how much to tip car detailer

[RTexasF]

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I've never been big on the tipping thing. $250 for 8 hours of work (?) plus a bit of soap, I'm not seeing a need for a tip. shrug It's all elbow grease, right?


It's obvious that you are clueless as to what is involved in a full interior & exterior detail when properly done. The carpet extractor alone can cost $900+. The polishers and pads easily run into the high hundred$. Water, electricity, detailing products, the building itself, wages, etc, etc. Not to mention the knowledge and expertise required.

Having detailed for a living years ago I would not tip at a full detail shop with many employees. A one/two man shop or a mobile detailer? Yes, 10-15% PROVIDING the job done was exemplary. It also depends what was done for the exterior......did they clay, compound, then polish or simply smear a glaze on top that will look great but wash off at the next car wash? ASK what was done before paying for the service, you deserve to know. Then make your tipping decision.

 

[supton]

Originally Posted by RTexasF
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I've never been big on the tipping thing. $250 for 8 hours of work (?) plus a bit of soap, I'm not seeing a need for a tip. shrug It's all elbow grease, right?


It's obvious that you are clueless as to what is involved in a full interior & exterior detail when properly done.

I am clueless, so thanks for the correction. I've yet to own anything that would be nice enough to warrant any such service.

Why not charge a proper price up front if it's really that expensive to do? How is this different than any other service? I mean, auto mechanics have their tools and supplies and whatnot, and charge accordingly.

 

[charbaby]

In auto detailing, a really good comment(rave) from a customer is tip enough.

"OH MY GOD, I CAN'T BELIEVE HOW GOOD MY CAR LOOKS, THANK YOU!"

 

[RTexasF]

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I am clueless, so thanks for the correction. I've yet to own anything that would be nice enough to warrant any such service.

Why not charge a proper price up front if it's really that expensive to do? How is this different than any other service? I mean, auto mechanics have their tools and supplies and whatnot, and charge accordingly.


So what would be a proper price? Is the car to be detailed a new Corolla or a six year old muddy filthy Suburban? What is the customer expecting? Perfection or make it look good enough to sell it? Does the paint require multiple machine correction steps or is the paint in good shape? Does the interior require machine cleaning of all the seats, carpets, every surface (soccer Mom Mini Van) or is it in good shape?

Far too many variables are involved. Some do post a basic price list but each vehicle is quoted on an individual basis after a thorough discussion with the customer. That's the way I did business since I was a one man band. I did get tipped on occasion but didn't expect it. I preferred the referrals to bring in more clients. Fortunately that wasn't a problem.