This will be a theme of what is about to come.  As a detailer, there is no such thing as a wax job.  The same can be said for ‘doing a ceramic coat’.  Applying wax, a paint sealant, or a ceramic coating is one major step of many in a detailing process.  Each detailing step is important, aside from what comes with opening a jar of wax or a bottle of ceramic coating.

I tell people when they hear about ceramic coating services being all about the prep, that the word prep is a euphemism for detailing.  Before I focused or even offered ceramic coating protection, my processes that led to putting on wax were near identical to what I currently do with ceramic coatings.

Polymer

It is your classic paint sealant.  A lot of people are thinking of a 6 month or longer term 2 month plus wax.  But in reality, they are getting a paint sealant or infusion of a sealant with a wax.  Carnauba Wax does not last long a car.  Even the high-end waxes that are advertised to last much longer, often are a product of polymer infusion or more recently SIO2.

Ceramic / SIO2 (2 Part)

Many manufacturers will try to justify using the word ‘Ceramic’ for a product even when less than 5% of a popular active ingredient in ceramic coatings (SIo2) is in the product.  The most common example of this is spray waxes.  It is also not out of question for some companies or detailing service providers to use the word ceramic when the product has no significant identical ingredients at all.

There is no formal detailing industry mandate what a coating is.  Just because it has the word ceramic on it, does not mean it is a ceramic coating.  From a professional’s and enthusiast’s perspective I am going to give you a sensible definition of a real ceramic coating.  If it does not come out of glass or metal bottle, it is likely not a ceramic coating.  The reason being, the solvent carriers are too strong to be held in a plastic bottle.  When people like me think ceramic coating, we think (temporary) chemical resistance from non ph neutral chemical bombardment from the environment.  Not a force field, but there is a barrier that also keeps things from sticking to it.

If more people treated these services with the mindset that it is detailing, that happens to be a ceramic coating protection versus wax, customers would experience significantly less disappointment.  Essentially consumers would put more thought into researching a detailer versus jumping at the phrase Ceramic Coating.

Never Wax Again

I get the plausible truth of this quote, and I also understand why detailers utter this phrase.  But I do want to caution you not to get delusions of grandeur, thinking a product is going to last a lifetime or never need to be washed properly.  Many people take that leap, which will lead to disappointment.

Self Cleaning

Easier to clean is a more appropriate quote.  To be more specific from a detailers standpoint, it is easier to safely wash your car.  Dirt does not stick to the surface.  This means the car will not get dirty as fast and less agitation is needed when cleaning.  It also means you are bought more time before bugs and birds become a severe problem develops.  It does NOT mean the car will clean itself without you ever having to properly wash the car.  It does not mean you can’t put (NEW) swirls back into the paint, by doing the same things that caused the damage.  Neglecting your car with foreign contamination building up can lead to consequences.  But there are specialty cleaners that you can use that won’t compromise the protection like a wax.  This goes back to ceramic coatings not being for everyone.

Wax/Ceramic Job

Most of what goes into detailing happens prior to applying a ceramic coating.  Assuming proper detailing is involved, the same can be said for applying wax.

Buff

The term ‘buff’ will often be used to generalize anything with a polisher, especially for a somewhat extended period of time.  Meaning some people will interpret various all-in-one products, use of dedicated polishers, and even sealants with some chemical cleaners as a buff.  Many of the other terms described here, you will be better for dealing with like scratch, etch, paint thickness.  There are many archaic descriptions for how this works (paint correction).  Re-flowing paint not only is this not a reality of polishing, but too much heat is harmful in the polishing process.  Heat provides false feedback results and can harm the condition of your paint.

Etching

Very few people understand what this means.  Etching is similar, in terms of damage, to a scratch.  Why is this important?  This term is often used to correctly describe damage done by water spots, bug and bird remains that is no longer topical.  Not all water spotting in particular is equal.  Some can be removed easily by an acidic cleaner.  Some by a basic wash, depending on how prompt you are.  But in many cases the damage is comparable to a scratch, in which paint correction is necessary.  In those cases the damage is too deep to remove.  Especially not knowing the circumstances, the vehicle experience, it can be difficult to determine how severe that etching is.

Someone asked in a detailing group, who were the easiest clients to work with?  I responded by starting with the notion that this may be counterintuitive to some people.  It was clients who were not so quick to book with me.  They researched my business, before ever contacting me.  They watched my YouTube videos.  They READ my website.  When we communicated, they welcomed a consultation versus spastically demanding a price as if that is the only thing that matters when booking a detailing service.  One of my clients told me, she believes a major reason for her positive experiences is that she is looking to (cry once) address all of the concerns before the fact.  They wanted to find the detailing business before they focus on specific service and PRICING options.  Difficult ones are focused on getting this process out of the way quickly, with the mindset of arbitrarily complaining and ranting after the fact.

My clients tend to not have complaints about products and services they purchase in general.

The Low Baller

The problem here is they know your price and that there are cheaper alternatives.  But they want your effort at the cheap alternative price.  Demanding less compensation for the requested labor is inherently disrespectful.  But that person is very possibly looking for ways to be offended and to get out of paying you.  Beware.

Constant Complainer/Threatening About Quality Expectations

I compare this to being on a date.  If your interaction begin with your date complaining about a previous relationship, how would you feel?

Treats You Like (Especially In A Derogatory Manor) An Employee VS Business Owner

This has always been a problem in this industry.  To me a major red flag.  People like this generally never act like your boss when they don’t like the result of what they insisted on.  They are only treating you like their employee when it is convenient to them.  It also carries an undertone of them looking down on you.

In reality, people who display these characteristics tend to fall into MORE THAN 1 category.  When in doubt and or you do not have great systems and your intuition is proverbially screaming at you, trust your gut instinct.  Walk away.

I am not suggesting copying that response (or not).  I often engage in some dialogue about the value proposition.  But based on the tone of the inquiry and my mindset, that was my response at that moment.  I was at peace sending a message to him and myself.  Ask yourself, are you affected by emotional manipulation whether consciously or unconsciously?

These are similar responses I have given in response to trolls, consumer inquiries (strangers or people I know), and other people in general who felt empowered to express their opinion about my business and my peers.  Keep in mind, from experience I learned to quickly access whether someone is not going to add value to my life.

Looking For Reasonable Price / So I Expect It To Be (Low Price)

I am going to go out on the limb and mention something most people do not.  When we price, most often it is the minimum we are really looking to receive for our efforts.  Often in time business owners realize that minimum is still not enough.  This is when shortcuts are taken with quality.

Why Can’t You Be Affordable

Detailing is a luxury service.  Running any legitimate business is expensive, especially with luxury service expectations.

Just Greed

I run a business to be profitable.  Just like you work for a living.  You would not work longer hours for less money.

Well You BETTER (Anything)!

If this investment is making you uncomfortable or you are concerned, we may NOT be the right fit.  Most of my clients put effort into choosing a detailer.  They are not uncomfortable with my price and are confident in the services before booking.  Maybe YOU need some more time, or this level of service is not for you.

Why Can’t You Just Give Me A Price (Or Anyone Being Hostile Over Your Systems)

I have a question for you, do you know what goes into a detailing service?  Because I have narrowed it down to $300 to $4,000 in quotes for the past year, based on the limited information you provided.

I Expect Quality But I Don’t Want To Spend Much

Serious customers do not price shop luxury services in a unregulated industry.

I am not saying you should be as blunt, nor am I necessarily advising against it.  I first and foremost want to put this message in your mind first.  The people who do not care about the consequences of running a business or pretend that you are not running a business are the same people that remind you of that title when they are not satisfied.

Your emotional well-being is more important than customer retention.  This does not negate the valid dialogue about customers being important to a business.  But for those that have heard the phrase that people support people in business, I ask you to really think about that.  The kind of people that you are being pressured to acquiesce to, are they really supporting your business?  I am not just talking about short term.  Even if things work out decently, what value or type of (if any) recommendations do they give to others?  More often they are going to encourage people who think like them to haggle and manipulate you?  Perhaps this may turn people off to me, though I do believe that says more about the character of those individuals.  My concern is greater than losing a customer, who I strongly believe the majority in that category would not support your business.

Do you think the marketing managers of designer handbags really care what I think about when they produce social media content for their target demographics?!

Sprayers are one of those tools that don’t always get much attention, until you use a good one. The Solo 260 Battery Powered One-Hand Sprayer is a great example of how a small upgrade can make daily detailing work easier, faster, and far less fatiguing.

Right away, the biggest advantage of the Solo 260 is ease of use. With a simple push button operation, it completely eliminates repetitive trigger pulls. This might not sound like a big deal at first, but over the course of a day, these pulls add up quickly. Less hand fatigue means better consistency and efficiency throughout the job.

One standout design feature is the weighted pickup tube, which allows you to spray at virtually any angle. Whether you are working inside a door panel, under seats, or in tight interior spaces, the weighted tube stays submerged and keeps the spray consistent. It is a small detail, but one that makes a big difference in real world use.

Technical Specs & Performance

The Solo 260 packs impressive performance into a compact, one hand design. It features a 60 minute continuous work time, which is more than enough for multiple vehicles on a single charge. Charging is quick and easy thanks to the included USB charging cable, making it convenient to recharge between jobs or even in a vehicle or shop setup.

The compact size keeps the sprayer lightweight and easy to maneuver, while still holding enough solution for most detailing tasks. It is ideal for interior cleaners, APCs, rinseless wash solutions, and other commonly used chemicals within the appropriate pH range.

It is important to note that the Solo 260 is best suited for chemicals in the 2-6 pH range. If you regularly work with stronger chemicals in the 7-17 pH range, Solo also offers the Solo 360-B, which is specifically designed to handle higher pH solutions and would be the better long term choice for those applications.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I really like the Solo 260 Battery Powered One-Hand Sprayer. Its compact size, long battery life, and effortless operation make it a genuinely useful tool that saves time and reduces fatigue. While weekend warriors may not see it as a necessity, professional detailers will appreciate just how much smoother their workflow becomes with a battery powered sprayer like this in their arsenal.

Clean wheels can completely change the look of a vehicle, and the process does not have to be complicated or time consuming. The biggest factor is starting with a quality wheel cleaner that can safely break down brake dust, road grime, and buildup without excessive scrubbing. When your chemistry is doing most of the heavy lifting, the rest of the process becomes quicker, easier, and far more consistent.

Wheel Cleaning Setup

• IK e Foam Pro 2
• Shampoo
• Wheel Cleaner
• Brushes (Variety is Key)

Once you have your wheel cleaner and a general breakdown of what you should reach for, it is all about using the right brushes to reach every surface efficiently and the right brushes for yourself. A combination of a barrel brush for the inner wheel, a soft face brush for spokes, and a smaller detail brush for lug areas and tight spots makes a noticeable difference. Instead of fighting the dirt, you are simply guiding it off the surface. This not only speeds things up, but also helps reduce the risk of missed areas or unnecessary agitation.

My Wheel Cleaning Setup

• IK e Foam Pro 2
• Koch Chemie Gentle Snow Foam Xmas (Gfx)
• Koch Chemie Magic Wheel Cleaner
• Detail Factory Wheel Brush Kit
• Detail Factory ProGrip Wheel Face Brush Riptide
• Detail Factory TriGrip Brush

These items are some of my most reached for and once that fit my cleaning process comfortably. I reach for these whenever I want to quickly clean my wheels starting with a shampoo foam to break down loose dirt and grime, followed by a touch cleaning process using the Auto-Wheel and my brushes.

Below, you will find a quick YouTube Short video showing this process in action. It is an extremely simple workflow, but when done right, it delivers a thorough clean in just a few minutes.

Looking for a detail. I would like to encourage you to do something, most people may never think of.  Go to a ‘detailing enthusiast’ or ‘detailing for beginners’ type of Facebook group, just to observe.  Is it because I want you to have resources about the latest detailing products and techniques?  It has nothing to do with that.  I want you to see the behavior of established business owners and people starting a business.

Tell me that Chat GPT (far from perfect), trusting a post on a Facebook or Instagram page, or a phone call with only concerns about price, is a good idea.

This may offend some people and frankly I do not care.  Access to resources and technology has never been better to allow consumers the opportunity to be more educated.  But because it has turned into a crutch, consumers counter intuitively assume and put in less effort.  It leads me to be less sympathetic about the consequences of your cheap (to me) detail.

Very little can and has been done to separate non-licensed and non-insured detailers from true businesses.  There is no formal industry standardization.  There are no standards to prevent someone suggesting that they provide a 6- or 12-year coating, when I would market that same bottle 2 or 4 years in effective life.  Where I put this on the consumer; with effort, that is increasingly lacking, it is easier to spot red flags.

Warranties mean little to me.  I do not offer one.  But if you looked at (i.e. read) the website of anyone that I would recommend, it would eliminate 80% of the problems.

Just looking for an interior detail?  A lot of damage can be done by some random person trying to soak your car with caustic cleaners (often called shampoo).  It is easily forgotten that different stains require different approaches for removal.  Just like one chemical can set a stain, a neighboring area inside the car can easily be damaged with the wrong chemical.

More on that suggestion about looking at random Facebook pages.  It will be littered with some version of, ‘hey guys I want to start a business next week.  How do you detail a car?  What do you buy, is it cheap (not necessarily safe)?’  I am a believer in offering some grace to a point.  A majority of consumers are not as discerning as mine.  But starting blind as a business, with the potential of expensive damage and other major disappointment is a significant problem.

Aside from the exponential increase of these posts during bad economic times, the alarming comments defending people getting a logo without SOME basic knowledge, and the other extreme of negative harsh unprofessional commentary, is a growing number of your professional detailing population.   Many of the negative (trolls) do not necessarily provide the most ethical service options either.

When I started, I was already considered exceptional by my peers before I decided to start a business.   Before I unofficially worked on family and friends’ cars, I had advanced tools.  I had a paint measurement gauge.  I had experience doing paint corrections.  I had opportunities to reevaluate my shortcomings with interior detailing and very neglected exteriors.  Before I made it official, I analyzed the cost and benefits of the 4 types of business organizations.  I knew what I needed for an insurance package.  I had an idea of the website host.  I knew my business model and target customer.  After building a top reputation in the industry, I turned down a ceramic coating and paint correction service, simply because I did not feel comfortable enough in terms of experience.  My client and I were both confident it would be a better experience than 90% of the alternatives.   I wanted more practice in a controlled setting.

I am not suggesting nor are most experienced professionals suggesting they be exactly like me.  That is not the point.  The 2 points are to take the detailing business seriously, new detailer and customer.  Treat it seriously or pay the consequences.

Your Paint Aging And Deteriorating

I will be told oxidation.  I see the car in person to usually find that it is not the case, or essentially not the real issue.  The paint is delaminated.

Some will actually argue or discredit my knowledge on this.  I suspect many people who waste resources and time in the long run are not going to call and acknowledge what we both know about someone’s promises that are temporary band-aids.

Your Paint And Correction

There is no way around the reality of what I am telling you.  Defect removal and gloss (for long term).

The swirls are back, and my detailer said they were removed.  That is new damage!  The complaint is the equivalent of having heart surgery, going on an exercise and diet regiment; later continues doing the exact or moderately the same poor lifestyle choices.  Imagine that person complaining to their surgeon or primary care doctor, blaming them for being in poor health years later.  This often happens in the professional detailing world.

Just because someone speaks your language, example buffing does not make their statements factual.  In fact, that is more a concern.  Someone who is a little too excited to provide you a ceramic coating service, without any caveat, is a concern.

Ceramic Coating

Not invisible.  Here is the catch, neither is Paint Protection Film

Conclusion

I started by stating consumers who passed on me, went to someone who told them what they wanted to hear, whether price or expectation.  I am often curious why would they go to me if the OTHER GUY/GIRL etc? I think that is an answer we all know.  I am not the only reputable detailing business you could pose that rhetorical question for. The reality in conclusion car detailing, often professional, is not for a number of people.  Kicking the tires, does not make you a car enthusiast.

• “Why can’t you (detailers) detail the way I want?!”
• Also, “why can’t people (customers) appreciate my detailing?!”

These attitudes are not limited to detailing business owners and consumers of detailing services.  Go on YouTube and look at the comment section from review content of the latest mirrorless camera, latest cell phone, latest action camera, or the latest video game.  You will read comments of ‘trash (gear)’, ‘nobody wants this’, and threats that the consumers will rebel until the company makes a product specifically for his or her needs.  Of course these comments imply that most or all people think like them.  Ironically many of the criticized products became some of the most popular products in terms of sales.  Yet it is not uncommon to see angry consumers year after year who vent online about camera companies, chain restaurants, cell phone companies, and more.

Not every company offering goods and services is meant for you.  This is my issue with modern individuals.  There is a common arrogant assumption that businesses must universally think and cater to their needs, or there is something inherently wrong with them.  As a consumer, I make an effort to take ownership of what is and is not in my control.  The importance of brand influence to me and being proactive as a consumer in putting in research is to ACTUALLY not waste time with people who are not a good fit.  The individuality of millions of people around us is often forgotten.  I see this has become more common in the detailing industry.

Although some detailers may think that I am pointing the finger at consumers, and consumers vice versa, I believe this is an indictment on all parties.  With detailing business owners this is especially troubling due to the fact that they lash out at other detailers in addition to communicating their frustrations about consumers, for essentially NOT BEING LIKE THEM on the surface.

Bitterness about a company not following a consumer’s demands, when there are other business options available, is a reflection of the customer.  It speaks to a lack of effort and accountability to accept things as is and put REAL effort to align with the ones who match your values and needs.  It also begs the question of the appropriateness and realism of consumer demand.

I was driving, entering the interstate, some kind of object boomeranged off of my tire to the side of my car.  It was one of those miraculously unfortunate incidents that I have never experienced before and hopefully never again.  I was not sure what had happened, until I was able to stop at a parking lot.  I definitely was mortified.  I took a deep breath and went least aggressive method (like I hope you all will) on up.  I was not only surprised that step one worked, as usually the next step is necessary, but I was fortunate that it was not as bad as I feared at all.

Let’s get to the bottom of the issue with the least aggressive situation.  I do have some advantages over the average car owner here.  As the car has a professional ceramic coating.  That does NOT mean it is a force field of scratch prevention protection!

My first step addressed much of the problem.  Being somewhat dirty, I took one Eaglet microfiber towel soaked in DIY Rinseless wash and gently pressed on my working area.  I want to moisten (pre soak) that spot.

Taking another damp towel with Eaglet Microfiber (though I recommend larger and thicker Eagle Edgeless Microfiber) soaked in a rinseless wash solution, gently wiped the working area.  The transfer was removed.

This was surprising, the lack of damage behind it and the ease of removal here.  There are some thin medium to heavy scratches (tough to see).  But much better based on the sound and what I initially saw.  I went from being horrified to mildly annoyed.

Realistically (especially if not immediately addressed) the next step involves Gyeon Tar“>Gyeon Tar or a tar remover you have access to if necessary.

The next step would involve the use of Gyeon Tar.  I prefer and recommend Gyeon Tar as the next step in this situation.  But I can see most other tar removers probably being effective as well.  In all cases, make sure you read the instructions.

With Gyeon Tar you can spray it on the surface, but for these situations I recommend spraying on a microfiber towel and gently wiping the affected area.

Often the end result is not necessarily good, but not as bad as originally feared.  Even if there is some major damage, you did not add to it and you have an assessment of the situation.  After using Gyeon Tar make sure you wash the area, with at minimum a rinseless wash with a new microfiber towel.

Engine bays are one of the last areas where product choice still gets overlooked in professional detailing. Most of what you’re dealing with under the hood is not heavy grease buildup, it’s a mix of road film, light oils, dust, and heat-cycled contamination sitting on a variety of substrates. Plastics, coated metals, rubber, and painted components all react differently, which is why a one-dimensional degreaser is rarely the right tool.

This is where a balanced multi purpose cleaner like Gtechniq W2 becomes more efficient than a traditional aggressive APC or degreaser.

W2 is a solvent-assisted alkaline cleaner, which is important to understand from a performance standpoint. The inclusion of solvents like 2-butoxyethanol allows it to break down oily residues and traffic film, while alkaline builders such as disodium metasilicate help lift and suspend inorganic contamination . That combination gives you a broader cleaning spectrum without needing excessive alkalinity or harsh caustic behavior.

In practice, that means you’re not relying on brute force chemistry. You’re using a system that dissolves and lifts contamination efficiently, which is exactly what you want in an engine bay where material safety matters just as much as cleaning power.

Another advantage of W2 is dilution control. Engine bays vary significantly in contamination levels. A lightly used vehicle with dust and light grime requires a completely different approach than something that has seen years of neglect. Being able to scale the strength of W2 allows you to match the chemistry to the job instead of defaulting to maximum strength every time.

From a process standpoint, efficiency comes down to dwell and mechanical assistance.

A properly diluted W2 should be applied to a cool engine and allowed to dwell long enough for the solvents and alkaline components to break down the contamination. This reduces the need for aggressive brushing. When agitation is required, it should be targeted and controlled, focusing on seams, textured plastics, and areas where buildup accumulates.

The key difference you’ll notice using a product like W2 is how the contamination releases from the surface. Instead of smearing or requiring repeated passes, it lifts and rinses cleanly. That rinse behavior is critical. A cleaner that leaves behind residue or partially emulsified oils creates more work and can negatively affect the finish of plastics and trim.

Material compatibility is another reason to avoid overly aggressive degreasers. High alkalinity products can stain or prematurely age plastics and rubber, especially in an environment that already sees constant heat cycling. W2 sits in a range where it is effective but still controlled, which makes it better suited for modern engine bays.

From a workflow perspective, incorporating engine bay cleaning into regular maintenance changes the approach entirely. Instead of correcting years of buildup, you are maintaining a surface that never reaches that point. At that stage, lighter dilutions and minimal agitation are all that’s required, which improves efficiency and consistency across jobs.

At a professional level, engine bay cleaning is less about making it look good once and more about developing a repeatable process that is safe, efficient, and scalable. Product selection plays a major role in that, and understanding the chemistry behind what you’re using is what separates a routine clean from a controlled, professional result.

If you’re regularly doing engine bays, what dilution ratios and processes have you found most efficient?

One of the most misunderstood parts of detailing is paint decontamination. Many enthusiasts know they should do it, but fewer know how often it’s actually necessary or which methods are appropriate for different situations. Clay bars, iron removers, and chemical cleaners all play a role, but understanding when to use each can make a big difference in maintaining a healthy finish.

Even when a vehicle looks clean after a wash, the paint can still hold onto embedded contaminants. These include brake dust particles, industrial fallout, tar, road film, and other environmental debris. Over time, these contaminants bond to the surface and can interfere with gloss, smoothness, and protection.

A good indicator that your paint needs decontamination is how the surface feels. After washing, lightly run your hand across the paint using a glove. If the surface feels rough or gritty, contamination is likely present and mechanical decontamination such as clay may be needed.

Chemical decontamination is often the first step. Iron fallout removers are designed to dissolve embedded metal particles that come from brake dust and industrial pollution. These particles can lodge themselves into the clear coat and, if left untreated, can slowly cause damage or staining. Using a dedicated iron remover such as Gtechniq W6 Iron and General Fallout Remover helps dissolve those particles safely before moving on to mechanical methods.

Iron removal is typically recommended every few months, depending on how the vehicle is used. Daily drivers, vehicles parked outdoors, or cars exposed to heavy brake dust will usually need it more often.

After chemical decontamination, clay can be used to remove the remaining bonded contamination. Clay bars or clay alternatives physically shear off debris that chemical cleaners cannot dissolve. This step leaves the surface smooth and ready for polishing or protection.

However, clay should not be used more often than necessary. Because it physically contacts the paint, excessive use can increase the risk of marring if the surface is not properly lubricated or prepared. In many cases, performing chemical decontamination first significantly reduces how much clay work is required.

For maintenance, the goal should be to reduce how often heavy decontamination is needed. Proper washing techniques, regular pre-washing, and durable protection help prevent contamination from bonding to the paint in the first place.

This is where modern surface protection products come into play. When paint is protected with coatings or sealants, contaminants are less likely to adhere strongly to the surface. Maintaining protection with products such as Gtechniq C2v4 Ceramic Sealant helps keep the surface slick and makes routine washing and decontamination easier.

Ultimately, there is no single schedule that fits every vehicle. Climate, driving habits, storage conditions, and brake dust levels all influence how quickly contamination builds up. For most vehicles, a chemical decontamination every few months and mechanical decontamination as needed keeps the surface healthy without overworking the paint.

Detailing is always about balance. The goal is not to remove contamination as aggressively or as often as possible, but to maintain a routine that keeps the paint clean, smooth, and protected over the long term.

If you have a decontamination routine that works particularly well, it would be interesting to hear about it. What products or methods have you found most effective for keeping your paint smooth and contamination free?

When I started detailing, it was the Porter Cable 7424XP, a basic DA polisher with various foam pads in my possession.  That is how I started with paint corrections.  Nothing fancy nothing or over the top.  It was good enough for me to be trusted with a car valued at a quarter of a million dollars 10 years ago.  If someone was to ask about polishing as an amateur or starting as a professional, my recommendation may surprise a lot of people.  There is a Force Rotation polisher I would encourage that person to use.  Though I like the Flex 3401, pictured below, I also enjoyed working with a more user friendly similar style polisher (Dynabrade).  This is not that important.

As professionals in 2026 and beyond, with many businesses struggling adjusting to the economy, why are toxic battles between Rotary and Dual Action polishers trending?  Let us entertain the notion that you are all right!  Does that mean owner of only one type of polisher has or has not provided amazing or terrible experiences for customers?  I genuinely wonder if mechanics, home repair, or other skilled labor trade business owners engage in these debates on social media.

In a close second (arguably 1st) to the polishing orbit debate, is the swirl removing debate.  Often the loudest voices are people who do not seem to present themselves as successful business owners and likely not on the Mount Rushmore of skilled detailers.

There is incredible irony of ‘Team Dual Action Polisher’ chasing swirls with a one-step correction, while shaming the Rotary Team for leaving holograms.  Leaving hazy (dull from aggressive polishing) but not hazy enough to send it out the door with plausible deniability, is just as bad.  Their focus is on the obvious damage you can ‘put a (swirl) light on’, to brag or avoid shame on social media over.  I will bring this back to the DA polishers users doing this that claim they are superior in their work to ‘those’ Rotary users.  Not putting more emphasis on refinement (jeweling) is no better than leaving holograms with a Rotary.

I have fixed and seen damage beyond (polishing) repair done from the previous detailer (Rotary polisher use) on my clients’ cars more times than I am willing to count.  Friends and detailers that I can say are more advanced than me, use often and swear by the rotary for power.  I would even suggest most of them can refine paint with a Rotary better than a majority of people with a Dual Action polisher.  Though I use a Dual Action polisher, we all have two things in common.  We enjoyed detailing our cars with a variety of products and tools.  We also have provided wonderful experiences for our clients, allowing us to make a living, just like any adult who goes to work daily.

“The paint must be ABC before you put XYZ if you are a REAL detailer or …”  Well since that scratch is too deep to come out without causing damage before putting something on the car to help prevent damage, I certainly hope that random person can forgive me.  Also, hopefully the car does not disintegrate, because I locked in flaws.  Nothing wrong with making your decision to have a (personal) minimum standard that you put your name on.  But we often manipulate ourselves with the language we use.

Sometimes I really ask myself, do they not understand this (service option) is between the customer and business what is agreed upon.  When people virtue signal on the internet about ruining the industry by not polishing more, I wonder if they are covering for their inability to sell paint correction.  But shaming others, for likely both parties doing more than they should for the PRICE, is really what is harming the industry.  I am also amazed by the hypocrisy about reputation, when there is no concern about aftercare.  These are often the same people that joke about customers re-scratching their cars calling it job security.  These are the same ones bragging about their name on their work and then openly boasting they do not care what they do after it has left their shop.  Make it make sense to me.

Do you really want to do the right thing.  Think about people who obviously had cars in rough shape, intentionally chose the cheapest (1 stage) correction service while also price shopping, and asked on groups “should I be upset?”  Considering that person would not have booked with you the first time, you can elevate the industry by NOT TREATING THIS PERSON LIKE A VICTIM.  We are all consumers who make informed decisions.  ACCOUNTABILITY GOES BOTH WAYS.

This is my issue with the backseat driving business owner that mandates their concept of perfect paint before coating.  They and the people that are influenced by this tend to not know how to market, price, and target their services.  This means they will often not be profitable enough to stay in business.  Budget for services, safety (amount of paint), perceived after care habits, ‘my business’ model for service options all play a role in how much polishing I do on a car.  Obviously, there are other variables, but those matter as well.  What another business owner would do or someone who I would not entertain as a client anyway is not one of those variables.

I did some intensive polishing with the Porter Cable 7424XP, to ultimately just put wax on the car.  I marketed myself as a paint correction specialist years before I started using coatings.  I performed multiple details with ceramic coatings applied early on which I did less polishing and left much more defects, including swirls in some areas.  All things equal, it makes more sense to do more polishing when applying longer term protection.  With that said, it amazes me how only people with coatings are allowed to have nice looking paint!  It also amazes me that people that want the benefits of a coating are not allowed to get a coating unless the car is polished to specifications of random people on internet!  We wonder why people have such unrealistic expectations about ceramic coatings or consumers do not appreciate paint correction.  It is almost as if we are indirectly marketing coating companies instead of our business, with our virtue signaling.

Caring about your paint in my world means not turning one problem into another.

I chose the title of this article for a reason.  Many people knowingly focus on just getting the dirt and or dust off their paint, not caring about micro marring or even deeper scratches.  This content is not for you, and the message is likely not going to resonate with you.  It is nearly the same concept of someone accepting the consequences of scratches that come from automatic tunnel wash.

There is a category of car people that eagerly will read and gain some value out of it.  There are some people who say they do not care, because they do not (GET IT) understand the volume of microscopic damage is the reason their paint just does not pop any more.  For this crowd that may or may not ultimately care, this article is especially for.  I might make a difference in the way 10 percent of this demographic thinks.

For car people obviously it goes without saying you should NOT use a brillo pad or scrubby pad ever on paint.  You would be amazed how many people in the general population do and suggest using kitchen cleaning tools to remove bugs and sap.  Those people give advice in your social circle and on social media.  The first point is to not be so quick to take the advice of people.  Even on detailing groups or on YouTube be mindful and exercise some critical thinking.

Next concern, and the follow up question many of you may be in your head, “what should I do if I have this (bugs, sap, tar) on my car?”  If you are on the Detailed Image website, type (bug, sap, tar, waterspots) your problem and you will see several solid options.  Any of those products, assuming you read the directions, are safer and significantly more effective than scrubbing your car with soap.

Another, one of the most common problems. a lack of congruency in the way you care for your car.  You do everything right when it comes to washing your car biweekly.  You have the two bucket, quality mitt, you presoak the car and even dry the car carefully.  For some reason you think paint can only be scratched during your biweekly ritual.  Between washes, you make the mistake of dry wiping foreign substances with a microfiber towel.  The best example of this is on display at car shows.  Quick detailers are not meant to be used to wash your car.  I also see people who spend an incredible amount of money on the best pressure washers, filter systems, and the most expensive soaps.  But then, they never use a grit guard.  They will store a dirty wash mitt out in open space.  They allow their microfiber towels, knowing that is what is touching paint, to accumulate dust.  Afterwards they rationalize swirls and scratches are not a product of their habits.

Your ability to maintain the cosmetic condition of your car is a product of how you care for your car in your worst moments as much as your best moments.

In this post, I am walking through how I install Crystal Serum Light (CSL) topped with EXO using the Gtechniq EXO & Crystal Serum Light Box. This combination delivers a durable base layer with CSL, followed by EXO for enhanced gloss, slickness, and hydrophobic behavior. When done correctly, the result is a finish that not only looks incredible but is significantly easier to maintain.

To make things as clear and practical as possible, I have broken the process down into a simple step by step guide you can follow. Whether you are new to coatings or just looking to refine your process, this will give you a straightforward look at how I approach application from start to finish. After the steps, you will find a full video showing the process in real time so you can see exactly how it all comes together.

Application Steps

1. Make sure the vehicle has been cleaned with a thorough washing and that you are applying on a cool surface, out of direct sunlight. It is not necessary but adding in steps like clay bar and polishing definitely helps ensure the surface is cleaner and smoother.
2. Spray the Panel Wipe, section by section, over each exterior surface you are looking to protect (i.e. paint, trim, rims, glass, etc.). This step will remove any light dust, polishing oils, remaining protection layers, etc. from the surface, offering you a clean area for application.
3. Starting with the CSL, apply a few drops to a small section of your applicator. Using very light pressure work the coating into the paint spreading it very thin, working in a logical pattern to cover a panel or small section thoroughly. I like to overlap my passes (up and down and then repeat side to side).
4. After you apply to an entire section, set your timer for the desired dry time specific to the coating you are using (usually specified on the bottle or box). When your timer reaches that point, you should take a clean microfiber towel and lightly wipe away excess product, starting from the same place you first applied the coating. This will ensure the coating is applied evenly for maximum protection and aesthetics.
5. Inspect your results upon completion, if you see some haze, try wiping the area again to remove it. If you still see some haze repeat Steps 3 and 4 right away.
6. Wait at least an hour (in my case I moved to some interior detailing in the meantime).
7. After at least an hour, reach for the EXO and apply exactly as you did with the CSL. Note that the EXO will sweat and is more slick than CSL, providing you with ultra-hydrophobic, glossy, and slick to the touch.
8. After you are finished, it is extremely important to keep the vehicle dry for 12-24 hours. The longer the better, but rain storms should be avoided for at least 12 hours, longer if possible. If your vehicle is in a rainstorm shortly after application, this could cause the coating to not cure correctly or water marks to etch into the coating itself. You should also not wash the vehicle for a week.

Application Video

When it comes to drying towels, I am pretty picky. A drying towel has one main job, remove water quickly and efficiently, and if it cannot do that exceptionally well, it does not last long in my rotation. That is why The Rag Company Liquid8r M22 Green immediately stood out to me.

Right out of the gate, this towel feels substantial. It is very thick, extremely absorbent, and features rounded, stitched edges that I genuinely appreciate. These edges are made from the towel material itself, no suede borders, no edgeless design, which not only feels safer on paint but should also help with long-term durability. It is a small detail, but one that makes a difference over time.

According to The Rag Company, the Liquid8r M22 is inspired by the WWII M22 Locust tank, being compact, agile, and built for precision. Honestly, that description fits surprisingly well. Despite its thickness, the towel is easy to maneuver and feels controlled during use rather than bulky or awkward.

From a technical standpoint, the specs explain a lot of the performance. The longer loop microfiber construction, combined with a hefty 2200 GSM and a 70% polyester/30% polyamide blend, allows the towel to glide effortlessly while pulling in massive amounts of water. On its very first use, a single swipe across the hood removed standing water incredibly fast. No streaking, no chasing drips, just clean, dry paint.

If there is one downside, it is also tied directly to its biggest strength. This towel absorbs so much water that it can become noticeably heavy once fully loaded. That is not necessarily a deal breaker, but it is something to be aware of, especially if you are drying larger vehicles and prefer lighter towels.

Overall, the Liquid8r M22 Green has quickly become one of my favorite drying towels. The combination of insane water absorption, plush thickness, and durable stitched edges makes it a standout option for anyone serious about safe and efficient drying. If maximum water removal with minimal passes is your goal, this towel absolutely delivers.

When it comes to interior detailing, I am a big fan of products that keep things simple, especially for quick refreshes between full details. All in one interior cleaners can be hit or miss, but Shine Supply Cruise largely hits the mark and has earned a solid spot in my interior maintenance lineup.

Cruise is designed as a spray and wipe interior cleaner that works across a wide range of surfaces, and that versatility is where it really shines. With one product, you can safely clean leather, plastics, vinyl, navigation screens, and more, making it easy to move through an interior without constantly swapping bottles. A light spray and a wipe is usually all it takes to remove dust, fingerprints, and light grime.

One of my favorite aspects of Cruise is its silicone-free formula, which leaves surfaces looking clean and natural rather than shiny or greasy. After use, interiors are left with a matte, OEM-style finish, nothing looks fake or artificially glossy.

The scent is another nice touch. Shine Supply lists Cruise as having a sandalwood fragrance, and it is pleasant without being overpowering. It adds to the experience without lingering too heavily, which is exactly what you want (or what I want) from an interior product.

Cruise also provides UV protection, which is a welcome bonus. While this is not a heavy-duty protectant, the added UV resistance helps fight premature fading and aging over time, especially on dashboards and other high exposure areas.

In terms of cleaning power, I would describe Cruise as average overall. It handles light cleaning situations very well, which is exactly what it is intended for. For heavily soiled interiors, you will still want a dedicated cleaner, but for maintenance, touch ups, and quick wipe downs, Cruise gets the job done efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I really like Shine Supply Cruise as an easy to use, quick, and versatile interior cleaning option. It simplifies the process, leaves behind a great matte finish, smells fantastic, and offers light protection all in one step. If you are looking for a reliable interior refresher that keeps things looking OEM, Cruise is absolutely worth checking out.

This article is written by Levi Gates, Director of Liquid Elements North America!

Why another polisher brand … and why now?

I’ve been around detailing long enough to know that the U.S. doesn’t exactly sit around waiting for new brands to show up.

Detailers here are loyal. They’ve built businesses around tools that put food on their table. And honestly, they should be skeptical. I’ve watched brands come in with big promises, loud marketing, and disappear just as fast when real work started.

So when the conversation about bringing Liquid Elements to North America first came up, my reaction wasn’t excitement.

It was hesitation.

Because the last thing this industry needs is another logo on a box.

What changed my mind wasn’t a spec sheet or a sales pitch. It was people.

Years ago, as I started spending more time in Europe teaching, attending shows, and working alongside different brands, I kept hearing the same name come up from detailers who genuinely cared about the craft. Liquid Elements wasn’t trying to dominate the room with hype. They were building tools and products that felt intentional, developed through real-world use instead of marketing trends.

Liquid Elements has been around since the early 2000s, long before most American detailers had heard the name. The brand grew out of a passion for car care in Germany, starting small and evolving alongside a community that valued education and hands-on experience. They didn’t rush into global expansion. They focused on refining what they made, building relationships across Europe, and developing a product line that reflected how detailers actually work. That long-game mindset is something I’ve always respected.

Another piece of the story is Sebastian.

Sebastian Schäfer isn’t just a CEO sitting behind a desk. He’s deeply involved in the direction of the brand, from product development to community building. The first time we really talked about the future of detailing, it wasn’t about sales numbers or market share. It was about education, about supporting detailers at every level, and about building something that could last longer than a single product cycle.

Those conversations felt familiar to me. They reminded me of why I fell in love with this industry in the first place.

The longer you do this job, the more you realize detailing isn’t about chasing the newest machine. It’s about finding tools that help you stay consistent when you’re ten hours into a correction and your shoulders are telling you it’s time to quit.

One of the things that stood out to me early on was how strongly Liquid Elements believes in creating their own products. They don’t chase trends by rebadging someone else’s work or jumping on whatever is popular that year. Designing, developing, and standing behind what they build has always been part of their identity. That level of ownership shows up in the feel of the machines and in the confidence the team has when they put something into the market.

When Sebastian and I started talking seriously about bringing the brand to the States, the conversation wasn’t about importing a container of polishers and hoping for the best. It was about building something real. Something that felt familiar to the way I’ve always approached this industry, through relationships first and products second.
That’s how LENA Inc. was born.

And trust me, bringing a European brand into the U.S. isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Distribution, support, training, logistics … every piece has to be built brick by brick. We’ve spent more time shaking hands, answering questions, and letting people try the machines than we have talking about marketing.

Because here’s the truth: American detailers don’t need another brand telling them what’s “best.” They need tools that earn their place on the cart.

What makes Liquid Elements different isn’t some secret technology or a magic spec number. It’s the feeling you get when you run a machine all day and realize your hands aren’t numb and your shoulders aren’t wrecked. The focus on ergonomics and balance isn’t just marketing language. It shows up in how the machines behave during real work, especially when you’re chasing consistency across panel after panel.

And that’s also why education is such a big part of what we’re building here in North America.

My goal has never been to just ship machines into the market and hope people figure them out on their own. We want to host hands-on training classes, partner with shops and distributors, and create opportunities where detailers can actually pick up the tools, feel the balance, and test them in real situations. Whether it’s local events, trade shows, or small community meetups, the vision is simple: let people experience the machines instead of just reading about them online.
Because once a detailer feels a tool in their hands, everything changes.

Launching Liquid Elements in North America isn’t about replacing anything that’s already here. It’s about adding another option for professionals who care about the process, who want machines that support their workflow instead of fighting it.

Right now, we’re building slowly and intentionally. Meeting distributors face to face. Teaching when we can. Listening more than we talk. Because trust in this industry isn’t built overnight. It’s built through conversations, through shared work, through showing up when people need help.

What excites me most isn’t just seeing Liquid Elements machines in shops across the country. It’s seeing a new wave of detailers realize that tools can be part of a bigger story. Education. Community. Growth.

That’s always been the goal for me.

And if we do this right, Liquid Elements won’t just be another brand entering the U.S. market. It’ll become part of the journey for the next generation of detailers learning what this craft is really about.

We often tell ourselves this irrational fairy tale that our low priced but high effort work will organically expand our business.  The reality is there is a certain dollar amount that we often get to that a certain consumer group will never have a genuine interest in the business we aspire to grow.  Honestly a higher concentration of that low buying demographic will be predatory in how they treat you.  But an even greater percentage will be loyal only to that price over you/business.  When you have no choice but to raise your prices even marginally, you will lose those people.

There is a cold realization that comes with changing prices at some point.  Many of my old clients have provided value to my business, which I am grateful for.  Many have said nice things on social media about me and left reviews.  But many of those customers will likely never be able to afford or be willing to pay the prices for my services currently.  This became a reality years prior, even before inflation really affected cost.  This is something for you to think about.   New detailers frequently hold on to this cheap customer loyalty fairy tale, when they convince themselves to build a business on a low price and subsequent customer base.  This is not even one of the contextual points many of the veteran detailing owners make when we suggest raising prices.

$500 was the cut off for this client many years ago.  Not mentioned was my attempt at cleaning up the engine bay.  This car was totally neglected from a detailer’s perspective.  This is a common story for consumers who likely are not and never will spend much on a detail.  In fact, a detail will often be treated like a once in a lifetime experience.  Many of these people genuinely are appreciative clients, who spoke very highly of mine and other detailers’ efforts.

With respect to content creation, this car was also another step in legitimizing myself in my area and beyond.

Source:YouTube

No Industry Standards With Industry Saturated With People Do Detailing VS Professional All Things Professional

Keep in mind, these questions are initially for (you) customers.  Do you understand that not all water spots are the same?  Do you know the role paint correction has in improving the condition (what’s actually happening) of your paint?  Do you know the REAL benefits of ceramic coating?  Many of you may or may not know or also carry false beliefs about the topics in question.  The point of thinking about these questions is the reality that I see numerous alleged professionals do not know these things.  Many people that say they do detailing are just regurgitating other people’s options, offering detailing in exchange for money.  Some only know what their ceramic coating suppliers tell them.

A lot of customers and detailers want to think they are working for customers, like it is a job, but do you really want to embrace that attitude?  The mindset of it being a job versus a skilled trade by many people attracts the lowest common denominator.  It is a big issue I see not only obvious in the questions asked, often while someone is working on a customer’s vehicle.  But also, in the hubris of trolling other professionals’ social media channels.  These people often only try to treat themselves like experts when they are offended by other people’s posts on their social media channels.  Many detailers are afraid to challenge or deny a customer’s request, even when it is obviously not in either party’s best interest.  I would not have nearly the same number of amazing turnarounds, aside from probably damaging cars, if I treated my clients’ assumptions as gospel.

The prep process before coating; detailers and others may have told you about that in the process of ceramic coating services.  But how many know what that means.  Many, including those preaching understands the concept of prep.  A surgically clean surface being the most important thing.  Secondarily appropriate polishing to both parties’ expectations.  Most people regurgitate a weird talking point of locking in your paint as if something cannot escape an evil blockade.  I understand the vague and oversimplified reference.  But most people just regurgitate that without breaking down it being what you want to live with (paint condition) until it is time to perform this service again.  Not to clients of mine that have known me for years, but many professional and non-professionals would be shocked to hear, the prep is something I regularly have done well before I offered coatings.  I tell potential clients that prep is another word for detailing in my world.  Not too many people know how to get vehicles in various conditions surgically clean.  Nor do they understand or appreciate how to improve the condition of paint.  Many people are reading instructions from a bottle for 10 seconds, watching a single YouTube video, or doing what coating brand rep says who is interested more in selling coatings.

Interiors are not different.  How many people think about attacking various stains uniquely.  Most people only think of it as cleaning a car.  That is why most people are moderately or significantly disappointed with detailing services.

I say to people all the time, you have to put some effort into finding the right detailers.  For those that do, it is not as hard as most people think.  You can look at a few websites and see a difference between companies.  For many people that scoff at this, they will continue to run into the same problems.  I cannot tell you how many times people were surprised I had a website and never thought to look for it, even though I provide easy access.  A website that has examples of demonstrated expertise, imagine that!  I cannot tell you how many stories of not only myself but others (elite detailers), where callers were visibly offended by the notion of having a conversation about expectations versus guessing about a price.

Coating A applied by one detailer is listed for 4 years and Coating Z used by another business is for 8 years.  Do you know how the detailing business or SUPPLIER came up with those years?  That is a conversation topic!

The new and refreshed Detailing Guide has been completely released!

This guide has been a long time in the making. What started years ago as a foundational resource for detailing enthusiasts has now been fully reworked to reflect how far products, tools, and techniques have come. Our goal was simple: keep the education intact while refreshing the information and simplifying the sections for an easier read.

From simplified, easy to follow explanations to “Grab Your Gear” sections that quickly connect you with the right products, everything was designed with simplicity in mind. The addition of embedded videos brings each process to life, while our “Pro Tips” section offers insight pulled directly from some of our Ask-a-Pro authors!

If you have been following along section by section, we hope this guide has already added value to your routine. And if you are just jumping in now, you can explore it from start to finish.

Detailing is always evolving and so will this guide. We will continue to update and improve it over time to make sure it remains a go-to resource you can rely on!