Car detailing is the meticulous process of cleaning, restoring and protecting every surface of your vehicle — inside and out. Unlike a standard car wash, detailing addresses contamination embedded in the paint, corrects surface defects, and applies lasting protection.
What does a car wash do?
An automatic car wash removes visible dirt from the surface. Over time, the brushes cause microscopic scratches (swirl marks) that dull the paint. A hand wash is better but still only removes loose dirt — iron particles, tar residues and mineral deposits remain embedded in the paint.
What does car detailing do?
Detailing works layer by layer:
Cleaning — The exterior is washed using the two-bucket method to minimise scratch damage. Decontamination follows: an iron remover dissolves embedded metal particles, a clay bar treatment removes remaining bonded contamination.
Correction — A polishing machine removes scratches, swirl marks and oxidation. This is the most time-intensive step and produces spectacular results.
Protection — A layer of wax, sealant or ceramic coating protects the corrected paint. Coating lasts months to years; wax a few weeks.
Interior — Seats, floor mats, the dashboard and every crevice are thoroughly cleaned. Leather is conditioned. Glass surfaces are degreased.
What services are available?
- Interior cleaning — Vacuuming, cleaning and treating all interior surfaces
- Exterior wash and decontamination — Washing, clay bar and iron removal
- Paint correction (polishing) — Removal of scratches and swirl marks
- Ceramic coating — Long-lasting protective layer on the paint
- Paint Protection Film (PPF) — Transparent film protecting the paint against stone chips
- Glass treatment — Cleaning and hydrophobic coating on the windows
Find a certified detailer near you on MyDetailer.