This article is designed to educate the novice on auto detailing and provide concourse quality detailing tips.

Auto detailing is the process of making an automobile look its best without major dismantling or repainting. But, detailing is much more than a quick wash and vacuuming. Detailing requires careful planning and methods. Today's car detailing is an art.

The following is an overview of proven professional tips and some little secrets learned over the years.

1. Washing
2. Wheels & Tires
3. Polishing
4. Waxing
5. Glass, Trim and Moldings
6. Engine Compartment
7. Other Show Details and Tips

• Two coats of wax is better than a single heavy one.
• Lasting quality of wax varies with climate, sun exposure and temperature. A carnauba base wax lasts longer. For application, one must determine the most suitable car regiment for your needs. This is based on auto age, color, and operating environment as well as frequency of use. These are the deciding factors. It is important to remember that one cannot see wax degradation. Paint that looks like it needs a wax is actually showing paint damage.
• Avoid waxing in the sun. It would be like frying an egg on a hot surface. Keep the surface of the car cool.
• Spray waxes do not last because the contents must be thinned to allow the formula to flow through the nozzle. Do not spray directly on the body. Instead spray on an applicator or you are going to have a lot of overspray to clean up.
• Paste wax can harden if improperly stored for lengthy periods and could cause scratches if applied in that condition.
• Liquid waxes - Never squirt directly onto the paint. Apply to an applicator first for the best results.
• Good paint needs wax to help keep it oily, due to the fact that paint needs to breathe and wax keeps the paint pores open. This is also true for cars with a clear coat.
• Clear coats are commonly used today over metallic or water based paints to produce gloss and extend durability. Regular waxing is very important. If left unprotected and not waxed, the clear coat will thin and the paint color will appear dull and continue the deterioration.
• Sealers can dry paint out because it actually seals too well and the paint can not breathe.
• Some polymer silicone products are touted as containing Teflon. The draw back here is that these types of sealers is that when the product begins to break down, the particles of silicone actually drift into the paint and can contaminate it.
• Some older types of wax will tear up the finish and clear coats on newer cars.
• While waxing, use the body lines and seams as guides to divide the body into sections. Use the back and forth method.
• Wax build up in crevices can be removed with a fine camel hair brush. Do not use a toothbrush, as it will scratch the surface. Also note that wax left on the car is a major deduction in concourse level shows. Remember to tape the metal part of the brush.

• Do not forget to use a correct wax applicator pad.
• To remove the wax, use a cloth towel.

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