What is Detailing?

Over the next week or two, I will be sharing informational bits about Detailing, starting with what it is, benefits of detailing, importance of paint care, different tools and methods, what goes into pricing of services, etc.

What is automotive detailing? Isn’t it just washing my car and keeping it vacuumed out?
• While automotive detailing includes keeping a car washed and vacuumed, it is so much more than that. Vehicle washing and vehicle detailing are definitely not synonyms. Detailing involves thoroughly cleaning, polishing, and protecting every aspect of your vehicle top to bottom, inside and out from the elements. The International Detailing Association defines detailing as follows, “It is a meticulous step-by-step process to restore your vehicle’s beauty and protect your investment.” This process employs the tools and methods your average car wash doesn’t use or even offer in many cases. Detailing is a layer of maintenance and care for your vehicle above and beyond oil changes, tire rotations, and other preventative maintenance and general cleaning. It helps extend the useful life of your vehicle as well as the perception you have of your vehicle. It’s been said if you don’t look back at your car as you walk away, you’re in the wrong vehicle. That may have some truth to it, but it might also be your vehicle doesn’t have the appeal it used to because it needs a good detailing to bring back past vibrance.

To encourage some interaction with these posts, I'd like to start out by asking the following question. For those of you who don't have your vehicles detailed, what prevents you from doing so? Price? Don't see the value? My vehicle is just another possession that loses value? Another reason? Let me know your thoughts.

Isn't it time you did something really special for your vehicle?