· By Gino Nagtegaal

What is car detailing? Answered by Drive!

The process of car detailing begins with washing and drying the exterior of the vehicle. This is done using a high-quality car wash soap and a soft wash mitt or sponge. The wash mitt or sponge is used to gently remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the paint, without causing scratches or swirl marks. After washing, the vehicle is carefully dried using a soft microfiber towel or chamois cloth.

Once the vehicle is clean and dry, it is time to inspect the paint for any imperfections. This may include scratches, swirl marks, or water spots. If these imperfections are present, they can be removed using a variety of techniques, such as buffing, polishing, or wet sanding. These techniques use specialized tools and products to carefully remove the imperfections without damaging the paint.

Once the paint is free of imperfections, it is time to apply a wax or sealant. This protects the paint and creates a glossy, smooth finish. There are several different types of waxes and sealants available, and the choice of product will depend on the condition of the paint and the desired level of shine. Some common types of waxes and sealants include carnauba wax, polymer sealant, and ceramic coating.

After the exterior of the vehicle has been properly cleaned and protected, it is time to focus on the interior. This involves cleaning and conditioning the upholstery, carpets, and other surfaces inside the vehicle. This may include vacuuming, shampooing, and deodorizing the carpets and upholstery. Special attention is paid to areas that are prone to dirt and stains, such as the seats, door panels, and dashboard.

Once the interior of the vehicle is clean and fresh-smelling, it is time to apply a protectant to the upholstery and other surfaces. This will help to prevent stains and wear, and keep the interior looking like new for longer. There are several types of protectants available for the interior of a vehicle, and the choice of product will depend on the specific materials being treated. Some common types of protectants include leather conditioner for leather seats, vinyl protectant for dashboard and door panels, and fabric protectant for carpets and upholstery.

After the interior of the vehicle has been cleaned and protected, the final step in the car detailing process is to add any additional touches or finishes. This may include applying tire shine to the tires, dressing the exterior trim, or applying a glass cleaner to the windows. These final touches help to give the vehicle a complete, polished look.

Overall, car detailing is a time-consuming and detail-oriented process that involves carefully cleaning, protecting, and finishing every surface of a vehicle. The end result is a vehicle that looks and feels like new, and is better protected against the elements and everyday wear and tear.

For more tips and advice on how to detail your car, join our community on Discord.