Detailing your car is an advanced cleaning for both the interior or exterior that can take up to half a day and costs far more than a drive-through car wash.

How often should you detail your car? The answer will be different for every driver, depending on the type of driving you do, the area of the country you live in and your personal needs. A real estate agent who drives with clients may do it more frequently. A suburban commuter may do it less.

Most experts say that one to three times a year is sufficient to keep cars clean and in good working order.

What can you expect from a detail? All will start with a thorough wash, usually by hand. On the interior, the car will get a complete vacuum and cleaning in areas that are often ignored, such as air vents and cargo spaces. Many detailers will also use special products on window seals, chrome, wheels and other areas that are usually washed and forgotten.

Here are some other services that may be included:

• Steam Cleaning. Either treatment can renew carpeting and mats and leave a car smelling fresh.
• Upholstery Treatment. Cloth seats may get spot cleaned. Leather or vinyl seats may get cleaned and treated with products to keep them pliable to resist cracks and tears.
• Claying. This is a detailer’s trick. Consumers’ Checkbook describes it as “a low-tech but highly effective way of removing dirt in which a lump of detailing clay is pressed and rubbed over the paintwork.”
• Waxing, Buffing and Polishing. Many detailers use a polish applied with a buffing machine and/or a paste wax applied by hand to protect the finish and enhance the shine.

Many detailers also offer additional services that are even more specialized, such as paint repairs or convertible top treatments. Often, they present customers with a menu of services, allowing you to choose what you need.

Of course, there will come a time when every car shows its age, no matter how well it is maintained. If the time has come to get a new (or new-to-you) vehicle, one place to start is to get pre-qualified for auto financing. This will help you set a budget and get ready to shop. To get pre-qualified with Credit Acceptance, simply fill out the quick application form.