Cleaning refers to the removal of all foreign surface particles from exterior surfaces through the use of washing and quick cleaning techniques.

Clear coat contamination can come from substances such as industry fallout, brake dust particles, dirt particles, tar and animal droppings and can only be removed utilizing a “clay bar” treatment after a regular wash.

Correcting refers to using techniques and products applied by hand or with a machine and specific polishing pads that remove a fine layer of clear coat from a vehicle. This process removes fine scratches and swirls from a paint surface produced from improper washing or drying technique.

Your vehicle is clean, now what? Adding a level of protection to your paint will help keep foreign substances, dirt, bugs, etc. from sticking. More importantly it brings the “shine ” out in your paint. Waxes and sealants provide this barrier against the elements.

There is no set time for this.  The best answer is when it needs it. Weekly or bi-weekly is recommended for typical dirt and road grime. Houston’s acid rain, high pollution content, heavy bugs and pollen require more frequent care.  The Tesla owners manual (page 118). says: To prevent damage to the paint, immediately remove corrosive substances (bird droppings, tree resin, dead insects, tar spots, road salt, industrial fallout, etc). Do not wait until Model S is due for a complete wash.

We will let Tesla answer this from their owners manual (page 118).  Follow these steps when washing the exterior of Model S:  Rinse Thoroughly  – Before washing, flush grime and grit from the bodywork using a hose. Flush away accumulations of mud in areas where debris easily collects (such as wheel arches and panel seams). If salt has been used on the highways (such as during winter months), thoroughly rinse all traces of road salt from the underside of the vehicle.  Hand Wash –  Hand wash Model S using a soft cloth and cold or lukewarm water containing a mild, good quality car shampoo.  Rinse with Clean Water – After washing, rinse with clean water to prevent soap from drying on the surfaces.  Dry Thoroughly and Clean Exterior Glass – After washing and rinsing, dry thoroughly with a chamois. Clean windows and mirrors using an automotive glass cleaner. Do not scrape, or use any abrasive cleaning fluid on glass or mirrored surfaces.

It is hard to imagine that you can wash your hands without rubbing them together. Or wash your clothes without agitation. Your so-called “touchless wash” uses harsh chemicals and high pressure water. That’s why at Carbutler we us wool wash mitts and micro fiber cloths (no brushes) and pH neutral, biodegradable soaps to gently clean your car. While our wool wash mitts and micro fiber cloths makes contact with your car, it is the best way to get it clean and will not scratch or dull your clear coat finish.

In addition to the time it takes, the substandard supplies you buy from retail stores, and the many gallons of water you will waste from washing your own car, the harsh chemicals in the soaps and other cleaners go straight into the storm drain. Using a professional to wash your car saves water, is “Greener” and saves you time. Read more at the Carbutler Green page.

If you get to the car wash before the egg dries, it might be removed in the wash. Dried egg is very corrosive, and damage starts almost immediately. Your Carbutler professional will need to view the damage and can provide a solution if the egg has dried. Shoe polish will not always come off during the wash and may need extra care for a nominal fee..

Whenever possible, try to remove the substance while it is still sticky.  NEVER use abrasive cleaners or pads to remove stains from your vehicle’s finish. For best results bring your vehicle in as soon as possible for additional help. Consider protecting the area with a paste wax after cleaning.

Our hand wash will remove most bug remains, particularly if washed soon after the “splats”, but we cannot guarantee that the paint has not been damaged.  The acid in the bugs will etch into the paint and leave a “shadow” in the clear coat. This requires paint correction.  Ask your Carbutler representative how to best service your particular vehicle.

Through years of research and experience, we only use the best products on your vehicle. Our staff is extensively trained in the the use and care of the chemicals we use.  They are safe for your vehicle and for the environment.

For the most part, it all comes down to labor. In the car wash industry, labor alone generally comprises 40-50% of the cost of running the business. As such, any vehicle that takes longer to vacuum, wash & dry or detail is naturally going to be charged a little extra. Larger vehicles also use more cleaning solutions and wash products as well.