Questions and Answers

Automotive Detailing Q. Hello Mr. Ciulla, Hope you're doing well. I have a short and basic question and would appreciate your response on it. I drive a Honda Civic EX 1996. Over the last year a lot of tree sap has fallen on it causing visible spots. I tried to take them out with some grease removers bought from Pep Boys but that has not helped. Would detailing help this problem?

Could you please tell me what procedures are involved in detailing (what different things a body shop does?) and does it take care of problems such marks from tree sap, scratches, etc? Appreciate your response for enlightening me on this topic! Thanks!

Best regards,
Navin

A. A good automotive detailer will make your car as clean as possible, inside and out. Services vary but generally include a wash, compound and wax. They also have specialized chemicals for removing any kind of slop gets on your car. I have both my cars detailed once a year and they look like they just came from the show room.

When you go to an auto detailer, they will have a list of what they do. Make sure you have them do whatever you want that in not on the list, carpet shampooing for instance. Some do it and some don't. If you want it done, then be sure to tell them.

A automotive detailing can cost from $100.00 to $200.00 depending on what is done. A new car dealer can do it for you as well as most body shops. There are also independent shops that just do detailing that would be worth checking out.