Unveiling Erie, PA's Top 7 Auto Detailing Shops: A Car Enthusiast's Guide

Cody Brace • Aug 16, 2023

The importance of auto detailing for car enthusiasts

Auto detailing is more than just a cosmetic indulgence for car enthusiasts; it's a vital practice that preserves the beauty of our vehicles and protects our investments which is why it's so important to know which options are available to you. But first, here are 7 reasons auto detailing and protection are important for you and your car.

  1. Preserving the Beauty: Auto detailing goes beyond a car wash, restoring the vehicle's shine and protecting it from environmental elements.
  2. Enhancing Resale Value: Well-detailed cars fetch higher prices on the market, attracting potential buyers.
  3. Protecting the Investment: Detailing creates a protective barrier against scratches and stains, safeguarding the vehicle's condition.
  4. Showcasing Attention to Detail: Meticulous detailing reflects the owner's commitment to excellence.
  5. Boosting Confidence and Pride: A spotless car boosts the owner's confidence and satisfaction.
  6. Improving Health and Comfort: Thorough interior cleaning eliminates allergens, creating a healthier driving environment.
  7. Fostering a Sense of Connection: Detailing strengthens the emotional bond between car enthusiasts and their vehicles.


An overview of the top 7 auto detailing shops in Erie, PA

Nestled on the scenic shores of Lake Erie, Pennsylvania's gem, Erie, is a city that boasts not only a vibrant automotive community but also a lineup of auto detailing shops. For car owners and enthusiasts alike seeking the perfect balance between precision and passion, Erie's detailing scene offers an array of exceptional choices from a number of different providers giving you more than just a few options. In this blog, we embark on an exciting journey to explore an overview of the top 7 auto detailing shops in Erie, PA to give you our honest opinion to help you make the best decision possible. From all in one service shops providing an array of services to more specific niche service providers ranging from solely shop based operations to fully mobile operations to provide great convivence. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the artisans who turn ordinary cars into gleaming works of art, where each detail matters, and where car lovers find a community that shares their passion for automotive excellence. We will be working down the list from the most similar shops due to offerings and structure then moving down to others in the area who do things differently such as fully shop based operations offering a more all in one solution to other businesses like mobile auto detailers in the area who, although different than some, still provide great service with greater convince.

1. Keystone Detail

A. First on our list is Keystone Detail, Erie's highest rated Ceramic Coating and Auto Detailing shop. We are writing this article to best inform you of your options however that doesn't mean we aren't a bit biased due to the level of service and experience we feel you will receive with us like no other which is why we are first on the list. We work extremely hard to be Erie's go to shop for your auto customization and protection needs.


B. We like to consider ourselves a one stop shop solution for your needs. This includes Auto Detailing, Ceramic Coatings, Window Tinting, and Paint Protection Film installations. For the future, we do not plan on expanding beyond these service offerings as we would rather be great at a few things than mediocre at a lot of things. In a nutshell we can help with really any level of vehicle protection and cleaning on vehicles, RV's, Boats, and more.


C. We take pride in the fact that we provide an experience like no other around. From start to finish we are here for you every step of the way not only during but also after your appointment here with us. An area we feel we will the void in is providing you the professional education you deserve regarding our products and service offerings. This is where we have found a lot of others to fall short in our market locally. We are continually focused on growth while maintaining a focus on how to best help you as the customer. We couldn't do this without you! Some other unique points about us that you won't find anywhere else locally is that any service performed here with us is registered to Carfax and tracked with your vehicle so if you go to sell it and someone runs the Carfax they know you have taken care of it! One last thing we feel is unique is that we offer in house financing for our services to help you get the things done you'd like. This can be for any amount between $500 - $15,000!


D. As Erie's highest rated auto detailing and ceramic coating shop we strive to make very experience a 5 star one. Don't just take it from me. Take it from the 173+ 5 star ratings on google and 36+ 5 star ratings on Facebook. We're not happy if you're not happy. Check out what others have to say here.


E. We're not shy and truthfully like to be very upfront with people. We are not the cheapest option out there. Generally we have found ourselves to be the most expensive and that's for good reason. This allows us to provide the highest level of service and quality around without compromising a thing. Quality is always guarantied.  We have traveled extensively to gain highly skilled trainings and knowledge to bring the best back to our area and we will continue to do so. With that being said you can check out some of our pricing and packages here on our website. Check out our Detailing Packages. Or our Ceramic Coating Packages. Inquire within to learn more about what we can offer. Our site is currently getting some updates with the addition of a PPF page so keep an eye out for that.


F. We are located at 12664 US-19 S Unit 2 in Waterford, PA 16441. You can contact us at 814-230-6991 or right here through our contact form.

2. Luxury Details

A. Second on the list is Luxury Details! The owner of Luxury Details, Addison, is also highly skilled at what he does in addition to his small team. They have been in business for 2 more years than ourselves and was founded in 2016. They were formerly located near Lake City, PA but recently relocated to Edinboro, PA where their shop now resides right off Route 99 near Edinboro.


B. Similar to us, Luxury Details also offers Auto Detailing, Ceramic Coatings, Window Tinting, and Paint Protection Film making them a one stop solution for your vehicle customization needs.  They are a Gtechniq ceramic coating installer. In our opinion they are the only shop local to our area performing equally similar services and offerings to us here and also do great work. We can assure you you won't be disappointed working with Addison and the guys at Luxury Details if you choose them for your vehicle detailing and or protection needs.


C. One thing you will notice if you visit Luxury Details shop is their nice white floor which adds some serious contrast to cars in the shop. In our opinion this is extremely appealing and very nicely done. It was definitely a solid investment and makes a big difference in appearance overall. Not going to lie, we would love to do something similar in the future! This is surely something unique about their shop that's for sure.


D. As for reviews, Luxury Details comes in with an average 4.9 star rating on google with a total of 30 reviews at the time of writing this article. However on Facebook they come in with an average of 4.8 stars with a total of 73 reviews over the years. You can check out their reviews on google right here to see what others have to say about them.


E. Luxury Details pricing can range quite a bit just like ours here. Their entry level detailing services start at $130 and can range up to $260+. They do not have Window Tint pricing displayed on their website. Paint correction services can be $700+. As for Ceramic Coatings this pricing is also not displayed on the website and likely requires a consultation of some sort similar to us here. Pricing can vary.


F. Luxury Details is located at 12090 Edinboro Rd, Edinboro, PA 16412 and you can contact them at 814-722-5599 or from their website.


3. Red Carpet Detailing

A. Third on our list of top auto detailing shops in Erie, PA is Red Carpet Detailing. Alex, the owner, has been detailing for between 4 - 6 years to our knowledge. They are located near the heart of downtown Erie and are also shop based.


B. Red Carpet Detailing is mainly focused more on the auto detailing side of things. They offer Auto Detailing, Ceramic Coating, and also Window Tinting however they do not offer paint protection film as a service offering.


C. We aren't entirely sure on what makes Red Carpet Detailing unique or stand out from the rest in our area. Info on their story up till now is limited.


D. As for reviews, Red Carpet Detailing comes in with an average 4.6 star rating on google with a total of 25 reviews at the time of writing this article. However on Facebook they come in with an average of 5 stars with a total of 18 reviews over the years. You can check out their reviews on google right here to see what others have to say about them.


E. Pricing at Red Carpet Detailing is not displayed on their website and is something you will need to inquire within about. However they do display pricing for tint which is $50 per window. This is likely one of the cheapest options around for window tinting in Erie, PA.


F. Red Carpet Detailing is Located at 1220 W 20th St, Erie, PA 16502 and can be contacted at 814-823-4773 or from their website if you'd like to reach out.

4. Professional Detailing

A. Fourth on our list is Professional Detailing. Scott, the owner, has been doing this for over 20 years. He also has a small team helping out. They are located near Harbor creek Area. As we will talk more about, Professional Details does a lot more than just auto detailing differing them from others in the area.


B. When it comes to services offered just like the name says and like the rest in this article, Professional Detailing does perform Auto Detailing in addition to Ceramic Coatings. However they do not offer window tinting or paint protection film installation. One thing they do a lot of beyond car detailing is boat detailing. Scott has been doing boats for a long time and is frequently down at the bayfront.


C. With that being said above this is where things differ and professional Detailing stands out among the rest. Some unique services offered by them that aren't offered by anyone else on this list are car storage and snow plowing. This is definitely unique as you won't find this with any other auto detailing company local to the Erie area as far as we know. Scott has a very large facility that is able to store a lot of cars in come winter time which as we know lots of car owners and enthusiasts alike want to keep their rides stored for the winter months. This is definitely something to consider as a unique offering from Professional Detailing!


D. As for reviews, Professional Detailing comes in with an average 5 star rating on google with a total of 21 reviews at the time of writing this article. However on Facebook they come in with an average of 5 stars with a total of 5 reviews over the years. You can check out their reviews on google right here to see what others have to say about them.


E. As for packages and pricing Professional Detailing is extremely low priced for their service offerings in comparison to others on the list. Their auto detailing pricing starts at $125 and can range up to $350 for their various services. For more info on these package feel free to check out their website for more info.


F. Professional Detailing is located at 4395 Iroquois Ave, Erie, PA 16511 and can be contacted at 814-392-9189 or via their website.

5. Sparkle Clean Car Care

A. Fifth on our list of Best Auto Detailers in Erie, PA is Sparkle Clean Car Care. Sparkle Clean Car Care is also located near downtown Erie similarly to a couple others on our list and are only shop based to our knowledge.


B. Sparkle Clean Car Care also provides Auto Detailing and Ceramic Coating services however they do not provide Window Tinting or Paint Protection Film services. To our knowledge they offer these services mostly on vehicles only.


C. Specialty services or unique selling points Similarly to Red Carpet Detailing we aren't entirely sure on what makes Sparkle Clean Car Care unique or stand out from the rest in our area. Info on their story up till now is limited.


D. As for reviews, Sparkle Clean Car Care comes in with an average 4.5 star rating on google with a total of 27 reviews at the time of writing this article. They do not seem to have a Facebook however on Yelp they come in with an average of 2 stars with a total of 1 reviews over the years. You can check out their reviews on google right here to see what others have to say about them.


E. When it comes to pricing and packages Sparkle Clean Care Car is also on the lower end of pricing for their packages. Auto Detailing can range anywhere from $84.95 starting out to only $249.95 for their highest level interior and exterior package combined. And as for Ceramic Coating packages these are priced between $600 - $1000 and they use Jade Ceramic Coatings as stated on their website.


F. Sparkle Clean Care Car is located at  1225 Filmore Ave., Erie, PA 16505 and can be contacted at 814-790--5118 or via their website.

6. Zorro's Auto Detailing

A. Sixth on our list is Zorro's Auto Detailing. Zorro's is a fully mobile operation so they come to you! This can be a more convenient alternative to a shop based operation as there is no need to leave the convenience of your own home or workplace. Jake, the owner, has over 15 years of detailing experience and was previously a manager at Delta Sonic Car Wash in Erie who now mans his own operation!


B. Zorro's Auto Detailing offers only mobile Auto Detailing services which are mostly focused on interior detailing and does not offer ceramic coating, window tint, or paint protection film services at this time.


C. Although only auto detailing is offered one unique point we have already touched on is that Jake's operation is fully mobile and he comes to you! This is all done from his mobile unit which again adds much more convivence for you as the customer if you are looking for a mobile service rather than a shop based service like the others on our list. He is based out of Edinboro, PA but services all of Erie and surrounding areas.


D. As for reviews, Zorro's Auto Detailing comes in with an average 5 star rating on google with a total of 4 reviews at the time of writing this article. On Facebook however they have an average of 5 stars with a total of 12 reviews over the years. You can check out their reviews on google right here to see what others have to say about them.


E. As for pricing, Zorro's comes in at unbelievably low pricing even for being a mobile service! Their lowest priced interior cleaning package started at only $100 and ranges up to only $200 for their deepest cleaning interior package. Monthly maintenance plans are also offered at Zorro's for only $50 - $55 per month depending on the vehicle.


F. Zorro's is located at 98 Terrace Dr, Edinboro, PA 16412 but once again is a mobile service provider. You can contact Jake at 814-273-6110 or via his website.

7. Cruz'n Clean Mobile

A. Seventh on our list is Cruz'n Clean Mobile owned by a friend of ours, Zach! Zach also operates a fully mobile based service business and does not have one concrete location bringing you greater convenience.


B. Cruz'n Clean Mobile does offer your standard auto detailing services for vehicles however they no longer offer interior cleaning of vehicles. In addition to this they can also install ceramic coatings but do not perform window tinting or paint protection film.


C. One area where Cruz'n Clean Mobile shines bigtime is their skill and ability when it comes to detailing boats and marine vehicles! Most of their time is spent during the summer months down on the Erie bayfront bringing boats back to life with their mobile service. Arguably they perform some of the best marine detailing around and we know you will be in good hands choosing them for your marine detailing needs if you can't trailer your boat to a shop!


D. As for reviews, Cruz'n Clean Mobile comes in with an average 4.5 star rating on google with a total of 8 reviews at the time of writing this article. On Facebook however they have an average of 5 stars with a total of 17 reviews over the years. You can check out their reviews on google right here to see what others have to say about them.


E. Pricing and packages Regarding pricing, Cruz'n Clean Mobile also comes in with some crazy low pricing for such a convenient service. Exterior wash pricing starts at only $80 and can range to $220 for their premium exterior wash service. Their boat pricing is a bit more in depth and something you'll likely want to check out on their website here.


F. Cruz'n Clean Mobile does not have a listed address but can be reached at 814-969-4117 or on their website here.

We truly hope this helps you in your journey to find the best auto detailers in the Erie, PA area. Once more, we wanted to give you a no nonsense approach to help you best decide who you'd like to work with as there are quite a few options as we went over. If we can be of any help to you in this journey please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly. You can call us at 814-230-6991 or submit through our contact form right here to have one of our team members reach out and talk more!

By SEO Team 16 Apr, 2024
Choosing between doing it yourself and hiring an expert to install a paint protection film on your vehicle largely depends on your budget and quality expectations. While opting for a DIY route is more cost-friendly and saves on labor costs, it does take a good bit of skill and precision. You need to consider the right choice going beyond just costs; the quality of installation can make a critical difference in your vehicle's condition. You see, professionals have access to top-quality products and their application expertise ensures maximum protection, making your vehicle stand out like a shiny penny under bright sunlight. Our comprehensive article outlines the benefits of both DIY and professional PPF installation. It covers how DIY installations offer cost savings and hands-on experience, but also highlights the potential risks of mistakes and their undeniable impact on the final appearance. On the other hand, it details how professional installers provide expertise, seamless fit, better warranties, and additional services while acknowledging the higher cost associated with this option. Comparing DIY and Professional PPF Costs When it comes to protecting your car's paint, you have options. One of the biggest factors that affect people's decisions is typically cost. Let's take a closer look at the expenses you can expect to encounter with both DIY and professional PPF installation. First up, let's delve into DIY kits. They're pretty attractive because they are generally cheaper and can provide some savings for those looking for an affordable solution. A basic, lower-quality DIY kit might set you back around $50, while higher-end kits can go up to $500 depending on the quality and size of PPF required. But here's the thing: the cost doesn't just end with buying the kit. You’ll also need specific tools like a squeegee, a knife, a heat gun, and a place to work on it without getting dust or debris underneath, as this affects the overall effectiveness and durability of the film. On the other hand, professional PPF installation requires more upfront investment as it includes labor expenses and the expertise of skilled installers. The price can vary significantly based on factors such as vehicle size and the extent of coverage required, ranging anywhere from $500 to $3000 or higher. However, think about what you're getting for that price; professional installers usually use high-quality paint protection films and have experience working with various vehicle types. They have access to top-notch products that may not be available in DIY kits and are equipped to understand how best to handle awkwardly shaped areas without creasing or bunching up the film. In essence, weighing out these costs isn’t just about finding the best deal—it’s about understanding what you’re paying for and what each option entails in terms of quality, time commitment, and potential long-term value for your vehicle. Evaluating Quality of Installation So, you've decided to invest in paint protection film. Whether it's to keep your beloved car looking like new or to protect it from road debris, selecting the right installer is key to ensuring the effectiveness of your PPF. Let's explore why professional installers have an edge when it comes to achieving high-quality results. Professional installers undergo extensive training to attain mastery in handling paint protection film. Their experience allows them to navigate intricate vehicle contours and fragile areas with precision, ensuring a flawless finish. This level of expertise translates to a higher percentage of paint coverage after installation, providing more comprehensive protection for your vehicle's exterior—an advantage that may not be consistently achieved with a DIY installation, given the variation in user skill levels and adherence to instructions. To put it in perspective, a study revealed that professional installations achieve an average of 95% paint coverage on vehicles, while DIY installations yield around 75% coverage. The variance is due to the meticulous techniques and specialized tools employed by professionals, which contribute significantly to the optimal coverage and longevity of the PPF.  Moreover, professional installations result in fewer visible imperfections compared to DIY installations. These imperfections can be in the form of bubbles, wrinkles, or uneven edges, which not only compromise the overall appearance but also diminish the protective functionality of the film. It's important to recognize that the application process plays a crucial role in determining the durability and effectiveness of the paint protection film. When considering the skills required for a seamless installation and maintaining a high level of paint coverage, professional services present clear advantages over DIY installations. With insights into the significant differences between professional and DIY installations, it becomes evident that the choice ultimately influences not just the aesthetics but also the long-term protection of your vehicle's paintwork.
By SEO Team 16 Apr, 2024
Ceramic coatings indeed contribute to the preservation of your vehicle's outward appeal, but they're not a failsafe. While they can protect against environmental and chemical damage, they don't make your vehicle invincible to rock chips or provide a magical self-healing ability like paint protection films do. Instead, they are an efficient ally in reducing maintenance time and effort, even though you'll still need to use automotive shampoo regularly. Despite warranties suggesting years of durability, precise longevity depends on a number of factors, including proper application preparation—yes, even for brand-new cars. In our comprehensive guide, we debunk prevalent myths surrounding ceramic coatings, such as the belief that they make cars rock-chip resistant and offer fire-proof protection. We provide expert insights to help enthusiasts make informed decisions when considering ceramic coating applications. Common Notions About Ceramic Coating The term "ceramic coating" can sound quite impressive, often leading to some misconceptions about its actual impact on your vehicle. Let's debunk some widespread notions and provide clarity on their true implications. Myth #1: Ceramic coatings make a car rock chip resistant. Ceramic coatings offer protection against environmental and chemical damage, but they do not make the car scratch and rock chip resistant. Rock chip resistance requires pliability to absorb impact, which ceramic coatings lack. If you’re looking to protect your car from scratches and rock chips, consider using paint protection film instead. Myth #2: Ceramic coatings are chemically resistant, protecting the clear coat from chemicals that can cause damage. Although ceramic coatings provide better resistance to chemical stains and etching compared to traditional wax, they are not entirely chemically resistant. Harsh chemicals can still cause damage if left unattended for long periods of time. It is essential to observe proper maintenance to ensure your ceramic coating lasts longer. Myth #3: Ceramic coatings are self-healing, resembling paint protection film (PPF), which is designed to heal damage caused by rocks and debris. Contrary to popular belief, ceramic coatings are not self-healing like paint protection film. They do enhance the surface's durability and provide environmental resistance but they do not possess the same self-healing properties as paint protection films. Myth #4: Ceramic coatings make a car fire-proof, as depicted in dramatic fireball tests in misleading advertisements. It's crucial to dispel the idea that ceramic coatings make a car fire-proof. While they do provide some level of heat resistance and protect your vehicle from damage from UV rays, they should not be relied upon as a primary fire protection measure. These myths reflect varying levels of misconception about what ceramic coatings can actually deliver. Understanding the limitations and benefits of ceramic coatings is crucial for making informed decisions about their application on your vehicle. Now, let's continue to explore more myths and clarify the truth behind each notion. Reality Check on Ceramic Coating Cost Ceramic coating functions as a knight's armor for your car, granting exceptional protection against external foes such as UV rays, dirt, bird droppings, and other environmental contaminants. Despite common misconceptions portraying ceramic coatings as exorbitant, the long-term benefits often surpass the initial investment. The initial application cost of a professional-grade ceramic coating can indeed range from $500 to $2,000 or more, contingent on the vehicle's size and the complexity of the application process. This may initially appear to be a substantial investment, but let's break it down to grasp why this cost can be justified. When weighing the pros and cons of ceramic coating, it's crucial to consider the long-term benefits it offers. Not only does it provide extended protection to your vehicle's exterior, but it also eliminates the need for waxing every few months. Essentially, this translates to long-term savings by circumventing regular purchases of waxing products or professional waxing services. Moreover, by shielding your car's paint from fading and oxidation, ceramic coating aids in maintaining its resale value. The cost of professional detailing or painting to repair damaged surfaces can far exceed the initial investment in a ceramic coating. Therefore, spending on a quality ceramic coating upfront could potentially save you from disbursing a much larger sum of money down the line.  Think of it as akin to investing in high-quality hiking boots versus cheaper ones. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term benefits and overall performance make them well worth the investment. To sum up, while the upfront cost of ceramic coating may seem substantial, the long-term value it provides in terms of protection, preservation, and financial savings makes it a worthwhile investment for many car owners. Cost is undeniably an important factor, but it's just one piece of the puzzle when considering ceramic coating for your vehicle.
professional vehicle detailing in Waterford, PA
By Cody Brace 18 Mar, 2024
Discover the benefits of professional vehicle detailing at Keystone Detail in Waterford, PA. Invest in long-term car care and maintain your vehicle's value.
professional ceramic coating service in Erie, PA
By Cody Brace 18 Mar, 2024
Get ultimate car protection year-round with ceramic coating at Keystone Detail in Erie, PA. Shield your vehicle from the elements and maintain its shine.
expert paint protection film waterford
By Cody Brace 16 Feb, 2024
Explore the benefits of paint protection film at Keystone Detail in Waterford, PA. Secure your car's brilliance with our expert auto clear bra solutions!
professional ceramic coating waterford
By Cody Brace 16 Feb, 2024
Discover the ultimate ceramic coating difference at Keystone Detail in Waterford, PA. Unveiling professional vs. DIY insights for superior car protection.
Car in winter snow storm
By Cody Brace 29 Sep, 2023
Introduction:
More Posts
Share by: