Short answer: for most LA drivers, a wash every 2 to 4 weeks and a full detail every 3 to 4 months. Adjust from there based on how you use the car and where it’s parked.
A simple schedule
Every 2–4 weeksWashHand wash, tire dressing, a light vacuum and an interior wipe-down. Our Basic detail covers it, from $125.
Every 3–4 monthsFull detailClay bar, iron decon, ceramic sealant and leather conditioning. From $250.
Once a yearDeep cleanHot steam clean of seats, carpets and every crevice to lift stains, germs and smells. Presidential from $350.
Why LA cars need it more than you’d think
- Sun. Strong UV most of the year fades paint, dries out trim and cracks dashboards. Sealant and interior protectant slow that down.
- Dust and brake dust. Dry weather means a film of dust on everything, and brake dust bakes onto wheels.
- Hard water. Sprinkler overspray leaves mineral spots that etch into paint and glass if they sit.
- Birds and trees. Bird droppings and sap are acidic and can stain the clear coat in the heat.
Adjust for how you drive
- Daily commuter or rideshare: wash every 2 weeks and a full detail closer to every 3 months.
- Kids or pets: plan on more interior cleaning. A deep clean twice a year is common.
- Garaged weekend car: a wash monthly and a full detail twice a year is usually plenty.
- Ceramic coated: washes go faster, but the car still needs regular gentle washes to keep the coating working. See how long ceramic coating lasts.
Signs your car is due
- Run your fingertips over the clean paint. If it feels rough instead of smooth, it needs a clay bar and sealant.
- Water sits flat on the paint instead of beading.
- The windows look hazy from inside, especially driving into the sun.
- Stains, crumbs or a smell that won’t go away.
- Wheels look brown or gray instead of their real color.
Regulars save: every 5th detail with us is $50 off, automatically. We track it by your phone number, so there’s no card or code to keep.