If you’re looking for a place to talk shop about buffing, waxing, and tackling the dirtiest of dirty cars, Reddit’s got you covered. Auto detailing has become a bit of an art form online, and for enthusiasts and professionals alike, Reddit communities offer not just tips and tricks but a bit of camaraderie in the battle against grime. Here’s our rundown of the top 3 best auto detailing communities on Reddit.
1. r/Detailing – The Powerhouse of Polishers
With over 94,000 members, r/Detailing is by far one of the largest detailing communities on Reddit, and for good reason. This is the place to be if you want to learn the ins and outs of auto detailing, from removing stubborn water spots to achieving that show-car shine. Both seasoned pros and weekend warriors frequent the subreddit, sharing product reviews, techniques, and yes, the occasional horror story of cars so filthy they look like they were excavated from a swamp.
One scroll through r/Detailing and you’ll see posts like “Should I charge extra for a car that smells like a barn?” and “How many clay bars does it take to decontaminate a mud-splattered Jeep?” The best part? Everyone here is genuinely passionate about helping each other out and trading tips, so you’re bound to learn something new. It’s a blend of laughs, frustrations, and useful advice that’ll make you want to grab a bottle of polish and get to work.
2. r/AutoDetailing – A Close-Knit Community for Serious Enthusiasts
Coming in close behind is r/AutoDetailing, another fantastic community full of people who live and breathe auto detailing. This subreddit has around 850,000 members and is known for its friendly vibe and extensive discussions on everything detailing-related. Here, the motto seems to be “there’s always a better way to shine,” as people constantly swap techniques to get that mirror finish.
Expect to find pros talking about their most extreme car rescues (you’ll see a few “before” pictures that might make you rethink letting your kids eat in the car). The posts here are usually detailed and thoughtful, with people genuinely interested in answering questions, discussing pros and cons of different tools, and making sure everyone’s on the right track. It’s a little less chaotic than r/Detailing, but just as passionate!
3. r/MobileDetailers – A Fast-Growing Hub for Aspiring and Seasoned Business Owners
Now, if you’re thinking of turning your detailing hobby into a side gig or even a full-time job, r/MobileDetailers is the place to be. While it’s the smallest subreddit of the three, this community has been growing at warp speed, and it’s one of the most welcoming spaces for newcomers looking to get into the business. Here, experienced mobile detailers generously share their wisdom with those looking to get their business off the ground, from how to find clients to the best way to set up a water tank in a small van.
This subreddit isn’t just about cleaning cars; it’s a support system for entrepreneurs. Members are eager to help you navigate the ins and outs of starting a detailing business, offering tips on marketing, scheduling, pricing, and more. You’ll get plenty of encouragement, and you might even meet someone willing to share their own startup journey. For anyone serious about going mobile, r/MobileDetailers is a fantastic resource and a great community to be a part of.
Whether you’re scrubbing for fun, honing your technique, or just starting a business, these subreddits offer a little something for everyone. Dive in, share a laugh (and maybe a cringe) over the dirtiest cars you’ve ever seen, and watch your detailing skills improve with every post. Reddit’s detailing communities are more than just resources—they’re a source of inspiration, motivation, and a reminder that no car is too far gone for a little TLC.
