Car detailing is the process of restoring and refining a vehicle's paint, interior and plastic trim to an improved state. Detailing is not a replacement for auto body work, but it can often be combined with such services to improve the overall appearance of a vehicle. In addition to cleaning, car detailing involves a number of restorative processes such as buffing, glaze and waxing. Ultimately, the goal is to provide the customer with an appearance and protection package that will last as long as possible.

Detailed vehicles are cleaner, fresher and more appealing to prospective buyers than those that have been neglected. This fact can have a significant impact on the value of a vehicle, especially when it comes time to sell or trade-in.

To prepare the exterior of a vehicle for a thorough clean, a detailer should always begin by spraying the entire automobile with a pressure washer to rinse away any loose dirt and grime. This step should only be performed outside when the air temperature is cooler than 80 degrees, as heat can speed up the drying process for soap and water, resulting in stubborn water spots and streaks. Additionally, the nozzle should be adjusted so that the soap and water does not come into direct contact with any painted or clear surface.

A good detailer will also use a quality clay bar to remove any contaminants such as rail dust, brake dust residue and overspray from the vehicle's paint. Once the surface is free of these contaminants, a detailer can then determine whether or not additional steps such as machine polishing and/or paint correction are required to achieve an improved paint finish.

Inside the vehicle, a detailer should vacuum or brush all carpeting and upholstery to extract dirt, debris and pet hair. If the vehicle has leather seats, a detailer should apply an appropriate leather cleaner to restore and protect the material. A thorough cleaning of the interior can help to eliminate unpleasant odors that may result from cigarette smoke, sweaty gym bags or even simply the age and use of the vehicle.

Once a complete cleaning has been completed, a detailer should apply a coat of high-quality wax or polymer sealant to the paint and/or clear coating to enhance the appearance and provide protection from future dirt and contamination. A quality wax will generally last up to six months before needing to be reapplied, depending on the amount of driving and weather conditions the vehicle is exposed to.

Keeping up with preventative maintenance detailing will save time and money for both the car owner and detailer. Performing regular waxing and sealing, along with cleaning and sanitizing the interior on a regular basis can keep a vehicle looking its best at all times, eliminating the need for a more extensive cleaning or restoration process down the road. This will also reduce the likelihood of requiring costly repairs or replacing damaged parts due to neglect and improper care.