Q.  which products will you be using on my vehicle?

a. as my customer you rightfully deserve to know what products i use on your vehicle. the answer is Autoglym's professional range - it is a well-known British brand specializing in car care products, including waxes, polishes, cleaners, and detailing supplies. The company has been around since 1965 and has built a strong reputation in the automotive detailing industry for producing high-quality, reliable products. Their range is designed for both professional detailers and car enthusiasts alike, offering a broad selection of solutions for various vehicle care needs.

Here’s why i use the autoglym professional range and have done so for over a decade:

1. Reputation for Quality: Autoglym has been trusted by automotive professionals and enthusiasts for decades. Their products are known for their effectiveness and ease of use, making them a popular choice among those who want to achieve high-quality results.
2. Range of Products: Autoglym offers a wide variety of products that cover every stage of car detailing.
3. Innovative Formulations: Autoglym invests in research and development, ensuring their products incorporate the latest technology. Their products often provide advanced protection and finishes, such as water-repellent coatings, UV protection, and long-lasting shine.
4. Trusted by Professionals: Autoglym is commonly used by car detailers, dealerships, and even in automotive exhibitions. Their products have been proven to deliver professional-level results, which is why many car care specialists trust their brand.
5. Eco-Friendly Options: Some of Autoglym's products, like their wheel cleaners and shampoo, are designed to be environmentally friendly, with biodegradable ingredients and reduced environmental impact, which is great for eco-conscious users.
   
   q. What is ozone shock treatment and why would i need this service?
   
   A. Ozone shock treatment is a service used in car detailing to eliminate persistent odors that regular cleaning might not fully address. The treatment uses ozone (O₃) gas to remove smells by neutralizing the molecules that cause them. Ozone is a powerful oxidizer that can break down odours at a molecular level, including smells from cigarette smoke, pet odors, mold, food, and other stubborn scents.
   
   Q. what is tar and glue removal?
   
   a. In detailing, "tar and glue" products are typically used to remove stubborn residues like tree sap, tar, adhesive marks, or other sticky substances from a vehicle's paint or surfaces. These residues can be tough to remove with regular car wash products, so specific cleaners are formulated to break down the sticky substances without damaging the paint.
   
   

• Tar Removers: These are solvents that break down tar, which can come from road surfaces or other sources. Tar often sticks to the underside of a car and wheel wells, leaving behind a tough, sticky mess.
• Glue Removers: These are used to remove adhesives left behind from stickers, decals, or any other sticky residues. They help to break down the glue, making it easier to wipe away without harming the paint underneath.
  
  

Both types of products are used in the detailing process to restore the vehicle's surface to its clean and smooth condition before applying wax or other finishes.

q. What is Clay bar decontamination? 

A. Clay bar decontamination is a process used in car detailing to remove contaminants from the paintwork that cannot be removed by regular washing. These contaminants include industrial fallout, brake dust, tree sap, and paint overspray, which can embed themselves into the clear coat of the vehicle’s paint and cause it to look dull and rough.

The process involves using a clay bar, which is a synthetic or natural resin compound that can be molded and shaped. The clay bar is applied to the wet and lubricated surface of the car, where it adheres to and lifts off the contaminants. This leaves the paintwork smooth and free of embedded particles, making it ready for polishing or waxing.

Clay bar decontamination is typically recommended at least twice a year or before any polishing or waxing is done. It is an essential step in the car detailing process to ensure that the paint is clean and free of contaminants that could interfere with the application of protective coatings or cause long-term damage to the paint.

Q. What is Lifeshine Cerafuse?

A. AutoGlym LifeShine Cerafuse is a comprehensive vehicle protection system designed to maintain the condition of a car’s paintwork, upholstery, and glass. It includes innovative Carbon Shield Technology that creates a barrier against contaminants and the elements, ensuring the paintwork remains protected. The system also treats the upholstery to prevent marks and stains from spills, and it improves glass visibility by repelling water and other contaminants, enhancing safety during wet weather conditions. Here are the key features of AutoGlym LifeShine:

• Paintwork Protection: A water-repellent coating that enhances the paintwork’s shine and provides maximum resistance to environmental hazards, even in severe weather conditions.
• Upholstery Protection: A treatment that coats each strand of upholstery multiple times to create a shell barrier, keeping spills and moisture out and making them easy to clean.
• Glass Protection: A non-stick, highly durable, optically clear coating for side and rear windows that improves visibility by allowing raindrops to roll off easily.

Q. What is spray wax?

A. Used in automotive detailing, spray wax enhances the appearance of a vehicle’s exterior by filling in imperfections and creating a smoother, reflective surface. It also provides protection against environmental elements like snow, rain, and UV rays.

Q. When and why would my car need the seatbelt lubrication service?

A. Silicone spray is often recommended for lubricating seatbelts because it provides a smooth, non-greasy surface that reduces friction and helps the seatbelt retract more smoothly. Here are some reasons why silicone spray is preferred:

• Reduces Friction: Silicone spray creates a smooth surface that reduces the friction between the seatbelt and its guides, making it easier for the belt to retract.
• Non-Greasy: Unlike oil-based lubricants, silicone spray does not attract dust or dirt, which can cause further issues with the seatbelt mechanism.
• Safe for Materials: Silicone is safe to use on the materials commonly found in seatbelts, such as nylon, without causing damage or weakening the belt.
• Long-Lasting: Once applied, silicone spray typically lasts longer than other lubricants, providing consistent performance over time.

Q. What’s the difference between car polish and car wax? 

A. Car polish and car wax serve different purposes in automotive detailing. Car polish is a mildly abrasive compound designed to clean, smooth, and enhance the sheen of automobile paint. It works by removing minor surface imperfections such as scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation. On the other hand, car wax is a protective coating that shields the paint from environmental damage like UV rays, dirt, and water. Wax fills in microscopic imperfections in the clear coat, enhancing the car’s shine and protecting it from long-term damage.

Q. What is a cabin filter and why would it need replacing?

A. A cabin air filter is an essential component in a vehicle’s heating and cooling system. It filters the air that enters the vehicle, protecting passengers from harmful pollutants like dust, pollen, and bacteria. The filter is typically located behind the glovebox and cleans the air as it moves through the HVAC system, ensuring cleaner air inside the car.

The cabin air filter needs replacing for several reasons:

• Reduced Airflow: If the filter is clogged, it can reduce airflow from the vents, making the air conditioning or heating less effective.
• Bad Odours: A dirty filter can lead to unpleasant smells inside the car due to the accumulation of bacteria and other contaminants.
• Health Concerns: Replacing the filter regularly helps prevent allergens and pollutants from entering the cabin, which is particularly important for people with allergies or respiratory issues.
• Vehicle Performance: A clean cabin air filter can improve the overall performance of the HVAC system and prevent premature wear on components.
  
  

It is generally recommended to replace the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but this can vary depending on the vehicle and driving conditions. Drivers in urban areas with poor air quality or desert climates with high dust levels may need to replace the filter more frequently.

Q. What is an air con bomb?

A. An air con bomb, also known as an air conditioning cleaner bomb or air-con cologne, is a single-use aerosol can designed to clean and deodorize a car’s air conditioning system. It is placed in the footwell of the front passenger seat and activated while the car’s air conditioning is set to recirculation mode with maximum speed and cooling. The powerful, scented spray is released and flows through the vents and ducts of the car’s AC system, disinfecting and deodorizing it. This process helps to eliminate bad smells and can leave behind a pleasant fragrance for weeks or months.

Q. What is a two bucket safe method?

A. The two-bucket safe method is a technique used for washing cars to prevent scratches and swirl marks on the paint. It involves using one bucket filled with a car shampoo solution and another bucket filled with clean water. The wash mitt or sponge is first dipped into the soapy bucket, then used to clean the car’s surface. Afterward, the mitt is rinsed in the clean water bucket to remove any dirt and grit, and then returned to the soapy bucket for the next section of the car. This process ensures that the mitt is clean and free of abrasive particles that could damage the paint.

Q. When would I need the wet vac service instead of a standard hoover? 

A. You would need a wet vac service instead of a hoover in your car when dealing with larger debris, spillages, or liquids that a regular vacuum cleaner cannot handle. Wet and dry vacuum cleaners are designed to be tougher and more robust, allowing you to tackle larger jobs with no worry. They are ideal for cleaning up mud, water, or other liquids that may have accumulated in your car, and can also be used for dry vacuuming tasks.

Some scenarios where a wet vac would be more suitable than a hoover for your car include:

• Cleaning up spills or leaks in the car interior
• Removing mud or dirt from the car’s interior or exterior
• Vacuuming up water or other liquids that may have accumulated in the car
• Tackling larger debris or dirt particles that a regular vacuum cleaner cannot handle
  
  

In general, if you need to clean up a mess that involves liquids or larger debris, a wet vac would be a better choice than a hoover for your car.

Q. What is headlight restoration and do I need it?

A. Headlight restoration is a process aimed at restoring clarity and brightness to discolored, cloudy, or faded headlights. This process typically involves various tools and chemicals designed to clean, polish, and restore the plastic lenses of headlights. Here are some key points about headlight restoration:

• Purpose: To improve the visibility and appearance of headlights by removing oxidation, yellowing, and other surface damage.
• Suitability: Most kits are designed for plastic headlights, not glass.
• Process: Generally involves cleaning the lens, sanding to remove heavy defects, and polishing to restore clarity.
• Tools: Kits often include abrasive discs, polishing compounds, and sometimes a drill for efficient restoration.
• Results: Can significantly enhance the performance and aesthetic of headlights, making them look like new again.

Q. What is Machine polishing and why would I need this service? 

A. Machine polishing stages 1, 2, and 3 refer to the process of removing surface imperfections from a vehicle’s paintwork using different combinations of polish and pads. Here’s a breakdown of each stage:

• Stage 1 Paint Correction: This involves polishing the paintwork in one stage or step with only one type of polish and pad combination. It is suitable for paintwork in good condition with only very minor marring and no visible swirl marks. The process uses a finishing polish and a finishing pad, followed by a wax or paint sealant to protect the paintwork. It is generally not abrasive enough to remove swirl marks and scratches.
  
  
• Stage 2 Paint Correction: This stage is suited for cars with moderate swirl marks and light scratches. It involves using two different polish and pad combinations. The first step uses a cutting (abrasive) polish or compound to remove imperfections like swirl marks and light scratches. This is followed by a finishing polish and finishing pad to refine the paintwork further and remove any marring or holograms left by the previous step. The process ends with a wax or paint sealant to protect the paintwork.
  
  
• Stage 3 Paint Correction: This stage is for cars with heavy swirl marks, scratches, and other paint defects. It involves using three different polish and pad combinations, which can also include spot wet sanding for heavier scratches. The first step uses a heavy cutting compound with a heavy cutting pad to remove deeper swirl marks and scratches. The second step uses a cutting polish and polishing pad to remove further swirl marks, followed by a finishing polish and finishing pad to refine the paintwork to a swirl, mar, and hologram-free finish. The process concludes with a wax or paint sealant to protect the paintwork.

Each stage progressively increases in complexity and the level of correction, ensuring that the paintwork is restored to a pristine condition.

Q. What is Tyre dressing?

A. Tyres dressed refers to the application of a tyre dressing product to restore the appearance of tyres. Tyre dressing is an oily product that helps to bring back the deep black colour of rubber, which can fade over time due to exposure to the elements. After detailing a vehicle, applying tyre dressing can make the tires look deep and dark black, enhancing the overall appearance of the car.

Q. What is Leather conditioner and why would I need this service?

A. Leather conditioner for cars is a product designed to maintain and protect the leather upholstery in vehicles. It is typically used to keep the leather soft, supple, and moisturized, preventing it from drying out and cracking over time. Leather conditioners can also help to remove stains and spills, and some products may include additional features such as UV protection to prevent fading and discoloration.

Using a leather conditioner on your car’s leather seats can help to:

• Keep the leather soft and supple
• Prevent cracking and drying out
• Remove stains and spills
• Protect the leather from UV damage
• Maintain the appearance and longevity of the leather
  

Q.  what is ozone treatment and how does it work?

A. Ozone treatment is a process used to remove odours, bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from a vehicle’s interior. It works by using ozone (O₃), a highly reactive form of oxygen, to neutralise bad smells and sanitize the cabin air.

Here’s how it works in more detail:

1. Ozone Generation:

Ozone generators are used to produce ozone gas. This is done by converting regular oxygen (O₂) in the air into ozone (O₃) by applying a high voltage to the air, causing it to split and recombine into ozone molecules.

2. Odour Neutralisation:

Ozone is a very reactive molecule and can break down odour-causing compounds. When introduced into the vehicle, the ozone interacts with and neutralises odour particles, such as cigarette smoke, pet smells, food odours, or mould.

3. Sanitising the Air:

Ozone also has strong antimicrobial properties. It can kill bacteria, fungi, mould, and even viruses in the car’s cabin, air ducts, and HVAC system, leaving the air inside cleaner and fresher.


Q. Will you need access to water and electric?

A. Yes - i kindly ask all customers to ensure there is a water supply and electric supply available upon arrival. I have the best connections and adaptors for any tap whether outside or inside. I also have a waterproof shockproof extension cord, which I will run from any 230v 3 pin socket that you can provide me with.

Q. How long do your services take? 

A. This depends entirely on the condition of the vehicle, as well as the services that are selected. i strive for the best possible result, for the service you have selected.

Q. How often should I have my car detailed?

A. The frequency of car detailing depends on several factors including where you live, your driving habits, and the type of vehicle you own. Most experts recommend detailing your car 2 to 3 times a year, or once every 4 to 6 months. If you live in an urban or coastal area, or drive frequently on dirty roads, you may need to detail your car more often, perhaps every 3 months. For newer cars with more delicate finishes, detailing every 4 months is advised, while older cars can be detailed every 6 months. Regular detailing helps protect your car’s appearance and value, and can save you money on repairs in the long run. I also offer regular upkeep and maintenance washes which i recommend every 4-6 weeks if you want to keep your vehicle in tip top condition.

Q. Why should I choose you to detail my car?

A. With over a decade of experience, within the detailing industry; rest assured, your vehicle is in some of the best hands available. I only use the best products on the market, along with the best methods. these combined, ensure your vehicle is given the ultimate protection package, every time. your vehicle is treat as if it is mine whilst under my care.

Q. do i need to pay a deposit prior to booking?

A, a £25 non-refundable deposit will secure your booking, this will be deducted from the final price of the service that you have booked.  Should you cancel your booking within 48 hours prior to the service being carried out this fee will cover some of the losses incurred.

Q. Can i rearrange my appointment?

A. I am more than happy to work with you, to arrange an alternative appointment. please allow more than 48 hours notice, if possible, to avoid your £25 booking fee from being lost.

Q. Are you insured to work on my vehicle?

A. Of course, rest assured all insurances are in place, to provide all of my customers with peace of mind.

Q. will you beat the price of other detailer quote's?

A. My prices reflect my work and value, therefore I will not compete with any local auto detailers in securing your job. This is because my prices are competitive for the skill required, to get your vehicle looking its best. the products I work with are industry leading. this paired with my skillset and training; which has taken me years to acquire and perfect, gives me complete confidence in delivering a fantastic customer experience, every single time.