Why your car needs detailing
Appearance, they say, is everything; and when it comes to cars, it is an absolute fact.
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The value of a car is fundamentally determined by its appearance. No wonder car manufacturers spend so much time and money on the appearance of any new car model; from the interior to the exterior, even choice of paint colour.
It is a fact that a well-maintained car is part of a well-managed life and people form their opinion of you just by looking at your car. From the day you buy your car- whether new or used, maintenance begins and most often, car owners focus more on the mechanical maintenance, neglecting the appearance. The original appearance of a car is like virginity, once lost, restoration becomes difficult, if not impossible.
Cars are made up of dozens of surfaces, thus the paint, exterior trim, alloy and chrome wheels, carpet, seating, interior trim, different types of fabric & leather, vinyl, plastics etc..., each of which has a number of possible compositions. Paint for example has polyurethane, lacquer, enamel, clear-coat/base-coat, conventional etc. Leather surfaces are rejuvenated and protected in a completely different manner than fabric surfaces.
Special attention
Each of the various surfaces need constant maintenance, a smart car owner and fleet manager knows this and makes every effort in this regard. Modern car engines are equally complex, coming with numerous electronic & electrical sensors that require professional attention when it comes to cleaning.
The various surfaces of a car need special attention and care. Each surface is unique and requires specific attention from just regular cleaning to a more complex and professional care demanding the use of chemicals, equipment and special skills to get them looking new always.
This is where the attention of a professional must be sought. Anybody can wash or clean a car, but the person equipped with the necessary skills, with broad knowledge of the various surfaces of a car and understanding of how to maintain those surfaces using chemicals, equipment and a set of skills is called a detailer and the act is referred to as detailing.
Unlike most advanced countries, Ghana can boast of very few professional detailers. Most car owners turn to think regular carwash operators are detailers. No! In this case, I will liken carwash operators to general practitioners and detailers to specialists. However, there are very few regular carwash operators with professional detailing sections.
What is detailing
Detailing can be defined as the systematic rejuvenation and protection of the various surfaces of a vehicle. Let's break this definition down into its components. "Systematic" refers to the fact that as a vehicle is detailed, specific procedures are used and those procedures are placed in an order that allows the job to be done in the most efficient and effective manner. "Efficiency" is a measure of the quickness of the procedure, whereas "effectiveness" is a measure of how well the procedure actually works.
Because detailers are systematic in what they do, they can (1) complete a full detailing activity in three hours or less (efficiency), while (2) yielding a product that is far cleaner and better protected (effective) than the regular carwash operator or individual would have ever dreamed! "Rejuvenation’ refers to the procedures that almost restore the vehicle at or close to showroom condition.
"Protection" refers to the procedures that will help to keep the vehicle looking new long after detailing. That is, when the restoration activities are complete, protectants are applied that, for example, keep the paint from oxidising, keep the leather from drying, keep vinyl & plastic surfaces looking new, prevent fading & cracking, and keep tyres black.
Next time you think of giving your car a thorough cleaning and a new look, contact a professional detailer. Remember, modern car engines and water are enemies. Seek professional assistance every time.
Many car owners continue to pay dearly for entrusting their valuable cars in the hands of unqualified persons. Now you know the difference between a regular carwash operator and a professional detailer.
Considering our weather, it’s advised that cars are detailed at least quarterly. A regularly detailed car enjoys prolonged lifespan, guarantees good value upon decision to sell, saves time and money, boosts owner’s self-image and brings numerous health benefits, among many others. Look out for part two of this article!
