Would a mobile car detailing business work for a 17 year old in Ontario?
Hey everyone,
I’m 17 in Ontario and thinking about starting a small mobile car detailing / car washing business on weekends and after school to make some side income.
The idea would be simple, affordable detailing where I come to the customer’s house and do things like:
• Interior vacuum
• Wipe down / cleaning
• Windows
• Basic exterior wash
• Tire shine
• Maybe motorcycle cleaning too
I have access to a shared car with my parents sometimes, low startup budget, and I’d mainly be targeting local families, busy people, and older adults.
My goal would be around $1,000/month eventually, nothing crazy.
Be brutally honest:
Would this actually work in 2026?
What would make you trust a teen detailer?
What prices would be reasonable?
Biggest mistakes to avoid?
Would you personally hire a 17 year old for this?
Also, if anyone here has run a detailing business, what do you wish you knew when starting