A car detailing service is a form of auto maintenance that involves cleaning both the interior and exterior surfaces to prevent deterioration and improve the visual appearance. Detailing goes beyond washing and valeting in terms of how thoroughly the vehicle is cleaned, but it also includes restorative processes such as wet-sanding, buffing and polishing to produce a high level of finish.
It is important to note that detailing does not repair major defects in a car’s paintwork or body panels, which would require the work of a body shop. The focus of car detailing is to refine the surface, not restore it to a new condition.
To clean the exterior of a vehicle, the detailer will wash and dry it with specialized products. This process usually starts with the wheels and tires, as they tend to be dirtiest from asphalt grime, road salt, brake dust and other contaminants. It is important to use the right products for each type of wheel, and to scrub and rinse them thoroughly to avoid causing damage to the vehicle’s paint.
After the wheel and tire areas are cleaned, the detailer will wash the painted surfaces of the car. Once the surface is washed, it may be necessary to apply a decontaminant or degreaser. This step is especially crucial if the vehicle has been driven off-road or through muddy conditions. It is also a good time to perform an exterior glass treatment or decontamination to remove any bird droppings and other contaminants that can mar the finish.
The next phase of the process is usually some form of paint enhancement. This can be done by hand rubbing, using a buffer or power sander, or even by using an orbital or random orbital sander. The result is a smoother finish, that may be followed by applying a wax or sealant to protect the paint and plastic or rubber surfaces of the vehicle.
Once the paint is smooth and protected, the detailer can then move on to other areas of the vehicle. This can include the exhaust pipe, badges and other exterior plastics. It is also a great time to restore cloudy headlight lenses and improve the overall look and safety of the vehicle.
One final stage is often a vaccuming and air purging of the interior of the vehicle, which is critical for improving the health and comfort of the driver and passengers. Germs and allergens thrive in dirty vehicles, and a thorough cleaning with vacuums and sterile wipes will help to reduce the number of germs in the vehicle’s environment.
If you want to start your own auto detailing business, it’s a good idea to invest in the proper tools and supplies. This can help you get started quickly and efficiently, and ensure that the job is done correctly. Many detailers choose to use a business management platform such as Mobile Tech RX, which can help you set up packages and prices, create branded invoices and estimates, and manage your bookkeeping, payment processing and marketing.