Avoid These Common Mistakes After Auto Detailing Training

Auto detailing is an art that requires precision, patience, and a keen eye for detail. This profession goes beyond mere aesthetics; its primary objective is to safeguard vehicles from potential harm, extend their longevity, and uphold their resale value.

It’s only natural to be eager to put your newfound skills to the test right after completing your auto detailing training. However, there are some common mistakes that many beginners make. In this blog post, we’ll explore these mistakes and how to avoid them for a flawless finish.

Washing the Wheels Last

One of the most common mistakes that new auto detailers make after auto detailing training is washing the wheels last. It’s tempting to save the dirtiest parts for the end, but this can lead to unintended consequences. When you wash the car’s body first and leave the wheels for last, you risk splashing brake dust and grime onto the freshly cleaned surfaces. This can result in additional work, as you must re-clean the car’s body.

Avoid this mistake by starting with the wheels. Use a specialized wheel cleaner and a dedicated brush or microfiber cloth to remove brake dust and grime. This way, you won’t risk contaminating the freshly cleaned surfaces of the car. Once the wheels are spotless, move on to the rest of the vehicle.

An auto detailer washing a car’s wheels as learned in auto detailing training.
As you’ll discover in auto detailing training, washing wheels last can result in extra work.

Utilizing Incorrect Towels 

Using a rag or an old T-shirt to wipe down the car’s surfaces might seem cost-effective, but it’s a mistake that can lead to scratches and swirl marks. Many common fabrics can be abrasive, and even the softest ones can trap dirt particles that can damage the paint.

Instead, throughout your auto detailing career, invest in high-quality microfiber towels or detailing cloths. These are designed to be soft and non-abrasive, making them the ideal choice for drying and polishing your car. They are also highly absorbent, reducing the risk of water spots and streaks.

Auto Detailing Training Highlights the Correct Application of Wax

Waxing is an essential step in auto detailing as it protects the paint and gives it a beautiful, glossy finish. However, misapplying wax is a mistake that can diminish the results of your hard work. One common error is using too much wax. Excessive wax not only wastes the product but can leave an unsightly residue that is challenging to remove.

An auto detailer waxing a car using the correct method taught in auto detailing training.
For optimal results, apply a thin, even wax layer as taught in auto detailing training.

To avoid this mistake, apply a thin, even layer of wax using a foam applicator pad or a microfiber cloth. Allow the wax to haze before buffing it off with a clean, dry microfiber towel. This will ensure a glossy, even finish that enhances the car’s appearance and protection.

Incorrect Usage of Cleaning Agents

Choosing the right cleaning agents is crucial in auto detailing. Using the wrong product can lead to damage or unsatisfactory results. For example, using a household cleaner on your car’s interior surfaces might contain harsh chemicals that can harm the upholstery, dash, or trim.

To avoid this mistake, invest in a range of professional-grade auto detailing products, including interior cleaners, glass cleaners, and tire cleaners. These products are specifically formulated to safely and effectively clean various surfaces of your vehicle without causing any harm.

Do you want to explore our world-class auto detailing courses?

Contact ATC Montreal for more information.

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