When you buy a new car, you expect it to look its absolute best. But what does that really entail? What do dealerships detail on a new car, and how can you be sure they’ve done a thorough job? This article delves into the intricacies of new car detailing at dealerships, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the process.
Dealerships understand the importance of first impressions. A shiny, spotless car is far more enticing to a potential buyer than one covered in dust and fingerprints. While the specific detailing services offered can vary between dealerships, there are some common practices you can expect.
The Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI): Setting the Stage for Detailing
Before a new car hits the lot, it undergoes a Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI). This is a crucial step that ensures the vehicle is in top condition and ready for sale. While not strictly “detailing,” the PDI lays the groundwork for the meticulous work to follow:
- Protective Removal: New cars arrive from the factory with protective coverings on various surfaces like the paint, seats, and steering wheel. The PDI technicians meticulously remove these coverings.
- Fluid Checks: Essential fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid, are checked and topped up as needed.
- Battery Inspection: The battery’s charge is checked, and terminals are cleaned.
- Tire Pressure and Condition: Tires are inflated to the correct pressure, and the overall condition, including tread depth, is assessed.
Dealership Detailing: Going Beyond the Basics
Once the PDI is complete, the car moves on to the detailing department. Here’s where the magic happens, transforming a factory-fresh car into a gleaming showpiece:
1. The Wash and Dry: The Foundation of Detailing
Every detail begins with a thorough wash and dry. This step removes loose dirt, grime, and any remaining residue from the protective coverings removed during the PDI. Dealerships often use specialized car wash soaps that are gentle on the paint yet effective at lifting away contaminants. High-quality microfiber towels prevent scratches and swirls during the drying process.
2. Paint Correction: Addressing Imperfections
While new cars are generally in good condition, minor paint imperfections can occur during shipping or handling. Dealerships may offer paint correction services to address these issues:
- Clay Bar Treatment: A clay bar is rubbed over the paint to remove embedded contaminants like industrial fallout, overspray, or tree sap that washing alone can’t eliminate.
- Polishing: This step uses a fine abrasive polish to remove minor scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation, leaving a smooth, glossy finish.
3. Protection: Shielding the Shine
To preserve the newly detailed finish, dealerships apply protective products that act as a barrier against the elements:
- Wax: Carnauba-based waxes provide a deep, glossy shine and offer a degree of protection against UV rays, water spots, and minor scratches.
- Sealant: Synthetic sealants offer longer-lasting protection compared to waxes. They create a hard, protective layer on the paint that can last for several months.
- Ceramic Coating: For the ultimate protection, some dealerships offer ceramic coating as an add-on service. This advanced coating forms a chemical bond with the paint, creating an extremely durable and hydrophobic layer that protects against scratches, UV rays, chemicals, and environmental contaminants.
4. Interior Detailing: Creating a Pristine Cabin
Detailing isn’t just about the exterior. Dealerships pay close attention to the interior, ensuring it’s clean, fresh, and inviting:
- Vacuuming: The carpets, floor mats, seats, and even the crevices of the dashboard and center console are thoroughly vacuumed.
- Cleaning and Conditioning: All interior surfaces, including leather, vinyl, plastic, and even the headliner, are cleaned and conditioned using appropriate products to restore their original appearance and protect them from cracking or fading.
- Window Cleaning: Windows are cleaned inside and out, removing smudges, fingerprints, and any overspray from cleaning products.
The Importance of Professional Detailing
While it might be tempting to detail your new car yourself, there are distinct advantages to leaving it to the professionals at a dealership:
- Expertise: Dealership detailers are trained professionals who know how to properly care for your car’s specific make and model.
- Specialized Tools and Products: Dealerships invest in high-quality detailing tools and products that may not be readily available to the average consumer.
- Time Savings: Detailing a car thoroughly can be time-consuming, especially if you want professional-level results.
Ensuring a Quality Detail: A Checklist for New Car Buyers
When picking up your new car, don’t hesitate to inspect the detailing work. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Walk Around Inspection: Check the entire exterior for any missed dirt, scratches, or swirls in the paint.
- Interior Check: Inspect the seats, carpets, and dashboard for any stains or dirt.
- Window Test: Roll down all windows to check for streaks or smudges.
If you notice any issues, bring them to the dealership’s attention immediately.
Conclusion
Understanding “what do dealerships detail on a new car?” provides valuable insight into the meticulous process that goes into making your new vehicle shine. From the essential Pre-Delivery Inspection to the comprehensive cleaning, paint correction, and protection, dealerships aim to deliver an immaculate car that exceeds your expectations. By understanding these steps and conducting a thorough inspection upon pickup, you can ensure your new car looks its absolute best for years to come. If you’re looking to maintain that showroom shine, consider exploring our other resources on how to detail my new car or do car dealerships detail used cars.
Leave a Reply