Car detailing is a service offered by auto detailers to clean and protect cars before selling them. Car detailing involves cleaning the exterior of the car, washing the interior, vacuuming the carpeting, polishing the chrome trim, waxing the paintwork, and applying protective coatings.
Here’s a checklist of things to remember when getting your car detailed:
1. Use a professional car wash
Professional car washes use high-pressure water jets to remove dirt and grime from the vehicle. They also provide a thorough rinse to ensure that all surfaces are cleaned thoroughly. Professional car washes are usually located near busy roads and highways so that customers can easily access them.
2. Wash the inside of the car
Washing the inside of the car is essential to removing dust and debris from the seats, dashboard, steering wheel, door panels, and windows. Washing the interior of the car ensures that the air conditioning system doesn’t become contaminated with particles that may cause damage to the unit.
3. Vacuum the carpets
Carpeted areas like the floor mats, console, and center stack must be vacuumed regularly to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating under the seat cushions. Cleaning the carpeting removes loose dirt and debris that can scratch the finish of the car.
4. Polish the chrome
Polish the chrome trim around the doors, hood, trunk lid, mirrors, and headlights to make sure that the metal shines brightly. Polishing the chrome makes the car look newer and fresher.
5. Wax the paintwork
Waxing the paintwork protects the surface of the car from scratches and dents caused by road hazards. Waxes come in different finishes that suit various vehicles. Some waxes contain UV inhibitors that protect the paintwork from fading over time.
6. Apply protective coatings
Applying protective coatings prevents further damage to the paintwork. Coatings are applied after waxing to seal the paintwork and protect it from future harm.
7. Check the tires
Tires wear out over time and need to be replaced periodically. Checking the tire pressure and tread depth is recommended every six months to avoid accidents due to low tire pressures.