How Often Should You Get Your Car Detailed?

How often you should detail your car depends on how you drive. Here’s the simplest schedule for keeping your car clean and protected.

By RetroClean Detailing
December 4, 2025

There’s no single rule for how often a car should be detailed. It really depends on how you use your vehicle β€” weather, roads, kids, pets, and parking habits all play a part. But there is a general timeline that keeps your car looking great year-round.

🀝 And the cleaner your car stays, the longer your interior and paint will last.

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How Often Should You Detail Your Car?

Most drivers should aim for:

  • Full Detail: every 6–12 months
  • Interior Detail: every 3–6 months
  • Exterior Detail (wash + protection): every 2–4 weeks

If you:
βœ” park outside
βœ” drive in winter / salted roads
βœ” spill drinks or have kids & pets
β†’ You may want more frequent care.

It’s easier (and cheaper) to maintain cleanliness than fix damage later.

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What Affects Your Detailing Schedule?

Your detailing needs increase if you:

  • Park outdoors β†’ UV + bird droppings + rain spots
  • Drive lots of miles β†’ grime and interior wear
  • Have kids or pets β†’ stains, odor, hair
  • Own a luxury or coated car β†’ upkeep for resale value

Your lifestyle determines the right plan β€” not just the calendar.

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A clean car is more comfortable to drive β€” and worth more when you decide to sell. Sticking to a simple detailing routine protects both your upholstery and paint over time.

Book your maintenance detail with RetroClean Detailing for a long-lasting clean. πŸš—βœ¨

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