Auto Detailing

Ahead of this year’s Mobile Tech Expo, at which I will be making a presentation on “Compliance” on behalf of the International Detailing Association, I decided to submit this article as an introduction to the topic. I encourage... »

The Western Carwash Association held its 33rd Annual Western Carwash Show at the Rio All-Suites Hotel in Las Vegas, NV October 28 to 30, 2014. WCA partnered with the International Detailing Association to provide several... »

Last month I wrote about a Midwest dealership’s detail shop for which I was asked to provide training and consultation. They were struggling in many of the areas that are typical for such an operation. »

As the years begin to mount, even the most devoted detailers begin to lose enthusiasm for their work. Not Michael Pena. Despite 30 years in the retail trenches, the detail veteran is more committed than ever and still gets joy... »

I was recently asked to provide training and consultation for a Midwest auto dealership’s detail shop. Initial observations yielded many classic signs of a struggling operation. It’s not important to call out this dealership by... »

The efficiency of a detail operation can be directly affected by the way the detail shop is laid out. Additionally, the layout will determine, in part, the visiting customer’s impression of the business. Thus, it is beneficial to... »

Most professional detailers would agree that there is a set of staple equipment and tools that are used to provide quality detailing results. These would include a shop vacuum, polisher, brushes, buckets, hose, towels, and... »

A customer calls your shop wanting a detail and you tell him about your free pick-up and delivery service. He says, “That sounds great, but are you insured?” »

After 20 years in detailing some industry veterans get stuck in their ways, unwilling to put in the time to grow their knowledge base and improve their services. That is not the case with Scott Perkin. »

Recently, I provided training at several dealership detail operations. I have noticed that even at the newest, nicest detail shops, the technicians can benefit tremendously from some formal training in the process of detailing. »

As mentioned in the March issue, two of the International Detailing Association’s Certification Tests — the “Paint Correction and Protection” and the “Detailing Terminology” tests — contain an extensive overlap of knowledge.... »

This month’s column is intended for the car wash owner who is considering offering or currently offers detailing services. Even if it is something that you have not considered before, I encourage you to read on; the information... »

Study Guide: Paint Correction and Protection, Part I »

Study Guide: Detailing Terminology

Detailing, like most professions, has a language all its own that includes vocabulary that describes equipment, chemicals, and techniques that are unique to our profession. The vocabulary... »

Take Your Business to the Next Level

Automotive detailing operations all around the country are in the midst of winter. Standalone detail shops and car washes that offer detailing are both waiting for spring, and wondering what... »