Exterior Auto Detailing in San Diego, CA

Transform Your Car With Exterior Detailing

Your car’s exterior is constantly exposed to the elements—sun, rain, dirt, and road debris can take a toll on its appearance. Over time, oxidation, scratches, and contaminants can dull your paint and make your vehicle look worn. At Gleam Auto Spa in San Diego, we specialize in professional exterior car detailing to rejuvenate your vehicle’s finish, improve imperfections, and apply protective coatings that keep it looking like new. Whether you want to maintain your daily driver or prepare your vehicle for a show, our expert detailing enhances both aesthetics and longevity. Gleam Auto Spa is ready to provide exterior car detailing in Grantville, Mission Valley, Allied Gardens, or nearby neighborhoods.

What Is Exterior Auto Detailing?

Exterior auto detailing is a thorough cleaning, restoration, and protection process that enhances the look and durability of your vehicle’s exterior. It goes beyond a simple car wash, addressing paint imperfections, contaminants, and surface protection with specialized techniques and professional-grade products. From hand washing and decontaminating the paint to polishing and applying long-lasting sealants or ceramic coatings, every step is designed to elevate your car’s appearance and shield it from environmental damage.

Benefits of Professional Exterior Auto Detailing

  • Enhanced Appearance – Restore the depth, shine, and clarity of your vehicle’s paint.
  • Paint Protection – Guard against UV rays, oxidation, and contaminants with wax, sealants, or ceramic coatings.
  • Increased Resale Value – A well-maintained exterior improves your car’s market value and appeal.
  • Scratch & Swirl Removal – Correct minor imperfections to achieve a flawless finish.
  • Prolonged Paint Life – Prevent premature aging and wear with regular detailing treatments.
  • Better Driving Experience – A clean, glossy car simply feels better to drive!

Our Exterior Detailing Services Starting at $189

Please note that prices are starting points and may vary depending on your vehicle’s size and condition. We offer a wide range of exterior detailing services to give your vehicle a polished, protected, and like-new appearance:

  • Hand Wash & Wax – Gentle hand wash with a premium wax application to enhance shine and protect your vehicle’s paint. Starts at $189
  • Paint Decontamination – Removes stubborn contaminants like tar, sap, and bug splatter for a smooth, spotless surface. Starts at $499
  • Paint Polishing – Restores paint clarity and brilliance by reducing minor imperfections and enhancing gloss. Starts at $499 – $1,399
  • Paint Correction – Removes swirl marks, scratches, and oxidation to achieve a flawless, showroom-like finish. Starts at $1,499 – $2,900
  • Trim Restoration – Revives faded or dull exterior trims and moldings for a fresh, like-new appearance. Starts at $159
  • Wheel & Tire Detailing – Deep cleaning, polishing, and dressing for wheels and tires to enhance their appearance and durability. Starts at $399
  • Headlight Restoration – Removes cloudiness and yellowing for improved visibility and a refreshed appearance. Starts at $199
  • Ceramic Coating: Up to 10 year protection. Advanced protection with a glossy, hydrophobic layer that guards against UV rays, dirt, and grime. Starts at $1,500 – $5,000
  • Windshield Coating – A hydrophobic treatment that enhances visibility in rainy conditions by causing water to bead and roll off your windshield. It also protects your car’s exterior from rain-induced water spots and streaks. Starts at $149 – $399
  • Vehicle Wrap Installation & Maintenance – Expert application of high-quality wraps and ongoing care to preserve their appearance and longevity. Starts at $999 – $5,500. Exotic cars up to $10,000+
  • Paint Protection Film (PPF) Installation & Maintenance – Professional installation of PPF and maintenance to keep it looking pristine and functioning effectively. Starts at $899 – $3,000. Full car $7,000 – $10,000+

Exterior Detailing Packages

We’ve designed our packages to suit every car and budget. Please note that prices are starting points and may vary depending on your vehicle’s size and condition.

  • Hand wash & wax
  • Hand blow dry
  • Tire cleaning & dressing
  • Quick glass cleaning
  • Final wipe-down inspection
  • Recommended for: vehicles that are maintained monthly
  • Time: 1 hour is dedicated to your vehicle
  • Package upgrade: Save 5% on any extra exterior detailing services to tailor this package to your specific needs
  • Hand degrease wash
  • Paint decontamination
  • Hand blow dry
  • Tire cleaning & dressing
  • Apply 3-month wax protection
  • Quick glass cleaning
  • Final wipe-down inspection
  • Recommended for: vehicles that are maintained every 3 months
  • Time: 3–4 hours are dedicated to your vehicle
  • Package upgrade: Save 5% on any extra exterior detailing services to tailor this package to your specific needs
  • Hand degrease wash
  • Iron decontamination
  • Paint decontamination
  • Hand blow dry
  • Tire cleaning & dressing
  • Full paint polishing
  • 2-3 year ceramic coating protection application
  • Quick glass cleaning
  • Final wipe-down inspection
  • Express Exterior Detailing is recommended monthly to maintain the ceramic coating protection
  • Recommended for: vehicles that are maintained yearly
  • Time: 6–8 hours are dedicated to your vehicle
  • Package upgrade: Save 5% on any extra exterior detailing services to tailor this package to your specific needs

Looking for Complete Detailing?

If you want an all-in-one solution that revitalizes your car inside and out, our complete car detailing service is the perfect choice. It combines comprehensive interior and exterior care to restore your vehicle to its best condition.

Is Exterior Auto Detailing Right for You?

If you take pride in your vehicle’s appearance, professional detailing is a must. Whether your car is exposed to harsh conditions, has lost its shine, or you simply want to maintain its pristine condition, our exterior auto detailing services provide the care and protection your car deserves.

Schedule Your Detailing Service Today

Give your vehicle the attention it deserves. Gleam Auto Spa in San Diego is here to provide exceptional exterior car detailing services tailored to your needs. We proudly serve Grantville, Mission Valley, Allied Gardens, and beyond.

Contact us today to book your appointment and experience the difference professional detailing can make!

FAQs About Exterior Detailing

We recommend professional exterior detailing every 4–6 months to maintain its appearance and protect it from wear.

Ceramic coating provides long-lasting protection against UV rays, dirt, and contaminants while delivering a high-gloss finish that keeps your car looking new for up to 10 years of protection.

Paint correction can eliminate or significantly reduce most scratches and swirl marks, but the results depend on the depth and severity of the damage.