Do Carvana Cars Come Detailed?
My Experience with Carvana
Before delving into the details of Carvana's level of advertised detailing, let me share my personal experience with the process. As a customer of Carvana, I was curious to know if their cars truly come detailed and clean.
Carvana does advertise on their website that they wash, clean, buff, and shine all of their vehicles. The Carvana Certified program includes sanitizing the vehicle as well.
Based on real-world Cavana customers, it is a mixed bag of experiences. They do their best to address all items and detail what they can on the website photos.
My vehicle came clean, and some marks were easily removed with an all-purpose cleaner. It would be equivalent to a quick detail from your local automatic carwash. Clean but not detailed clean.
But first, what is Carvana? Carvana offers an easy online car buying process to shoppers purchasing used cars and having them delivered directly to their doorstep. It offers a convenient and hassle-free car shopping experience.
Key Takeaway
So, do Carvana cars come detailed?
The answer is a resounding yes. As part of the purchase process, Carvana ensures that every vehicle goes through a rigorous preparation process before being delivered.
I did find a copy of my 150-point Carvana vehicle inspection on the website portal. It was good to see that the tires were replaced, and overall, the car was in great condition.
I did have to pay a $500 non-refundable delivery charge, but I was glad to be able to find the EXACT make, model, and color with the sport package as well.
Overall, it was a positive experience with the initial delivery, the registration process was included, and we received our plates via FedEx. It was about a 3-week delivery time from the first day I got the car.
When you browse the photos on the website, the company does its best to inspect each vehicle and address any cosmetic imperfections carefully.
The photos revealed some dings and scratches on the body that I anticipated upon delivery day. During the touchless delivery, my advocate, who was also my delivery driver, did take photos and notes, which Silver Rock did follow up to schedule paint repair.
As a pro-consumer detail enthusiast, did it get detailed?
When it comes to Carvana's detailing services, they go beyond a simple car wash. The interior was fairly clean, and everything was wiped down and sanitized.
There were no off-putting odors or air fresheners in the vehicle, and it smelled fresh.
Carvana takes pride in offering a comprehensive package with thorough interior and exterior cleaning. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, buffing the exterior, and even addressing minor paint imperfections in the clear coat.
The level of car detailing preparation was about the same as any dealership. However, I understand that dealerships typically use spray wax to help provide a slick touch to the paintwork.
My Carvana didn't have the slickness on the paint, but the paint was clean overall.
However, there might be minor imperfections that could be missed during the detailing process. While Carvana strives for excellence, some customers have reported minor issues, such as missed spots or exterior paint needing to be pristine due to transportation.
In my personal experience, I found the car I purchased from Carvana to be thoroughly cleaned and in good condition as if it was coming from a dealership delivery. The interior was spotless except for a smudge on the door trim.
Carvana takes its delivery prep and detailing seriously.
To maintain the cleanliness of a Carvana car, I recommend regular washing and vacuuming to keep the interior and exterior in top shape.
You can read my other article about how to keep your car smelling new longer.
My Experience with Carvana Car Detailing
What is Carvana?
What is Carvana? Carvana is an online platform that revolutionizes the car buying process by allowing customers to purchase vehicles online without ever having to visit a dealership.
One of the key advantages of Carvana is its transparency. Each car listing includes a 360-degree virtual tour, highlighting any imperfections or damages and ensuring customers clearly understand the vehicle's condition.
TIP: Be sure to review all of the photos carefully and the features.
Furthermore, Carvana offers a 7-day return policy, providing customers with peace of mind if they are unsatisfied with their purchase. My advocate was available anytime I had a question and helped address any post-delivery concerns found in the PPI from the dealership.
While Carvana has had its woes in certain states, I firmly believe they bring something new when buying a "new to you" vehicle.
It is certainly EASIER than a traditional dealership without the stressful process of high-pressure tactics I also experienced during my car-buying search.
With Carvana, it is TRUE. The car buying experience is transformed into a convenient, transparent, and efficient process. It eliminates the need for haggling with salespeople, provides a wide selection of quality used cars, and allows customers to complete the entire purchase online.
What you see is what you get. Plus, a seven-day return policy is always available during the first week.
It was extended an additional week since we found some items that needed to be addressed. (You can read more in my Carvana)
Carvana has truly disrupted the traditional car-buying industry and has gained popularity among those seeking a modern and hassle-free car-buying experience.
What is Included in Carvana's Detailing?
Yes, Carvana cars do come detailed. Carvana ensures that all their vehicles undergo a thorough cleaning and detailing process before being listed for sale.
Carvana Detailing offers a comprehensive cleaning and inspection process to guarantee that the car is in excellent condition before delivery. So, what exactly does Carvana detailing include?
- Exterior cleaning: Carvana washes the car's exterior, removing all surface dirt and grime. This includes thoroughly cleaning the windows, mirrors, tires, and rims.
- Interior cleaning: Carvana does vacuum the seats, carpets, and floor mats and does its best to treat any stains or spills. However, they could be better, and some customers reported that some things needed to be cleaned. In special cases, you can contact customer support to see if they can offer a voucher for a third-party detail.
- Odor removal: Carvana takes care of any unpleasant odors inside the car using specialized techniques to ensure a fresh-smelling vehicle.
- Inspection: Carvana thoroughly inspects the car for any potential issues as part of the detailing process. They check the lights, fluids, wipers, and other components to ensure everything functions properly.
- Paint touch-ups: In case of any minor scratches or imperfections on the car's exterior, Carvana performs touch-up paintwork to restore its appearance. Silver Rock also agreed to address a scrape on the bottom of the front bumper that was not depicted on the website photos.
The interior detailing includes:
- Vacuuming the carpets and upholstery.
- Wiping down surfaces.
- Cleaning the windows to achieve a clean and fresh interior.
They also inspect and clean the trunk or cargo area to ensure it is tidy.
My trunk was clean and empty. Overall, it was an amazing experience, and I was happy.
Carvana understands the importance of providing a great buying experience for its customers, and part of that experience is receiving a clean and well-maintained vehicle. Their attention to detail in the cleaning process ensures that customers receive a car ready to be driven.
Pros and Cons of Carvana Car Detailing
Carvana, known for its unique car purchasing process, offers both pros and cons regarding car detailing. In this section, we'll dive into the benefits and drawbacks of Carvana's car detailing service. From impeccable convenience to potential pitfalls, we'll explore what sets Carvana's detailing apart and what customers should consider before opting for this option. So, buckle up as we uncover the ins and outs of Carvana's car detailing pros and cons.
Pros:
When it comes to Carvana car detailing, several pros make it an attractive option:
- Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of Carvana car detailing is its convenience. You can have your car detailed without leaving your home or office. This saves you time and effort in finding a separate detailing service or visiting a physical location.
- Quality: Carvana is known for its high-quality car detailing service. They have professional detailers who are experienced in thoroughly and meticulously cleaning. This ensures that your car will be sparkling clean and in great condition.
- Comprehensive Service: Carvana car detailing includes a comprehensive range of services. This may include exterior washing, interior vacuuming, window cleaning, tire shining, and more. The goal is to provide complete cleaning and make your car look as good as new.
- Value for Money: Considering the convenience, quality, and comprehensive service offered by Carvana car detailing, it provides good value for money. You get a professional-grade detailing service without the hassle of searching for a separate provider.
- Customer Support: Carvana has a strong customer support team that is readily available to assist you with any concerns or issues related to the car detailing service. They are responsive and committed to ensuring customer satisfaction.
These pros make Carvana car detailing a convenient, reliable, cost-effective option for keeping your car clean and well-maintained.
I had higher hopes for Carvana Car Detailing but was content with the vehicle's condition on delivery. Remember, your mileage may vary based on the vehicle's previous condition.
Cons:
The cons of Carvana car detailing are:
- Inconsistency: While some customers have reported a thorough and satisfactory detailing job, others have needed to improve the quality of the service. Some car areas may need to be cleaned to the desired level. Limited customization:
- Not a $400 detail. Carvana offers a standard detailing service, which may only meet some customers' specific preferences or needs. Some customers may prefer additional services or options that need to be provided. Time-consuming:
- Delivery Dirt. The exterior can be dusty. Due to the large number of cars they deal with, Carvana may prioritize quantity over quality when it comes to detailing. Upon delivery, your vehicle might be dirty. I had a light rain that got the car wet. (It happens, so that's life.)
Carvana delivers cars directly to customers' homes, which means some customers may receive a car exposed to dust, dirt, or other elements during transport. This can detract from the overall cleanliness of the car upon delivery.
My personal experience with Carvana car detailing involved some of these cons. In contrast, the car was generally clean. A few missed spots required additional cleaning. The communication process was also challenging, as it took multiple attempts to address my concerns. However, Carvana did eventually resolve the issues to my satisfaction.
My Personal Experience with Carvana Preparation
My personal experience with the entire process of Carvana has been exceptional. The process was straightforward and hassle-free. At any time, I could have canceled the transaction. My Carvana Advocate did answer my questions and provided updates when needed.
- The detailing was performed by professionals who were meticulous in their work, ensuring that my personal experience with Carvana Car Detailing was top-notch. They cleaned every nook and cranny of the car, leaving it spotless inside and out.
- Carvana uses high-quality cleaning products that are safe for the car's surfaces, ensuring the best outcome. Additionally, they pay special attention to areas prone to dirt and stains, like door jambs and cup holders.
- The result exceeded my expectations - a car that looked and smelled very tidy. Thanks to Carvana's cleaning and prep, it was a good experience to sit in a fresh-smelling and clean vehicle.
In fact, according to Carvana's website, their detailing process is specifically designed to enhance the overall car-buying experience and provide customers with a like-new vehicle. This was on point. This commitment to detail and customer satisfaction sets Carvana apart from other online car-buying platforms.
Tips for Maintaining the Cleanliness of a Carvana Car
From regular washing and vacuuming to implementing protective measures, we'll explore the key practices to ensure your Carvana car stays clean and pristine for years. So let's dive in and unlock the secrets of car cleanliness!
Regular Washing and Vacuuming
Here are some important steps to consider:
- Regular cleaning: One of the best ways to maintain the cleanliness of your Carvana car is by washing it regularly. This includes washing the exterior to remove dirt and grime and vacuuming the interior to get rid of dust and debris.
- Protective coatings: Consider applying protective coatings to your car's exterior to safeguard it against environmental factors such as UV rays, dirt, and chemicals. I personally like Superior Products Formula 4 Spray Way.
- Invest in floor mats: To protect the interior of your Carvana car from spills, dirt, and wear, it is recommended to use high-quality floor mats. These mats can be easily cleaned, providing a barrier between your shoes and the car's carpet.
- Use seat covers: To preserve the condition of your car's seats and prevent stains, consider using seat covers. This will help protect the upholstery from spills, dirt, and normal wear and tear.
- Keep a car trash can: To prevent trash from accumulating inside your Carvana car, having a designated car trash can is helpful. This will make it easier to dispose of trash and keep the interior clean and organized.
TIP: Regular maintenance and upkeep are key to preserving the cleanliness and condition of your Carvana car. By following these protective measures, you can ensure that your car stays in excellent shape for years.
Final Thoughts
Carvana's 150-point inspection and delivery preparation provides a similar prep that I would expect from any car dealership. Unlike traditional dealerships, the good thing is that you have a seven-day money-back guarantee. Plus, you have Carvana Care, which will address any mechanical issues. This coverage is good for three months.
Carvana has no hidden fees and is a good business model for the price range.
So if you do ever experience buyer's remorse, you can return the vehicle and look for another one. This was one of the main reasons I opted to consider Carvana's service.
Note the delivery fee is NON-REFUNDABLE. So it would help if you kept that in mind.
While there have been stories about bad experiences, you must be vigilant and proactive. Remember, the clock is ticking for the 7-day money-back guarantee, and you need to inform them 24 hours before the 7th day.
So you really only have 6 days to decide whether you are keeping the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do Carvana cars come detailed? Carvana cars are typically delivered clean and detailed. However, concerns have been raised about the appearance of some stock photos on the website, suggesting that the cars may still need to be cleaner inside. It is recommended to thoroughly inspect the car during the test drive and raise concerns with Carvana before finalizing the purchase.
2. What defects can you see on Carvana's website when searching for a car?
You can expect to find detailed vehicle information when searching for a car on the Carvana website. This includes a 360-degree tour, photo gallery, and CarFax report. These resources can help you assess the condition and features of the car before making a purchase. Be sure to zoom in on the photos to review everything.
3. What is Carvana's return policy?
Carvana offers a seven-day money-back guarantee, allowing buyers to return the car for any reason within the week. The trial period includes 400 free test-drive miles, with additional miles costing $1. If you're unsatisfied with your purchase, you can initiate the return process by contacting Carvana.