Mobile Auto Detailing

Understanding the five basic exterior detailing steps and proper terminology will help you achieve a show room shine.

1. Hand Wash – Use a Ph balanced car soap. The most common mistake is using a liquid detergent.
2. Clay Bar Buff – The clay bar pulls out polluting fallout and contamination without abrasion to the paint.
3. Compound – Using a compound combined with a foam applicator will remove scratches and oxidation.
4. Polish – Polish restores the paint’s pigmentation by filling in slight imperfections. Thus, preparing the paint for the final wax.
5. Wax/Sealant – A wax or paint sealant is used as a final step to protect the finish. Carnauba wax is naturally produced by palm trees. Paint Sealants are synthetic and typically last longer.

Completing these five steps in order will result in the best possible paint restoration and protection.

Auto Detailing Myth #1: Dishwashing detergent is safe to use for washing a car.

This is probably the most popular myth. Dish washing liquids, like Dawn dish detergent, are designed to remove oils, grease, food, ect., and they do a great job. However, they also do a great job of removing waxes, polymers and silicone. For the best result, always use a pH balanced car wash soap or shampoo with glossing conditioners.

Auto Detailing Myth #2:  Clean leather does not need care.

I don’t care how clean your car’s leather is kept, it still need to be conditioned. Cracking, fading, and dehydration occurs often and silently. After a while, even the cleanest of seats will start to lose their luster and start to lose elasticity. Conditioning your leather with a quality leather conditioner provides the surface with the nutrients it needs to promote a longer life for your seats, dash, and anything else leather in your car.

Auto Detailing Myth #3: Waxing is the same as polishing.

Many people think that they are the same process, but they are clearly two different methods of maintenance. Polishing makes a glossy surface on your paint, providing no protection. It will potentially fill some scratches and make the car look great. Waxing is a layer of wax or other synthetic substance that will lay on top of your paint as means to protect it from rocks, dirt, and other debris. Performed separately you will achieve the brightest shine and the longest protection.