The Truth About Automatic Car Washes….
Automatic car washes have become very popular over the years. They offer convenience and if you look around they are popping up on almost every corner around town. The founders of these franchises also hire big marketing companies that really know how to attract customers. They are now throwing key words such as “ceramic coating wash” “graphene infused soap” etc.….. Most people see that and say “its only $30, what do I have to lose”.
I’m here to educate on the downfalls of using one of these drive through car wash services:
Potential for Paint Damage:
The brushes and bristles in some automatic car washes can cause micro-scratches and swirl marks on the vehicle's paint. Over time, this can lead to noticeable damage and dulling of the car's finish.
Ineffectiveness on Heavily Soiled Areas:
Automatic car washes may not thoroughly clean areas with heavy dirt, mud, or tar. These machines are designed for quick, general cleaning and may miss spots that require more detailed attention.
Chemical Residue:
The detergents and chemicals used in automatic car washes can leave residues on the car's surface, which may not be fully rinsed off. This can lead to streaks and spots, and in some cases, may harm the car's paint over time.
Damage to Accessories:
Certain car accessories, like antennas, spoilers, or roof racks, can be damaged or broken by the machinery in automatic car washes. Some car washes might not be able to accommodate larger or uniquely shaped vehicles properly.
Environmental Concerns:
Automatic car washes often use a significant amount of water and may not have efficient water recycling systems in place. Additionally, the runoff water containing chemicals and dirt can be harmful to the environment if not properly managed.
Expense:
Regular use of automatic car washes can be expensive compared to hand washing, especially if additional services like waxing or undercarriage cleaning are included.
Inconsistent Cleaning Quality:
The quality of cleaning in automatic car washes can be inconsistent. Some areas of the car might be cleaned well, while others might be missed or inadequately cleaned.
Risk of Mechanical Failure:
Mechanical issues in the car wash equipment can lead to incomplete cleaning or even damage to the vehicle. If the machinery malfunctions, it could cause scratches, dents, or other forms of damage.
Potential for Water Spots:
If the car is not dried properly after washing, water spots can form on the paint and glass surfaces. This is more likely in automatic car washes that do not have an effective drying process.
Limited Customization:
Automatic car washes offer limited options for customization compared to hand washing, where specific products and techniques can be used to address the unique needs of a vehicle's finish.
Taking your car through one of these car washes may seem like a good choice in the short term, but you will end up paying more to have it restored down the line. At luxe 23 detailing llc, we see vehicles like this all the time. You can pick out which vehicles have been through an automatic wash and which have been properly maintained by the owner or another detail company. If your vehicle has ever been damaged by taking it to a car wash, give us a call and we would be glad to help in getting it back to a manageable condition.
Ceramic Coatings: Are They Worth The Money?
Ceramic Coatings: Are they worth The Money?
Ceramic coatings have become the ultimate protection over the past years. With technology advancing, new and improved versions of ceramic coatings keep getting better and better. They are getting easier to apply and some even have self healing properties to them. But for those of you that may on the fence about a having a ceramic coating installed on your vehicle, i want to take some time to explain a few benefits as to why you may want to get a ceramic coating installed.
Long-lasting Protection: Unlike traditional waxes and sealants that wear off after a few months, ceramic coatings can last several years with proper maintenance. This long-lasting protection makes it a cost-effective option in the long run.
Scratch Resistance: Ceramic coatings provide a harder surface layer that resists minor scratches and swirl marks, keeping the car's paint in better condition over time.
Chemical Resistance: Ceramic coatings offer excellent protection against various chemicals, such as acidic contaminants, bird droppings, tree sap, and road salt, which can damage the car's paint.
UV Protection: The coating protects the vehicle’s paint from harmful UV rays, preventing oxidation and fading, which keeps the car looking new for longer.
Water Beading and Sheeting: Ceramic coatings create a hydrophobic surface that repels water, causing it to bead up and roll off easily. This makes washing the car easier and helps keep it cleaner for longer periods.
Easier Cleaning: Dirt, grime, and mud have a harder time sticking to the coated surface, making the car easier to clean. A simple rinse often suffices to remove most of the debris.
Gloss and Shine: Ceramic coatings enhance the depth and clarity of the paint, providing a glossy and sleek finish that enhances the car's aesthetic appeal.
Color Preservation: The coating helps maintain the original color of the car, preventing dullness and keeping the vehicle looking vibrant.
Reduced Maintenance Costs: With a ceramic coating, the need for frequent waxing and detailing is significantly reduced. This saves money on maintenance products and professional services over time.
Increased Resale Value: A well-maintained exterior with a ceramic coating can increase the resale value of the vehicle, as it indicates the car has been well-cared for.
Less Need for Detergents: Because ceramic coatings repel dirt and contaminants, less frequent and less intensive washing is required, which means fewer detergents and chemicals are needed.
Explore our Ceramic Coating packages to see which one fits your vehicles needs!
Give us a call and we will get you on the schedule. As always, your coating comes with a Luxe 23 Detailing LLC Guarantee!
Key differences between a professional detail and car wash company
What are some of the key differences between a detail and a regular car wash?
I’d like to take some time to explain a few differences between a professional detail and a “standard car wash service”. A professional auto detail, in which Luxe 23 Detailing LLC specializes in, is a more thorough and comprehensive process. Detailing involves cleaning, restoring, and protecting both the interior and exterior of the vehicle. It goes beyond a simple wash by paying attention to every nook and cranny, including the engine bay, wheels, tires, interior surfaces, and even the underside of the vehicle.
Detailing may include services such as:
Exterior Washing: Similar to a car wash but with more attention to detail, including hand washing and drying to prevent scratching.
Paint Correction: Removing swirl marks, scratches, and other imperfections in the paint to restore a glossy finish.
Interior Cleaning: Vacuuming, shampooing carpets and upholstery, cleaning and conditioning leather, and meticulously cleaning all interior surfaces.
Engine Bay Cleaning: Safely cleaning and degreasing the engine bay to remove dirt and grime.
Wheel and Tire Care: Cleaning, polishing, and protecting wheels, as well as cleaning and dressing tires.
Paint Protection: Applying wax, sealant, or ceramic coatings to protect the paint from environmental damage and enhance its shine.
Interior Protection: Applying protectants to interior surfaces to prevent fading, cracking, and staining.
In essence, while a car wash focuses mainly on superficial cleaning, auto detailing aims to rejuvenate and protect the entire vehicle, both inside and out, leaving it looking pristine and well-maintained.
A professional auto detail usually lends for a high price tag than a car wash service. There are many factors that goes in to this price. A detail takes longer than a car wash service. Professional equipment and chemicals are typically used. Many certifications are also obtained for a professional auto detail company, which cost yearly fees. At Luxe 23 Detailing LLC, we bring all of these to the table so that our customers can have a piece of mind that their vehicle will be well taken care of. We don’t brand our services as a “car wash” although washing the car is part of our process. If you’re looking for professional results, contact us to find out what Luxe 23 Detailing LLC can do for you!
Why you should maintain your vehicle by getting it detailed
The importance of getting our vehicle detailed.
Welcome to the ultimate guide to auto detailing! Your vehicle isn't just a mode of transportation; it's a reflection of your personality and style. At Luxe 23 Detailing LLC, we understand the pride you take in your ride, which is why we're here to help you achieve that showroom shine and keep your car looking its best.
Why Auto Detailing Matters: Auto detailing isn't just about making your car look good; it's also about protecting your investment. Regular detailing helps maintain your vehicle's resale value by preventing wear and tear, preserving the paint, and keeping the interior fresh and clean.
Exterior Detailing: First impressions matter, and the exterior of your car is the first thing people notice. Our expert detailing team employs a meticulous process to wash, clay bar, polish, and wax your vehicle, leaving it with a glossy finish that turns heads wherever you go. We pay attention to every detail, from cleaning the wheels and tires to restoring headlights and removing stubborn stains.
Interior Detailing: The interior of your car is where you spend most of your time, so why not make it a comfortable and luxurious space? Our interior detailing services include vacuuming, steam cleaning, and conditioning surfaces to remove dirt, dust, and grime. We also offer odor elimination treatments to ensure your car smells as good as it looks.
Paint Protection: Protecting your vehicle's paint is essential for maintaining its appearance and resale value. That's why we offer paint protection services such as ceramic coating and paint sealant application. These protective coatings create a barrier against environmental contaminants, UV rays, and scratches, keeping your paint looking fresh and vibrant for years to come.
Additional Services: In addition to our comprehensive detailing packages, we also offer a range of additional services to meet your specific needs. Whether you need scratch removal, windshield chip repair, or upholstery restoration, our team has the skills and expertise to get the job done right.
Conclusion: Your car deserves the best, and at Luxe 23 Detailing LLC, we're dedicated to providing top-quality auto detailing services that exceed your expectations. Say goodbye to dull paint, dirty interiors, and lingering odors – and hello to a car that looks and feels brand new. Schedule your detailing appointment today and experience the difference for yourself!