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Diamond Certified Category Report

Sonoma County – Auto Detailing & Washing

Advanced Auto Glass & Detail

(707) 876-7434
CONTACT 2460 Santa Rosa Avenue
Santa Rosa CA 95407

LICENSE 219189

DIAMOND CERTIFIED COMPANY REPORT

Tiffany and Austin Jacobs, Owners

Advanced Auto Glass & Detail provides a variety of services at its Santa Rosa facility, including auto glass replacement, windshield repair, window tinting, and complete interior and exterior auto detailing for cars, trucks, vans, RVs, boats, trailers, and show cars. For… Read more

Key Services

Auto Glass Replacement Windshield Repair Window Tinting Auto Detailing

AREAS SERVED

Serving all of Sonoma County including Rohnert Park, Cotati, Cloverdale, Healdsburg, Windsor, Santa Rosa, Petaluma,…

Diamond Certified Companies are Rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise.

  • Why this rating is the most accurate.
  • Our editors gather deep company info.
  • Performance is Guaranteed.

Diamond certified companies are top rated and guaranteed

Why Trust Diamond Certified Auto Detailing and Washing Companies Rated Highest in Quality?

Only the best auto detailing and washing companies in Sonoma County have earned the Diamond Certified award by scoring Highest in Quality in the most accurate and rigorous ratings process anywhere. You’ll never be fooled by fake reviews, since all research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed. Most companies can’t pass this test. That’s why you’ll feel confident when you choose a Diamond Certified auto detailing and washing company listed below. Simply click on the name of a Diamond Certified company below to read ratings results, informational articles and verbatim customer survey responses.

Thousands of customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program cuts out mediocre and poorly performing companies. If you want quality, you’ll have confidence in choosing Diamond Certified companies. And you’re backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee.

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SELECTED PHOTOS FROM THESE TOP RATED COMPANIES

  • The Advanced Auto Glass team stands outside the company’s Santa Rosa Avenue facility.

  • Advanced Auto Glass & Detail provides free coffee and magazines for customers who are waiting for their vehicles to be finished.

  • Advanced Auto Glass offers free mobile service to Sonoma County customers who want repairs while they’re at home or work.

  • Advanced Auto Glass’ large inventory of windshields enables it to replace windshields the same day for most customers.

  • Owner Austin Jacobs has been in the auto glass industry for 23 years.

  • The Advanced Auto Glass & Detail team stands outside the company’s Santa Rosa Avenue facility.

  • Advanced Auto Glass carries its own glass cleaner because of its special formula that’s safe to use on tinted windows.

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INDUSTRY INFORMATION AND RESEARCHED ARTICLES BY THE DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESOURCE

INDUSTRY INFORMATION - Sonoma County – Auto Detailing & Washing
Related Brands

  • Standox

  • Carlex

  • Carlite

  • Mopar

  • Pilkington

  • Sika
Agencies and Associations for Professional Auto Detailing and Car Washing

International Detailing Association (IDA) (www.the-ida.com)
Auto Detailing Network (ADN) (www.autodetailingnetwork.com/detailing_association)
International Carwash Association (ICA) (www.carwash.org)
Western Carwash Association (WCA) (www.wcwa.org)
California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) (www.dca.ca.gov)

Know What You Want
Planning to Get What You Want from Sonoma County Auto Detailing Locations

Auto detailing and car washing services may seem single-faceted, but there are many differences between the various detailing centers in Sonoma County and near you. That’s why it’s always best to start your search by thinking a bit about exactly what services you need, the customer service aspects you expect, and other details that can help you define the type of auto detailing service you want to hire.

The questions below will get you started thinking. Take a few minutes to evaluate your vehicle and needs, and take notes so that you’re sure to get what you want when you hire Sonoma County auto detailing professionals in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Cotati, Cloverdale and Rohnert Park and your area.

  • Do I want a Diamond Certified company that is rated best in quality in the auto detailing industry and whose car wash and detailing services are backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee?
  • What auto detailing and car wash services does my vehicle need? (Examples include interior car detailing, exterior auto detailing, engine detailing, undercarriage detailing, car washing, hand-washing, etc.)
  • Are there any special considerations that I should share with my auto detailing specialist? (These may include any interior or body damage, if you have pets that leave hair in your upholstery, specialty cleaning requests, timing requests or other items that can change the way they service your vehicle or the time it takes them to detail or wash your car or truck.)
  • Do I have a time line for my auto detailing service?
  • What is my budget for auto detailing and car hand washing? (Remember, discount auto detailing services that offer cheap detailing and car washing probably aren’t offering the full-scale detailing services that come at a fair price.)
  • Are there special services I want my Sonoma County auto detailing service to provide, such as undercarriage cleaning, hand washing, upholstery or car carpet cleaning, stain removal, pet hair removal, rust removal, exterior detailing to remove imperfections or etching, headlight etching repair, etc.?
  • What do I want professionally and personally in an auto detailing center in Cotati, Windsor, Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Guerneville and Healdsburg and my area? Characteristics of good auto detailers include skill, experience, trustworthiness, honesty, good communication, attention to detail, care for others’ property and more.
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What To Ask In Person
Discuss Your Auto Detailing Needs with Sonoma County Detailers

You may also want to visit local auto detailing centers near you to make sure they can meet your expectations. Your vehicle is a big investment, and good Sonoma County auto detailing services can help keep it looking better for longer and maintain its resale value.

If you choose to visit Sonoma County auto detailing shops, take a few minutes to talk with the staff or service manager. You may want to make an appointment so they know you are coming and can devote a few minutes to answering your questions so you can make an educated decision.

Here are some questions you may want to ask:

  1. How long will the auto detailing services my vehicle needs take to perform?
  2. What is your preferred appointment and drop-off process?
  3. Can you detail my car if I have a valuable, vintage, rare or specialty vehicle?
  4. Do you have courtesy cars or drop-off and pick up services?
  5. Will you follow manufacturer specifications, if any, for maintaining and detailing my vehicle?
  6. Who will be detailing and washing my vehicle, and how much experience do they have?
  7. Are your packages all-inclusive, a la carte, or price quoted ahead of time? Will you tell me the entire cost before the work?
  8. Do you have recent customer references that I can call who hired you for similar auto detailing services?
  9. Can I see a sample of your work or before and after photos of recent vehicles?
  10. Who would I talk with if I had a concern or problem with my auto detailing services?
  11. Is there anything I can do to make my auto detailing and car washing services go more smoothly and be more effective?
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  • What To Ask References
    Learn More From Previous Customers of Sonoma County Car Detailing Centers

    Savvy consumers choose among Diamond Certified auto detailing and car washing centers because all certified companies have passed an in-depth ratings process that most other companies can’t pass.

    If you expect quality from the auto detailing and car washing centers in Sonoma County and the greater Bay Area, including Petaluma, Windsor, Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, Sonoma, Cloverdale, Sebastopol, Cotati, Guerneville and Rohnert Park and your area, you will have confidence choosing a Diamond Certified company.

    That’s because Diamond Certified reports are available online for all certified companies. You’ll also never be fooled by fake reviews, because all research is performed in live telephone interviews of actual customers.

    If you can’t find Diamond Certified auto detailing services within reach, you’ll have to do some research on your own. In that case, start by calling some references provided by your auto detailers.

    Remember, references provided to you by auto detailing and car washing locations in Sonoma County are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. Instead, references given to customers from companies are usually cherry-picked instead of randomly selected from their complete customer database. So the Sonoma County auto detailers will likely give you a few customers to call that they know are satisfied.

    If you do call references on your own, specifically ask for a list of the company’s 10 most recent customers. This will help avoid them giving you the names of only customers they know were satisfied. Then, ask them the questions below and include some specific questions of your own.

    1. Were you satisfied with the service from _(Sonoma County auto detailing service name)_?
    2. What was the type and scope of car detailing work they did for you (full auto detail, hand washing, waxing, exterior detail, interior detail, mini-detail or in between detail cleaning, auto paint restoration, paint etching repair, auto carpet stain removal, etc.)?
    3. Were the auto detailing staff prompt and personable?
    4. Were they able to accommodate you on your schedule and in a timely manner?
    5. Did the Sonoma County auto detailing service explain to you the status of the work?
    6. Did they complete the car detailing work on time?
    7. Were there unexpected costs? If so, what were they for and were they avoidable?
    8. Did the auto detailers provide mobile car detailing services to you if you live in Cazadero, Camp Meeker, Bloomfield, Temelec, Stewarts Point Rancheria, Schellville, Two Rock, Jenner, Eldridge, Fetters Hot Springs or a small town?
    9. Would you recommend this Sonoma County auto detailing service and car washing location to friends or family?
    10. Will you hire this auto detailing company again when you need car detailing or car washing services?
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  • Review Your Options
    Narrow Down Your List of Good Auto Detailing Shops in Sonoma County

    The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

    When all of your interviews are complete and you have the information you need, it’s time to choose the beset best auto detailing and car washing centers in Sonoma County for you.

    Start by reviewing your notes and the following questions to narrow your list to the auto detailers in Guerneville, Santa Rosa, Sebastopol, Cotati, and Cloverdale that you’ll hire.

    1. Is there an auto detailing company on your list that can meet your needs for car detailing, car cleaning, auto washing, hand-drying and other requirements?
    2. Are the Sonoma County auto detailers you’ve interviewed knowledgeable about the car detailing and washing services you need?
    3. Can they explain to you which services, products and methods best fit your needs and those of your vehicle?
    4. Do the Sonoma County auto detailing locations meet your budget needs?
    5. Do they offer various packages or a la carte items that allow you to customize your auto detailing services to fit your exact needs?
    6. Do the auto detailers guarantee their work and offer warranties on their services?
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  • How To Work With
    Save Time and Worry By Planning for Your Auto Detailing and Car Washing Services

    Many car owners like to form an ongoing relationship with their auto detailers and car washing providers. This can mean better service over time, which can keep you from feeling nervous about dropping off your vehicle, and it can mean maintained value for your car or truck.

    There are also a few things you can do to ingratiate yourself to your Sonoma County auto detailing services in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Cotati, Cloverdale and Rohnert Park, Agua Caliente, Asti, Bodega Bay, Duncans Mills, Glen Ellen, Monte Rio, Penngrove, Rio Nido, Roseland, Sheridan, the Geysers, Villa Grande and your town, and cement your working relationship.

    • Prove that you are looking for quality auto detailing and car washing rather than the lowest price. Ask about value and methods rather than focusing on price alone.
    • Be clear about what services your vehicle needs and your goals. Don’t make your Sonoma County auto detailing and car washing service guess what you want.
    • Be honest about preexisting damage, the presence of stains or pet hair, whether you smoke, and the condition of your car. This can help Sonoma County auto detailers be more accurate in the time and cost estimates for detailing services.
    • Bring your car by for an estimate before the appointment, and ask questions to confirm that you’re getting what you expect. Be ready to answer their questions, too.

    After your initial detailing appointment, you’ll be able to tell if the Sonoma County auto detail center you chose was able to meet your expectations. While you shouldn’t feel trapped into using the same auto detailing company every time you have your car detailed or if you haven’t been pleased with their services, there is a lot to be gained from being loyal to your detailers.

    Forming a working relationship with the same auto detailing location will give you confidence and other perks.

    How To Proceed with Your Auto Detailing Service
    You’ve done some research, gotten an estimate and feel comfortable with your choice. Now, it’s time to move forward and book your appointment for auto detailing and car washing at auto detailing centers in Cotati, Windsor, Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Guerneville and Healdsburg or your local area.

    Start by getting a written estimate or price. Be sure to ask about additional fees or add-on items that can change the price. You should be given a complete estimate and a promise to be contacted about any additional fees before the work is performed. (Sometimes auto detailers miss items when preparing an estimate. Items such as hidden messes, stains or scratches that are harder to remove than expected, or other time-consuming detailing tasks may cause the service price to rise. However, you shouldn’t be blindsided by the charges and should retain the right to refuse or nix any services that are not part of the original estimate.)

    Then, ask about the time commitment and set an appointment. Ask if there is anything you can do to make the work go faster or more smoothly (see the section below for ideas), and then get ready for a cleaner car.

    Simplify Auto Detailing for a Better Outcome
    Good Sonoma County auto detailing professionals in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Healdsburg, Sonoma and Cloverdale and beyond don’t need help providing good car detailing and washing services, but there are a few things you can do to help the car cleaning go more smoothly and even save time and money.

    • Talk with your auto detailers about specific requests. Make sure these are written into the estimate or cleaning contract.
    • Make a note of or show your detailers any damage, major stains or problems, or items that concern you. Discuss removal, repair or cleaning and whether it will impact the time or cost expectations.
    • Clean out personal belongings from the vehicle. You don’t need to clean your car before taking it in to be detailed, but it is smart to remove excess items that aren’t part of the vehicle. Your auto detailers shouldn’t have to work around clothing, work and recreation items and other personal items to clean the interior of your car.
    • Be on time for your appointment. Arriving late can delay your auto detailing and set back your detailers’ schedule for the entire day. If you drop your vehicle off too late, you may need to reschedule for a different day, since auto detailing can take four to six hours or longer depending on the services needed.
    • Be sure to leave your keys, including the keys to the trunk if you want it cleaned.
    • Talk with your Sonoma County detailing specialist about ways you can make the job easier.
    • Pick up your car on time and be ready to pay as promised.
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  • Be a Good Customer
    Get A Better Outcome By Being a Good Car Detailing Customer

    Auto detailing and car wash services in Sonoma County appreciate customers who are straightforward, honest and easy to work with. Your good customer behavior sets the tone from your end and creates an environment conducive to a good relationship. Things may very well go smoother and any problems may be more easily resolved. You may also enjoy a long, mutually-beneficial working relationship with your auto detailers.

    Here are some easy steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring Sonoma County auto detailing and car washing centers in Petaluma, Windsor, Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, Sonoma, Cloverdale, Sebastopol, Cotati, Guerneville and Rohnert Park and other areas.

    • Be direct and honest with auto detailing and car washing centers. Let them know what you want from your auto detailing and car washing and specific ways they can satisfy your expectations.
    • Keep a positive attitude and friendly demeanor, even if you face disagreements or misunderstandings.
    • Before you hire Sonoma County auto detailers, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate to the auto detailing service representative your understanding of the agreement.
    • Most problems with local auto detailing and car washing centers occur because of a breakdown in communication. By being clear about your expectations and theirs, you can avoid most conflicts.
    • Ask your car detailers if you should call to check on the progress or if he will call you with updates.
    • Be sure your auto detailer has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while they’re detailing and washing your car or truck. The auto detailing work will move along more smoothly if your auto detailers can reach you for any necessary updates, questions or authorizations.
    • Return any phone calls promptly to keep the auto detailing on schedule.
    • Pay for the auto detailing and car washing services promptly
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Check The Work
Look Over the Auto Detailing and Car Washing Work

Before you take your vehicle off the premises, it’s smart to look over the job that was done and make sure that it lives up to your expectations and what was initially promised to you in the work order or estimate.

If there are any discrepancies, talk with your Sonoma County auto detailer right away and sort it out. It can be hard to get a resolution or make a claim that the work wasn’t done to your specifications after the fact or once you’ve taken your vehicle home, so be sure the work is to your standards before you leave the auto detailing shop.

Use your invoice to compare against the completed auto detail and car wash. Invoices from Sonoma County auto detailing and carwash services in Guerneville, Santa Rosa, Sebastopol, Cotati, and Cloverdale and beyond should include the following:

  • The auto detailing service name and physical address.
  • A complete list of all work performed, including auto detailing and car washing.
  • An itemized list of all materials used if they’re billed separately from the service or add cost to the original quote.
  • The total cost for the auto detailing and car washing, including the itemized amount charged for labor if it’s separate or in addition to the detailing service fee.
  • A written explanation of any warranties or guarantees offered by the product manufacturers and the auto detailing center.
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Written Warranties
Requests for Sonoma County Car Washing and Auto Detailing Centers Near You

Auto detailing locations in Sonoma County provide many services to clients, including those listed below. Some detailers provide package deals, while others offer a la carte services from which clients can pick and choose based on their car’s needs and their budget.

Some of the most popular include the following auto detailing and car washing services:…

Auto detailing locations in Sonoma County provide many services to clients, including those listed below. Some detailers provide package deals, while others offer a la carte services from which clients can pick and choose based on their car’s needs and their budget.

Some of the most popular include the following auto detailing and car washing services:

Car Paint Care and Swirl Removal
Cleaning, repairing and protecting your car’s exterior is an important part of auto detailing services. Most good Sonoma County auto detailers will start by washing the vehicle and hand-drying it to remove any dirt, grit and grime. The use of a clay bar removes clear coat contaminants and particles, including dirt, tar, dust, industrial fallout, metal particles and more. Paint polishing then removes any swirl marks or small scratches, before a final wax coat is applied to protect the car’s paint and make it look like new.

Chassis Detailing
Cleaning the undercarriage (also known as the chassis) is important to remove salt, dirt, grime and debris kicked up from the roadway by driving. This includes undercar washing, wheel well washing, and cleaning around the suspension and control arms, and other under-car cleaning. Protectant may also be applied.

Headlight and Taillight Polishing
Car headlights and taillights can become cloudy and etched over time, which can dull them and make driving more dangerous. Sonoma County auto detailing services in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Healdsburg, Sonoma and Cloverdale, Salmon Creek, Rio Nido, Occidental, Russian River Meadows, Graton, Gulton, Forestville, Cazadero, El Verano, Alexander Valley, Freestone and other areas can polish, restore and protect headlights and taillights.

Car Interior Detailing Services in Sonoma County
Many people practically live in their vehicles, and that can leave them dirty and in need of interior cleaning. Interior detailing usually includes car glass washing, vacuuming, dusting of the dashboard and other hard surfaces, upholstery cleaning using shampooing or steam cleaning, leather reconditioning and protecting, carpet cleaning, stain removal, vinyl and plastic cleaning and protecting, trunk cleaning and more.

Wheel Cleaning and Detailing
Auto wheels should be cleaned and washed, then restored with protectants that can make them look like new and protect them against cracking and damage. This may also include wheel well cleaning. Regular wheel detailing and correct protectant application can keep wheels looking new for much longer than untreated wheels.

Sonoma County Car Carpet Cleaning and Auto Upholstery Cleaning
Sonoma County detailing services should clean auto carpets and upholstery by vacuuming, spot treating, spot removal, stain removal and treatment, deknapping or brushing, and more. Most good auto detailers shampoo the carpeting and upholstery or steam cleaning to sanitize and remove stains and odors.

Exterior Trim Polishing
Car exterior trim, often made of chrome, vinyl or plastic, should be regularly cleaned and protected to remove, prevent and protect against cracking, fading, oxidation and wear. This can include exterior trim around doors and windows, bumpers, exhaust pipes, branding marks, handles, locks, headlights, taillights and other areas. Talk with auto detailers in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Cotati, Cloverdale and Rohnert Park about your specific exterior trim detailing needs.

Mini-Detailing Services in Sonoma County
Mini-detailing or light detailing is a minimal version of auto detailing services. Some Sonoma County auto detailing shops offer mini-detailing and light detailing services in between full-scale details to keep customer cars cleaner for longer. Light detailing often includes an exterior wash and wax, dusting of the dashboard and internal surfaces, car window cleaning, washing of cup holders and visors, vacuuming, door jamb cleaning, trunk cleaning and other light cleaning of the visible surfaces. These light-duty detailing services may only take an hour or two and are often value-priced for customers who don’t need a full detail but want

Engine Detailing
The engine block and engine itself may be cleaned as part of auto detailing or as add-on services during detailing. While not required and not part of most standard car detailing packages, some car owners want to keep their engines clean. Engine detailing may include steam cleaning, degreasing, rinsing, and cleaning and sealing of all silicone, plastic and rubber parts.

Hand Washing and Hand Drying
Hand washing and hand drying at auto detailing and washing centers in Sonoma County help keep cars looking clean and prevents built-up grime and permanent etching and damage. Hand washing can be more gentle than machine washing, and it can be more thorough. Bird droppings, sap, tar, oxidization, industrial fallout, metal particles, and other environmental contaminants can permanently damage and etch vehicle paint unless it’s removed.

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Top 10 Requests
Requests for Sonoma County Car Washing and Auto Detailing Centers Near You

Auto detailing locations in Sonoma County provide many services to clients, including those listed below. Some detailers provide package deals, while others offer a la carte services from which clients can pick and choose based on their car’s needs and their budget.

Some of the most popular include the following auto detailing and car washing services:

Car Paint Care and Swirl Removal
Cleaning, repairing and protecting your car’s exterior is an important part of auto detailing services. Most good Sonoma County auto detailers will start by washing the vehicle and hand-drying it to remove any dirt, grit and grime. The use of a clay bar removes clear coat contaminants and particles, including dirt, tar, dust, industrial fallout, metal particles and more. Paint polishing then removes any swirl marks or small scratches, before a final wax coat is applied to protect the car’s paint and make it look like new.

Chassis Detailing
Cleaning the undercarriage (also known as the chassis) is important to remove salt, dirt, grime and debris kicked up from the roadway by driving. This includes undercar washing, wheel well washing, and cleaning around the suspension and control arms, and other under-car cleaning. Protectant may also be applied.

Headlight and Taillight Polishing
Car headlights and taillights can become cloudy and etched over time, which can dull them and make driving more dangerous. Sonoma County auto detailing services in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Healdsburg, Sonoma and Cloverdale, Salmon Creek, Rio Nido, Occidental, Russian River Meadows, Graton, Gulton, Forestville, Cazadero, El Verano, Alexander Valley, Freestone and other areas can polish, restore and protect headlights and taillights.

Car Interior Detailing Services in Sonoma County
Many people practically live in their vehicles, and that can leave them dirty and in need of interior cleaning. Interior detailing usually includes car glass washing, vacuuming, dusting of the dashboard and other hard surfaces, upholstery cleaning using shampooing or steam cleaning, leather reconditioning and protecting, carpet cleaning, stain removal, vinyl and plastic cleaning and protecting, trunk cleaning and more.

Wheel Cleaning and Detailing
Auto wheels should be cleaned and washed, then restored with protectants that can make them look like new and protect them against cracking and damage. This may also include wheel well cleaning. Regular wheel detailing and correct protectant application can keep wheels looking new for much longer than untreated wheels.

Sonoma County Car Carpet Cleaning and Auto Upholstery Cleaning
Sonoma County detailing services should clean auto carpets and upholstery by vacuuming, spot treating, spot removal, stain removal and treatment, deknapping or brushing, and more. Most good auto detailers shampoo the carpeting and upholstery or steam cleaning to sanitize and remove stains and odors.

Exterior Trim Polishing
Car exterior trim, often made of chrome, vinyl or plastic, should be regularly cleaned and protected to remove, prevent and protect against cracking, fading, oxidation and wear. This can include exterior trim around doors and windows, bumpers, exhaust pipes, branding marks, handles, locks, headlights, taillights and other areas. Talk with auto detailers in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Cotati, Cloverdale and Rohnert Park about your specific exterior trim detailing needs.

Mini-Detailing Services in Sonoma County
Mini-detailing or light detailing is a minimal version of auto detailing services. Some Sonoma County auto detailing shops offer mini-detailing and light detailing services in between full-scale details to keep customer cars cleaner for longer. Light detailing often includes an exterior wash and wax, dusting of the dashboard and internal surfaces, car window cleaning, washing of cup holders and visors, vacuuming, door jamb cleaning, trunk cleaning and other light cleaning of the visible surfaces. These light-duty detailing services may only take an hour or two and are often value-priced for customers who don’t need a full detail but want

Engine Detailing
The engine block and engine itself may be cleaned as part of auto detailing or as add-on services during detailing. While not required and not part of most standard car detailing packages, some car owners want to keep their engines clean. Engine detailing may include steam cleaning, degreasing, rinsing, and cleaning and sealing of all silicone, plastic and rubber parts.

Hand Washing and Hand Drying
Hand washing and hand drying at auto detailing and washing centers in Sonoma County help keep cars looking clean and prevents built-up grime and permanent etching and damage. Hand washing can be more gentle than machine washing, and it can be more thorough. Bird droppings, sap, tar, oxidization, industrial fallout, metal particles, and other environmental contaminants can permanently damage and etch vehicle paint unless it’s removed.

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Glossary Of Terms
Glossary of Auto Detailing Terms and Terms Associated with Car Washing
appearance reconditioning
Appearance reconditioning is the cosmetic restoration of vehicles to like-new condition. This can include cleaning, waxing, scratch repair, imperfection and damage repair and other steps customized to each vehicle’s needs.Also known as: resurfacing, car body reconditioning, car paint reconditioning

body shop safe chemicals
Body shop save chemicals are cleansers, protectants, dressings, and other materials and substances that will not harm the interior or exterior surfaces of vehicles, including paint, chrome, trim, headlights, and more.
Also known as: car-safe products, car-safe chemicals, car body safe cleansers
decontamination
Processes used to remove contaminants from the paint exterior of vehicles are known as decontamination. Decontamination methods can remove sap, tar, industrial fallout and metal particles, pollution, paint spray, bird droppings, dust, grime and more.
Also known as: auto decontamination, car decontamination, exterior car decontamination, interior car sanitizing
detailing
Auto detailing is the process of cleaning a vehicle inside and out. Detailing includes exterior washing, exterior trim cleaning, cleaning the tires and rims, paint cleaning and waxing, interior cleaning, auto upholstery cleaning, auto carpet cleaning, dashboard and interior surface cleaning and more.
Also known as: auto detailing, car detailing, vehicle detailing, interior detailing, exterior detailing, truck detailing, van detailing
fabric protector
Fabric protectant can be applied to cloth or fabric upholstery, carpeting, door panels and other cloth or fabric surfaces in vehicles. Fabric protector repels liquid, moisture, dirt, food particles, soil and other damaging materials so fabrics can be more easily cleaned and stay cleaner longer in between auto detailing services.
Also known as: fabric protectant, Scotchguard
last stage product
The final stage in auto detailing services is known as “last stage product”. Last stage product includes sealing, waxing and protectant on interior and exterior surfaces.
Also known as: LSP, last stage protection, wax, sealant
one-step cleaner-wax
Cleaner-wax is a product that completes three steps in one easy process: cleaning, polishing, and waxing. Good cleaner-wax, when professionally applied, will restore a clear and shiny finish to vehicles. Cleaner-wax can minimize swirls, scratches and imperfections, but it won’t completely remove them.
Also known as: AIO, all-in-one cleaner and wax, one-step cleaning wax, auto cleaning wax, single-step cleaning wax, one-step cleaner wax
pre-wash
The initial step in readying vehicles for detailing is known as a pre-wash. This is often a soaking coat of water and degreaser applied to the exterior and undercarriage of the vehicle. It can also include spot treating carpeting and other soaking and pretreatment to aid stain removal.
Also known as: pretreating, prewashing, degreasing, first-step detailing
protective paint coatings
Protective paint coatings are the last step in an auto detail. These coatings are known to last longer and protect better than car waxes and paint sealants. Some protective paint coatings can increase scratch and chemical resistance, repel water and dust, and keep environmental contaminants from bonding to the car paint clear coat.
Also known as: protective coating, protective clear coat
swirl marks
Swirl marks are faint, spider web-like microabrasions in the top layer of clear coat on vehicles. Swirl marks are usually caused by using dirty rags or sponges, or the accidental abrasion of the vehicle’s top coat or clear coat. Swirl marks accumulate over time, which can wear away the clear coat and make the car’s finish look dull. Car polishes can even out the clear coat layer, and wax can prevent damage and hide small swirl marks.
Also known as: etching, auto swirl marks, micro-abrasion, car paint etching
three-step process
Three-step process for auto detailing includes the use of a compound, polish and wax. This removes most paint defects, even those below the surface.
Also known as: deep paint defect removal, auto waxing, three-step processing, three-step auto detailing, three-step exterior detailing
two-step process
A two-step process consisting of polish and wax removes most minor paint defects like swirls, swirl marks, scratches, water spots and slight oxidation. Two-step process polishing and waxing usually includes using a professional buffer, and it can often restore auto paint and create a smoother finish.
Also known as: 2-step process, two-step polish and wax, car polishing, car waxing, 2-step car waxing
washing
Car washing is usually performed early on in the auto detailing process, before waxing. Washing can include a normal car wash, rinse-less wash, water-less wash, spray detailer, handwashing and more.
Also known as: car wash, hand washing, hand drying, car washing services
waxing
Auto wax comes in liquid, paste and even solid form. Most is applied by hand or an automatic polisher. Auto waxing enhances the shine of a vehicle and protects the clear coat from damage. Waxing is the final step in detail process.
Also known as: wax, auto waxing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Washing and Detailing

Some of the most commonly asked questions about car washing and detailing are found below. While these answers can be helpful as you look for the best auto detailing and car wash locations near you, keep in mind that each location has its own way of doing business and specialties. If you have specific needs or questions, it’s wise to call the car washes and auto detailing centers near you to get the answers you need to make a smart decision.

Q: Why choose Diamond Certified auto detailing and car washing centers?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a auto detailing and car washing centers with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only auto detailing and car washing centers rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing Diamond Certified auto detailing and car washing centers.

Q: What is auto detailing?
A: Auto detailing is the act of carefully and thoroughly cleaning the interior and exterior surfaces of a vehicle. Auto detailing also includes preserving and maintaining vehicle surfaces.

Q: Why should I have my vehicle detailed?
A: Keeping your vehicle clean and in good repair can help maintain its resale value by keeping the interior and exterior of the vehicle clean, preventing buildup of grime and rust, protecting interior surfaces including leather and chrome, prevents rubber hoses and attachments from drying out and cracking, removes stains and water spots before they set, engine detailing can allow your engine to run cooler, can prevent and restore headlight oxidation and cloudiness, and can reduce overall maintenance and car repair costs.

Q: How long will it take to detail my vehicle?
A: A complete auto detail can take upwards of six hours, while an exterior only or interior only auto detail can take four to five hours. Larger vehicles such as oversized trucks, SUVs and others can take more time. Your auto detailing specialist should be able to give you a firm time estimate based on your exact make and model, and the exact scope of work you’re requesting.

Q: Can you remove stubborn stains and odors from my vehicle?
A: In most cases, good auto detailing services can remove stains and odors. However, that depends on the cause of the stain or smell. Many of the better auto detailing centers offer sanitizing and disinfecting treatments that destroy odors, fungus, mold, viruses, allergens, kill dust mites and other sources of bad smells.

Q: Will my car’s carpeting or upholstery still be wet when I get it back after detailing?
A: It isn’t uncommon for auto carpeting or upholstery to be damp when you pick up your vehicle after detailing. It may be recommended to leave your windows cracked and floor mats picked up for 12 to 24 hours after a detail to help your car’s interior dry fully and avoid mildew or musty smells.

Q: Do I need to make an appointment to have my car detailed or hand washed?
A: It is recommended that you make an appointment for auto detailing or hand washing. This will ensure you can get the services you need on a timely basis and will prevent you from having to wait. Car washes with self-serve bays or drive-through touchless washes don’t usually require nor accept appointments, but detailing and hand washing are time-intensive, so making an appointment is best for you and your detailing service.

Q: How often should I have my vehicle detailed?
A: Most auto retailers recommend having your car or truck detailed once a year, and more if you frequently shuttle pets or kids in your vehicle, or if your car gets dirty quickly. You may also want to consider more frequent detailing services if you park your vehicle outside most of the time, leave the windows open, drive it frequently or spend a lot of time in it, or wash it irregularly. If you are planning to sell your vehicle, it’s smart to have it detailed shortly before selling it or trading it in. Additionally, if you know you will be selling your car at some point and hoping for a high resale value or trade in value, it’s smart to have it regularly detailed in order to keep it cleaner and in good repair.

Q: What are mobile auto detailing services?
A: Some companies offer mobile auto detailing services at your home, office or other location. Most can offer a full range of auto detailing services on location by using a van or other specialized vehicle that holds all of the tools necessary for cleaning other vehicles. Some even provide their own water, power and cleaning supplies from their detailing vehicle. If you contract  for mobile auto detailing services, be sure to ask your detailing company if there is anything you will have to provide to keep the services on track.

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