pricing details.