Keeping your car in pristine condition goes beyond the occasional car wash. For those who want their vehicle to look and feel brand new, professional detailing is the answer. What should you expect to pay for this specialized service? If you’re in London, Ontario, the cost can vary based on several factors, including the size of your vehicle, the level of service you need, and the specific company you choose.

This guide will break down the typical costs for professional car detailing in London, Ontario. We’ll cover what services are included at different price points and provide tips on what to look for when selecting a detailing service.

Understanding Car Detailing Packages and Prices

Many car detailing shops in London, Ontario, offer tiered packages. This structure allows customers to choose a level of service that fits their budget and their car’s needs. Let’s explore the common packages you’ll encounter and their average price ranges.

Basic Interior & Exterior Detailing

A basic or “express” detailing package is a significant step up from a standard car wash. It’s designed for vehicles that are in relatively good condition but need a thorough cleaning to restore their shine and freshness.

What’s Included:
- Exterior: A detailed hand wash and dry, cleaning of wheels and tires, and application of a spray wax for a protective shine. The door jambs and windows are also cleaned.
- Interior: A comprehensive vacuum of the carpets, seats, and trunk. Surfaces like the dashboard, centre console, and door panels are wiped down.
Average Cost in London, ON:
- Cars: $100 – $175
- SUVs & Trucks: $125 – $200

This package is a great entry point for those new to detailing or for maintaining a vehicle between more intensive services. It typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.

Full Detailing Package

The full or “premium” detailing package is the most popular option for many car owners. It offers a deep clean that targets dirt, stains, and imperfections that a basic service won’t address. This is the package that truly rejuvenates a vehicle’s appearance.

What’s Included:
- Exterior: Everything in the basic package, plus a clay bar treatment to remove embedded contaminants from the paint, and a hand-applied coat of high-quality wax or sealant for longer-lasting protection and gloss.
- Interior: A deep vacuum, steam cleaning or hot water extraction for carpets and upholstery to remove stains and odours, and detailed cleaning of all vinyl, plastic, and leather surfaces, followed by the application of a protectant.
Average Cost in London, ON:
- Cars: $250 – $400
- SUVs & Trucks: $300 – $450

A full detail can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the vehicle’s condition. It’s an excellent choice for preparing a car for sale, restoring a recently purchased used car, or simply giving your daily driver a new lease on life.

Premium & Ceramic Coating Packages

For enthusiasts who want the best possible protection and finish for their vehicle, premium packages often include advanced services like paint correction and ceramic coatings.

What’s Included:
- Exterior: All services from the full package, plus paint correction (polishing) to remove swirl marks, light scratches, and other paint imperfections. This is followed by the application of a ceramic coating, which provides a hard, durable layer of protection that can last for years.
- Interior: All full detailing services, often with added treatments like leather conditioning and fabric protection.
Average Cost in London, ON:
- Paint Correction: This is often priced separately and can range from $300 to $1,000+ depending on the condition of the paint.
- Ceramic Coating: Including prep and application, ceramic coatings typically start at $700 and can go up to $2,000 or more for multi-year coatings.

These high-end services are an investment in your vehicle’s long-term appearance and value. They require specialized skills and can take one to three days to complete.

Factors That Influence Detailing Costs

While packages provide a general price guide, several factors can adjust the final cost:

Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles like SUVs, minivans, and trucks require more time and product, so they naturally cost more to detail than a compact car.
Vehicle Condition: A car with heavy staining, excessive pet hair, or a thick layer of dirt will require more labour to clean, which can increase the price. Most detailers will charge an extra fee for these conditions, often ranging from $50 to $100+.
Add-On Services: Many shops offer à la carte services that you can add to any package. Common add-ons include:
- Engine Bay Cleaning: $50 – $100
- Headlight Restoration: $75 – $150
- Odour Removal (Ozone Treatment): $100 – $200
- Pet Hair Removal: $50 – $125+
Mobile vs. Shop-Based: Mobile detailing services that come to your home or office may have slightly different pricing structures to account for travel time and logistics. However, their prices are often competitive with brick-and-mortar shops.

Choosing the Right Service for Your Needs

Investing in professional car detailing is one of the best ways to maintain your vehicle’s condition and resale value. Whether you need a quick refresh with a basic package or a complete transformation with a full detail and ceramic coating, there’s a local professional ready to help. Contact Thunder Auto Detailing in London Ontario for affordable pricing with high-quality results.