When you’re looking for a high-powered car vacuum to deep clean your vehicle, the power of the DeWalt shop vac can handle just about any job. Its strong suction power, several attachments, and large capacity make it a versatile option suitable for a wide range of applications, whether you need a tool for car detailing or you’re looking to clean up workshop spills. 

The DeWalt DXV08S is a shop vac-style vacuum cleaner capable of wet and dry vacuuming. In our roundup of the best car vacuums, we named the DeWalt DXV08S best overall.

*Price accurate at time of publication

The DeWalt DXV08S includes the following accessories in addition to the vacuum:

The several included attachments are more than enough to help vacuum every part of your vehicle. However, noticeably absent from the package is a foam filter cover. This filter cover is necessary if you want to use the wet vac function as it protects the paper filter from damage.

You can buy a foam filter for around $10, but it would be ideal if the vacuum came with this and you could avoid the hassle of purchasing separately. You can upgrade to a washable HEPA filter for a few dollars more, as well.

To review the DeWalt DXV08S, we made sure to test the vacuum’s performance in a few categories, including:

The DeWalt DXV08S performed well in all of our review categories, but it did best with suction power, ease of maintenance, and versatility. This vacuum can pick up the most deeply embedded crumbs and clean almost any type of mess that might occur inside your vehicle. It’s also simple to clean and maintain.

The DXV08S doesn't have the strongest suction among the vacuums we’ve tested, but it does produce powerful suction capable of thoroughly and quickly cleaning out a vehicle. The DeWalt shop vacuum is one of the few vacuums from our testing that removed embedded dog fur from a cloth floor mat. It performed well as a dust extractor, making it perfect for heavier workshop messes such as sawdust spills.

For raw specs, it produces a respectable airflow of 90.0 cubic feet per minute (CFM).

Ease of Maintenance: 4 out of 5

The top of the DeWalt DXV08S pops off to expose the collection canister. We found that the included vacuum bag is easy to remove once it fills up, though it takes some time since the tank holds eight gallons. The vacuum may require a more thorough cleaning if you use the wet vac function.

The included accessories bag makes storing the hose and attachments convenient, but the size of the vacuum and number of attachments means you couldn't easily store this vacuum in your trunk. You’ll need to find storage space in a closet or workshop.

Versatility is where the DeWalt DXV08S shines. A shop vac-style vacuum generally offers the most versatility with car detailing, which is why most professional detailers use this type of vacuum. The extension wand and crevice nozzle are useful for reaching between and under the seats and fit snugly on the vacuum's blower port. This vacuum also can manage wet and dry spills and serve as a blower.

The large tank capacity allows you to use the DeWalt DXV08S for several cleans before emptying.

There are two main downsides to the DeWalt DXV08S: the cost and the bulk. The size is a pro if you want a vacuum that you don’t need to empty often, but it can be an inconvenience if you're seeking a more maneuverable option. It costs over $100, which is reasonable for a shop vac, but you can find a light-duty vacuum for much cheaper.

If you have an extension cord, you can vacuum every part of your car with the DeWalt DXV08S. However, you won’t be able to bring it inside your car due to its size and the need to plug it in. While this isn’t a major drawback, it does make the vacuum less maneuverable compared to cordless wet-dry vacuums that use lithium-ion batteries.

This vacuum is mounted on casters so you can easily wheel it around your car as you work, and the extension hoses allow you to reach deep into your vehicle.

The DeWalt DXV08S has an average Amazon rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on over 150 ratings. The product received 4 stars or more from 92 percent of reviewers. While it has received a relatively small number of reviews, our experience validates it being a quality car vacuum.

Positive reviewers often praise the quality of the craftsmanship and the excellent suction power of this stainless steel wet-dry vacuum.

“This thing is a beast. The power is incredible. You will need someone to hold your rugs down while you vacuum them.”

“Works better than my older Ridgid shop vac, follows the quality that you would expect from DeWalt.”

At the time of publication, the DeWalt DXV08S had no negative Amazon reviews, with the exception of one customer who complained about the engine being only 4.0 horsepower. Apparently, the product photo previously advertised a 5.0-horsepower engine, but this is no longer the case.

The DeWalt DXV08S is an excellent all-around car vacuum suitable for any type of car cleaning, and for big messes and detailing, in particular. This vacuum is a bit expensive (more than $100) compared to low-powered vacuums, but it's a good price for a quality-built shop vac.

Consider buying this product if you need a reliable car vacuum to clean any mess in your car. Don’t buy this product if you lack the space to store a rather large vacuum or don’t want to spend more than $100 on a car vacuum.

If you're looking for a light-duty, inexpensive vacuum, you might consider the ThisWorx 12V. Or if you need a high-powered brushless vacuum you can easily store in your trunk, check out the Milwaukee 0880-20.

How much is a DeWalt wet/dry vac?

The DeWalt DXV08S is a wet/dry vac that costs between $125 and $165. While this vacuum is more expensive than low-powered car vacuums, it is a good price for a high-quality shop vac.

Who makes the DeWalt shop vac?

The DeWalt company is a subsidiary of Stanley Black & Decker. The DeWalt shop vac is manufactured by Alton Industry Ltd. Group.

Are DeWalt shop vacs made in the USA?

DeWalt shop vacs are manufactured in China.

Does the DeWalt DXV08S come with a wet filter?

To use the DeWalt DXV08S for wet vacuuming, you need to cover the filter with a foam filter cover. This isn't included with the vacuum, and you must purchase it separately.

Can you use a DeWalt shop vac without a bag? 

You don't need to use a bag when operating the DeWalt shop vac, but you should only operate it when a washable HEPA cartridge filter is installed.

What is the best shop vac on the market?

The DeWalt shop vac is an excellent addition to any collection of power tools. Being a combo wet and dry shop vacuum makes it a contender for mobile car detailing operations or people who regularly transport home improvement tools from job site to job site.