Detailing
Detailing Preparation Checklist: Before Your Appointment
Blackout Window Tinting
5 min read
Prepare your car for detailing to get the best results. Complete checklist of what to do before dropping off your vehicle.
Getting your car detailed is an investment. A little preparation on your part ensures the best possible results—and helps your detailer focus on what matters: making your car look amazing.
Before Your Appointment
1. Remove Personal Items
Take out everything:
- Sunglasses and accessories
- Phone chargers and cables
- Change from cupholders
- Documents (registration, papers)
- Aftermarket accessories you want to keep
Why it matters:
- Small items can get damaged or lost
- Detailers need clear access to everything
- Liability concerns for valuables
2. Empty Storage Areas
Clear these spaces:
- Glovebox contents
- Center console storage
- Door pockets
- Seat-back pockets
- Trunk/cargo area
Pro tip: Put items in a bag in your garage so you remember to reload them.
3. Remove Aftermarket Accessories
Consider removing:
- Dash cameras (if easily removed)
- Phone mounts
- Air fresheners hanging from mirror
- Seat covers (unless you want them cleaned)
- Cargo nets and organizers
Leave installed:
- Anything hardwired
- Permanent installations
- Items you want cleaned alongside the car
4. Note Any Damage or Concerns
Document existing issues:
- Chips or scratches you're aware of
- Stains with known causes
- Odor sources (if known)
- Areas needing extra attention
Write these down to share with your detailer at drop-off.
5. Consider a Light Pre-Rinse
If your car is excessively dirty:
- Quick garden hose rinse
- Remove major debris (leaves, mud clumps)
- Let detailer do the proper wash
Do NOT:
- Use pressure washer on paint
- Wipe dirty car (scratching risk)
- Apply any products
6. Check Gas Level
Keep fuel reasonable:
- Quarter tank minimum
- Allows for movement during service
- Prevents running out in detail bay
7. Note Your Drop-Off Time
Confirm logistics:
- Appointment time confirmed
- Know how long service takes
- Arrange pickup or waiting plans
- Have alternative transportation if needed
Day of Appointment
Morning Prep
- Do final personal item sweep
- Shake out loose floor mats
- Check all storage areas one more time
- Grab your garage door opener/parking pass if leaving them
At Drop-Off
Communicate with your detailer:
- Point out areas of concern
- Mention any stains (and their source)
- Note any damage you're aware of
- Discuss expected results
- Confirm service package and pricing
- Get estimated completion time
- Exchange contact info for updates
Leave Your Keys
Include all necessary keys:
- Ignition/start key or fob
- Valet key if leaving full set at home
- Any key that opens trunk/compartments
What Your Detailer Needs to Know
Helpful Information
| Topic | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Pet history | Hair removal approach |
| Smoker vehicle | Odor treatment needed |
| Stain sources | Appropriate cleaner selection |
| Leather vs vinyl | Different care products |
| Modification alerts | Careful around custom work |
Special Requests
Be upfront about:
- Areas you want prioritized
- Anything to avoid or be careful with
- Previous detail work (recent coating, etc.)
- Any allergies to products
What NOT to Do
Don't Pre-Clean
Avoid these:
- Wiping exterior (can scratch)
- Using household cleaners inside
- Applying products yourself
- "Quick vacuum" that moves dirt around
Why: You're paying for professional methods. Pre-cleaning often creates problems.
Don't Leave Valuables
Remove before drop-off:
- Cash
- Jewelry
- Electronics
- Important documents
- Medications
Don't Wait Until Last Minute
Book ahead:
- Premium details book 1-2 weeks out
- Weather delays create backup
- Weekend slots fill quickly
Post-Detail Care
When You Pick Up
- Inspect the work in good lighting
- Ask about any issues discovered
- Get care recommendations
- Understand maintenance schedule
- Review payment and satisfaction
First 24-48 Hours (After Coating/Sealant)
- Don't wash the vehicle
- Avoid parking under trees
- Keep away from sprinklers
- Don't touch paint excessively
- Follow specific cure instructions
Downloadable Checklist
Pre-Detail Prep ✓
Items to Remove:
- Personal belongings
- Glovebox contents
- Console storage
- Trunk items
- Loose change
- Phone accessories
- Seat covers (if desired)
- Valuables
Information to Share:
- Stain locations/causes
- Existing damage
- Pet/smoke history
- Areas of focus
- Special requests
Logistics:
- Appointment time confirmed
- Drop-off arranged
- Alternative transportation planned
- Pickup time scheduled
- Contact info exchanged
We're Here to Help
New to professional detailing? We walk every customer through:
- What to expect
- Where to wait or how we'll contact you
- Any questions about prep
- Realistic outcome expectations
📍 Visit our Gilroy shop — we're happy to answer questions.
