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Dustin Walker
Dustin Walker is the owner and operator of Dustin’s Auto Detail in Pittsburg (4010 Parkview Drive). Dustin’s Auto Detail is a one stop shop to get anything from your car cleaned to a suspension lift, wheels, tires, and accessories. For more information or to reach Dustin please call 620-230-0440.
Automotive Service & Repair
2012-02-28 12:32:16
What is the difference between detailing and washing?
A: Yes, absolutely. Many people assume that auto detailing is a glorified form of a car wash. The confusion is understandable, since on the surface it would seem the services are similar. However, they are two separate and distinct services that meet much different purposes. First, the difference between washing and detailing begins with what each is setting out to accomplish. Washing is meant to do just that- “wash”. Depending on the type of car wash you use, although it may leave your car clean, some may actually damage the finish in the process. This is no small thing as with today’s sophisticated metallics, paint polymers and clear coats, a paint job can cost much more than the engine and transmission combined. It is important, however, to wash and maintain your vehicle every week, and those who provide this, provide an important service. A detailing is a thorough top to bottom cleaning and protecting of your vehicle that removes blemishes, oxidation and etching marks caused when pollutants and contaminates penetrate the surface. Detailing’s main focus is maintaining a dealership-quality finish inside and out. This is very important as most people today want their vehicle to retain as much of it’s resale value as possible. Typically, professional detailers clean (then protect) the exterior, vacuum, wash windows, and deep clean the interior using specialized products and tools designed specifically for the job. Many also offer upholstery cleaning. Knowledgeable detailers are familiar with the vehicle’s paint, clear coat, vinyl, rubber, chrome & other materials and take great pride in cleaning, preserving, and restoring these elements to optimum condition. When your car is freshly “Detailed” it should have a showroom appearance no matter what year or model. Detailing, as the name suggests, is a concentrated cleaning and much more than what a vehicle would need weekly. Because of the time it takes, specialized knowledge and products used, the cost is a bit more but not drastic considering the benefits and what you pay to “wash” your vehicle weekly. However, it really should be considered an investment whether you intend on keeping your car for some time or plan to sell it in the near future.
 
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