Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Pristine Mobile Detail has been a trusted name for years. With our reputation, people seek us out for information and advice. Michael is always happy to give clients a point in the right direction and answer any questions. Below are answers to the questions that we hear the most. If you don’t find the answers in our frequently asked questions, please give us a call at 760.822.6363.
The term “detailing” is often misused by the industry. A true detailing, like Pristine’s, includes meticulous cleaning, professional swirl-free polishing, and the protection of car surfaces. Many car washes simply cover up interior dirt with greasy, solvent-based dressings. These dressings actually traps dirt, and the solvents in them can actually damage surfaces. Inexperienced car wash employees often improperly use high-speed buffers on paint. Not only does this cause ugly wax swirls over deeply embedded dirt, it also damages your car’s finish.
When Pristine details your cars, you can expect showroom-quality results with personal, professional service and the highest quality materials. Our chamois, wash mitts, and microfiber drying towels are always freshly washed to ensure that your car’s paint surfaces are safe from scratches. All products and chemicals are industry-leading brands, which cost more and perform better.
Our mobile detailing operation is fully self-contained, with electricity and spotless deionized water. We come to your home or your office, provided your property manager approves our visit in advance and we can work in the shade. This is important for optimal results. Homes with garages are preferable. A typical detailing averages about 3-4 hours, though times vary depending on the size and condition of the car.
False. “Clear coat” is simply a part of the paint process, used on most cars and trucks manufactured in the early 1990’s and later. This paint process consists of first applying the color, which goes on flat without any shine or protection. After the color has been added, a clear urethane paint is layered on to make the finish hard and glossy. Today’s clear coat simply makes the paint look more translucent with a deeper shine. Clear coat is not a protectant. All auto paint needs to be waxed or sealed to protect it from the sun, pollution, and other harmful elements.
False. Read the fine print. The contract requires you to have it reapplied at specified periods (usually every 6-12 months) to maintain the warranty. Waxing is a completely safe, advisable alternative. All sealants degrade, and the paint will still require clay bar treatment to remove contaminants before reapplication of the product. Make sure to obtain the kit from your dealer.
No. Waxing is simply a protective element applied to the paint surface. While waxing often helps add shine to the paint, do not confuse it with buffing. Buffing is a paint correction process that uses a high-speed. rotary buffing machine. This process removes superficial scratches and blemishes and helps correct the fading of painted surfaces. The process begins with a cutting compound used to aggressively remove the damaged paint. After this, several polishing steps smooth and restore the paint to a high-gloss finish. This process is not typically used on newer vehicles, since polishing removes microscopic layers of paint. Instead, our full auto detailing service includes an application of wax or sealant with a dual-action machine, a safer, non-aggressive way to lightly polish and protect the paint without leaving swirl marks.
Unfortunately, no. While the pre-treating and steam extraction process is the most effective cleaning procedure available, some spills, particularly any with reddish dyes, can actually damage and dye carpet and upholstery fibers. Color changes from these spills are permanent unless the material is replaced or re-dyed.
