The full detail,
step by step
Eight steps from filthy to protected — the same order professional detailers work in. Follow it top to bottom and you can’t go far wrong.
Wheel Cleaning
Begin with the wheels, as they're often the dirtiest part of the car.
- Rinse: Use a hose or pressure washer to remove loose dirt
- Apply Cleaner: Spray a dedicated wheel cleaner onto the wheels and allow it to dwell for a few minutes
- Agitate: Use a wheel brush to scrub the wheel surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas
- Rinse Again: Thoroughly rinse off the cleaner and loosened grime
Pre-Wash
Loosen heavy dirt before anything touches the paint.
- Apply Pre-Wash Solution: Spray a citrus-based pre-wash cleaner onto the lower parts of the car, such as bumpers and sills
- Dwell Time: Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes, but do not let it dry
- Rinse: Use a hose or pressure washer to rinse off the pre-wash solution
Two-Bucket Wash
This method minimises the risk of introducing scratches during washing.
- Set Up: Fill one bucket with car shampoo solution and another with clean water
- Wash: Dip a wash mitt into the shampoo, wash a section of the car, then rinse the mitt in the clean water before reloading with shampoo
- Work Methodically: Start from the top of the car and work downwards
- Rinse: After washing, rinse the entire car thoroughly
Decontamination
Remove bonded contaminants that washing alone can't eliminate.
- Iron Fallout Remover: Spray onto the car's surface, allow it to react (it may turn purple), then rinse off
- Tar Remover: Apply to areas with tar spots, let it dwell, then wipe off with a microfibre cloth
- Clay Bar: Lubricate the surface with a clay lubricant or quick detailer, then gently glide the clay bar over the paintwork to remove remaining contaminants
Drying
Proper drying prevents water spots and prepares the surface for polishing.
- Use a Drying Towel: Employ a soft, absorbent microfibre drying towel
- Pat Dry: Gently pat the surface dry, starting from the top and working downwards
- Avoid Dragging: Do not drag the towel across the paint to prevent scratches
Polishing
Polishing enhances the paint's gloss and removes minor imperfections.
- Choose a Polish: Select a suitable car polish for your vehicle's paint condition
- Application: Apply the polish using an applicator pad or machine polisher, working in small sections
- Buff Off: Once the polish has hazed, buff it off with a clean microfibre cloth
Protection
Protect the polished surface to maintain its appearance.
- Select a Product: Choose between wax, sealant, or ceramic coating based on desired durability and finish
- Apply: Follow the product instructions for application and curing times
- Buff: After curing, buff the surface to a high gloss with a clean microfibre cloth
Interior Cleaning
A clean interior enhances the overall detailing effect.
- Vacuum: Thoroughly vacuum seats, carpets, and mats
- Clean Surfaces: Use appropriate interior cleaners for dashboards, door panels, and other surfaces
- Glass Cleaning: Clean interior windows with a dedicated glass cleaner and microfibre cloth
- Conditioning: Apply leather conditioner to leather seats and surfaces, if applicable
Do it yourself or leave it to a PRO
Follow the eight steps with ULTRACOAT products, or let an accredited ULTRACOAT PRO studio take care of your vehicle.