Introduction

Now that a detailer has been chosen it is time to prepare the vehicle for the detail and develop expectations of the job to be performed.  This section of the instructions will aid in preparing the vehicle and deciding what the vehicles end state should be.  This process is also short in time (approximately 30 minutes) and involves looking over vehicle, removing personal items, and simple preparation steps.  These steps, properly followed will outline what needs to be done to prepare the vehicle for its detail.

Definitions and Descriptions

The following definitions/descriptions provide an explanation of the materials or equipment used throughout this section.  The following items are listed by order of usage. 

Soiled carpet

• Flooring of vehicle is stained.

Starting procedures

• Various makes of vehicles or if the vehicle was made in a certain area take a special task before starting, usually only owner knows
• This could be pulling the bright headlights on while you turn the key (may vary depending on vehicle).

Wax

• used to protect paint and bring back original shine
• paste or liquid form.

Valet key

• vehicle key for giving to someone performing service on vehicle
• available so do not have to give personal keys.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1.      Decide what state vehicle is in

·        Is the vehicle in need routine cleaning or major cleaning

·        Soiled carpet-needs carpet shampoo

·        Dull and faded paint-needs wax

·        See figure 5 for faded paint example.

                                        Figure 5 faded red paint (2)

2.      Decide on appearance after service is performed

·        Get visual image for end results comparison.

3.      Answer these questions to determine outcome specifics

·        What did it look like when it was new?

·        How old is vehicle?

·        What do like vehicles look like that are in good condition?

4.      Speak with detailer about service to be performed if concerned

·        Ask any questions about processes or chemicals used.

5.      Tell detailer special requests before detail is performed

·        Note-if prefer special wax or other chemical tell detailer before detail.

6.      Make note of vehicles appearance before detail is performed

·        Spots on carpet

·        Scratches on paint

·        Any other areas that need special attention (specific to vehicle).

7.      Target problem areas

·    Notice key areas on vehicle that need improvement

·    keep these in mind during inspection step.

8.      Take all valuables out of vehicle before handed over to the detailer

·        CD’s, money, and anything else of value.

9.      Leave keys with detailer

·        Leave valet key if available.

10.  Tell detailer any specifics with vehicle    

·        See figure 6 (may vary depending on

Vehicle)

·        Alarm, keyless entry (if equipped)

·        Starting procedures

·        Possible faulty equipment on vehicle.                             

                                  Figure 6 keyless entry (2)

End State: Now the vehicle is ready to give to the detailer and expectations are develop.  Next is to wait on the finished product and evaluate it.

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