Car detailing can also be known as auto detailing and is used differently in various places. It refers to that process of cleaning and polishing all parts of cars meticulously while ensuring all sections are cleaned well. It also involves use of special tools that are never used in ordinary cleaning. Body repairs or paint works are never part of it. In considering car detailing St Louis residents need to know what it involves.

The process is normally done to ensure paintwork of the vehicle is restored and fully enhanced. This is usually done through elimination of any light scratches or swirl marks inflicted on a car over time. The marks reflect light in such a way that the resulting seen is unsightly. Before this happens, you should have the exterior thoroughly cleaned and washed. This is so that as much of the dirt as possible gets removed.

The first step is usually to foam the car completely before it is allowed to soak. The purpose of this is so that any dirt is allowed to soften up and lifting it from the surface before it is pre-rinsed. While it is being soaked, soft bristled detailing brush is used in agitating areas such as window rubbers, trim details and badges. The foam, together with loose dirt and grime, will be thoroughly rinsed off.

Before paintwork has been washed, the wheels will be cleaned because they are usually the dirtiest parts and most contaminated. Grime and dirt on wheels are removed using specialist brushes. The dirt is removed from such parts as brake calipers, suspension and lug nuts. When used with soap, the brushes are able to remove the most stubborn stains. Wheel rears are also cleaned.

After arches and wheels have been cleaned well, paintwork will be washed from top to bottom by use of plush wash mitts. They are used instead of sponges. Also used are micro fiber towels that are soft instead of chamois leather. They are usually used with grit guard or the two bucket technique. These help in prevention of damage from getting inflicted. The process can take as much as two hours depending on the condition of the car and size.

After washing has been done, the paintwork is clayed using special automotive clay bars and lubricants which get rid of contaminants on the surface that cannot get removed by ordinary washing. This step is important in detailing since the contaminants tend to hinder polishing. They also prevent achievement of top quality finishes.

After the paintwork gets cleaned, the car gets polished. This happens so that oxidation, swirl marks and light scratches are removed. This will be done using either rotary action or using a dual action machine. These enable polishing product used to get into the surface of the car. The polishing is also able to be done by hand.

Car detailing will be done to try and retain the original vehicle value. It is more important for older cars whose value it can improve. After the cleaning, mini details and maintenance can be done and with better precision.