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EP 90: Starting a Detailing Business in 2026? Here's What We'd Do!

Ready to start your detailing business without breaking the bank? Andrew St-Pierre and Ercan Hurmuzlu share practical advice on starting small, controlling costs, attracting customers, and building a strong reputation. Discover essential starter tools, free marketing strategies, website tips, customer reviews, and the importance of honest recommendations. Learn how to showcase your work, set boundaries, avoid unnecessary expenses, and grow your business one customer at a time. Whether you're just starting or planning your next move, this episode delivers valuable insights to help you build smarter and succeed in the detailing industry!

Andrew St-Pierre

10/16/20262 min read

EP 90: STARTING A DETAILING BUSINESS IN 2026? HERE'S WHAT WE'D DO!

🎙️ MIC CHECK: BUSINESS KNOW - HOW ON AIR

ANDREW ST-PIERRE × ERCAN HURMUZLU

TWO DETAILERS, ONE MISSION

🚀 BACK TO THE BASICS — BUILD YOUR BUSINESS THE SMART WAY!

Starting a detailing business in 2026 doesn’t mean spending thousands on fancy equipment, expensive chemicals, or a picture-perfect shop.

In Episode 90 of the Suds To Success Podcast, Andrew St-Pierre and Ercan Hurmuzlu return to their roots to share practical advice for new detailers who want to build a profitable business without breaking the bank.

From choosing your first services to controlling expenses, this episode focuses on what truly matters: getting customers, delivering quality work, and building a reputation that keeps your phone ringing.

💰 START SMALL, SPEND SMART, GROW STRONG!

You don’t need every product on the market to get started. Begin with essential tools, a manageable service menu, and products that help you deliver consistent results. Use what you already have when it makes sense, and upgrade as your business grows.

The goal is simple: focus on what brings value to your customers—not what looks impressive on social media.

📸 SHOW YOUR WORK AND BUILD YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE!

Every completed vehicle is an opportunity to showcase your skills. Take quality photos, post your work on social media, and let potential customers see what you can do.

A website and Google Business Profile can also help customers discover your services, especially in competitive markets.

Use AI as a helpful tool for drafting website content and improving your marketing, but always review and personalize what it creates.

⭐ REVIEWS, REFERRALS & REAL CUSTOMER CONNECTIONS!

Word of mouth, local networking, and positive reviews can help you build momentum without relying heavily on paid advertising. Ask satisfied customers for reviews, respond professionally, and make it easy for people to recommend your business.

Remember, you don’t need every customer—you need the right customers.

🛡️ PROTECT YOUR TIME, MONE

Learn to set clear prices, collect deposits, and avoid taking on services you aren’t prepared to perform. Be honest when you don’t know something, learn what’s needed, and communicate with confidence.

Andrew and Ercan also discuss the importance of professional branding, simple logos, practical uniforms, and controlling costs as your business grows.

🤝 SELL WITH HONESTY — NOT PRESSURE!

Customers appreciate recommendations that genuinely suit their needs. Instead of pushing the most expensive package, explain the available options and help them make an informed decision.

Trust builds stronger relationships, repeat business, and referrals.

🎧 TUNE IN, TAKE NOTES & TAKE ACTION!

Whether you're launching your first detailing business or looking to improve an existing one, this episode is packed with practical lessons to help you spend wisely, attract customers, and grow with confidence.

Your next step doesn’t have to be expensive. It just has to be smart!