What is car detailing and why your vehicle needs it

Keeping your car clean is not only about its look - automotive detailing ensures the longevity and comfort of your vehicle. Unlike a car wash, which generally implies only a surface-level cleaning of your car's exterior, car detailing includes both cleaning and restoration of the vehicle's exterior and interior. We hope this post will help you understand the detailing process better. 

What is Car Detailing, and how is it different from a Car Wash?

Car detailing refers to the thorough cleaning, restoration, and finishing of a vehicle to achieve a show-quality level of cleanliness and polish. 

While car wash primarily aims to remove debris, dust and dirt from vehicles' windows and body, car detailing is a more comprehensive service. It is not confined to surface-level cleaning of surfaces; instead, it includes both cleaning and restoration. After comprehensive detailing, the vehicle is not just clean and fresh - it looks and feels like new. In addition, upholstery, interior finishes and the paint are protected by qualified detailers. 

Detailing is generally divided into two main categories: exterior and interior (or cabin). Specialised products and services are available for each area. So, what does car detailing include?

Exterior Detailing

Exterior detailing focuses on cleaning and either restoring or enhancing the original condition of a car's finish, including paint (typically with a glossy finish), chrome trim, windows, wheels, tires, and other visible exterior parts. The process encompasses several steps:

• Hand washing and drying. Detailing experts utilise specialised microfiber cloths and shampoos to prevent scratches. 
• Claying. Industrial fallout, tar and tree sap are very hard to get rid of by normal washing. Hence, technicians apply a clay bar to remove them. 
• Polishing. Buffing the paint follows the claying process to bring back the smoothness and shine. 
• Waxing/Sealant application. The next step is adding a protective layer to secure the paint against rain and UV rays. 
• Tire and wheel cleaning. First, technicians clean the rims of dirt and brake dust. Then, specialised protectants are applied. 
• Headlight restoration. Better visibility is ensured by removing fog or yellowing from headlights. 
• Window and glass cleaning. Lastly, technicians ensure a streak-free finish for all mirrors and windows. 

Common products include:

• Acid-free degreasers and detergents to remove dirt and grime
• Detailing clay to extract embedded contaminants
• Waxes, polishes, and tire shines to enhance gloss and reflectivity
• Various applicators, brushes, and microfiber towels for application and drying

Interior Detailing

Interior detailing involves deep cleaning the cabin using tailored methods for different materials found in modern vehicles, such as synthetic upholstery, vinyl, leather, natural fibres, carbon fibre composites, and plastic surfaces. Vacuuming is a standard first step, followed by stain removal using steam cleaners, foam, liquid chemicals, and brushes. Nonporous surfaces may also be polished for shine and cleanliness. Lastly, engine bay cleaning is optional but a recommended part of detailing. Engine bay cleaning includes degreasing (when oil, dirt and grime are removed from the engine compartment) and dressing (using protectants to clean plastic and rubber parts of a car).

Benefits of car detailing and the limitations of DIY cleaning 

Cleaning your vehicle is an essential part of the routine for many car owners. A typical DIY cleaning step involves vacuuming the seats, washing the exterior and wiping down the dashboard. However, even though 'all these activities contribute to the general upkeep of your vehicle, cleaning a car by yourself has multiple limitations. First, most car owners don't possess specialised tools for cleaning sensitive surfaces, hard-to-reach places or tight crevices. If you use household cloths and vacuums, you may miss embedded debris or deep-set dust in your car. Also, cleaning products from stores are usually not as suitable or effective for car cleaning as professional-grade chemicals. Harsh ingredients from some cleaning products can also damage paint or upholstery if applied incorrectly. Faded leather from harsh cleaners or swirl marks from abrasive sponges are just a few possible consequences of DIY cleaning. 

Professional technicians, by contrast, utilise appropriate products and methods for each surface of your car. From engine bay cleaning to paint correction and headliner care, they get you covered throughout all detailing steps. Detailing experts perform it attentively, aiming to contribute to the longevity of your vehicle. They treat interior fabrics against odours and wear, seal the paint with protective coatings, etc. Overall, the objective is to revitalise your car inside and out, which goes far beyond even thorough home cleaning.

How often is detailing needed? 

The question of how often detailing should be conducted to maintain a vehicle's condition without going overboard is relevant for many car owners. The answer depends on various factors such as climate, type of vehicle and driving habits. However, generally, experts recommend full detailing two to four times a year. Having detailing done once every 3–5 months will ensure deep cleaning and gentle treatment of your vehicle. 

Detailing every three months is recommended for drivers exposed to heavy traffic, road salt or industrial pollution. This is due to the increased risk of degrading your car's paint by dust and road grime. Conversely, if you store your car in a garage and utilise it occasionally, you only need detailing once or twice a year. Still, more frequent exterior washing is essential in this case. 

The frequency of interior detailing depends largely on drivers' personal preferences. If car owners have children or pets, it is better to vacuum and spot clean monthly. The protective coating from wax as part of exterior detailing lasts up to three months. 

Weather is another important aspect that defines the frequency of the procedure. In hot climates, high UV exposure may lead to paint fading and interior cracking, so more frequent protection is advisable. 

Detailing is critical for preserving material integrity and the aesthetic look of your car. However, apart from the benefits of car detailing, monitoring internal performance and the vehicle's mechanical condition is equally important.

To maintain your vehicle's condition and ensure early detection of issues, don't forget about regular diagnostics. The InCarDoc app, designed by the PNN Soft team, will help you stay on top of your car's health