How Much Does It Cost to Open a Detailing Studio in India?

Starting a car detailing studio in India has become one of the most attractive small business opportunities in 2025. With the increasing number of luxury vehicles, premium hatchbacks, and EVs on Indian roads, customers are more willing than ever to spend on paint protection and professional detailing services. But one of the first questions every aspiring entrepreneur asks is: How much does it cost to open a detailing studio in India? Let’s break it down step by step.

1. Initial Investment Range

The total investment depends on the size, city, and type of services offered. On average:

• Small Studio (1–2 bays): ₹8–12 lakhs

• Mid-Size Studio (3–4 bays): ₹15–20 lakhs

• Premium Studio (5+ bays with PPF, ceramic coating, and lounge): ₹25–40 lakhs

2. Space & Infrastructure

The biggest fixed cost is space.

• Rent & Deposit (Tier-1 city): ₹50,000–₹1.5 lakhs/month

• Studio setup: flooring, lighting, ventilation, water drainage, electricity points

• Approximate Cost: ₹2–5 lakhs

Pro Tip: Choose a location near car showrooms, service centers, or premium residential areas to attract the right clientele.

3. Equipment & Tools

Quality equipment is non-negotiable for a professional studio.

• Dual Action & Rotary Polishers: ₹80,000–₹1.5 lakhs

• Pressure Washers & Foam Guns: ₹1–2 lakhs

• Vacuum Cleaners & Extractors: ₹50,000–₹1 lakh

• Lighting & Infrared Curing Lamps: ₹1–2 lakhs

• Miscellaneous Tools & Storage: ₹1 lakh

Estimated Cost: ₹3–6 lakhs

4. Chemicals & Consumables

To deliver consistent results, you’ll need:

• Shampoos, degreasers, interior cleaners

• Ceramic coatings, graphene coatings, PPF rolls

• Microfiber towels, applicators, brushes

Monthly stock investment: ₹1–2 lakhs depending on service volume.

5. Staffing & Training

Staff salaries vary by city and experience.

• Skilled Detailers: ₹18,000–₹30,000/month each

• Helpers/Support Staff: ₹12,000–₹15,000/month

• Training & certification: ₹50,000–₹1 lakh per team

6. Marketing & Branding

In today’s digital-first world, marketing is a must.

• Branding, signages, uniforms: ₹50,000–₹1 lakh

• Digital Marketing (Google Ads, Instagram, SEO): ₹20,000–₹50,000/month

• Customer management software: ₹10,000–₹25,000

7. Miscellaneous Costs

• Business registration & GST setup: ₹20,000–₹40,000

• Insurance & safety compliance: ₹30,000–₹70,000

• Initial buffer for working capital: ₹1–2 lakhs

✅ Final Cost Breakdown

On average, opening a detailing studio in India will cost ₹10–25 lakhs for a standard setup, and upwards of ₹30 lakhs for a premium brand-focused studio.

📌 Conclusion

The cost of starting a detailing studio in India depends on how big you want to go. The smart approach is to begin lean with essential services (wash, polishing, coatings), build a loyal client base, and gradually expand into premium services like PPF and franchise-level operations. With proper financial planning, a detailing studio can break even within 12–18 months, making it one of the most profitable ventures in the automotive industry today.