How often you should detail your car depends on driving conditions, storage, existing paint protection, and your expectations for appearance. Daily drivers parked outdoors collect contaminants faster—dust, fallout, bird droppings, and UV—so they benefit from tighter intervals. Garage-kept weekend cars can extend the gap because they face fewer environmental stressors.
As a baseline, schedule a maintenance wash every 1–2 weeks using pH-neutral shampoo and safe techniques (pre-wash foam, two-bucket method, plush microfibers). This removes bonded grime before it etches the clear coat and keeps gloss alive between bigger services. Add a spray sealant every 4–8 weeks to refresh slickness and hydrophobics.
Plan interior detailing every 1–2 months for daily drivers: vacuuming, steam/disinfecting high-touch areas, UV protection for plastics, and leather cleaning/conditioning. Families, ride-share vehicles, or pet owners may need monthly service. For light-use or garage-kept cars, quarterly interior sessions are typically sufficient with prompt spot-cleaning.
Book paint decontamination and enhancement quarterly or biannually: iron/tar removal and, if needed, a light polish. If your vehicle is ceramic-coated, follow the coating’s plan—typically decon every 4–6 months plus an annual inspection/topper. On wax or sealant only, consider a full correction and protection refresh every 6–12 months.
For maximum protection, pair PPF on impact zones (bumper, hood, mirrors) with a ceramic coating on paint, wheels, and glass. This combo lengthens intervals, reduces wash time, and keeps the finish looking new longer. Ultimately, let your use-case dictate the schedule: harsher environments demand shorter cycles; gentle use allows longer gaps.
