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  • The importance of Ceramic Window Tint: A clear view of innovation

    When it comes to enhancing the comfort and aesthetics of your vehicle, ceramic window tint is a game-changer. Gone are the days of dark, reflective window films that obscure your view and make your car feel like a cave. Today, ceramic window tint has emerged as a superior alternative, offering a multitude of benefits that go beyond just looking cool. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of ceramic window tint and why it has become the go-to choice for car owners who seek the perfect blend of style and substance. Solar Heat Rejection One of the primary advantages of ceramic window tint is its remarkable ability to reject solar heat. Unlike traditional window tints, ceramic films are engineered with advanced technology that allows them to block out a significant portion of the sun's infrared radiation. This results in a cooler interior, especially on hot summer days, making your driving experience more comfortable and reducing the need for excessive air conditioning. It also preserves the condition of your vehicle's interior by reducing heat-induced wear and tear. UV Protection Ceramic window tint offers robust protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays can cause not only skin damage but also fade and deteriorate the interior of your vehicle. The superior UV-blocking capabilities of ceramic window tint help shield your skin and the upholstery, dashboard, and other surfaces within your car, thus extending their lifespan and maintaining their aesthetic appeal. Enhanced Clarity One of the most remarkable features of ceramic window tint is its exceptional clarity. Unlike metallic or dyed films, ceramic tints are virtually non-reflective and do not interfere with radio signals, cell phone reception, or other electronic devices. This ensures that you can maintain a crystal-clear view of the road while enjoying all the benefits of tinted windows. Reduced Glare Glare from sunlight or headlights of other vehicles can be a major distraction and safety hazard on the road. Ceramic window tint significantly reduces this glare, providing a more comfortable and safer driving experience, especially during dawn, dusk, or when driving in bright, sunny conditions. Privacy and Security Ceramic window tint enhances privacy by making it difficult for prying eyes to see into your vehicle. This added layer of security not only deters theft but also provides a sense of comfort and safety, particularly when driving in unfamiliar areas or leaving your vehicle unattended. Durability Ceramic window tint is known for its exceptional durability. It is less likely to fade, bubble, or discolor over time compared to traditional window tints. This means you won't have to worry about frequent replacements or maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run. In the world of window tinting, ceramic window tint stands out as a true innovation. It offers a wide array of benefits, from solar heat rejection and UV protection to enhanced clarity, reduced glare, and added privacy and security. Not only does it improve the comfort of your vehicle, but it also prolongs the life of your interior and reduces the strain on your air conditioning system, saving you money in the process. So, if you're looking to upgrade your vehicle with window tinting that combines style with substance, consider the importance of ceramic window tint. It's a wise investment that not only enhances your driving experience but also adds value to your car. With ceramic window tint, you can enjoy a clearer, cooler, and more comfortable journey, no matter where the road takes you .

  • The importance of detailing a car before Auto Transport

    When it comes to moving a vehicle from one place to another, whether it's across the country or to a neighboring state, auto transport is a convenient and efficient solution. However, many people overlook a crucial step in the process – detailing their cars before shipping them. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of detailing your car before auto transport and how it can benefit both your vehicle and your peace of mind. Protecting Your Investment Your car is likely one of the most significant investments you've made, and you want to ensure it arrives at its destination in the same condition it left. Detailing your car before auto transport helps protect your investment by creating a barrier against potential damage during transit. A clean, ceramic coated, and polished surface or paint protection film covered surface is less likely to sustain minor scratches, dirt, or dust buildup. Improved Inspection Process Auto transport companies typically conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle before loading it onto a carrier. Having a clean car makes it easier for both you and the carrier's personnel to identify any pre-existing damage. This transparency ensures a smoother and more accurate inspection process, which can be crucial when it comes to insurance claims or dispute resolution. Preventing Damage from Debris During the transportation process, your vehicle will be exposed to various environmental elements, including road debris, dust, and potential weather-related issues. A well-detailed car provides an additional layer of protection against these elements. A coat of ceramic, for example, can help repel water and contaminants, reducing the risk of damage to your car's finish. Enhancing the Resale Value Detailing your car isn't just beneficial for the immediate transport; it also contributes to the long-term value of your vehicle. Regular detailing keeps your car's exterior and interior in pristine condition, which can significantly enhance its resale value. A well-maintained car is more appealing to potential buyers, and it may fetch a higher price when you decide to sell or trade it in. Peace of Mind Knowing that your vehicle is in the best possible condition before auto transport can provide you with peace of mind throughout the entire process. You won't have to worry about minor blemishes or dirt accumulation, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move. Respect for Transport Professionals Detailing your car before auto transport demonstrates respect for the transport professionals responsible for handling your vehicle. It shows that you take the process seriously and are committed to ensuring your car's safe arrival. Building a positive relationship with your transport provider can lead to a smoother and more reliable experience. Detailing your car before auto transport is a simple yet crucial step in the process. It protects your investment, streamlines the inspection process, prevents damage from debris, enhances resale value, and ultimately provides you with peace of mind. By taking the time to prepare your vehicle properly, you can enjoy a worry-free auto transport experience and ensure that your prized possession arrives at its destination in top-notch condition. Remember, a little extra effort in detailing your car can go a long way in preserving its beauty and value.

  • Why Regularly Scheduled Auto Detailing is Important

    Your car is not just a mode of transportation; it's a reflection of your personality and a significant investment. To keep it looking its best and maintain its value, regular maintenance is essential. One often overlooked aspect of car care is auto detailing. Many car owners limit detailing to special occasions, but the benefits of regularly scheduled auto detailing services are numerous and far-reaching. In this article, we'll explore why investing in regular auto detailing can help you enjoy a cleaner, more attractive, and longer-lasting vehicle. Preserve Your Car's Value One of the most significant benefits of regular auto detailing is preserving your car's value. A well-maintained vehicle will fetch a higher resale price when the time comes to upgrade or sell. Auto detailing involves cleaning and protecting the exterior and interior surfaces, which helps prevent damage and wear over time. This can make a substantial difference in the resale value of your car. Protect the Paint and Finish Your car's paint and finish are constantly exposed to various environmental factors, including UV rays, road debris, bird droppings, and more. Regular detailing helps protect the paint and clear coat by applying wax or paint sealants that create a protective barrier. This barrier shields your car from contaminants and prevents oxidation, ensuring your vehicle looks newer for longer. Enhance Aesthetic Appeal Regular auto detailing can work wonders for your car's appearance. A thorough cleaning and polishing session can restore that showroom shine, making your vehicle look as good as new. This not only enhances your car's overall aesthetic appeal but also boosts your confidence as you drive around in a clean, polished vehicle. Improve Interior Comfort Auto detailing is not just about the exterior; it's also about creating a pleasant and comfortable interior space. A clean and well-maintained interior provides a more enjoyable driving experience. Regular detailing services include vacuuming, steam cleaning, and leather conditioning, which can extend the life of your upholstery and make your car's cabin a more inviting place to be. Remove Contaminants and Allergens Over time, your car's interior can accumulate dust, dirt, allergens, and even bacteria. Regular auto detailing includes a deep cleaning process that removes these contaminants, promoting a healthier environment for you and your passengers. This is especially important if you or your loved ones suffer from allergies or respiratory issues. Prevent Mechanical Issues Believe it or not, regular auto detailing can also contribute to the longevity of your vehicle's mechanical components. Keeping your car clean prevents dirt and grime from accumulating in hard-to-reach areas, reducing the risk of corrosion and mechanical issues down the road. Boost Your Car's Resale Potential When it's time to sell your car or trade it in for a newer model, a well-detailed vehicle stands out. Potential buyers or dealerships are more likely to offer a higher price for a car that looks well-cared-for. Regular detailing not only maintains your car's condition but also increases its resale potential. Incorporating regularly scheduled auto detailing services into your car maintenance routine is a wise investment that pays off in numerous ways. It helps preserve your car's value, protects the paint and finish, enhances the aesthetic appeal, improves interior comfort, removes contaminants, prevents mechanical issues, and boosts resale potential. Ultimately, regular auto detailing is a small price to pay for the significant benefits it offers, ensuring your car remains a source of pride and enjoyment for years to come. So, don't wait for a special occasion; schedule your next auto detailing appointment today and reap the rewards of a cleaner, more attractive, and longer-lasting vehicle.

  • I asked CHATGPT to design me an auto detailing menu, its just not expensive enough

    Welcome to [Your Name]'s Luxury Auto Detailing At [Your Name]'s Luxury Auto Detailing, we understand that your high-end vehicle deserves nothing but the best. Our meticulous attention to detail and dedication to perfection ensure that your prized possession receives the royal treatment it deserves. Explore our menu of exclusive services tailored to meet the needs of the most discerning car enthusiasts. Exterior Services: Diamond Supreme Wash Hand wash using pH-balanced shampoo and lambswool mitts. Multi-step paint decontamination process, including iron and tar removal. Application of hydrophobic foam for enhanced water repellency. Drying using premium microfiber towels. Price: $250 Crystal Clear Paint Enhancement Two-stage paint correction to remove light swirl marks and imperfections. High-quality polishing to restore depth and clarity to the paint. Application of premium synthetic sealant for long-lasting protection. Price: $800 Ultimate Ceramic Coating Intensive paint correction to eliminate moderate imperfections. Application of ultra-durable ceramic coating for extreme gloss and protection. Wheel and caliper ceramic coating included. Price: $1500 Interior Services: Platinum Interior Detail Thorough vacuuming and compressed air cleaning. Deep cleaning of leather surfaces with pH-balanced solutions. Steam cleaning and sanitization of carpets and upholstery. Application of leather conditioner and fabric protectant. Price: $350 VIP Leather Restoration Intensive leather cleaning and color restoration. Treatment of leather with premium nourishing products. Removal of scratches and scuffs from leather surfaces. Price: $600 Crystal Glass Elegance Precision cleaning of all glass and mirror surfaces. Nanotechnology glass sealant for unparalleled water and dirt repellency. Restoration of windshield clarity for enhanced driving visibility. Price: $200 Add-On Services: Wheel Perfection Package Deep cleaning and degreasing of wheels and tires. Application of heat-resistant wheel wax for lasting shine. Price: $150 Engine Bay Showcase Gentle cleaning and degreasing of the engine bay. Dressing applied to hoses, plastics, and rubber components. Price: $250 Concierge Service Complimentary vehicle pickup and delivery within a specified radius. Personalized consultation to tailor services to your car's needs. Price: Variable based on location Maintenance Plans: Quarterly Perfection Package Keep your car's shine and protection at its peak all year round. Includes Diamond Supreme Wash, Crystal Clear Paint Enhancement, and Interior Touch-Up. Price: Starting at $1800 per quarter Biannual Royal Revival Comprehensive care every six months to maintain your vehicle's brilliance. Includes Ultimate Ceramic Coating, VIP Leather Restoration, and Crystal Glass Elegance. Price: Starting at $3000 every six months Indulge your vehicle in the luxury it deserves at [Your Name]'s Luxury Auto Detailing. Our artisans are passionate about elevating your driving experience through unparalleled craftsmanship. Contact us to schedule an appointment and discover the epitome of automotive detailing excellence. (Note: Prices are for illustrative purposes and may vary based on location, vehicle size, and condition.)

  • Preserving Brilliance: The Indispensable Importance of Paint Protection Film

    Your car, more than just a mode of transportation, is a reflection of your personality and taste. The sleek curves, the gleaming finish, and the vibrant color are all meticulously chosen to mirror your unique style. However, as much as you cherish your vehicle's appearance, the road ahead is fraught with potential hazards that could mar its beauty. This is where Paint Protection Film (PPF) steps in – a modern marvel that has revolutionized the way we safeguard our automobiles. The Road's Wrath From gravel to debris, insects to harsh weather conditions, the daily journey exposes your car's exterior to an array of threats that can take a toll on its pristine finish. Rocks propelled by other vehicles, road salt in winter, and even UV rays can gradually erode the luster of your car's paint, causing it to lose its vibrancy and shine over time. These potential hazards can lead to costly repairs, fading aesthetics, and even diminished resale value. The Guardian: Paint Protection Film Enter Paint Protection Film – a transparent, thin layer of polyurethane that adheres to the surface of your car. This innovative solution forms an invisible barrier that guards against various external factors, maintaining your vehicle's original beauty and brilliance. The advantages of PPF extend far beyond just preserving aesthetics; they encompass practicality, cost-effectiveness, and convenience. Benefits of Paint Protection Film Preservation of Aesthetics: PPF acts as a sacrificial layer, absorbing the impact of debris and minor scratches without affecting the underlying paint. This keeps your car looking new for longer, allowing you to showcase its allure without compromise. Defence Against Debris: Stones, gravel, and other road debris pose a constant risk to your car's finish. PPF's self-healing properties ensure that minor scratches and scuffs disappear over time, keeping your car's surface unblemished. UV Radiation Shield: PPF not only safeguards against physical threats but also shields your vehicle's paint from the sun's harmful UV rays. UV rays can cause paint fading and deterioration, which can be prevented by the protective film. Seamless Integration: Modern PPF technology ensures a virtually invisible layer. When professionally applied, it seamlessly integrates with your car's contours, maintaining its original appearance. Enhanced Resale Value: A well-maintained exterior significantly boosts your car's resale value. A vehicle with preserved paintwork and minimal blemishes is far more attractive to potential buyers. Cost Savings: While applying PPF requires an initial investment, it can lead to significant savings in the long run by reducing the need for paint touch-ups, polishing, and other expensive restorative procedures. In a world where our vehicles are not just transportation but extensions of our identity, protecting their appearance becomes a priority. Paint Protection Film serves as an invaluable shield, preserving the aesthetic allure and value of your car for years to come. As the automotive industry continues to innovate, embracing PPF is a proactive step towards ensuring that the beauty you fell in love with remains intact, despite the road's challenges. Remember, it's not just about protecting paint; it's about preserving a masterpiece that's uniquely yours. Give Wicked Auto films and detailing a call for a quote today! 714-587-2074

  • I Priced Shopped 30 of the highest rated paint protection and detailing shops in OC - I am Appalled

    The past month or so I’ve price shopped over 30 of the highest rated ppf and detail shops in Orange County alone (which really goes to show how truly saturated this industry is) and I was both amused and appalled by my findings. This is a long read but offers great insight into what goes on in this industry if you have a few minutes. I was amused at some of the pricing for front end ppf I found not because it was too low but by how overpriced some of the shops were who were using out dated films. What really amused me about the overpriced ones was then their full car wrap pricing. I cannot believe how low some of these places charged for full car wraps claiming disassembly included on high end cars and all that especially given how expensive some of their front end prices were. Front end uses minimal film compared to the other 2/3 of the car. Why is your front end price $2400 but full car only $4000 - $5000 , and I’m sorry but if you’re selling old formulas with no top coats and tons of orange peel, you should not be charging $2400 For a front end on a tesla, but you must be a good salesmen or slow in the ppf department if you get folks to pay that when there’s tons of great shops who do premium quality with same film or better film for less. Although generally super high priced front ends means they are subcontracting and their installers whole sale price might be high. Another tell tale sign of subcontractor use is if they’re booked out a month or two on ppf, this means their guy is already booked at every other shop in the area. Nothing wrong with contractors but sometimes it can make warranty work more difficult or non existent. I know someone who offers no manufacturer warranty to work at shops but then the shops still say oh the film has this many years warranty even though you’ll never be able to use it because they aren’t a true authorized dealer. You don’t know if the shop will come out of pocket or not 5 years later on a failed filled claim or if their contractor is even still around. I personally have paid out of pocket for 5+ cars window tint on a film we used to use that had some failures. The guy who did the cars for me vanished so I had to hire someone else to do it. I don’t know how many shops actually do the right thing. We’ve certainly heard plenty of stories over the years. What I was appalled by though more than anything was how much MISINFORMATION was given about products, warranties, procedure, effectiveness, etc. Many film manufacturers have changed their warranty to limit it to only warranty issues if the installer finds the issue before the car leaves the shop. Some don’t cover yellowing anymore if you read the fine print. Some don’t cover unless the installer has a temp controlled shop and uses products specifically from that manufacturer to prep, install, maintain, but you’ll only find that if you actually read the warranty and not just listen to the guy on the phone. A few shops told me that films with built in ceramic coatings like STEK, suntek reaction, ceramic pro etc didn’t exist! Even though they were selling a brand that carried a more expensive better and up to date film with built in coatings, they are not staying up to date with their product knowledge but charging like they are. Another shop told me they don’t use the ceramic coated film because they think the coating they put on top of the out dated film works better and that the ceramic coated film is too expensive. In reality that ceramic coating won’t last nearly as long and they are just trying to yank higher profit on cheaper film. We learned a while back from another shop that when you ceramic coat ppf that is not already coated like Xpel ultimate plus or suntek ultra or Hexis bodyfence a lot of the time the self healing for swirls stops working. I noticed when I first started selling ppf that cars would come back looking terrible like 6-12 months later and swirls would not self heal. After learning about this, we stopped doing that and stopped seeing issues. But every installer wants to sell you ceramic coating on top which honestly shouldn’t cost more than $750 on a fresh fully wrapped vehicle but places are trying to charge you $1500 for something that maybe lasts 2-3 years on top in perfect conditions. No one tells you this. Another thing that people always trash talk is pre cut film, sure 5-10 years ago most of them looked like shit. Now they look very nice most of the time and can be edited by the user. A properly edited pattern will give equal coverage that looks just as good or has seams in the same places a bulk cut would while also maintaining straight edges. With bulk you might get jagged edges as you need surgical precision to cut ppf without cutting into paint underneath. I’m sorry but ppf installers are not heart surgeons, I’ve seen a ton of cut paint even from the “pros”. Bulk cut is good for certain stuff that’s maybe not the best pattern on software as some of them sometimes are not so great or to do certain eccentric panels on exotic cars, hoods, roof, etc but we used to always bulk cut and now that I’m plotting panels we’re seeing better results honestly most of the time. You are going to like your ppf either way though as long as they actually wrap the edges and plot properly. The guy doing custom for $1800 and the guy doing pre cut for $1800 will probably look 95% the same. Places told me your film will be perfect and invisible everywhere. They left out the part where they tell you it’s protection not perfection and there’s going to actually be seams on panels like bumpers, mirrors, weirdly shaped panels. They told me that the film is always perfectly clear and has no defects when most film has minor defects off the roll, have orange peel or highlight your orange peel more after install. A few shops said the film has no orange peel when I know those brands do. A few shops tried to sell me paint correction before ppf which is a huge waste of money because clear bra hides all surface defects, swirls, water spots or anything you can’t feel with a fingernail. During the application process probably 75% of installers will mar up your paint using not very soft lint free towels to prep the panel, wiping with squeegees etc. during removal unless the film is under a year old, you generally swirl the crap out of the paint doing removals. Paint correction does not enhance gloss under the film either. I have tested this many times. When should I remove my film? That 10 year longevity is gonna cost you 10 years paycheck to remove off your car when the adhesive is that old and the film has taken a beating being your daily driver. In California or hot states you realistically are looking at 5 years before top facing surfaces start to fail and will still likely be difficult to remove on a daily driver exposed to the sun. A garage kept rarely driven car will undoubtedly get more longevity but not a single shop mentioned any this to me. My favorite thing i heard which I’m guilty of myself though is I’m the number 1 installer of this in Orange County. If 30 shops are number 1, then who is actually number 1? Obviously we tell people we’re the highest rated around too but it is really funny to hear everyone else saying it too even though some of these shops I knew to produce some low quality work despite their online reputation. Somehow some people don’t notice crappier work from other places and still leave a stellar review, almost every customer that comes to me however goes over their car with a fine tooth comb and complain immediately about a tiny bubble that will cure out. It’s no wonder that so many people have such high expectations for ppf and films now. All these shops and YouTubers are claiming it’s all going to be perfect when in reality it never is. There is a lot of knowledge to know in this industry. I was really surprised that my high level competitors were selling this stuff the way that they were. I always try to set expectations perfectly because I really hate when people come back and say “why didn’t my film work against this huge rock” or “why is there a seam on the bumper, I thought there were zero seams”. This is another reason why I always preach to be careful where you shop because you may not be getting what you’re promised or you may be over paying for lesser quality material. Some shops do learn from mistakes though, I certainly have. I had to figure out a lot on my own and try real hard to learn the proper info after just reading the manufacturer brochure. If you choose not to learn or you don’t learn from mistakes, then that sucks for your customer. This industry is just wild. I could write another 16 pages about misinformation on ceramic coating but I’ll save that for another day.

  • 8 Things Detailing/Paint Protection shops hate when customers do

    When you're in need of detailing or paint protection services make sure you avoid doing these 7 things that annoy or aggravate the services working on your car. Leaving your vehicle as messy as possible for the detailer Yes you are getting your car detailed but should you drop it off in the worst condition possible filled with garbage? Absolutely not, Unless you want to pay the price. Most detailers are not trash removal services, the interior detailing job usually consists of vacuuming the carpets, seats, floor mats, wiping down other surfaces with cleaning and potentially shampooing stains. Most detailers hate when you show up with a ton of trash or belongings in your vehicle I.E: used tissues, food wrappers, clothing, drink bottles, take out drink cups with soda still in them, etc. This is nasty, we may be a car cleaning service but none of you want to pay us enough to deal with your biohazard of a car. I can't tell you how many countless times people show up for a basic detail service with their car absolutely trashed and disgusting inside expecting us to clean it up for the starting price for interiors. Most of them walk away or get annoyed when told that its going to cost a whole lot more for labor. What do you expect? This adds countless hours onto the job and can severely mess up a work flow schedule. Always remove al l your own trash and send photos of the current condition of your interior that you think "is not that bad". Detailing services hate dealing with this and the generally extra picky/entitled customers that usually drop off vehicles in this condition expecting to pay bottom of the barrel pricing. 2. Watching the service and asking questions or giving your 2 cents You called a professional for a reason right? Your car is dirty, you called the 5 star detailer for your local area whether they be mobile or a brick and mortar so why don't you trust them to get the job done right? Detailers and paint protection film/wrap/tint installers hate when people watch! We understand you might be fascinated by the services if you've never seen them done but there is no need to stand there asking questions, pointing out something that we haven't gotten to yet or asking why we do something one way when joe schmoe on YouTube says to do it another way. If there is something wrong with the service after its completed then say something but if you ask a Tech "Why is that spot still dirty" or "Why is there a bubble right there in the film" or "are you going to wipe that up after you're done?" while they aren't even half way through the job, this is highly annoying and seems accusatory that we aren't doing our job correctly because you do not understand the process. Its also just plain uncomfortable to work while someone is watching your every move and questioning your skill level when they themselves have no idea what they're doing. We don't pretend to know more about your career, so please don't pretend to act like you know more than us about ours. 3. Being overly picky about your service We all want to get exactly what we paid for right? 9/10 times what you pay for is what you get. If you pay for a basic service such as a basic exterior wash or a quick vacuum only interior detail then you need to understand that it is what it is. BASIC. If you bring a car that is trashed and think a car wash is going to remove all the scratches or bird poop etching or that a basic non interior shampoo detail is going to make your interior look perfect again for low cost, you are sorely mistaken. Most services do set expectations and we do our best to point out anything that likely won't come out or would be difficult to do without charging more, but you as the customer need to listen. Detailing is not just some lame no college education job where low pay gets you far. If you want the works and you want perfection you have to pay for it, you can't be getting the poor guys lowest level service and then complaining that this car wash didn't remove a dent in your door or now you can see a scratch you never noticed before and how come it wasn't removed or you spilled coffee 6 months ago and vacuuming the seat didn't remove it. Detailers hate when you pay the bare minimum and expect a golden egg. If you want the car to look 100%, then pay for the 100% package. Don't nitpick when you were on a budget and listen to the professional when they explain what is possible. 4. Pointing out damage you never noticed before but was obviously not done by the service There is no worse feeling than when you finish a car, it looks 100% better than it did before, the customer comes to pick up and immediately points out damage they never noticed was there before. Even BRAND NEW CARS are damaged whether its upon delivery (super common on Tesla or open carry trailer deliveries or even the dealer techs will crash a car) or on your way to the shop for paint protection. Or if you have a car that isn't brand new and never driven, i can almost guarantee you have rock chips, road rash, interior damages, scratches etc in on your vehicle. Auto shops of all kinds are constantly accused of damages that were pre existing. Some people its just coincidental and others actually plan ahead to place blame on a shop to get a free fix. We do our best to fully inspect your vehicle or take video ahead of time to prove no damages but honestly theres always stuff you are not going to capture right away especially if you drop off a dirty car. Sure we can say "We will inspect once washed" but that means its been touched and gives the customer the opportunity to say damage was caused by the worker. Inspection sheets can be a double edged sword because if signed off on and you did not notice damage, could come back to you later. I personally experienced this when we missed a spot on a lower part of a mirror that had been touched up by a previous owner, the owner did not even believe my body worker who said the paint was clearly old, and he accused us of damaging his car in a way that wasn't possible for us and insisted we pay to repaint his mirror. It was after this incident that I started doing video inspections which can still not always pick up on stuff. Most cars have damages and most of the time it wasn't the 5 star service that caused them because most of us will own up to mistakes as were insured and its not a big deal to fix something if you are an honest high rated business. Please know your car before you drop it off, take your own videos, and stop accusing shops of damages and causing huge headaches financially or dragging them through the mud online over a false accusation. In 10 years of being in business, 90% of the accusations against us for damages that were unknown prior to drop off are not something we caused and were super obvious could not of been caused by us. The other 10% my business has paid for without question as any good business would because no one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes, its how you handle the mistakes that defines your business. 5. For PPF in specific: Complaining it doesn't look perfect, has a bubble, a line etc. Paint protection film is a marvelous product, it protects our high value paint from taking physical damage and saves you money, car value and hassle over time. However PPF is not perfect! It is a plastic urethane film with adhesive on the back that we wrap on your vehicle. It is not meant to look exactly like paint, the film itself has its own defects such as little lines, adhesive marks, etc. These are not things the manufacturer will reimburse installers for because that's just how it is and given that most rolls of film start at $1350+ for premium brands of film in only 50 feet (one full car or 3 front ends), the installer is not going to like replacing film because of one little defect somewhere. This is totally normal, it is also normal for most installs to have 1 or 2 pieces of dust underneath as there is really no way to have a truly 100% dust free environment unless you have hundreds of thousands of dollars to invest in a state of the art facility which most of us small businesses do not and those larger businesses still tend to pump out lesser quality work due to the size of their staff who may not care as much as a smaller owner operated shop. If we replace your film over 1 piece of dust, chances are theres going to be another one somewhere else and we just lost most of our profit on the piece of material and skilled labor. THis stuff is meant to protect your paint! not look perfect! Please start listening when services set expecations or read the documents you sign with the businesses policies on fixes for any errors that are not within spec. The car you bought likely isnt 100% perfect from the factory where its built by precision robots and engineers, so why would a piece of aftermarket plastic film look perfect? If you want to pay a $2000 premium on your full front end coverage to cover additional film so you can try to get close to perfect, go right ahead or you could just be happy with the $1895 you spent on the job that is like 95% perfect which is about the max you can do. 6. Watching YouTube videos that say installers should do it a certain way There is tons of misinformation online, my favorite is the misinformation youtube where detailers, film installers etc say stuff like "Oh if your installer didn't do your bumper in one piece with no seams then he's a hack" or "If they didnt do paint correction but sold you a coating, they have no idea what they're doing". There are a lot of idiots online, there are quite a few PPF installers who like to say that they can do every bumper or car with no seams and you can stretch the film or spend the time to get it to stick in a hard corner or whatever. What these guys do not tell you is that they have no idea what they are doing because if you stretch film too far you can damage the integrity of the film, if you try to lay film down where a relief cut should be made then probably in 2-3 months that area is going to bubble up and have issues or if it takes damage it might have issues too because the film was stretched too far. If a software company plots it a certain way, that means that like 8/10 times that that is the best way to do it, maybe a custom bulk install could have 1 less seam somewhere but that's about it. Usually you will have issues when trying to make film look "perfect" . Please do not try to advise your installer on how they should do something because most of them who are good are doing it the way it should be done. IF they have a long history and tons of 5 star reviews, then they are probably doing something right. If a detailer sells you a ceramic coating without paint correction, this doesn't make them a hack, this means you most likely did not want to pay for paint correction and thats okay! Coatings are there to protect and replace wax, many of our customers have no clue their paint is swirly, so why make the job take longer and cost more if the customer doesn't notice and they just want shiny, easy to clean paint? Not every car has to have a show car finish to be ceramic coated and most consumers swirl up their freshly corrected paint within 6 months to the point where you could never tell any work was done! 7. Getting an opinion from another business before going back to ask to fix something There is nothing more annoying in my opinion as a seasoned business owner than a customer who gets work done and then goes somewhere else to make sure it was done right. If you book a service as a highly rated business, chances are you are getting it done right. IF there is something wrong, then chances are they will fix it no questions asked because if something does go wrong, it it usually a fluke issue, or a new employee, or someone just had a bad day and that's okay. Unless a business damaged your vehicle badly, then always give the benefit of the doubt and go back to ask to fix whatever issue you may have. Most other shops will tell you stuff like " oh don't go back there, just let us re do it" because they want your money, they know you'll likely try to charge back the other shop and then re-spend with them when realistically, you could have probably done a simple fix with the shop that did the work originally. Do not go charging back your purchase or go on an internet tirade because of a few lifting edges, bubbles, high spots etc. Most of us paint protection an detailing businesses are small, charging back a major purchase is detrimental to a business like us. Most good shops are willing to fix anything and usually have their policies outlined and signed pre-purchase. If you choose to ignore these, then you are honestly the problem here, not the business. If you are booking your service with a 3 star business to save money, then sure go get someone elses opinion because you chose the crappy route and it is probably done incorrectly, but if you go to a 5 star shop and then pull this kind of stunt, you are just being unreasonable, why would they have so many reviews and be constantly busy if they were doing actual bad work? Not every car comes out perfect, there are many factors such as temperature, humidity, air quality, etc that can have a major effect on all these services. You cannot blame or hurt the shop for things that may be out of their control especially if they are willing to fix it. There are too many good businesses being hurt by overly picky clientele or other businesses talking trash. Stop doing this. Always give the benefit of the doubt and go back to see if they will fix it before you decide to chargeback your whole purchase over a small error and cause everyone a headache. Remember these are aftermarket products being applied on your vehicle, they are highly expensive for us to install and sometimes there are issues, it doesn't mean a business is bad. 8. Leaving a bad review even after having your issues solved or before you attempt to resolve It sucks when you get a bad review! This is another thing that can make or break a small business. There is nothing more depressing than when you handled a situation perfectly, honored a warranty, given a refund, etc and then you still wind up with a bad review even though you were super nice, respectful and did everything you possibly could to make things right. Don't be one of those people (karens) who hurts a small business even after they tried to make it right. If you leave a bad review before even trying to resolve the issues then to most of us we just think you have no clue how to confront people or handle a situation and ultimately we lose a lot of respect for you even though we try to reach out to the make things right. Remember that every human being makes mistakes and think about what if a client of your job left you a bad review whether you are an employee being mentioned or an owner and how you might feel when you could really have easily resolved the issue. don't be a karen. If you've done any of these 8 things, you've probably severally aggravated or hurt a small automotive business. Please remember we are all people too and have bills, families, overhead, etc and most of us are willing to work with you. Please help to keep your detailer/paint protection installer happy by not doing the things mentioned in this article and being respectful towards them.

  • Why you should protect your Tesla paint!

    Protecting the paint on your Tesla is important for several reasons. Here are a few reasons why you should consider protecting your Tesla's paint: Maintain its appearance: A Tesla is a sleek and stylish vehicle, and maintaining its appearance is crucial. Protecting the paint will help keep it looking new and shiny for longer. Retain resale value: If you plan on selling your Tesla in the future, protecting the paint can help you retain its resale value. A well-maintained exterior can increase the perceived value of the vehicle, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Protect against environmental damage: Your Tesla's paint is exposed to a variety of environmental elements, including UV rays, rain, snow, and dirt. Over time, these can cause damage to the paint, leading to discoloration, fading, and rust. Protecting the paint can help prevent this damage. Easier to clean: A protected paint surface is much easier to clean than an unprotected one. Dirt and debris are less likely to stick to the paint, making it easier to wash off. There are several ways to protect your Tesla's paint or to do tesla paint protection, including applying a ceramic coating, using paint protection film, or regularly waxing and detailing the car. Investing in paint protection can save you time and money in the long run by helping to prevent costly paint repairs and keeping your Tesla looking its best.

  • The Do’s and Dont's of Window Tint Care

    Capable of blocking out harmful UV rays and an added layer of security, tinted windows are a fantastic upgrade to any car, truck or SUV. Whether you own a car with tinted windows (or plan to have Wicked Auto Detailing tint them for you) one thing is for certain — you need to read this list of the do’s and don’ts of window tint care. Thanks to the pros at Wicked Auto Detailing this list of tips makes it easier than ever before to care for the window tints on your car, truck or SUV. Newly Tinted Windows So you just rolled out of the Wicked Auto Detailing shop here in Santa Ana with some freshly tinted windows and a smile on your face. If you want to keep those tinted windows looking great and a smile on your face — you’ll want to keep the following information in mind. Do Keep Your Windows Rolled Up In the days following the installation of your window tint, the adhesive that bonds the film to the glass is still curing — so avoid rolling your windows down for up to four days after installation. Rolling your windows down before the adhesive cures can be detrimental to the quality of your window tint, causing the tint to peel or form bubbles. If you want to ensure your newly tinted windows will look great for years to come, let them properly cure before you roll your windows down. Don’t Stress When windows are newly tinted it can be quite common to see water pockets or even appear cloudy. That’s right, your freshly tinted windows may have pockets of water or look cloudy — and it’s completely normal. If you notice pockets of water or cloudy film, don’t stress out right away thinking your window tint is faulty. During the installation process, water and a squeegee is used to smoothly apply the tint to the window. This may cause excess water to be left behind, thus forming those small pockets of water you noticed right before you typed in “Bubbles in new window tint” on Google and found this blog post. As the header of this section says — don’t stress — those bubbles will dry out in a few days, and any cloudiness will go away too. If you notice cloudiness or water pockets in your window tint, know that window tint is porous and the water will eventually evaporate. How long it takes for the water pockets to evaporate varies — with warmer weather evaporating them quicker — however, one can expect it to take up to a month. Still noticing cloudiness or water pockets a month after installation? Then bring your car, truck or SUV back to Wicked Auto Detailing and we’ll help you diagnose the problem! Do Wait to Clean Your Windows Now, this may seem counterintuitive, but you will want to hold off on washing your car or cleaning your windows for a few days after tint installation. This waiting period allows the window tint to cure properly which ensures a long lifespan. After a few days have passed, feel free to use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe down the window. With window tints being applied on the inside of the window, it’s not the outside elements you should worry about so much as it is your passengers. From wet-nosed dogs to messy kids, the inside of your windows see a lot of action. That’s why it is important to regularly clean them as it helps elongate the lifespan of your window tint film. The best way to clean the inside of your windows is to use a microfiber cloth and any cleaner without ammonia. Now, soap and water will do just fine, but truly we recommend one of the window tint-friendly cleaners sold here at Wicked Auto Detailing. No matter what cleaner you opt for, the most important thing to keep in mind is to avoid ammonia in any products — ammonia ruins window tint. Already Installed Tints So you own a car with window tints already installed — now let’s learn how to take care of them! Here at Wicked Auto Detailing, we’re all about keeping your favorite car, truck or SUV looking great and that means maintaining your window tint too. Check out this shortlist of the do’s and don’ts of window tint maintenance that we put together for vehicle enthusiasts just like you! Do Brush Away Debris Before you tackle the task of cleaning your tinted windows, you’ll want to brush away any debris first. Wicked Auto Detailing recommends doing so with a soft-bristled brush or soft cloth — both of which are available online or in our store in Santa Ana. The goal of brushing away any debris is to ensure that no dirt or debris is able to scratch your window while you’re wiping them down. This extra precaution will save you plenty of headaches and anguish that is caused by a scratched window or window film. Don’t Use Ammonia This is perhaps one of the most important tips to remember when caring for a vehicle with tinted windows. Using any cleaning products with ammonia is an absolute “don’t” when it comes to window tint as it can break down the adhesive and the film used — ruining the window tint forever. If you’re unsure if a product you want to use contains ammonia or is safe for window tint, remember, you can always use warm soapy water as an alternative. If you want to keep your window tints in tip-top shape with a tint-friendly cleaning product, Wicked Auto Detailing can help you! Here at Wicked Auto Detailing, we have a wide selection of professional-grade cleaning products that are safe for tinted windows for sale — so stop by our Santa Ana today! Do Roll the Window Down Unlike our advice for newly tinted windows, it is important to roll down your windows frequently if they haven’t just been tinted. Rolling down your window will expose the bit of glass that retracts into the window track when rolled completely up. This bit of glass can get extremely dirty, which in turn causes the window tint to start peeling, cracking or bubbling — all things you don’t want your window tint to do! In order to avoid this, simply roll down your windows each time you clean them and get that bit of glass nice and clean. Doing this ensures a long life out of your window tints and helps you get the most out of your hard-earned money. If you’re looking for the perfect cleaning product for your tinted windows, just stop by Wicked Auto Detailing and check out our selection of cleaning products today! Do Stop By Today Now that you know just how to keep your window tints in tip-top shape, the only thing left to “do” is to stop by Wicked Auto Detailing today. Here at Wicked Auto Detailing, we offer a variety of vehicle services including detailing, paint protection, window tinting, ceramic coatings and more! Whether you need a set of cleaning products to keep in your garage or you’re looking for the best professional detailing services in the Santa Ana area, Wicked Auto Detailing is here to help you — so stop by our Santa Ana location today!

  • Ceramic Pro Coating!

    Introducing the revolutionary Ceramic Coating – the ultimate solution for protecting your vehicle's exterior from harmful elements and wear and tear. Our Ceramic Coating provides a high-gloss, hydrophobic finish that repels water, dirt, and debris, making your car easier to clean and maintain. With our Ceramic Coating, your vehicle's paint is protected from the damaging effects of UV rays, acid rain, and environmental pollutants. Say goodbye to fading, chalking, and oxidation – our Ceramic Coating keeps your vehicle looking like new for years to come. Not only does our Ceramic Coating offer superior protection, but it also enhances the overall appearance of your vehicle. The high-gloss finish provides a deep, rich shine that will make your car stand out from the crowd. Investing in a Ceramic Coating is a smart choice for any car owner who wants to protect their investment and maintain the value of their vehicle. Our team of experts will provide a professional installation that will ensure your Ceramic Coating lasts for years to come. Don't wait – protect your vehicle today with our Ceramic Coating and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your car is protected.

  • Keep Your Car Clean like the Pros with These Tips from Wicked Auto Detailing

    Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply a daily driver, keeping your car clean is always a must. And while it may seem like a daunting task to keep your car clean, it truly isn't, especially with this shortlist of tips. These tips are straight from the mouths of the pros here at Wicked Auto Detailing, so you’ll want to read up and soak it all in. Once you’re done reading this blog, you’ll be well on your way to being a detailed master just like the great team here at Wicked Auto Detailing located in Santa Ana. Grab your clay bars and buckle in friends, we’re about to go on a great detailing adventure sponsored by the good folks at Wicked Auto Detailing. Clear it Out The first step to cleaning your car like the pros is pretty simple — clear it out! Trash, debris, last week's hamburger wrapper, you’ll want to get rid of it all. Clearing out the clutter from the interior of your car instantly makes it look better and a lot less “lived in”. Plus, if you had enough stuff in there, you could consider it as fuel savings to clean it all out. Not only is interior clutter unsightly, but it can also be dangerous. If you’re ever in an accident, every item you have on the interior will be tossed around becoming a hazard to you. Plus, who wants to be coated in a two-day-old soda after getting in an accident? Cleaning out the interior of your car is the easiest step, all you need are some trash bags and you’ll be clutter-free in no time. Once you’ve cleaned out the interior of your car, you can move on to our next step detailed below. Scrub it Out Just like the carpet and flooring in our homes, the floor mats in our cars can get pretty dirty. That’s why it’s important for you to pull them out of the car and give them a good scrubbing. Getting your floor mats nice and clean doesn't just look good, it also will help cut down on airborne bacteria and irritants too. Before you get to scrubbing, you may also want to give your floor mats thorough vacuuming. This will get the dirt and debris that has found its way into your car and been compacted down. Once you’re done vacuuming you can get to scrubbing. You’ll want a good brush with semi-firm bristles to attack carpet floor mats, and a good cleaning agent as well. If you have rubber or “all-weather” floor mats, you can skip the vacuum step and just give them a good spray down with your chosen cleaning agent. If you need any cleaning agents or detailing materials, Wicked Auto Detailing has you covered. We carry a variety of professional and consumer detailing products to fit your specific needs, so stop by our Santa Ana location to pick some up today. Vacuum it Out If you have been following our steps thus far, you should have your vacuum out still, so why not tackle the rest of the interior with it? Thoroughly vacuum all carpeted surfaces in your car, including the passenger and rear-seat floorboards, especially if they see high traffic. While you have the vacuum out, it’s probably a good idea to run it over any non-carpeted surfaces that accumulate dust and debris like the dashboard. You can even hit the vents as dust accumulates there and can cause allergies or irritation. A solid vacuum job should leave your car's interior looking fresh and smelling even better, so why not take the time and do your car a solid? If you don’t have the time, don’t worry, Wicked Auto Detailing is here to help. Our pro detailing team will get your car into tip-top shape in no time — call or schedule an appointment online today! Wipe it Out A final step to cleaning your car like a pro is wiping it out. Pick up some interior cleaning and detailing wipes and get to work! We recommend starting from the driver's seat, hitting all the instrumentation and surfaces you touch most. From there, we say no amount of attention to detail is too much. Dig into those cracks and crevices, don’t be afraid to really get in there. You can use things like Q-Tips to get into really tight spaces like between the air vents or radio controls. Work your way throughout the front first, then make a move to the back of the car — don’t forget the cupholders. Don’t want to put painstaking hours into making your interior look perfect? That’s okay, Wicked Auto Detailing is here to help. Our detailing professionals are standing by, waiting to tackle any dirt, grime or clutter you bring in — so stop by today! If All Else Fails Then all you have to do is call Wicked Auto Detailing to set up a detailing appointment — or simply visit our Santa Ana location! Here at Wicked Auto Detailing, we have the best in the business when it comes to car detailing and our work shows it. If you want to keep your car looking like the day it rolled off the showroom floor — you need to visit Wicked Auto Detailing. From Long Beach to Los Angeles and everywhere in between, Wicked Auto Detailing is the best detail shop in California. .

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