Frequently asked questions

A valet is primarily a cleaning service: exterior wash, interior vacuum and a wipe-down. A full detail goes much deeper, with machine polishing to remove paint defects and swirl marks, clay bar decontamination, steam interior cleaning, leather conditioning and protective ceramic coatings. Think of a valet as a thorough clean and a detail as a complete restoration and protection treatment.

It depends on the service. A mini valet typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, a full valet 3 to 4 hours, a premium detail including machine polishing 6 to 8 hours, and a full ceramic coating package may span a full day or two depending on vehicle size and paint condition. We always give a realistic time estimate before starting.

Yes, that is the whole point. Mint Detail is a fully mobile service and we bring our professional detailing setup directly to you, whether you are at home or at work in Earls Colne, Colchester, Halstead, Braintree or anywhere across North Essex. All we need is access to your vehicle and space to work.

Everything in the Premium Detail, plus two-stage machine polish, paint correction preparation, professional ceramic coating, 2 to 5 year paint protection, ceramic glass coating, wheel ceramic coating and a free maintenance wash at 6 months.

From £595 per car. Prices vary by vehicle size and condition, so contact us for a free quote.

Yes. Older paint is corrected first with machine polishing, so the coating bonds to a restored finish rather than sealing in existing defects.

Most owners find a valet every few weeks keeps the car in good shape, with a deeper detail once or twice a year. It depends on mileage, parking and how the car is used.

Yes, as long as there is access to the vehicle and space to work around it. Many customers have their car valeted while they work.

It removes swirl marks, light scratches and oxidation very effectively. Scratches that have gone through the clear coat cannot be polished out completely, though they can often be improved. We assess the paint first and explain honestly what correction can and cannot achieve.

When done properly, yes. Paint is assessed first, the least aggressive approach that achieves the result is used, and panels are checked as work progresses. That is why correction is a skilled job rather than a quick buff.