What does a car detailer do? – Tasks and work environment
A car detailer is responsible for cleaning, maintaining, and sometimes reconditioning vehicles both inside and out. Tasks include washing, waxing, polishing, vacuuming the interior, cleaning windows, and occasionally performing minor repairs of the interior and paint. It often also involves treating textiles, removing stains, and ensuring cars are in the best possible condition for sale, rental, or return. The work environment is typically workshop-based, meaning work is performed both indoors and outdoors, sometimes under time pressure and with high physical demands.
Salary development over time
The salary for car detailers has changed significantly over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,700 SEK per month, which increased sharply to 30 700 SEK in 2023 – an increase of about 15%. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary has fallen to 29 500 SEK, corresponding to a decrease of 4%. This fluctuation can partly be explained by increased competition within the profession, changes in demand for detailing services, and a somewhat larger proportion of new employees with lower wages. The job market has also been characterized by recruitment difficulties and high staff turnover, which can influence short-term salary development.
Car detailer salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 29 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 23,700 SEK/month (female, public sector)
- Highest salary: 32,600 SEK/month (male, private service sector)
- Hourly wage: 177 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Women earn 92% of men's salaries (27 600 SEK vs. 30 100 SEK)
- Regional differences: Specific regional salary differences are not available, but variations occur depending on location and employer
Education and qualifications
To work as a car detailer, formal education is rarely required, but many employers prefer candidates who have completed a high school program in vehicle and transport or equivalent. Practical experience is highly valued, and training often occurs through on-the-job learning. For certain specialized services, certification courses in detailing or paint protection can be advantageous.
- Education: Vehicle and transport program at high school (3 years)
- Certifications: Courses in detailing and paint protection can be advantageous
- Internship: Often on-the-job training or internships during high school
- Prerequisites: No formal education required, but interest and thoroughness are important
- Tips for choosing: Self-study and online courses can improve chances of getting a job in the field
It is not uncommon for car detailers to work on exclusive or rare cars, especially with larger companies or car dealers. For car enthusiasts, the job can offer opportunities to work with rare models and advanced technology.
Common benefits and compensation
Car detailers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, subsidized meals, and sometimes bonuses based on performance or customer satisfaction. In some cases, opportunities for further training in detailing or special treatments are included as part of employment conditions.
Competition and challenges
The job market for car detailers is characterized by a paradoxical combination of recruitment difficulties and high staff turnover. Despite stable demand and good job prospects nationwide, the industry faces challenges in retaining staff and attracting qualified applicants. Competition for jobs varies depending on region and employer, with larger cities often offering more services but also more applicants. Physical strain, repetitive tasks, and sometimes uncertain employment conditions are common challenges that can affect job satisfaction and long-term career development.
Tips for those who want to become a car detailer
To succeed as a car detailer, it is important to be meticulous and have an eye for detail, as the quality of work often determines customer satisfaction. Good physical condition and endurance facilitate the often repetitive and physically demanding tasks. Flexibility is a valuable asset, as different cars and customer needs require adaptability and the ability to quickly switch tasks. Being service-minded and easy to work with colleagues and customers is often advantageous, especially in larger facilities or companies with direct customer contact. Practical skills and an interest in technology can also be valuable, particularly if the workplace offers opportunities to work with advanced equipment or special treatments. A good tip is to seek internships or part-time jobs during high school to gain insight into the profession and build experience. Finally, it is important to show engagement and willingness to learn new methods and products, as the industry is continuously evolving.
Key facts about Car Detailers
- Education level: High school education recommended but not required
- Work environment: Workshop environment, both indoors and outdoors
- Work arrangements: Full-time, part-time, and hourly employment are common
- Demand: Large opportunities for jobs nationwide
- Special skills: Experience in detailing and paint protection is advantageous
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to supervisor, team leader, or specialize in advanced detailing, paint protection, or car sales. Some car detailers choose to start their own vehicle care business or transition to related fields such as auto mechanics, window cleaning, or property maintenance. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, the opportunities for employment as a car detailer remain strong, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Despite some high staff turnover and recruitment challenges, motivated individuals eager to develop within the industry have good prospects. Currently, there are 123 job openings in the car detailing sector, highlighting the ongoing demand for skilled labor.
Common questions about Car Detailers
- What is the average salary of a car detailer?
- The average salary for a car detailer is 29 500 SEK per month.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for a car detailer?
- The highest salary is 32,600 SEK and the lowest is 23,700 SEK per month.
- How do gender differences in salary look?
- Women earn 92% of men's salaries, with an average of 27 600 SEK compared to men's 30 100 SEK.
- Is education required to become a car detailer?
- Formal education is not required, but a high school program in vehicle and transport is recommended.
- What is the job market like for car detailers?
- Opportunities are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
- What are the typical tasks of a car detailer?
- Common tasks include washing, detailing, waxing, polishing, and interior cleaning.
- Are there career opportunities within the profession?
- Yes, you can progress to supervisor or specialize in different areas of car detailing.
