Car detailing is a process that aims to keep a vehicle in its best possible condition, especially cosmetic, as opposed to mechanical. It is more than a cleaning process to make a vehicle look good, but a systematic approach to help extend its life with methods and products that reduce damaging environmental elements such as dirt, sun, harsh winters, etc. . Detailing is generally broken down into two categories: exterior and interior (or cabin) .
Exterior detailing involves cleaning and either restoring or exceeding the original condition of the surface of the cars finish (usually a paint with a glossy finish), chrome trim, windows, wheels, and tires, as well as other visible components on a vehicles exterior. A wide array of detailing products and techniques are used, based on the vehicles surface type and condition, or the detailers or customers preference. Exterior detailing can include the following steps:
- Hand-wash and dry the exterior
- Removing soap residue and water spots
- Cleaning the wheels and tires
- Polishing the paint
- Waxing the paint
- Cleaning and polishing the chrome trim
- Cleaning the windows
Interior detailing involves cleaning the vehicles interior cabin, including the seats, carpet, dashboard, and other surfaces. Interior detailing can include the following steps:
- Vacuuming the interior
- Cleaning the seats and carpets
- Cleaning the dashboard and other surfaces
- Cleaning the windows
Detailing is more thorough than washing and valeting in terms of how thorough the clean is, and how it is performed. Detailing does not always completely eliminate any defects which prevent the vehicle from looking brand new, and it does not deal with major defects such as deep scratches or dents which would require a trip to the body shop. The overall aim is to refine, rather than completely repair, in order to improve the vehicles appearance.
Professional detailing is always done by hand, and some professional car detailing businesses offer additional services such as paint correction, which is a process that takes away flaws on the top layer of a cars paintwork like dull paint or oxidation. The cost of professional detailing varies greatly across the country, but the average cost of a professional detail in the United States is $160.16.
In summary, car detailing is a thorough process that goes beyond what a car wash can accomplish to clean, correct, and protect a vehicles surfaces. It involves both exterior and interior cleaning and can include additional services such as paint correction. Detailing is important because it extends the life of a vehicle and helps it maintain its maximum resale value.
