What Does Car Detailing Consist Of? 

If you’re considering hiring a car detailing service, you may wonder exactly what car detailing consists of. Unlike a regular wash, which just gets your car clean, detailing actually improves the appearance and condition of your vehicle by removing rust, mold, dirt, grime, and other contaminants that can eat away at your paint or upholstery. 

It can also make a car look as good as new, which can help you increase your resale value and boost your pride in ownership. It can be an excellent option for any vehicle owner, including those who have just bought a new car and want to preserve it as long as possible. 

The first step in detailing is a basic wash, which removes dust, dirt, road salt, and other surface contaminants from your car’s exterior paint. The detailer will use a brush or a pressure washer to scrub the car’s exterior surfaces. This can include the windshield, door mirrors, windows, and the hood and trunk. 

Once your car is thoroughly cleaned, it’s time for the polishing phase. This involves removing scratches, swirl marks, and other blemishes from your car’s paint. It can also help your paint last longer since it gives it a smoother finish. 

To get the most out of your polishing session, your detailer should follow a specific process to ensure that your paintwork looks its best. Some of these processes involve wet-sanding, compounding, and polishing. 

These steps are aimed at removing any clear coat scratches, as well as the swirl marks that can develop when you’re not washing your car properly. They’re also used to correct other imperfections such as scuffing and scratches caused by the improper use of a vacuum cleaner. 

You’ll need to buy some specialized cleaning equipment and supplies for your job, which can add up quickly. Be sure to choose a company that uses only water-based cleaners and solvents. Those containing chemicals can damage today’s thin, more environmentally friendly vinyl materials. 

Your detailing company may also offer other services, such as engine and interior cleaning. If you’re interested in this, ask your shop if it offers it as part of its standard package or as an additional service. 

When it comes to your car’s interior, a good detailing company will do everything from vacuuming and shampooing the carpets to cleaning leather seats and conditioning vinyl and plastic. It will also clean your dashboard and other interior components. 

If you have a hard-to-remove stain, your detailer can use hot water extraction and steam to loosen it and remove it from your vehicle’s upholstery. These methods are less expensive than other types of stain removal and can be especially effective on stubborn, dark stains. 

Some shops offer more advanced car detailing services that can improve a vehicle’s resale value and enhance its cosmetic appearance. These can include touch-up paint repairs, sanding and repainting scuffed bumper covers, and even sanding off and reapplying the clear coat to your car’s paint.