Car Parts Plus

Things Auto Detailing Shops Won’t Tell You

Depending upon the type of work you’re having done, car detailing can cost as little as $50 or as much as $500. And the price you’ll pay to have a professional do the job won’t necessarily reflect the quality of the work. There’s a lot that goes on (or, doesn’t go on) in the shop that you’ll never know about. That’s one of the reasons why it’s important to get the price in writing before detailers start working. Also, most drivers don’t realize that 90% of the work performed in the detailing shop can be done relatively easily at home. Today, I’ll share with you 3 secrets about doing the work yourself that professional detailers aren’t likely to divulge.

#1 – Use Microfiber

If you’re planning to save money and do the job at home, you need to use microfiber towels. They won’t create as much friction as normal cloth, nor will they scratch the surface of your car as much. When you buy them at a local store, you’ll probably see a low-price option. Don’t be tempted. When it comes to microfiber, the price usually reflects quality. Invest in the best (usually, they’re found through an online retailer).

One last note about microfiber: don’t wash them with your other towels. They’ll collect small particles and end up scratching your car. Wash them separately.

#2 – Buy A Dual Action Orbital Polisher

Your detailing job is only as good as the polisher you use (the products matter less than most drivers think). You can use a single direct polisher, but a dual action will improve how your car looks. To imagine how it works, think about how the earth travels around the sun. It rotates as it does so. An orbital polisher works in the same manner. The dual orbiting action actually rubs the materials that you’re using more effectively into your car’s surface. Plan to invest approximately $250, though you can occasionally find dependable models for under $200.

#3 – Use Bi-Directional Glass Wipes

Streaks will happen. The trick is identifying them. When you’re drying the glass on the outside of your car, wipe horizontally. When you’re working on the inside of your car, wipe vertically. The reason for doing this is to find the streaks more easily. If you wipe in the same direction on the inside and outside, it’s much harder to tell where they are.

Getting The Job Done At Home

As long as you invest in a high-quality polisher, you can detail your vehicle without relying on a “professional” to do it. Detailing shops obviously don’t want to lose your business, so they won’t openly give you their secrets. But, if you use the 3 tips above, you’ll be able to perform a fantastic detailing job yourself while keeping money in your pocket.

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