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EP 77: WHAT REAL HIGH-END DETAILING ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE!

In Episode 77 of the Suds to Success Podcast, Andrew St-Pierre and Ercan Hurmuzlu reveal the truth about high-end detailing. It’s not about Ferraris, Lamborghinis, or exotic cars, it’s about delivering a premium experience to every customer, no matter what they drive. They break down the systems, communication, organization, and customer service that separate professional shops from average ones. The episode also covers smart tool investments, creating additional revenue through accessories, and handling customer concerns before they become complaints. If you want to build a trusted, profitable detailing business, this episode is a must-listen.

Andrew St-Pierre

7/17/20263 min read

EP 77: WHAT REAL HIGH-END DETAILING ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE!

Hosted by ~~

Andrew St-Pierre and Ercan Hurmuzlu

🌟 HIGH-END DETAILING ISN'T ABOUT EXOTIC CARS

When most people think of high-end detailing, they picture Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Bentleys, and Bugattis. But Andrew and Ercan challenge that idea completely. They explain that the badge on the hood doesn't define true high-end detailing, the level of service defines every customer receives.

Whether it's a Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford F-150, or a Ferrari, every vehicle deserves the same attention, care, and professionalism.

💎 THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE IS WHAT MAKES YOU PREMIUM

The biggest difference between an average detail shop and a premium one isn't expensive equipment or luxury vehicles, it's the customer experience.

A true high-end shop delivers:

Professional communication
Honest recommendations
Organized workspaces
Clean facilities
Exceptional customer service
Follow-up support
Consistent quality

Customers remember how you made them feel long after they forget how shiny their paint was.

🚗 DON'T CHASE SUPERCARS - BUILD TRUST INSTEAD

One of the biggest myths in the detailing industry is that working on exotic cars automatically makes you a better detailer.

Andrew shares that one of the first supercars he ever detailed was an Audi R8. The owner simply tossed him the keys and left.

Ironically, many owners of everyday vehicles care even more about their cars because it's their only vehicle and one of their biggest investments.

Those customers often become your biggest supporters and referral sources.

📱 SOCIAL MEDIA DOESN'T SHOW REALITY

Instagram and TikTok have created a false image of what detailing looks like.

Many shops only post:

Exotic cars
Viral cleaning videos
Luxury content
Perfect shop setups

Behind the scenes, those same businesses are often detailing regular daily drivers just like everyone else.

Social media should inspire, not define your business.

🏆 A HIGH-END SHOP IS BUILT ON SYSTEMS

Having a premium business isn't about marble floors or expensive décor.

It's about:

Staying organized
Keeping your workspace clean
Creating a welcoming atmosphere
Training employees properly
Being available when customers need you

Even a modest shop can feel premium when it's clean, organized, and professional.

🛠️ BUY TOOLS THAT MAKE YOU MONEY

The hosts discuss avoiding unnecessary equipment upgrades.

Instead of buying every trending detailing tool, invest in equipment that actually improves productivity and profitability.

If your current tools still work efficiently, there's no need to replace them simply because social media says so.

🤝 SOLVE PROBLEMS BEYOND DETAILING

One of the biggest business lessons from this episode is to become a complete solution provider.

Instead of only offering detailing services, Andrew explains how his shop also supplies:

Weathertech floor mats
Mud flaps
Window visors
Sunshades
Vehicle accessories

Helping customers solve additional problems creates trust, generates extra revenue, and keeps customers coming back.

💰 SMALL SALES CREATE BIG OPPORTUNITIES

Selling accessories isn't just about profit.

A customer who buys floor mats today may return later for:

Paint Protection Film (PPF)
Ceramic coating
Paint correction
Maintenance detailing

Providing convenience strengthens long-term customer relationships.

⭐ TAKE CARE OF CUSTOMERS BEFORE THEY COMPLAIN

One of Andrew's favorite business systems is giving every employee a pre-approved customer service budget.

If a customer has an issue, employees can immediately solve it by:

Ordering an Uber
Giving away a detailing product
Replacing an item
Offering a small solution

Quick problem-solving builds loyalty and prevents negative experiences.

📞 ALWAYS BE AVAILABLE

Customers notice businesses that answer:

Phone calls
Emails
Text messages
Walk-in visits

Simply being present when customers need you already puts you ahead of many competitors.

Reliability is one of the strongest competitive advantages in detailing.

🎯 FINAL TAKEAWAY

High-end detailing has very little to do with luxury cars.

It's about creating a premium experience for every customer, solving problems, staying professional, building trust, and consistently delivering exceptional service.

Master those fundamentals, and customers will continue returning—no matter what they drive.