Detailing Preparation Checklist: Before Your Appointment

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:

1. Point out areas of concern
2. Mention any stains (and their source)
3. Note any damage you're aware of
4. Discuss expected results
5. Confirm service package and pricing
6. Get estimated completion time
7. 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

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

1. Inspect the work in good lighting
2. Ask about any issues discovered
3. Get care recommendations
4. Understand maintenance schedule
5. 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

Learn more: Professional Detailing Services — see our packages.

📞 Book your detail

📍 Visit our Gilroy shop — we're happy to answer questions.

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Visit the Experts in Gilroy

Blackout Window Tinting is the Bay Area's premier choice for premium auto protection. Based in Gilroy at 610 Holloway Rd (behind Target), we've served the South County and Silicon Valley area for over 30 years. Whether you're coming from Morgan Hill, Hollister, or anywhere else in the Bay Area, we're your trusted local source for professional window tint, PPF, and ceramic coating.

📞 Questions? Call us at 408-848-8468 or get a free quote online.

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