Frequently asked questions.

Detailing is fast becoming a common phrase used by people simply cleaning their car, or offering high end valeting services – but what actually is detailing? To the casual observer it appears to be an expensive car wash, however to the enthusiast it is much more. The definition of car detailing is the systematic revival, conditioning, and protection of all vehicle surfaces, using various products and techniques. The end result of a ‘detail’ are show-quality levels of definition and cleanliness.

Below, Matt has comprised a list of the most common questions he’s encountered, and the answers. 

What is paint correction?

Paint correction is the process of removing common paint defects such as swirl marks, buffer trails, minor scratches, 3D holograms, and other more complex defects such as etching and orange peel. This is carried out by carefully re-levelling your vehicles paintwork by 2-3 microns at a time, leaving you with an optically clear finish so that your paintwork reflects the light perfectly, even in direct sunlight.

What is Paint Protection Film?

Paint protection film, or as its more commonly referred to ‘PPF’, is a clear urethane film approximately 200 microns thick, giving it a near invisible appearance. Its sole purpose is to preserve your vehicles paintwork, offering exceptional protection against stone chips, damage from other debris such as rubber and gravel (on track!), bug etching, and general wear and tear from routine washing.

Does PPF make the paint look different?

PPF doesn’t alter your paintworks original appearance. Our PremiumShield film has been independently proven to be the most optically clear and texture-free film on the market when compared to other leading brands. Where panels meet, such as the front wing and door, there is no noticeable difference between one panel having PPF installed and the other not.

What is the difference between detailing and valeting?

Valeting is based on low-cost wash and wax services aimed at the masses for high volume output. Such a service saves time, but at the expense of quality, and can often inflict damage to your vehicles paintwork and wheels due to poor techniques, and the harsh chemicals used to save time.

Detailing is for the connoisseur, for those passionate about their cars, and is based on the use of specialist skills and techniques such as paint correction, clay bar treatments, and incorporates the use of high quality products such as carnauba waxes and ceramic coatings. Such services are much more time consuming, and require a greater degree of skill to perform, thus they are costlier. As the value of used vehicles is largely determined by the condition of its bodywork, wheels, and interior, such work pays for itself come re-sale.

I have just bought a new car, is it worth getting it detailed?

You would expect a brand-new car to look its best, but contrary to popular belief, this isn’t always the case. Despite being treated to a basic valet prior to handover (which may even cause paint damage due to poor wash techniques, using low quality products), dealerships do not have the time, budget, or skills to prepare your new vehicle to the highest standard. Allowing Matt to take care of your new car delivery will make it an occasion to remember, and your vehicle will be presented to you in the best possible condition.

Can you PPF a car that isn’t brand new?

Any car can have PPF applied. The reason why new cars are more common in our workshop is because that’s the best time to have this process carried out - before any paint damage has occurred! Our extensive library of pre-cut patterns dates back to the mid-noughties, although it was a less sought after service back then, and pattern design has developed significantly in the last 5-6 years. If your car doesn’t have a pattern available, then it is still possible to apply PPF using a different installation method known within the industry as a ‘bulk install’ meaning all of the film comes directly off the roll to your vehicle and the excess is trimmed accordingly.

There are plenty of companies out there, why should I choose Magic Detail?

Matt is Magic Detail, there are no receptionists, you can speak directly with him at any time. All of the work carried out on your car is done in-house by Matt and his small team of family members associated with the business, therefore you have his personal guarantee that you and your car will receive the highest level of care, commitment, and professionalism. Add to this Matt’s passion, his raw talent, and his experience, you will be left with results that are magical in every sense of the word.

Why is detailing and PPF so expensive?

Matt charges considerably less than a main dealership does for car servicing, repair, or maintenance. You should consider that the skill set involved is at the same level, if not higher in some circumstances, making his services excellent value for money. The cost of paint correction is minimal compared to the cost of full respray, as is the cost of a full car PPF installation – a freshly detailed car, and/or one with its original paint protected using PPF, will also achieve a higher asking price during re-sale. Plus, there’s nothing better than a defect free paint finish to revive the passion for your car!

Do you offer a mobile service?

Matt works out of his state-of-the art bespoke workshop at his family home in Altrincham. The workshop is completely kitted out to offer you an unrivalled standard of finish for your vehicle - whether you’re looking for a detail and ceramic coating, or full car PPF installation, the workshop was designed with this in mind. Past experience dictates that mobile work, although possible, doesn’t yield the same high results that are guaranteed from his premises.