Car detailing is a restorative process that improves the appearance of vehicles. It encompasses many elements, including a thorough cleaning, protecting and waxing.
For very small nicks, detailers use touchup paint. They also “wet sand” scratches, which gives the surface a smooth finish but removes the clearcoat that protects the car from UV damage.
Exterior
Professionals use acid-free degreasers, detail clay (to remove invisible micro-embedded surface contaminants), waxes, silicone- and non-silicone-based dressings for rubber and plastic trim and tires. They may also add a tint or decals to personalize a vehicle.
Using high-quality products is essential to getting the best results. Many detailing pros rely on business management software to set up their packages, pricing, estimates and branded invoices. Some even run search advertising campaigns to target customers actively looking for a car-detailing service.
An exterior detail usually includes a full wash and dry with the engine bay and wheels cleaned, a paint claying process, buffing and polishing the finish. They may use a paint sealant to prolong the life of the work and protect it from weather and road grime. They can also perform a detailed interior, vacuuming the carpets, washing the mats, wiping the dashboard and console and cleaning the windows. A leather or fabric protectant helps the material resist stains and fading.
Interior
Detailing is the cleaning and restoring of a vehicle to make it look like new or even better than new. This includes cleaning every nook and cranny of the interior, vacuuming carpets, shampooing upholstery and washing the dashboard and entertainment center. All surfaces are cleaned, then treated with protective products. Odors are eliminated and the windshield and other glass are cleaned.
A good detailer knows how to prevent oxidation of the paint by using the right kind of polish and doing it very delicately by hand. This takes years of experience to master.
Car detailing is like a checkup at the dentist – regular maintenance can help keep problems from arising. A properly detailed vehicle with a clean engine and bright interior helps maintain its value and resaleability. Many detailers start with set packages and pricing, but as their business grows, they may switch to variable-based pricing. A business management app like Mobile Tech RX can help with package and price setting, branded invoices, bookkeeping (through QuickBooks), payment processing, marketing and customer communication.
Tires
The tires are one of the most important parts of a car. They’re the only part of a vehicle that touches the road and can make or break traction.
Tires aren’t made of rubber, but a combination of different chemicals and materials. They’re usually made with a mix of synthetic and natural rubber. There are also fillers, textiles and steel cords that make up the casing plies and belts.
There are a lot of terms that you’ll need to know if you want to discuss your car with a technician. Some are basic, such as tread wear, which is a number that shows how much longer you can expect your tires to last before they’re worn down to the legal limit. Other terms are more complicated, like “back spacing,” which is the distance between the bolt pad and back of the rim flange on the wheel. Back spacing is important when adding wheels and tires because it ensures that the tire/wheel assembly will be in a balanced position while the vehicle is rotating.
Drivetrain
The drivetrain is the mechanical system that transfers power from your car’s engine to its wheels, enabling it to move. This includes the transmission, differential(s), and axle(s). It’s important to understand how the drivetrain works so you can be more aware of any detailing work that may be needed.
The drivetrain is a critical part of your vehicle, so it’s essential to keep it in tip-top shape. Detailing your vehicle’s drivetrain can help prevent damage and prolong its lifespan. For example, applying waxes and protective agents can protect the surface from dirt, debris, water spots, and bird droppings. Keeping your drivetrain in good condition can also improve fuel efficiency and provide a smoother driving experience.