Thinking about turning your car‑detailing hobby into a money‑making business? You’re not alone. Many detailers wonder how much they can really earn and what they need to watch to keep the cash flowing. The good news is that with the right pricing, clear cost tracking, and a few smart upsells, you can push your profit margin higher without working crazy hours.
First off, stop guessing. Write down every expense – from the cheap microfiber towels to the big bucks you spend on a pressure washer. Then match those costs against each job you do. This simple spreadsheet shows you which services actually bring money and which ones just eat up time.
Most detailers forget to count the hidden costs. Fuel for a mobile unit, insurance, and even the time you spend traveling are real expenses. Break them into two groups: fixed costs (rent, utilities, insurance) and variable costs (cleaners, towels, brushes). Knowing the split helps you set a base price that covers the fixed side and still leaves room for profit on each variable job.
Example: If your fixed costs are £1,200 a month and you aim for a 30% profit, you need to bring in about £5,700 in revenue (because £1,200 / 0.30 = £4,000 profit, plus the £1,200 itself). Spread that over 20 jobs a month, and each job should net at least £285 after variable costs. If a basic wash costs you £30 in supplies, you’re looking at a selling price of roughly £315.
Don’t ignore the power of packages. Offer a “full detail” bundle that includes interior cleaning, waxing, and a quick engine wipe. Bundles let you charge a higher average price while the customer feels they’re getting a deal.
1. Upsell add‑ons – A glass polish, tire shine, or protective coating can add £20‑£50 per car with minimal extra work.
2. Charge for time – If you’re a mobile detailer, travel time is billable. Add a per‑mile or per‑hour travel fee to keep that mileage from eating your profit.
3. Use premium products wisely – Some high‑end waxes cost more but let you charge more too. Test the market; many owners will pay extra for a shine that lasts longer.
4. Offer repeat‑customer discounts – A 10% discount for a weekly service keeps the calendar full and reduces the cost of finding new clients.
5. Streamline operations – Keep your tools organized, use quick‑dry products, and schedule jobs back‑to‑back. Less downtime means more jobs per day and higher overall earnings.
Remember, profit isn’t just about raising prices. It’s about tightening up the numbers, cutting waste, and giving customers reasons to spend a bit more. Track every job, adjust rates when costs change, and watch your detailing business profit grow steadily.
Want to know how much profit is in car detailing? This article breaks down costs, profit margins, and ways to make real money in 2025. See if car detailing is profitable for you.