Many people think auto detail and car wash services are interchangeable, but each provides maintenance for your vehicle for different reasons. Below is a breakdown of what each does and why you need it.

Car Wash

Car washing focuses on the exterior of your vehicle, removing dust, pollen, dirt, salt, bug debris, and bird droppings. Cleaning the exterior protects your car’s paint from deterioration, which also maintains your vehicle’s value over time.

Weekly washings are recommended, especially if you drive frequently. It’s also necessary when you live around trees where bird droppings and tree sap are problems. The salt and moisture in the air near the ocean can degrade the exterior paint and finish, as can frequent heavy rainstorms or high heat.

If your car isn’t exposed to the elements much, especially if you park in a covered area, you may be able to stretch to monthly service. Head to a professional hand-wash location since they’ll provide detailed results, getting into every nook and corner. You won’t have to worry about scratches and other damage from machinery either.

Auto Detail

Auto detailing involves cleaning not only the outside, but also the inside. Interior cleaning removes debris and dirt tracked inside the cabin and eliminates any odors and stains on upholstery.

Detailing is most effective when done every four to six months, unless your car accumulates a lot of grime. Typically, the process includes vacuuming every corner and crevice and restoring components so they look as good as new, including tires and windows. Auto detail technicians will use polishes, glass cleaners, and degreasers. They’ll polish the exterior body, wipe down the dashboard, and brush and steam-clean the upholstery, carpets, and floor mats.

To keep your car in sparkling shape, head over to Premier Island Auto Detail. Located in Honolulu since 2016, owner Greg brings almost two decades of industry experience. The company is also an official accredited installation center for System X Ceramic Protection, the top-rated ceramic coating in today’s market that will protect vehicles from everything from harsh elements to dirt and grime. Call (808) 234-9789 to make an appointment, or visit them online for more information on their hand car wash and auto detail services.