How Often Should You Detail Your Car?
Anyone passionate about their car knows that it’s good to get their car detailed regularly, but what exactly does detailing entail and why is it important? And how often should you get it done? Let’s explore all the details about detailing.
Exterior Detailing
Exterior detailing focuses on getting the exterior of your car clean and shiny and looking like new. It typically includes washing the car (hand washing is recommended for the most thorough job), “claying” (a process where detailing clay is pressed and rubbed over the paint work to remove additional dirt), as well as polishing (using a rotary buffing machine to smooth out scratches or nicks) and waxing your car. This will not only keep your car looking in mint condition but also protect the finish from chips, rust, fading, etc. Most detailing services will also thoroughly clean, condition, and shine your wheels.
Interior Detailing
Interior detailing includes vacuuming and cleaning all interior surfaces of the car, often using an air compressor to loosen dust and debris caught in corners and tight spots. Brushes and cleaners are used to clean up scuff marks on doors and vinyl surfaces, and the upholstery or leather is also cleaned and conditioned. Protectants are also often sprayed on all surfaces to create a sheen and to keep materials from drying out, cracking or fading in the sun. Carpets are usually shampooed in addition to being vacuumed. Additionally, some shops will include engine cleaning with their detailing services, which can make maintenance easier since leaks are easier to spot on a clean engine.
Why is Detailing Important?
Detailing will keep your vehicle looking it’s best, while regular maintenance will keep it running it’s best. Detailing protects your exterior paint and interior finishes, removes stains and odors you might not be able to remove yourself, and helps retain your car’s resale value. If you get your car detailed prior to selling it, you may get a much better price.
How Often Should You Get Your Car Detailed?
The frequency that you should get your car details varies by how much wear and tear you put on your vehicle and how often you wash and wax it, but most experts recommend you have it done 2 to 3 times a year, or once every 4 to 6 months. Auto detailing is a long, thorough process which usually takes 4 – 5 hours, and it can be relatively expensive. If you keep your car clean and tidy and wash and wax it regularly, twice a year should be sufficient.
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