Detailing for Resale: How to Increase Your Car’s Value

Thinking about selling or trading in your vehicle? Presentation matters. A clean, glossy exterior and a fresh interior can attract more clicks, better offers, and faster sales. This guide shows exactly what buyers notice first, how to prep your car, and which pro services make the biggest difference—so you can list with confidence.

What Buyers Notice First (In Seconds)

Paint gloss & reflections — A deep shine signals “well-kept.”

  1. Wheels, tires, & brake dust — Clean wheels instantly upgrade photos.

  2. Glass & headlights — Clear glass and bright lenses look newer.

  3. Interior smell — A fresh, neutral scent is non-negotiable.

  4. Touch points — Steering wheel, shifter, screens, and door handles.

High-gloss car paint and clean wheels ready for resale photos.

The Resale Detailing Checklist — Exterior

Step 1: Decontaminate the Paint

Remove bonded contaminants (road film, iron deposits, bug/tar).
Pro tip: A clay towel + iron remover boosts gloss before photos.

Step 2: Hand Wash, Wheels & Tires

Swirl-free wash, deep wheel cleaning, and a satin tire dressing (no greasy shine).

Step 3: Trim & Plastics

Faded black trim makes cars look older. Restore and protect for richer, even color.
PeachLine add-on: Black Trim Restoration ($120.00).

Step 4: Headlight Clarity

Hazy headlights age a car. Restoration improves looks and nighttime visibility.

Step 5: Glass & Mirrors

Streak-free glass (inside/out) gives sharper listing photos and a premium feel.

The Resale Detailing Checklist — Interior

Declutter & Pre-Vac

Remove personal items, car seats, trunk clutter, and floor mats for a thorough clean.

Compressed Air Blowout & Vacuum

Dislodge crumbs/dust from seams, rails, cupholders, and vents; then vacuum thoroughly.

Shampoo & Heated Extraction

Lift stains and odors from carpets and upholstery.
PeachLine add-on: Shampoo Seats & Carpets ($119.99).

Leather Clean & Condition

Even color, soft feel, and a non-greasy finish photograph best.

Touch Points & Screens

Sanitize steering wheel, shifter, door pulls; polish screens to reduce fingerprints.

Odor Neutralization & Steam

Neutral, fresh scent = buyer confidence. Steam helps kill stubborn smells.
PeachLine add-on: Pet Hair Removal ($50).

Timing & Photo Tips (Sell Faster)

  • Detail 3–7 days before photos to keep the finish fresh.

  • Shoot during golden hour (first/last hour of daylight) for glossy reflections.

  • Park in open shade or a clean backdrop—avoid busy or reflective backgrounds.

  • Open the doors & trunk in a few shots to showcase cleanliness.

DIY vs Professional: What’s Worth It?

Quick DIY wins

  • Remove clutter, quick vacuum, wipe interior plastics, clean glass.

Hire a pro for

  • Paint decontamination, trim/headlight restoration, stain extraction, odor neutralization, and swirl-free exterior prep for photos.

PeachLine packages to consider

  • Exterior Only — Photo-ready shine + sealant

  • Interior Only — Deep clean, extraction, touch points

  • PeachLine Premium — Full interior + exterior restoration and protection