Car care products are a range of products that are designed and used to clean, maintain, and protect the various surfaces of a car, including the exterior, interior, wheels, and tires. These products are formulated to remove dirt, grime, and stains, as well as to protect the surfaces from environmental factors such as UV rays, water, and pollutants. Regular use of car care products can help keep a car looking clean, shiny, and well-maintained while also helping to protect its value and extend its lifespan. In addition, using high-quality car care products can help prevent damage to a car's surfaces, such as paint and leather, and can save car owners money in the long run by reducing the need for costly repairs. There is a wide range of car care products available on the market today, ranging from basic car wash soaps to specialised detailing products used by professionals. Many car care products are also available in eco-friendly formulations that are biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals, making them a safer choice for the environment and for people who are sensitive to certain chemicals. Car care products play an important role in maintaining the appearance and performance of a car and can help car owners protect their investment and enjoy their vehicles for years to come.
According to the research report, "Global Car Care Products Market Research Report, 2028," published by Actual Market Research, the market is projected to reach a size of more than USD 8 billion by 2028, up from USD 6.92 billion in 2022. The market is anticipated to grow at a 4.02% CAGR by 2023–28. The global car care products market is experiencing strong growth, driven by increasing car ownership, growing awareness of car maintenance, and the development of innovative products that offer better performance and convenience. This growth is being fuelled by a combination of factors, including rising disposable incomes, a growing global population, and the increasing number of cars on the road. Consumers are increasingly interested in maintaining the appearance and performance of their vehicles and are willing to invest in high-quality car care products to do so. Car care products protect the vehicle against unintentional accidents, extend the durability and basic quality of the vehicle, and hence boost its resale value. Vehicle ageing and a declining trend towards vehicle replacement have also shifted the scales in favour of the car care products market. Newer car care products designed to meet the needs of the most recent vehicles will be in high demand as the younger generation loves polishing their vehicles. Consumers with more disposable income require cars, and the demand to maintain them grows in parallel with their increasing value. As a result, vehicle production is directly proportionate to the emerging market for car care products.
Rapid urbanization and population growth, primarily in developing countries, are expected to lead to economic development. Uncontrolled rapid urbanization will lead to the expansion of automotive fleet size, which is expected to create significant opportunities for the automotive aftermarket and in turn fuel the demand for car wash detergents and soaps. Over the years, there has been a significant shift towards professional car washing due to the changing preferences of owners and increasing focus on car care. Attributing to this, there has been an increase in the demand for different car care products to maintain the looks and aesthetics of vehicles. In recent years, car owners have been proudly taking ownership of their cars and emphasising vehicle maintenance. Attributing to this, there has been a rise in spending on car washing activities. The increasing per capita spending of developing nations is also contributing to the increasing spending on car care, which is driving the growth of the car care products market.
Based on the report, the market is segmented into four major product types, including cleaning and caring, polishing and waxing, sealing glaze and coating, and others. Among them, cleaning and care products are leading the market in 2022, whereas the sealing, glazing, and coating segment is expected to witness higher market growth by 2023–28. The increased market growth is attributed to its widespread use in removing contaminants and residues from vehicle exterior surfaces. These products are designed to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the exterior and interior surfaces of the vehicle while also providing protection against environmental factors such as UV rays and harsh weather conditions. The growing popularity of car detailing services is one factor driving the growth of the cleaning and caring segment. Many consumers are willing to pay for professional detailing services to keep their vehicles looking their best, creating a demand for high-quality car care products that professionals can use. Consumers, on the other hand, are increasingly looking for products that offer more than just a cosmetic benefit. Sealing glazes and coatings can also help to protect the vehicle's paintwork and bodywork from scratches and other damage, extending the vehicle's lifespan and maintaining its resale value. Based on these factors, the segment is expected to grow at a faster CAGR during 2023–28.
Based on the report, the global car care products market is segmented into five major regions, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and the Middle East and Africa. North America is leading the market with more than 30% of the market in 2022. It is one of the largest markets for car care products, with the USA being the largest contributor. The demand for car care products in North America is driven by the high rate of car ownership and a growing awareness of car maintenance. In North America, companies are introducing new products to guarantee high-quality and cost-effective products for customers. Car owners in the US have increased their consumption of auto detailing and car wash services, which has instantly augmented the demand for and ingestion of car cleaning products. Large product portfolios and specialty products offer competitive advantages to the market players, thereby making the entry of new players tough. The rise in the sales of luxury vehicles has contributed to the growth of the market, as these vehicles require premium services and costly parts. North America and Middle Eastern countries are witnessing increased demand for luxury car care services. Considering this, market players are setting up a dedicated centre for luxury car servicing, which, in turn, is positively driving market growth.
Further, the car care products market in Europe is a significant and growing industry. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association, Europe is home to more than 300 car, van, truck, and bus manufacturers, which represents a significant market for car care products. In addition, European consumers have a strong culture of car ownership and maintenance and are generally willing to invest in high-quality products to keep their vehicles looking and performing their best. There have been several new car care product launches in Europe in recent years as manufacturers and suppliers continue to innovate and meet the evolving needs of consumers. Ceramic coatings are a new type of car wax that is designed to provide long-lasting protection for vehicle paint. They are made from nanotechnology-based materials that form a hard, durable coating when applied to the vehicle. Biodegradable cleaners are a new type of car cleaning product that is designed to break down quickly and safely in the environment. They are often made from plant-based ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals that can harm aquatic life. These products are becoming increasingly popular in Europe as consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions. Also, detailing sprays are a new type of car care product that is designed to enhance the appearance of a vehicle's paint and trim. They are often used as a final step in the detailing process and can provide a high-gloss shine that lasts for several weeks. Many detailing sprays are also formulated with UV protectants to help prevent fading and damage from the sun.
Based on the report, the market is segmented into two major application types, including interior and exterior. Among them, the exterior segment is leading in the global car care products market due to a combination of factors, including rising car ownership, growing interest in car aesthetics, exposure to environmental factors, and the availability of a wide range of products. Exterior washing generally involves the use of car shampoo, clay bars, etc., to remove dirt and loosen stubborn impurities. Exterior plastic parts, including side mirrors, door sills, etc., and rubber parts, require proper maintenance to protect from soiling. Exterior cleaning includes preventing body trim care components from becoming worn, damaged, and dirty, which downgrade the car’s appearance and may interfere with proper vehicle operation. Wheels and tires, being the dirtiest parts of a car, are susceptible to mud, dirt, ice, brake dust, etc. This segment is witnessing higher demands during the forecast period. However, the interior segment is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Interior car cleaning is necessary to protect upholstery and dashboards from dust and mildew. Specialized carpet steam cleaners remove tough stains from floor mats and cargo area carpeting, and odour eliminator sprays are used to eliminate odours. Air fresheners are applied to maintain a pleasant smell within the vehicle.
Further, the Asia-Pacific car care products market is growing at the highest CAGR compared to other regions. The region is experiencing significant growth in car ownership and production. According to the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, the Asia-Pacific region accounts for the majority of the world's car production, with countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea leading the way. As more people purchase cars in the region, there is a corresponding increase in demand for car care products. Also, there is a growing middle class in the region that has more disposable income to spend on car care products. As people's incomes rise, they are more likely to invest in high-quality car care products to keep their vehicles looking and performing their best. There is an increasing awareness of the importance of car maintenance and preservation in the region. Consumers are becoming more educated about the benefits of regular car care, including extending the life of their vehicle, improving performance, and enhancing resale value. This has led to an increase in demand for car care products that are specifically designed for the region's unique climate and road conditions. South America and the Middle East and Africa, both regions are projected to grow at more than 4% CAGR for 2023–28.
The market is divided into three segments based on distribution channels: DIY/retail stores, DIFM (do it for me)/service centres, and e-commerce. DIY and retail stores are expected to lead the market in 2022. The increasing global prevalence of organised retail chains is expected to support the distribution of car care products. Multinational retail chains, such as Costco and Walmart, offer discounted pricing structures, allowing them to offer car care products at lower prices than other channels. The establishment of local service shops and the increasing penetration of retail stores in niche markets through third-party agreements are expected to support retail distribution channels. Several manufacturers' polishing, washing, and cleaning products are available at car detailing stores. However, by the end of the forecast period, the e-commerce segment will have grown at a faster CAGR. The ease of purchase or convenience, pricing and discounts on various products and services, and home delivery are the primary reasons why e-commerce platforms are becoming increasingly popular around the world. Meanwhile, given the success of e-commerce platforms and rising consumer spending on car care products to maintain a vehicle's aesthetics, many car care product manufacturers, including 3M, Illinois Tool Works, SONAX, and others, have adopted this strategy to sell their products through online platforms as well as retail stores.
The global car care market is divided into three major end-use types: service centres and garages, auto beauty shops, and individuals. The service centres and garages segment is the market leader. To supply their offerings, the majority of car care product manufacturers have established contracts with service providers. Furthermore, the players have established exclusive outlets that provide car owners with cleaning and maintenance services. However, the increasing demand for car care products among individual vehicle owners, combined with the wide availability of products in commercial markets, is expected to support segment growth during the forecast period. Individual car owners' increasing use of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) applications for car maintenance is expected to boost retail product sales. The high service cost for car maintenance at a professional service station is another factor driving individual owners to opt for retail purchases and self-application.