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What does an Auto Detailer do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

An auto detailer is responsible for cleaning and polishing the interior and exterior of a vehicle. They may also be responsible for applying waxes and sealants to protect the finish of the vehicle.

Auto Detailer job duties include:

  • Inspect vehicle for damage and note any pre-existing damage
  • Vacuum the interior of the vehicle to remove any loose dirt and debris
  • Clean all upholstery and surfaces using appropriate cleaning products
  • Shampoo carpets and upholstery to remove stains and dirt
  • Polish and wax the exterior of the vehicle
  • Clean and polish all chrome and glass surfaces
  • Touch up any scratches or paint chips on the vehicle
  • Inspect tires and wheels and clean as necessary
  • Check fluid levels and top off as needed

Auto Detailer Job Requirements

An auto detailer is responsible for cleaning and polishing the interior and exterior of vehicles. They may work in a car dealership, an auto body shop, or a detailing shop. Some auto detailers are self-employed.

Education requirements for auto detailers vary depending on the employer. Some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent, while others may prefer candidates who have completed a formal training program in auto detailing. Certification is not required to work as an auto detailer, but some employers may prefer or require certification from organizations such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

Auto detailers typically need at least one year of experience working with cars. Some employers may require more experience, especially for positions that involve supervising other workers.

Auto Detailer Skills

  • Cleaning
  • Polishing
  • Buffing
  • Shampooing
  • Vacuuming
  • Steam cleaning
  • Upholstery cleaning
  • Leather conditioning
  • Paint touch-ups
  • Headlight restoration
  • Engine cleaning
  • Tire shining

Related: Top Auto Detailer Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Auto Detailer

There are a few things you need to do if you want to become an auto detailer. First, you need to have some experience with cleaning cars. This can be gained by working at a car wash or even just washing your own car. Second, you need to be familiar with the different types of products and equipment that are used in auto detailing. You can learn about this by reading articles or watching videos online. Finally, you need to be able to work quickly and efficiently. This is important because customers will often be waiting for their car to be detailed and they won’t want to wait too long.

If you have all of these things, then you’re ready to start auto detailing! The first step is to set up your work area. You’ll need a few supplies, including rags, sponges, buckets, and a hose. You should also have a vacuum cleaner on hand to help remove any dirt or debris from the interior of the car. Once your work area is set up, you’re ready to start cleaning!

The first thing you should do is wash the outside of the car. Use a gentle soap and make sure to rinse the car off completely. Then, dry the car with a clean towel. Next, move on to the inside of the car. Vacuum all of the floors and seats, and then wipe down all of the surfaces with a clean rag. If there are any stains, use a stain remover specifically designed for cars. Finally, apply a protectant to all of the surfaces inside the car. This will help keep them looking new for longer.

That’s it! These are the basic steps for auto detailing. Just remember to take your time and do a thorough job – your customers will appreciate it!

Related: Auto Detailer Resume Example

Related: Auto Detailer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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