Some people think that auto reconditioning is synonymous to auto detailing. The truth of the matter is they’re two different processes. One should not use them interchangeably. So, what’s the difference? What distinguishes auto reconditioning from auto detailing?

In a nutshell, auto reconditioning repairs major car body and interior damage. On the other hand, auto detailing cleans and preserves a car’s body and its interior. For the nitty-gritty details, read on and find out.

What’s the Difference between Auto Reconditioning and Auto Detailing?

Auto Reconditioning

Auto reconditioning is the process of repairing and restoring a vehicle from a major car body damage. It brings it back to its pre-damaged state, or even better. You can have an auto reconditioning professional fix the damage or perform dent removal on-site. An auto reconditioning expert repairs dents, bumpers or major “fender benders” as independent services. Other auto reconditioning services include:

• Car body painting
• Mechanical repairs
• Engine and transmission repair
• Brake repair and replacement
• Car window replacement
• Spare parts replacement
• Preventive maintenance service
• Headlight restoration
• Plastic trim restoration
• Cigarette burn hole repair
• Rock paint chip repair
• Vinyl and leather repair
• Carpet dying
• Odor removal
• Clear bra protection

Why are people going for this service? Here’s the simple answer – to increase their car’s trade-in or resale value. Because of the high price of new vehicles, people are now preferring to buy pre-owned vehicles. Did you know that, on average, cars on the road nowadays are nine years and older? So, upgrading a vehicle’s appearance is a surefire way to attract buyers.

Auto Detailing

Auto detailing is the process of extensive and complete cleaning of both the exterior and interior of a car. Add-on services may include fixing and preventing minor scratches.

Some car owners would perform detailing on their own. However, it may not be as thorough as that of a car detailing expert’s work. You can have your car detailed in an auto detail shop. An auto detailing expert executes the complete car detailing package. It includes professional auto washing and full auto detailing (exterior and interior). Professional auto detailing requires expertise in applying the appropriate technique or solution to a specific car’s auto detailing requirements.

A highly-trained auto detailing expert knows what kind of water pressure or steam power to use. Moreover, he or she will know the exact type of car detailing machine, biodegradable solutions, or polishing agents to use on a specific car surface. This kind of expertise guarantees high quality work. Therefore, outcome is a glossy shine with no visible scratches on the car body.

Professional detailing services cover the following work on the car’s exterior and interior:

• Washing
• Waxing
• Bug and tar removal
• Clay bar surface or nano mitt
• Using degreaser
• Dressing outside plastics and rubber
• Waxing or wax sealant
• Buffing
• Cleaning and dressing tires
• Cleaning the engine
• Minor dent repair
• Ventilation decontamination
• Headlight restoration
• Touch-up painting
• Fixing scratches
• Applying paint and protective coating
• Vacuuming interior and trunk space
• Steam cleaning
• Cleaning windows and mirrors
• Door jambs cleaning
• Cleaning dashboard, console, vents
• Cleaning and dressing interior leather, vinyl and rubber sidings
• Spot cleaning the interior roof
• Shampooing seats, mats, carpets and door panels

In Conclusion

In summary, both auto reconditioning and auto detailing take care of the exterior and interior of a vehicle. Additionally, both are executed by professionals who are experts in their respective specialties. Finally, both processes increase a vehicle’s value and longevity. However, this is where the similarities finish.

On the other hand come the differences. Auto detailing is a maintenance-based service to keep your vehicle clean and shiny. Additionally, it needs to be done periodically. Work may or may not include some minor scratch repair or paint job. Thus, it is quite time consuming when done on a regular basis. Meanwhile, auto reconditioning is performed on an “as needed” basis. The process takes longer because it is a one-time, big-time job. Either way, the length of time to complete a job depends on the kind of damage repair that needs to be done.

So, which service should you go for – auto reconditioning or auto detailing? It all boils down to what you need and want. If the car has a lot of damages, have it reconditioned. Just be prepared for the high cost it might entail.  Otherwise, schedule an appointment with DetailXPerts to have a professional detail your car.

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