What Is Involved in Auto Detailing?

Auto detailing is the fine art of making an automobile look as good as possible through a good interior and exterior cleaning. Beyond the basics, other services may include light bodywork, such as removing dings or paint marks left by other cars.

Exterior Cleaning

  • The first step in any detailing job is getting the exterior as clean as possible. Depending on the detailer, this may involve a run through a mechanical car wash. Most pride themselves on giving the vehicle a good hand wash covering the body, windows and wheels. Detailers may apply wax and other protectants to the body, wheels and tires if appropriate.

Interior Cleaning

  • Precise services vary by company, but detailing the interior usually includes a good cleaning of the interior carpet, removing scuff marks on the door kick plate and treating the cloth, leather and carpet to ensure good condition and durability.

Other Services

  • Clay barring is another commonly used auto detailing service. Clay barring uses a special type of clay intended for application on automotive paints. The clay removes dirt and grime from the road and restores the paint to a showroom finish. Some detailers also perform light bodywork, like removing small dings and paint marks from other cars.