Whats up guys. So I've been using the Opti No rinse solution and as great as the product has been, it is kind of a lot of work compared to a regular car wash. But I can't complain since CA is in a drought..

So i resorted to going to a detailing place. They say this guy uses Opti Coat 2.0? I'm not sure what else he uses, but what is the average pay for a detailing job / wax?

Here is the yelp link:

Auto Salon Works - Auto Detailing - Belmont, CA - Reviews - Photos - Yelp

Website:

http://autosalonworks.com/#

I was also going to buy a foam cannon soon but I am going to wait when we aren't in such a bad position with water.

Basic question: Average Price / Average procedures for an average detailing job . (I know location varies prices, just an estimate)

 

What is your exact process for using Optimum No Rinse? A rinseless wash is considerably quicker and easier than traditional washing, and should take no more than 20-30 minutes on an average size car in most cases. There are a few different methods of performing a rinseless wash, but in each case, you should be saving time compared to traditional washes.

Regarding Opti-Coat 2.0 - this product was discontinued about a year ago. It was replaced with a coating called Optimum Gloss Coat, which the site you linked shows as their service. Gloss coat, or other ceramic paint coatings, will be considerably more expensive than traditional waxes or sealants as they take much longer to prep and install on a vehicle. The cost of the product is also substantially higher per vehicle compared to traditional products. The benefit to these types of coatings is that they provide the most durable form of protection on the market that is more chemical resistant, thicker, and longer lasting.

The Benefits of a Paint Coating by Zach McGovern


As far as pricing goes, it will vary greatly depending on the amount of work you are having done and your location. As an example, we charge a base rate of $500 for an exterior service on a sedan which includes a thorough exterior cleaning, decontamination, polish, and sealant or wax application. A paint coating starts at an additional $250 at our shop. I would recommend contacting a couple of shops in your area who can perform the services you are interested in, talking to the detailer about your concerns (or even better yet, visit them for a consultation!), and make your decision based on the perceived quality and knowledge of the detailer rather than just the price. The saying "you get what you pay for" is often true when it comes to automotive work.


Hope that helps! Let me know if you've got any other questions.

Zach McGovern
Detailed Image Ask-A-Pro Blog Author
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