These are just a few examples of why a detailer with "certifications" or other "credentials" doesn't necessarily mean they are qualified to work on YOUR car.

The owner of this new 135i had some waterspots, so he took it to a local detailing shop that had Meguiar's certifications all over the walls. He felt confident that these guys knew what they were doing.....

Well first off, to remove water spots...buffing may not be my first response to the problem.

Second, the detailer should have known that Jet Black is very soft and should have taken appropriate steps to buff it correctly.


Under my lighting rig in the shop


Test 1 correction spot with LC white pad and rotary


Test 2 Correction Spot using PC and White LC Pad with Swirl


Here's another example..Dodge SRT


The owner hires a detailer to polish his paint. The detailer tells the owner that he needs to wetsand the paint instead. He charges him $350. $350 to wetsand/compound a truck this size???? This is easily a 2 day job, but no, this guy spends a few hours and does it all by hand.

Under my lights we see that there are sanding scratches in all directions all over the paint. Deep gouges, and just a mess.



Fortunately the owner finds me and I show him how it SHOULD be done. I compound it with my Makita buffer and follow with Prima Swirl. The darker area on the left has been properly polished, the side on the right is the original.



So there you have it. Two cars in one day that came to my shop with problems caused by detailers. Don't become a victim. Make sure you have ALL the facts first. Or call/PM me for advice if you aren't sure!

Richard