What is Car Detailing?

Although it’s often mentioned by dealers, the specifics of car detailing aren’t normally outlined unless you specifically ask. If you’re like many drivers, you may be wondering, “what is car detailing,” or “how is it different from car washing?” Washing a car involves cleaning at the surface-level. Car detailing is, well, more detail-oriented; it focuses on restoring a car inside and out. Car detailing is available upon request at the Mercedes-Benz of San Diego collision center, as well as other cosmetic services.

How to Detail a Car: What Are the Tools Involved?

Detailing a car usually involves the use of the following items:

• Vacuum cleaner
• Washing mitts
• Microfiber cloths
• Upholstery cleaner
• Carpet stain cleaner
• Car-safe cleaner
• Window cleaner
• Surface protector for vinyl and leather surfaces
• A variety of small brushes (such as a paintbrush)
• Canned air

Exterior Car Detailing: Step-by-Step

• • In-Depth Exterior Car Wash: Car detailing often includes a vigorous car wash. Using car-safe soap and materials, our team can get your car looking shiny and new. If you often wash your car yourself, it’s important to avoid cleaning solutions like household detergents, which can strip the car wax from the surface.
  • Clean the Wheels: Next, the wheels are cleaned using a tire-safe cleaning solution and a brush. This helps remove dirt from the tire grooves and gives your vehicle a cleaner look overall.

• Wax the Exterior: After the exterior has been cleaned, a coat of wax can be added as a final touch and to help protect the paint. 

Interior Car Detailing: Step-by-Step

• Carpeting: Interior detailing often beings with carpet cleaning, which involves using a powerful stain remover and a brush to remove stains. 

• Door Interior: Non-carpeted parts of the interior are usually cleaned with a cleaning solution and gentle cloth. The car doors are opened and the door jambs are also cleaned to remove any dirt and residue.

• Windows: Interior car detailing also includes a thorough window cleaning to remove streaks, swirl marks, and fingerprints.

• Upholstery: After the seats are vacuumed, they’re treated with a stain remover to get rid of any unsightly spots.

• Steering Wheel Column: The steering column is cleaned with a cleaning solution, dried, and sealed with a surface protectant.

• Dashboard and Center Console: Using an appropriate tool, a service technician will clean any small crevices, such as the air vents, to remove any dust and debris that may be hiding out of sight.

Learn More About Car Detailing Services at Mercedes-Benz of San Diego

Does your car need professional detailing services? Contact us at Mercedes-Benz of San Diego to learn more about our car detailing prices or visit us near Del Mar and Rancho Santa Fe. While you’re here, be sure to ask about our current service specials for opportunities to get routine service or parts replacements at prices you wouldn’t expect.