What's the Difference? Auto Detailing vs. Auto Body Shop

One of the questions we often receive is, "What is the difference between a detailing shop and an auto repair body shop? Don't they do the same thing?"

Generally, auto detailing is the process of extensive cleaning, both inside and out, restoring exteriors and interiors and even fixing and preventing scratches. An auto body shop, on the other hand, focuses more on fixing larger damages, both cosmetically and internally.

Auto Detailing can include elements of cleaning and restoring the exterior and interior of a vehicle such as:

Exterior:

Washing
Waxing
Bug and tar removal
Clay bar surface or Nano mitt
Using degreasers
Dressing outside plastics and rubber
Waxing or wax sealant
Buffing
Cleaning and dressing tires
Cleaning the engine
Dent repair
Ventilation decontamination
Headlight restoration
Touch-Up painting
Fixing scratches or marring in the paint or wheels
Applying paint protective coatings like Ceramic Pro or Opti-Coat Pro
Applying Paint Protection Film

Interior:

Vacuuming interior and trunk
Steam cleaning
Cleaning windows and mirrors
Cleaning door jambs
Cleaning the dashboard, console, vents and components
Cleaning and dressing interior leather, vinyl and rubber
Spot cleaning the interior roof
Shampooing the seats, mats, carpets and door panels

On the other hand, auto body shops generally specialize in services like:

Body repairs like bumper and fender replacements, cracked windows, etc.
Painting
Mechanical repairs (engine, transmission, brakes, etc.)
Replacing parts
Fixing large damages, crinkles

Bottom line, if your vehicle is wrecked, needs severe cosmetic work, replacement parts or engine and transmission tuning, a body shop is where to go. If your vehicle needs to be cleaned or even has scratches or fading on the paint, a detailer is the correct choice.

Capitol Shine is the premier detailer of choice in the Washington, D.C. area for many with locations in Arlington (Virginia), Bethesda (Maryland), NW and SW D.C. We provide all of the detailing items listed above in addition to other options (see them here).

To schedule your vehicle for any of our detailing services, including waxing, washing, shampooing, paint correction and more, call 202.380.7100 or visit our scheduling page here. Please schedule in advance to ensure time and date.