What does an Auto Detailer do?

Detailers provide interior and exterior cleaning services to automobiles. They are responsible for anything from a simple wash and vacuum to a more extensive cleaning job that could include hand-washing a vehicle, steaming and deodorizing interiors, waxing, polishing, or applying protective agents to a car. Detailers operate machinery, including buffers, steamers, hoses, vacuums, and other equipment to meet service expectations. They use cleaning, protective, and restorative agents to maintain and enhance a vehicle’s appearance.

Detailers perform inspections and keep complete and accurate records of the vehicle’s condition. They move and park the cars, deliver them to correct locations, and sometimes pick owners and drivers up. Detailers manage inventory and record supplies and need a high school diploma or equivalent in a valid state driver's license with a clean driving record. They also need successful completion of automotive tech or other training programs alongside attention to detail and excellent customer service, interpersonal, and communication skills.

What responsibilities are common for Auto Detailer jobs?
  • Comply with all safety policies and company uniform standards.
  • Assist in tracking statistics and reports (weekly, monthly, and annually).
  • Wash vehicle exterior, using cleaning solution, water, cloths, and brushes.
  • Regularly bend and crouch to repair car wash equipment.
  • Follow proper operating rules, procedures, and standardized work initiatives as assigned.
  • Maintain a neat, clean and organized overall site appearance.
  • Ensure all needed repairs identified to eliminate supplements and minimize repair time.
  • Mend damaged body and fenders by hammering out or filling in dents and welding broken parts. insure all gaps and fits are to industry standards.
  • Remove damaged fenders, panels and grills. and bolts or welds replacement parts in position and reassemble after parts are painted. insure all gaps and fills are to industry standards.
  • Perform multi-point inspection on inbound units as required by company policies and procedures. check tire pressure. report service issues to shop.
  • Participate in all training programs related to parts, service, and product updates.
  • Perform automotive preventive maintenance such as changing oil, checking and refilling other vehicle fluids, replacing filters, and inspecting and replacing lights and wipers.
What are the typical qualifications for Auto Detailer jobs?
  • High school diploma or associate degree in engineering.
  • Able to carry or pull up to 40 lbs. of test equipment.
  • Budget planning expertise.
  • Exhibit strong leadership, time management, and problem solving skills.
  • Demonstrated positive attitude and sense of humor.
  • Fluency in product availability and offerings.
  • Can collaborate with clients to carry out desired outcome.
Education--
Work/Life Balance
3.4 ★
Salary Range--
Career Opportunity
3.2 ★
Avg. Experience0-1 Year

Auto Detailer Salaries near United Kingdom

Average Base Pay

£34,878 /yr
Not including cash compensation
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Glassdoor Estimated Salary

Auto Detailer Career Path

Learn how to become an Auto Detailer, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Auto Detailer

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
40%
2 - 4
38%
5 - 7
1%
8+
21%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Auto Detailer Insights

Read what Auto Detailer professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
CARVANACARVANA
Car Detailer
7 Jun 2022

“Good money if you get lucky and your interview lowest seen is 15 highest 17 for the same position”

Cloud Imperium GamesCloud Imperium Games
3D Vehicle Artist
12 Jul 2023

“The quality of the work being done from an art standpoint was amazing and really fun to work on.”

Ford Motor CompanyFord Motor Company
Detailer
18 Jul 2023

“It was fun and everyone was nice to work with”

Teph SealTeph Seal
Detail Manager
15 Aug 2021

“Not really any I can think of other than if you’re a manager you can decide your schedule but then again not really.”

EnterpriseEnterprise
Detailer
24 Aug 2023

“Horribly understaffed and overworked.”

CarbizCarbiz
Car Washer
10 Oct 2021

“really nice and honest people.”

Bill Bryan Chrysler Jeep DodgeBill Bryan Chrysler Jeep Dodge
Detailer
22 Mar 2023

“Good pay Work was steady”

Sharp Detail
Car Detailer
17 Aug 2023

“Professional growth and an enjoyable Job”

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Auto Detailer Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of an Auto Detailer

The most similar professions to Auto Detailer are:
  • Team Member
  • Cashier
  • Laborer
  • Machine Operator

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Team Member
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Laborer
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Auto Detailer jobs