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What does a car detailer do in the automotive industry? – Tasks and work environment

A car detailer in the automotive industry works with cleaning, maintaining, and restoring vehicles to the best possible condition, both interior and exterior. The work includes washing, polishing, waxing, and paint protection, as well as textile and leather treatment, and deep cleaning of interiors. Often, simpler repairs of surface layers and handling of specialized equipment for dry cleaning and steam cleaning are included. The work environment is usually located in car dealerships, workshops, or car washes where moisture, chemicals, and noise may be present. Physical activity is a natural part of the job, and shifts can involve standing and moving around for large parts of the day.

Salary development over time

The profession of car detailer has shown varied salary development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,700 SEK per month, rising in the following year, 2023, to 30 700 SEK, which is approximately a 15% increase. In 2024, the average salary has slightly decreased to 29 500 SEK, representing a reduction of about 4% from the previous year. This development can be partly explained by changes in demand for car detailing services, labor market supply, and economic factors affecting the industry. Salary variations also reflect regional differences and differences between employers and employment types.

Car detailer, salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 29 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 23,700 SEK/month (female, public sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 32,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, less than 9 years of education)
• Hourly wage: 177 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 92% of what men do (27 600 SEK for women, 30 100 SEK for men)
• Regional differences: Salaries vary depending on location and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a car detailer, formal education is often not required, but a high school education in vehicle care or equivalent is advantageous. Practical experience and interest in car care are highly valued, and many employers offer internal training or introductory periods. There are also opportunities to attend shorter courses or certifications to deepen knowledge in areas such as paint protection or advanced interior cleaning.

• Type of education: High school programs in vehicles, vehicle care, or equivalent
• Certifications: Courses in car care, polishing, and paint protection
• Internships: Introductory or trainee positions with employers
• Prerequisites: Basic Swedish skills, driver's license often required
• Self-study: Online courses and practical manuals are available

Common benefits and compensation

Typical benefits for car detailers include wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes bonuses for high productivity. Some employers also offer discounted car care services, extra vacation days, or access to staff parking. Compensation for unsocial hours may be provided for work evenings and weekends.

Competition and challenges

The job market for car detailers is characterized by good employment opportunities, but also a paradoxical situation where recruitment difficulties and high turnover coexist. The industry is sensitive to economic cycles, and demand for detailing services can vary seasonally and economically. Competition for the most attractive positions is higher in larger cities, while smaller towns may have fewer job opportunities but less competition. Success requires the ability to handle physically demanding tasks, precision, and working efficiently under time pressure.

Tips for those aspiring to become a car detailer

To succeed as a car detailer, having a keen eye for details and a genuine interest in vehicles is beneficial. Being thorough and systematic in your work helps achieve the best results, while flexibility makes it easier to handle various tasks and customer requests. Good physical condition is an advantage since the job often involves heavy lifting and working in different postures. The ability to collaborate and communicate with colleagues and customers is also important, especially for building trust and long-term relationships. Curiosity and willingness to learn new techniques in car care can open doors to more advanced and specialized tasks. Lastly, a sense of responsibility is highly valued by employers, as the job often involves handling expensive vehicles and equipment.

Key facts about Car Detailer

• Education level: High school education recommended but not required
• Work environment: Practical and physical, often in dealerships or workshops
• Employment type: Full-time, part-time, or hourly employment available
• Demand: Great opportunities for work nationwide
• Special skills: Paint protection, machine polishing, interior care are advantageous

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a car detailer, there are opportunities to advance to supervisor, site manager, or specialist in areas such as paint protection and advanced car care. Some choose to start their own business within detailing or further educate themselves to become a mechanic or salesperson. The employment agency's forecasts indicate that job opportunities are abundant and expected to remain stable over the next five years, despite recruitment difficulties and high staff turnover in the profession. The industry reports approximately 123 job openings nationwide, indicating continued demand and opportunities for those with the right skills and commitment.

Common questions about Car Detailers

• What does a car detailer earn in the automotive industry?
  - The average salary is 29 500 SEK per month, but the salary range varies between 23,700 SEK and 32,600 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• Are there educational requirements to become a car detailer?
  - Formal educational requirements are often lacking, but a high school education and courses in car care are advantageous.
• What is the work environment like for a car detailer?
  - The work is physically demanding and is mainly performed in car dealerships, workshops, or car washes.
• What benefits are common in this profession?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, bonuses, and sometimes discounted car care services.
• What are the future prospects for car detailers?
  - Job opportunities are considered plentiful nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary depending on location, employer, and employment type.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - It is possible to advance to supervisor, specialize, or start your own business.