How choose a detailer

Z

zeekle

New member
Hi guys,



I have been reading a lot of the stuff posted here and it has helped me a lot. I have been unable to find anything on here yet that really addresses my question. Hopefully this is the best place for this sort of thing.



I recently got a new car thats a bit nicer than anything I have had in the past and I want to keep it in great shape. Most of the weekly/monthly washing and cleaning I will do myself but I am thinking I might want to try a pro for some of wax/polish and a really good interior cleaning every now and then.



The question I have is how do you guys suggest I pick someone(besides a dartboard and a copy of the yellow pages) and after I find someone what things do I want to look for to make sure that the person that is going to do the work will do it any better than my weekend warrior rear end could do?



I have checked around with some friends, and have not gotten any recommendations yet.



Of course price is something I will consider, but I want a good value for my dollar over just a cheap price.



Thanks
 
i say now would be a great time to get more aquainted with your new car (got to start sooner or later, right?), and start taking care of it yourself and not to mention there is plenty of info on here if you have any questions... check this out... http://autopia.org/forum/guide-detailing/



if you already don't own a PC/UDM, i would suggest picking one up, and yes they are safe to use... Ultimate Detailing Machine http://autopia.org/forum/guide-detailing/80223-using-porter-cable-7424-car-polisher.html



still if you feel that you aren't able to maintain it yourself, you may want to list where you're located so maybe a fellow autopian can assist you...



by the way... :welcome
 
Try posting a request in the regional forums (towards the bottom of the main page). Ask for references, photos of previous work, licensed and insured. Price should be the last thing on your list (would you price-shop for a plastic surgeon?). Just my .02.
 
I would suggest that you ask around for recommendations. Check with local auto performance shops or a reputable repair shop. I know I have a relationship with a high end repair facility in my area. If you are unable to get a good recommendation, you should be able to find a qualified detailer in the yellow pages or with an internet search. I would suggest you ask some specific questions of any candidate though. First, are they licensed and insured. How long have they been in business. Detailers come and go. A detailer that has been in business for several years probably does decent work. Another question to ask is; who will be doing the work. Is it the person you are speaking to or is it another employee. Third, what is their guarantee. Is it a 100% satisfaction guarantee etc. Tell them about your detailing needs, and ask them about their processes etc. Make sure you are satisfied with their responses. As already stated, posting on the regional forum here is a good way to find a candidate. I would still recommend asking them the questions above. Remember, as with most services, you are paying for convenience and the time saved by not having to do the work yourself.
 
Yea I didn't want to jump into looking for someone until I knew what questions to ask.



I do have a relationship with a local performance shop that was one place I didn't think to ask those guys. Thanks for the tip.



I did read through guide here and I did learn a lot on that. What I am not sure I am up for is polishing with a power polisher. Maybe I will get a little more brave before the fall :)



Thanks for the responses guys. You gave me a starting point on things I didn't think about.
 
I Just Got An 97 Audi A8 Quattro And Need It Detailed From Top To Bottom. I Want To Really Make It Right And Then Continue To Keep It That Way. Any Suggestions In Westchester County Ny?
 
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