Step-by-Step Auto Detailing Process
                     STEP-BY-STEP
AUTO DETAILING
PROCESS
WHAT IS AUTO
DETAILING?
Auto detailing is a comprehensive cleaning 
and restoration process that goes far beyond 
a regular car wash. It involves meticulously 
cleaning, polishing, and protecting both the 
exterior and interior of the vehicle to restore it 
to near-showroom condition. Detailing helps 
maintain the car’s appearance, prevents 
damage from environmental elements, and 
preserves its resale value over time.
STEP 1
EXTERIOR WASH
The first step in auto detailing is a 
thorough exterior wash using specialized 
car shampoos and soft mitts designed to 
safely remove dirt, road grime, and 
other contaminants without damaging 
the paint. This careful washing ensures 
the surface is clean and ready for 
deeper treatments while avoiding 
scratches caused by improper washing 
techniques.
After washing, a clay bar 
treatment is used to remove 
stubborn, bonded 
STEP 2 contaminants like tree sap, tar, and industrial fallout 
that cannot be washed 
away. This process smooths 
CLAY BAR the paint surface, creating a flawless foundation for 
TREATMENT polishing by lifting embedded particles, 
resulting in a silky-smooth 
finish and improved paint 
clarity.
Paint correction involves using polishing 
compounds to eliminate swirl marks, light 
scratches, and oxidation from the vehicle’s 
paintwork. This step restores the paint’s natural 
gloss and depth by removing imperfections 
caused by everyday wear and tear. Whether 
done by hand or machine, polishing dramatically 
improves the car’s appearance.
STEP 3
PAINT CORRECTION
(POLISHING)
STEP 4
WAXING OR
SEALING
Waxing or applying a paint sealant 
protects the freshly polished paint from 
environmental damage such as UV rays, 
road salts, and water spots. While wax 
offers a warm, natural shine, sealants 
provide longer-lasting protection. Both 
treatments create a hydrophobic layer 
that repels water and dirt, keeping the 
car cleaner for longer.
STEP 5
INTERIOR VACUUMING AND CLEANING
A detailed interior cleaning 
starts with vacuuming carpets, 
seats, and hard-to-reach 
crevices to remove dust, dirt, 
and debris. Following this, all 
surfaces including dashboards, 
door panels, and consoles are 
wiped down and cleaned to 
remove stains, fingerprints, and 
allergens, restoring a fresh and 
comfortable cabin environment.
STEP 6
UPHOLSTERY AND
LEATHER CARE
Proper care of upholstery and leather is 
essential to maintain comfort and 
appearance. Fabric seats are cleaned 
to remove stains and odors, while 
leather surfaces are conditioned with 
special products that moisturize and 
prevent cracking or fading. This step 
extends the life of the interior 
materials and enhances overall vehicle 
luxury.
Auto detailing is more than just making 
your vehicle look good—it’s about 
protecting your investment, preserving 
its value, and enhancing your driving 
experience. By following a thorough, 
step-by-step process, you ensure that 
every inch of your car is cared for, inside 
and out. Whether you choose to detail 
your vehicle yourself or seek 
professional services, regular detailing 
will keep your car looking pristine and 
ready for the road ahead.
THANK YOU
(604) 265-7158
autonationservicecentre.com
1606 Clark Dr, Vancouver, BC
V5L 4Y2, Canada