A clean car not only looks great but can also increase the car’s value and lifespan. While quick cleanings like washing and vacuuming are necessary maintenance, deep full car detailing should also be done regularly to keep your vehicle in pristine condition.
In this comprehensive guide, we review the top 10 best full car detailing kits available in 2023 to help you choose the right products for expert-level cleaning and detailing at home.
Outline of Full Car Detailing Kit Reviews
Introduction
- Benefits of full car detailing
- What to look for in full car detailing kits
- How we evaluated and picked the top 10 kits
Reviews of the Top 10 Full Car Detailing Kits
- Meguiar’s G55032SP Complete Car Care Kit
- Chemical Guys HOL148 Car Detailing Kit
- Armor All 78451 Pro Series Full Car Care Kit
- Griot’s Garage 10866 Car Care Kit
- Mothers 06240 California Gold Car Care Kit
- TriNova Top Car Detailing Kit
- Chemical Guys BUF_300_KIT Car Detailing Starter Kit
- Adam’s Essentials Car Wash Kit
- Karcher Complete Car Care Bucket Kit
10.Nanoskin AutoScrub Premium Car Care Full Kit
Full Car Detailing Kit Comparison Table
- Side-by-side comparison of key features, pros, and cons
Buyer’s Guide
- Key factors to consider when choosing a car detailing kit
- Additional tips for full car detailing at home
- FAQs about car detailing kits
Conclusion
Introduction
Keeping your car clean inside and out is key to maintaining its appearance and value over time. While quick cleanings like washing and vacuuming are a must, deep full car detailing should also be performed regularly to keep your car looking showroom-new.
Full car detailing involves thoroughly cleaning the interior and exterior of the vehicle with professional-grade products to remove contaminants, restore shine, and protect surfaces. The process includes washing, claying, polishing, waxing, interior steam cleaning, vacuuming, stain removal, and more.
Doing full detailing yourself at home can save hundreds of dollars compared to professional detailing services. Plus, you can tailor the cleaning to your own standards and care for your car on your schedule.
But to tackle full car detailing properly, it’s essential to have the right supplies and tools. The latest full car detailing kits provide complete systems with top-tier cleaners, brushes, towels, and equipment selected for expert-level auto detailing.
In this review guide, we evaluate the top 10 best full car detailing kits available in 2023 based on performance, value, versatility, and ease of use. We help you understand what to look for when choosing a kit and reveal the key pros and cons of the leading options. Read on to learn which detailing kits deliver professional results so you can keep your car clean and looking its absolute best!
What to Look for in Full Car Detailing Kits
When selecting a complete kit for full car detailing, here are the key factors to consider:
- Interior and exterior cleaning solutions: The kit should include high-quality cleaners and products for washing, decontaminating, polishing, protecting, and dressing both interior and exterior surfaces. Top brands like Meguiar’s and Chemical Guys are ideal.
- Tools and accessories: Look for kits that provide microfiber towels, brushes, buckets, wash mitts, foam cannons, steam cleaners, and other tools to apply products and safely clean every part of the vehicle.
- Shine enhancing: Polishes, waxes, sealants, and other solutions that restore brilliant gloss and glittering shine are essentials for full detailing.
- Value and price: Aim for kits that provide complete detailing systems with ample quantities of quality products to clean multiple vehicles. Kits offering the most supplies for the price deliver the best value.
- Versatility: Look for kits with products and tools to handle all types of vehicle interiors and exteriors (paint, glass, plastic, leather, vinyl, chrome etc.) for complete full vehicle detailing.
- Beginner-friendly: Opt for kits with easy-to-use products and simple processes. In-depth guides, how-to videos, and customer support can also help beginners achieve pro-level detailing results.
How We Evaluated and Picked the Top 10 Kits
To select and rank the very best full car detailing kits available in 2023, we researched dozens of leading options thoroughly. We analyzed kits from top auto detailing brands comparing the quality of included products, value for money based on supply quantities and kit price, versatility for full interior and exterior detailing, and ease of use even for beginners.
We also consulted detailed hands-on evaluations from professional detailers and everyday users. Our picks deliver brilliant cleaning results and value while also earning high marks for user-friendliness and comprehensive vehicle detailing abilities. Read on for our full reviews of each of these top car detailing kits!
Reviews of the Top 10 Best Full Car Detailing Kits
1. Meguiar’s G55032SP Complete Car Care Kit
The Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit tops our list as the #1 best full detailing kit on the market. This expansive set provides a total of 32 professional-grade Meguiar’s products for expert interior and exterior auto detailing.
The kit contains the brand’s highly rated cleaners, protectants, and detailing tools to handle every part of full vehicle detailing. Meguiar’s car care chemistry is trusted by professional detailers and car enthusiasts worldwide.
Interior detailing solutions include Ultimate Interior Cleaner, Natural Shine Protectant, Supreme Shine Protectant, and more. The Deep Crystal Car Wash cleans and conditions paint safely and effectively.
For exterior detailing, the kit also contains Clay Bar, Mirror Glaze polishes and waxes, Endurance Tire Gel, Wheel Cleaner, and other solutions to remove contaminants, restore brilliant gloss, and protect from the elements.
Numerous premium microfiber cloths and foam wash pads provide gentle scrubbing power to apply products while preventing scratches. The kit also contains buckets, a hose nozzle, tire and wheel brushes, and other essential detailing tools.
With a $150 retail value, this kit provides serious detailing supplies at a significant discount. The included detailed guidebook helps beginners follow proper procedures.
Pros
- 32 professional Meguiar’s detailing products for full interior and exterior cleaning
- High-quality cleaners, polishes, waxes, and protectants
- Microfiber cloths, brushes, buckets, and accessories
- $150 value for under $100
- User-friendly guidebook included
Cons
- Doesn’t include steam cleaner or premier wax like Chemical Guys Kit
- Less cost efficient for professional detailers
2. Chemical Guys HOL148 Car Detailing Kit
The Chemical Guys HOL148 Car Detailing Kit is a close second for best overall full detailing kit. This comprehensive kit contains 16 signature Chemical Guys detailing products plus premium tools to clean, shine, and protect vehicles inside and out.
For the exterior, the kit includes Citrus Wash and Gloss car shampoo, Clay Bar and Luber synthetic lube, VRP protectant and shine booster, and Butter Wet Wax for long-lasting protection and brilliant deep gloss. An included foam cannon attaches to a hose for touchless foaming.
Interior cleaning supplies include InnerClean fabric and upholstery cleaner, Leather Cleaner and Conditioner, Multi-Purpose Cleaner for vinyl and plastic, and Odor Eliminator enzymes. Microfiber towels, a dirt trap brush, and detailing bucket are also included.
At a $250 retail value, this kit delivers professional detailing abilities at an affordable price. Chemical Guys products are designed specifically for car detailing. This kit has all the cleaning power needed for immaculate detailing.
Pros
- 16 specialized Chemical Guys detailing products
- Foam cannon, high-end Butter Wet Wax, and other premium items
- Cleaners for interior fabric, vinyl, leather, plastic, and glass
- $250 value for under $150
Cons
- Doesn’t include clay bar and wax applicators like Meguiar’s kit
- Less cost efficient for professional detailers
3. Armor All 78451 Pro Series Full Car Care Kit
For its balance of quality and value, the Armor All Pro Series Full Car Care Kit earns the #3 spot in our ranking. This kit provides a complete range of detailing products to clean, shine, and protect at a reasonable price point.
The kit includes Extreme Tire Shine gel, Ultra Shine Wash, Wheel and Tire Cleaner, Orange Degreaser, and Glass Wipes for full exterior cleaning and protection. Interior products like Refreshing Citrus Air Freshener, Fabric Protector, Leather Wipes, and more allow thorough interior care.
14 premium microfiber towels, sponges, brushes, and cloths provide plenty of detailing tools. The included $75 value bucket holds all the products.
With a $200 value for under $50, this Armor All kit provides very high value. It includes fewer luxe products than the top two kits, but still has versatile cleaning ability. The instructions help guide beginners in achieving professional-looking results.
Pros
- Broad range of capable interior and exterior cleaning products
- 14 high-quality detailing cloths, sponges, and brushes
- Sturdy storage bucket with $200 value for under $50
- Instructional guide for new detailers
Cons
- Not as many premium/specialized products as Meguiar’s and Chemical Guys
- Leather wipes instead of leather conditioner
4. Griot’s Garage 10866 Car Care Kit
Griot’s Garage specializes in car care, and their Complete Car Care Kit shows it. The comprehensive 22-piece kit provides a full system for paint correction and protection plus interior and wheel care.
The kit includes Concentrated Car Wash soap, Brilliant Finish Car Wax, Paint Cleaning Clay, Glass Cleaner, Wheel Cleaner, and Speed Shine quick detailer. Microfiber cloths, a wax/clay applicator pad, and wheel/tire brush handle cleaning tasks.
Griot’s Garage products are specially formulated to prep, polish, and protect automobile paint for a flawless, mirror-like shine. The correction process removes oxidation, contamination, and scratches from the clearcoat.
This kit has the dedicated paint polishing ability that many others lack. At a $175 retail value, it delivers serious detailing abilities for under $100. It’s a great choice for car enthusiasts seeking pure perfection in their machine’s paintwork.
Pros
- Specialized paint prep and correction ability
- Car wash soap, wax, clay bar, protectants, cleaners
- Applicators, microfiber cloths, tire brush
- $175 value under $100
Cons
- Not as many interior cleaning products
- Less cost efficient for pros
5. Mothers 06240 California Gold Car Care Kit
Mothers is another top detailing brand, and their California Gold Car Care Kit provides an complete system for exterior and interior care. The kit contains 9 exclusive Mothers products plus applicators, microfiber towels, and accessories.
California Gold Pure Carnauba Wax delivers deep, clear shine and protection. Paired with the Carnauba Wash and Wax, it provides a complete weekly wash and wax system.
The kit also has specialized Wheel & Tire, Glass and Surface, and Plastic and Rubber care products. Vinyl, leather, and upholstery cleaners handle the interior. A microfiber wash mitt and Uber Microfiber cloths make sure surfaces stay swirl-free.
At a $150 value, this kit provides Mothers’ excellent detailing solutions for under $50. The included guide helps beginners achieve professional results.
Pros
- Mothers exclusive carnauba washes, waxes, cleaners
- Interior and exterior care products
- Microfiber wash mitt, cloths, towels
- Guide to pro-level detailing
Cons
- Smaller selection of supplies than other top kits
- No tire shine, wheel cleaner, etc.
6. TriNova Top Car Detailing Kit
Up-and-comer TriNova offers this Top Car Detailing Kit that punches above its price point. The 18-piece kit covers interior, exterior, and tools for complete vehicle detailing.
The lineup includes Concentrated Car Wash, Tire & Wheel Cleaner, Streak-Free Glass Cleaner, Total Interior Cleaner, Leather Cleaner and Conditioner, and other purpose-built formulas. A foam cannon provides touchless washing.
18 microfiber towels give plenty of cleaning cloths. The kit also includes nitrile gloves, tire brushes, a wash mitt, scratch-free sponges, and other tools for applying products and scrubbing every vehicle surface.
For just around $100 retail value, this kit provides impressive detailing abilities. The budget-friendly price and versatility make it a great choice for beginners. The included eBook provides detailing instructions.
Pros
- Broad selection of capable cleaners
- Foam cannon, microfiber towels, applicators
- Budget-friendly cost under $50
- eBook with detailing instructions
Cons
- Not as many premium/specialized products as pricier kits
- No polishes or waxes
7. Chemical Guys BUF_300_KIT Car Detailing Starter Kit
Chemical Guys’ Car Detailing Starter Kit is tailored specifically for beginners looking to get professional-level results from their first detailing attempts.
The kit includes Chemical Guys’ Leather Cleaner and Conditioner, Interior Cleaner, and Mr. Pink Car Wash Shampoo to handle the interior and exterior basics. Microfiber towels, foam wash pad, and plush towels provide cleaning tools.
At a $129 retail value for around $80, this provides solid savings. The included guidebook gives newbies step-by-step instructions for using the products successfully to clean and protect their vehicles like experts.
For beginner detailers seeking straightforward guidance in achieving pro-level results right away, the Chemical Guys Starter Kit is an excellent choice. As skills improve, more advanced kits can be added later.
Pros
- Targeted at detailing beginners
- Simplified selection of basic cleaners
- Guidebook provides starter detailing instructions
- Foam pad, microfiber towels, plush towels
Cons
- Smaller selection of products than complete kits
- No wax, polish, wheel/tire cleaners, etc.
8. Adam’s Essentials Car Wash Kit
Adam’s Polishes offers their Essentials Car Wash Kit focused purely on exterior detailing. The kit provides a streamlined system to clean, decontaminate, polish, and wax vehicle exteriors for a flawless, ultra-glossy finish.
Included products are Adam’s Car Shampoo, Foam Wash, Graphene Detailer spray, and Graphene Ceramic Coating to leave paint with mirror-like shine and durable protection. The kit also contains microfiber towels, foam wash pad, and detailing brushes.
At around $100, this kit delivers pro-grade paint detailing ability in a straightforward package. It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking solely to level up your wash and wax game without interior cleaners.
Pros
- Specialized exterior detailing products
- Graphene ceramic coating for ultra-shine
- Foam wash pad, microfiber towels, brushes
- Straightforward exterior-only system
Cons
- No interior detailing ability
- Smaller selection than complete kits
9. Karcher Complete Car Care Bucket Kit
Karcher’s Complete Car Care Bucket Kit provides a full range of car cleaning essentials in a handy storage bucket. The German-made kit contains Karcher’s proprietary car shampoo, wheel cleaner, wheel brush, sponge, microfiber wash mitt and more.
The supplies are specially designed for use with a Karcher electric pressure washer. However, the quality shampoo, microfiber mitt, tire brush, and other tools can deliver great results by hand as well.
For under $50, buyers get a bucket packed with supplies plus the pressure washer optimization. A basic but solid choice for a new detailer seeking Karcher compatibility and storage convenience.
Pros
- Karcher proprietary car shampoo and wheel cleaner
- Microfiber wash mitt, tire brush, sponges
- Convenient storage bucket
- Made for Karcher pressure washer
Cons
- Smaller selection of basics
- No wax, interior cleaners, etc.
10. Nanoskin AS-CPREMCC Premium Car Care Full Kit
Nanoskin’s AS-CPREMCC Kit provides a complete system for paint decontamination and protection. The 7-product kit includes AutoScrub Wash Mitt, AutoScrub Clay Towel, AutoScrub Sponge, AutoScrub Shampoo, Foam, Polish, and Wax.
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The Nanoskin AutoScrub pads, wash mitt, clay towel, and sponge buff away bonded contaminants safely with unique rubber polymer surfaces. Paired with the polish and wax, they create glossy, slick paint protection.
At around a $150 retail value, this kit delivers Nanoskin’s specialized detailing process at a discount. The instructions guide users through the system. It excels specifically at decontamination and paint prep.
Pros
- Nanoskin AutoScrub pads, towel, sponge for safe cleaning
- Polish, wax, shampoo provide paint protection
- Straightforward process for paint prep
- Instructions included
Cons
- Smaller selection of products
- No interior cleaners
Full Car Detailing Kit Comparison Table
| Kit | # of Products | Interior Cleaners | Exterior Cleaners | Tools | Approx. Retail Value |
|---|
| Meguiar’s Complete Kit | 32 | Interior cleaner, Natural Shine Protectant, Supreme Shine Protectant | Car wash, Degreaser, Clay bar, Polish, Wax, Wheel cleaner, Tire gel | Microfiber cloths, applicators, buckets, brushes | $150 |
|-|-|-|-|-|-|
| Chemical Guys Pro Kit | 16 | Fabric cleaner, Leather cleaner, Vinyl cleaner, Odor eliminator | Foam wash, Clay bar, Polish, Butter wax | Microfiber towels, bucket, brushes | $250 |
| Armor All Pro Series Kit | 15 | Air freshener | Car wash, Wheel cleaner, Glass wipes, Tire shine | Microfiber towels, sponges, brushes, bucket | $200 |
| Griot’s Garage Kit | 22 | N/A | Car wash, Wax, Clay bar, Wheel cleaner, Glass cleaner | Microfiber cloths, applicators, brushes | $175 |
| Mothers California Gold Kit | 9 | Vinyl cleaner, Leather cleaner | Carnauba wash & wax, Wheel cleaner, Plastic cleaner | Microfiber wash mitt, cloths | $150 |
| TriNova Top Kit | 18 | Interior cleaner, Leather cleaner | Car wash, Wheel cleaner, Glass cleaner | Microfiber towels, applicators, brushes | $100 |
| Chemical Guys Starter Kit | 6 | Leather cleaner, Interior cleaner | Car wash | Microfiber towels, foam pad | $129 |
| Adam’s Essentials Kit | 5 | N/A | Foam wash, Graphene spray, Ceramic coating | Microfiber towels, foam pad, brushes | $100 |
| Karcher Bucket Kit | 8 | N/A | Car shampoo, Wheel cleaner | Microfiber mitt, sponges, brushes | $50 |
| Nanoskin Full Kit | 7 | N/A | Nanoskin wash pad, towel, & sponge, Shampoo, Polish, Wax | N/A | $150 |
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Full Car Detailing Kit
With so many detailing kits on the market, it can be tricky to determine which option will best meet your needs and deliver the car care results you’re seeking. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a full detailing kit:
Type of Detailing Needed
- For professional detailers, opt for kits with the most supplies and versatility like Meguiar’s and Chemical Guys
- Beginners should choose starter kits focused on ease of use like Chemical Guys and TriNova
- Enthusiasts can pick targeted kits for paint correction like Griot’s Garage
Interior vs. Exterior Detailing
- Full kits from Meguiar’s, Chemical Guys, Mothers provide both interior and exterior care
- Adam’s and Nanoskin focus specifically on exterior paint prep
Quality of Products
- Top brands like Meguiar’s, Chemical Guys, Griot’s Garage, Mothers indicate better quality cleaners, waxes, etc.
- More luxe items like buttery wax, ceramic coatings, leather conditioners provide professional results
Added Tools and Accessories
- Look for plenty of microfiber towels, wash mitts, applicators, and brushes
- Foam cannons, steam cleaners, and buckets add convenience
Comprehensiveness of System
- Kits with more products and accessories allow full-vehicle detailing without buying extras
- Smaller starter kits require adding products later as your collection expands
Instructions and Support
- Guides, ebooks, videos, and customer service ensure detailing success
- Lack of learning resources may frustrate beginners
Additional Tips for Full Car Detailing at Home
While a quality detailing kit provides the bulk of the products and tools needed, here are some extra tips to help you achieve professional-level results detailing your car at home:
- Work in sections: Tackle the vehicle one section at a time like wheels first, then upper exterior, lower exterior, engine bay, interior, glass for efficiency.
- Proper wash methods: Use the two bucket wash method with grit guards to prevent swirls and scratches in paint. Rinse washing tools frequently.
- Clay properly: Always lubricate paint before claying to glide smoothly over surface. Fold clay frequently to expose fresh material.
- Polishing prep: Before polish, ensure paint is free from contaminants with clay bar and chemical decon if needed.
- Wax thin layers: Apply wax thinly and evenly according to directions. Allow proper drying time between coats.
- Interior care: Vacuum first before using cleaners. Test cleaners in inconspicuous areas first. Avoid over-wetting.
- Dry completely: Use microfiber cloths and a leaf blower to fully dry the vehicle and prevent water spots.
- Proper tools: Apply products with supplied or clean microfiber cloths to avoid scratches or product buildup.
Following these best practices will take your detailing results to the next level!
Frequently Asked Questions About Full Car Detailing Kits
What is the difference between basic car cleaning and full detailing?
Basic car cleaning like washing, vacuuming, and wiping down interior surfaces is light maintenance to remove surface dirt between full details. Full detailing thoroughly cleans the entire interior and exterior of the vehicle using specialized products and techniques to remove bonded contaminants, restore shine, and protect surfaces.
How often should you fully detail a car?
On average, a full detail should be performed every 3-6 months to keep your vehicle looking its best. But frequency depends on factors like mileage, condition, daily use, and type of driving. More frequent full detailing may be needed to maintain a show-quality appearance.
What tools do you need for full car detailing?
A full car detailing kit like the ones reviewed will provide all the essential tools. This includes microfiber cloths and towels, brushes, applicator pads and sponges, buckets, a hose nozzle, steam cleaners, and more. You may also find an orbital polisher helpful for paint correction.
Is car detailing hard for beginners?
While full detailing requires some learning, beginners can achieve professional-level results with the right kit and techniques. Starter kits with simplified product selections and detailed guides make the process very achievable even for first-timers. Taking the time to learn proper detailing procedures is key.
Can you use dish soap to wash a car instead of car shampoo?
Dish soap is too abrasive and caustic for car paint. It can strip wax and damage the paint over time. Always use a high-quality pH balanced car shampoo like those included in the reviewed kits. The soap lifts dirt while gently preserving wax protection.
Conclusion
Regular full detailing keeps your vehicle looking like new and maintains its value for years or decades to come. The top full car detailing kits provide all the products, tools, instructions, and accessories needed to clean and protect your car as thoroughly as the pros for a fraction of the cost.
Any of the kits from trusted brands like Meguiar’s, Chemical Guys, Griot’s Garage, Adams, and more are sure to provide a quality system for immaculate detailing. Consider your experience level, budget, and types of detailing needed to decide which kit is the best match.
Use the included guides and online resources to learn the techniques and procedures for using your new detailing supplies. With a comprehensive kit and proper process, you can achieve incredible, envy-inducing cleanliness and shine in your vehicle. Your ride will look its absolute best, turning heads everywhere you go!
