When it comes to top-quality vehicle care in Albany, Oregon, Andy’s Auto Detailing & Ceramic Coating is a community standout. Led by Andy VanOrder, the business specializes in everything from affordable detailing services to high-end treatments like ceramic coatings and paint protection films (PPF). But what truly sets Andy’s Auto Detailing apart is the passion behind it—this isn’t just a business, it’s a family operation rooted in community and commitment to excellence.
Andy VanOrder’s path to owning a successful detailing business wasn’t straightforward. Eight years ago, he was working in the beverage industry, juggling jobs at both Coca-Cola and Pepsi. When a layoff hit just before Christmas in 2016, Andy found himself in a difficult position. “With five kids at the time, I knew I had to figure something out,” he recalled during a recent presentation at the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Greeters event.
Unsure of what to do next, Andy sought advice from a trusted friend who suggested he start his own business. Though he was initially hesitant, Andy decided to give it a try. He started small, working out of his driveway with a few tools—one of which still hangs on the wall in his shop today as a reminder of humble beginnings. “I literally had a hose and a sprayer, and that’s what I started with,” Andy shared.
Balancing four jobs, including youth ministry and delivering pizzas, while trying to build his detailing business was no easy feat. But with determination and a strong family support system, Andy began to see his business grow. In a touching moment, two of Andy’s children even offered up their savings to help him buy his first work van, a $1,200 Chevy Astro. From there, the business evolved into a full-time mobile detailing service, and Andy never looked back.
Andy’s expertise goes far beyond what most people expect from a detailing shop. His relentless pursuit of excellence has led him to some of the most prestigious detailing opportunities in the world. “I knew I wanted to seek out the best training I could find,” Andy explained. He sought advanced education through Detailing Success, a small trade school that opened doors to exclusive opportunities, including his membership in the elite Detailing Mafia and the International Detailing Association (IDA)—a distinction that makes him Albany’s only IDA Certified detailers.
One of Andy’s most notable experiences has been working on the historic Air Force One plane in Seattle for the last three years. Not only has he been part of the restoration team, but he’s also served as a team leader. “I’ve also worked down at Monterey Car Week and Pebble Beach,” Andy added. “I got to work on a Porsche that won Le Mans—probably the most valuable car I’ve ever touched.”
These high-profile projects reflect Andy’s commitment to continually growing his skills and offering the best services to his clients. Whether it’s a priceless race car or a family vehicle in need of a deep clean, Andy approaches every job with the same dedication.
While Andy has made a name for himself in the detailing world, he’s quick to point out that none of this would have been possible without his family’s support. His son Jake is his main employee and has followed in his father’s footsteps, attending specialized training programs across the country. “I started working for him full-time right out of high school,” Jake shared. “I’ve been to training in Florida, California, and Las Vegas.”
Andy’s wife, Melissa, also plays a key role in the business, officially joining the team to manage tasks that Andy can’t handle on his own. “She’s always worked behind the scenes, but now she’s working a couple of days a week in the business,” Andy said. All of the VanOrder children, ranging from ages four to 31, have contributed to the family operation in some way over the years. Andy is also a proud grandfather to two boys, a role he describes as “the best thing ever.”
Beyond running a successful business, Andy is deeply involved in the Albany community. From coaching local baseball teams to mentoring young men, he makes it a priority to give back. “Our business and life revolve around family,” Andy said, adding that flexibility in his schedule allows him to stay active in his children’s and grandchildren’s lives.
Andy’s commitment to community extends to supporting other local businesses as well. One of his vehicles features the logos of other small businesses, a gesture that shows his dedication to building up those around him. “I’m always reaching out to other detailers locally, trying to bring those guys up as well,” Andy explained, emphasizing the importance of collaboration over competition.
While Andy’s Auto Detailing & Ceramic Coating offers high-end services like paint protection film, the shop also caters to a wide range of customers. From full interior details to ceramic coatings, Andy provides services for both everyday vehicles and those looking for something more advanced.
“We aim for maximum potential on every job,” Andy said. This means that every vehicle, no matter the service level, gets thorough attention to detail.
While Andy is equipped to handle large projects—like polishing a brand-new ladder truck for the Marion County Fire Department or applying PPF to a Tesla—he still takes pride in helping customers who just want their family car to look its best. “We do the everyday cars too,” Andy said, stressing that the shop’s services are designed to be accessible to everyone.
With the business continuing to thrive, Andy has exciting plans for the future. In the coming weeks, he’ll begin construction on an external wash bay to improve efficiency and cleanliness in the shop. Long-term, Andy hopes to purchase a commercial property where he can expand into product distribution and retail sales. “It’s a four to five-year plan, but I’m excited about what’s ahead,” Andy shared.
As for now, Andy remains focused on providing top-quality service to his community while continuing to grow both personally and professionally. His dedication to family, faith, and hard work shines through in everything he does, making Andy’s Auto Detailing & Ceramic Coating a trusted name in Albany.
Featured Place
Andy’s Auto Detailing And Ceramic Coatings
33798 Berry Dr NE
Albany, Oregon 97322
(541) 730-7759
Related Articles
Apr. 6th, 2024
Mastering the Grit: Choosing the Right Sandpaper for Your Projects
Jan. 16th, 2024