Starting a car detailing business? Here are some equipment tips to get you off to a good start. Having the right equipment is essential for any business, and it’s the same for your new auto detailing business. Many detailers choose to pull a trailer with all the equipment contained within. I have seen open trailers but I prefer an enclosed trailer for safety reasons. A van also works well. I used an Avalanche for a few years due to the fact that the sheets hid everything from view.
The tank you choose will be based on the number of cars you intend to make while filling your spot with free water. Each car must use 10 gallons or less. A small 65 gallon tank will generally work very well for a work day with 6 or 7 cars on the show.
The pump is where you will spend a good part of your money. You want one with a psi that is strong enough to knock things off a car, but not strong enough to strip paint. Usually 1500– 1800 psi will work best.
A portable generator will be required if you plan to detail in office parks, golf courses, malls, or anywhere an extension cord won’t give you access to an electrical outlet to operate the vacuum or buffer.
Microfiber towels are very important to have when detailing. Just use one towel in one car, and then use a new one for the next car. 10-15 towels are enough to get you through a day of car washing. Wash them alone and not with any other clothes. Never use fabric softener on these types of towels.
A microfiber sponge and 5 gallon bucket will work best for your soap and water. Remember to use the same clean water you use to spray and rinse your cars in the soap bucket.
A stiff rim brush with a 24-inch handle is used to scrub the wheels and rims. For shiny tires you want to use a petroleum based product. Tires can be sprayed with this and then cleaned with a small tire sponge.
For vacuuming, a 15 gallon shop vac is good and convenient. You may be able to find one with a built-in blower so you can blow water off your door handles, grill, and wheels.
Having a buffer is not a requirement. If you plan to offer this service, Dewalt is good at removing small scratches left behind by shopping carts and other vehicles. As long as the scratch does not reach the metal, it can be polished in a few minutes.
Auto parts stores are not the best place to go when looking to buy all the things you will need. Look in your area for a cleaning supply store. Many of them will have an area that caters to retailers. You can also get any miscellaneous chemicals you’d like to carry along besides your soap, wax, and tire shine.