Exterior Detail

Exterior Detailing Process

Pre-Wash

Our process begins with a specialized pre-treatment. We apply a pH-neutral, rinse-less wash solution to the paint, wheels, and tires. Unlike a traditional water pre-rinse, this innovative solution is specifically designed to break down dirt, road grime, and contaminants without excessive water usage. By encapsulating and loosening debris from the surface, it prepares your vehicle for a more efficient and effective wash. Once the solution has done its work, we follow up with a pressure wash to ensure a deep, thorough clean without compromising the paint’s integrity.

Wheel/Tire Clean

We understand that wheels and tires accumulate the most stubborn dirt and grime, which is why we dedicate special attention to these areas. Our non-acidic, alkaline-based cleaner is safe for all wheel types—whether clear-coated, powder-coated, chrome, alloy, or painted. This cleaner is specifically formulated to break down contaminants, and with a variety of soft-bristled brushes, we meticulously agitate and clean the wheels, restoring their shine and cleanliness. Your wheels will look as good as new, free from any grime or buildup.

Undercarriage Wash

Our process begins with a thorough undercarriage wash to remove dirt, grime, and road salts that accumulate beneath your vehicle. Using a specialized high-pressure nozzle, we direct water to the underside of the vehicle, dislodging any debris that may have built up during driving. This step helps to protect vulnerable areas such as the suspension, exhaust, and brake components from corrosion and damage. By cleaning these hard-to-reach areas, we ensure your vehicle is free from the contaminants that can cause long-term deterioration.

Hand Wash

Our hand wash process goes beyond the basics to ensure your vehicle is thoroughly cleaned and protected. We begin by applying a pH-neutral soap solution and use high-quality microfiber mitts to trap dirt and contaminants during the wash. Utilizing the two-bucket method—one filled with soapy water and the other with clean rinse water—we ensure the mitts remain free from dirt, reducing the risk of scratching. We wash from top to bottom, starting with the cleanest areas to minimize any chance of debris causing damage.

Spot-Free Rinse

To ensure a pristine, streak-free finish, we use a professional-grade spot-free rinse that eliminates water spots and mineral deposits. This advanced filtration process removes impurities from the water, preventing unsightly streaks and residue that can dull your vehicle’s shine. Unlike regular rinses that leave behind contaminants, this pure water rinse allows the surface to dry flawlessly, preserving the clarity and gloss of your paint. It’s the perfect final touch to keep your vehicle looking freshly detailed, spotless, and showroom-ready—every time.

Paint Decontamination

(Not Included in the Basic Detail)

Once the vehicle is clean, we take the next step by performing a two-step paint decontamination process to remove any embedded contaminants that washing alone cannot eliminate. This process not only restores smoothness but also preps the surface for protective treatments.

• Chemical Decontamination: To break down and remove contaminants from the surface, we apply two specialized solutions:

• Iron Decontamination: This solution removes iron particles and brake dust that have become embedded in the paint.
  Note: Iron removers are only applied in temperatures under 75°F and in overcast conditions to prevent premature drying and potential paint damage. Not recommended for use on wrapped vehicles. For more information, click here:

• Tar Remover: We use a high-performance tar remover to eliminate any tar and sticky residues on the surface, ensuring a clean and smooth finish.

• Mechanical Decontamination: Following chemical decontamination, we perform a clay bar treatment to remove any remaining bonded contaminants.

• Clay Bar: This process is performed on the paint, glass, fiberglass, and wheels to ensure an incredibly smooth, clean surface—fully prepped for protection.
  Note: Clay bar treatment is not recommended for graphene or ceramic-coated vehicles.

  For more information on Paint Decontamination, please refer to our other article:

Hydrophobic Ceramic Spray Coating

(Not Included in the Basic Detail)

To enhance and protect your vehicle’s freshly cleaned surface, we apply a cutting-edge ceramic-infused sealant that outperforms traditional wax. This advanced hydrophobic coating forms a durable barrier that repels water, dirt, and contaminants while protecting against UV rays and environmental damage. Unlike wax, which breaks down quickly, this premium sealant lasts up to 3 months, keeping your vehicle glossier and easier to maintain for longer. It enhances depth, shine, and slickness, leaving a mirror-like finish. If a Paint Correction is requested, this protective coating is applied afterward to lock in the smooth, polished surface for maximum longevity and shine. This is again followed by a Spot-Free Rinse.

Drying

Once the vehicle is washed and decontaminated, we move to the drying process. To minimize direct contact with your vehicle’s surface, we use a high-powered, cordless electric blower to air-dry and remove excess water. This step speeds up the drying process and reduces the likelihood of water spots. Afterward, we apply a drying-aid solution that lubricates the surface, adds gloss, and further prevents water spots. Finally, we hand dry the vehicle using premium microfiber towels to ensure a streak-free, pristine finish.

Glass Treatment

After the vehicle is completely dry, we focus on the glass surfaces. Using a specialized glass cleaner and microfiber towels, we thoroughly clean and polish the windows and windshields. This step restores clarity and removes any water spots or contaminants, improving both visibility and the overall aesthetic of your vehicle.

Tire Dressing

The finishing touch to your exterior detailing is the application of a water-based tire dressing. This eco-friendly solution provides a rich, matte or satin finish that enhances the sidewalls of your tires without being harsh on the rubber. Unlike petroleum-based dressings, which can break down rubber over time and attract more dirt, our water-based dressing provides a longer-lasting, cleaner, and more sustainable finish. It lasts 1 to 2 weeks, offering both protection and a fresh, clean look without the risk of attracting excess grime.

With our comprehensive exterior detailing process, your vehicle will not only look its absolute best but will also be protected with the highest level of care and precision. Trust Snyder’s Squeaky Clean to restore and maintain the shine and integrity of your car’s finish with the utmost professionalism.