Arnett's Automotive Detailing in Chattanooga: Full-Service Shop with Mobile Options
Arnett's Automotive Detailing operates as a hybrid service, offering both fixed-location detailing at a shop location and mobile detailing that comes to your vehicle in Chattanooga and surrounding areas. The business handles interior and exterior work ranging from single-service touch-ups to comprehensive multi-stage packages, positioning itself between quick-wash operations and high-end ceramic coating specialists.
Services and pricing
Arnett's offers three main package tiers. The basic exterior wash and hand dry runs $75 to $85, suitable for routine maintenance between deeper work. Mid-tier packages—called "premium" detailing—bundle exterior wash, clay bar treatment, machine polish, and interior vacuum and wipe-down, priced between $150 and $200 depending on vehicle size. The full package adds interior steam cleaning, leather conditioning (if applicable), and exterior sealant application, ranging from $250 to $350. Additional services like ceramic coating application, headlight restoration, and engine bay cleaning are available à la carte and start around $100 to $150 each. Mobile service carries a travel fee of $20 to $35 depending on location within Chattanooga, but eliminates the trip to the shop.
Pricing for specialty work such as paint correction or multi-layer ceramic coatings varies by vehicle condition and should be confirmed directly, as these are assessed case-by-case.
How Arnett's compares to other Chattanooga detailing options
Chattanooga's detailing market splits into three categories. Quick-service washes (like those at traditional car washes) cost $20 to $40 but provide no interior work or protection products. Mid-range independent detailers, including Arnett's, charge $150 to $300 for hands-on work with protective treatments. High-end shops focusing on exotic vehicles or ceramic coating specialization run $400 and up and often require appointment windows weeks in advance.
Arnett's main advantage over local car wash chains is the combination of mobile service and multi-step process work without premium pricing. Compared to larger regional chains that may have standardized packages, Arnett's will adjust scope based on vehicle condition rather than forcing customers into fixed tiers. The trade-off is that turnaround time for a mobile appointment may be longer than dropping a car at a fixed location.
Who this service suits
Arnett's works best for owners of daily-driver vehicles (sedans, trucks, crossovers) who want genuine interior cleaning and exterior protection without traveling to a shop, or for those with multiple vehicles who benefit from a single appointment. It also suits older vehicles where clay bar and polish work can restore clarity to aging paint without full-scale restoration.
The service does not replace a body shop's paint correction for major scratches or swirl marks, nor does it substitute for ceramic coatings from specialists if you own a high-value or newer vehicle where ceramic longevity and warranty matter significantly.
What the first visit involves
For shop-based appointments, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to discuss package choice and any problem areas (water spots, interior stains, odors). The team will walk through the vehicle exterior and interior, ask about the last professional detail, and explain what each package step addresses. For mobile service, schedule in advance and provide an accessible parking location or driveway with electrical access if the work involves powered equipment.
Hours, parking, and logistics
Arnett's operates Tuesday through Saturday; verify current hours and mobile service availability before booking, as seasonal demand can affect scheduling. The fixed shop location has dedicated customer parking. Mobile appointments are generally scheduled mid-week to accommodate route efficiency, though weekend slots are sometimes available. Most full packages take 3 to 4 hours at the shop; mobile work on-site takes similar time but you can stay at home.
Arnett's fills a practical middle ground in Chattanooga's detailing landscape: serious about interior and exterior protection work, accessible without premium pricing, and flexible enough to come to you when the shop feels like extra effort.
