Don't forget if you want to learn the Basic Skills needed to Wash your Car whether its for your business or even just as a hobby you can watch Bite Sized videos on my other channel. 👉 www.youtube.com/@howtodetailyoutube
I started my car cleaning business last year when I was 34. I'm never going to work for anyone else again. I embrace the suck and just do what needs to be done. Pain is a part of the job.
Why not film the process (like Ammo NYC or The Detail Geek) and post it on TH-cam? Create solid titles and thumbnails to make the video(s) highly clickable...people will gobble that up! This could be a really solid way to 1) get new clients and 2) make additional income from TH-cam. Many have actually gone on to make far MORE from their TH-cam videos than they did from the actual detailing! Just a thought :)
I am not 62 until May Son 😂. As you know I was a car valeter when I was 22. Working for Ford's and yes I could do up to 7cars inside and out. Although the products that are available now didn't exist back in 1983. So everything was very basic then. Still that said I did enjoy it. Good points raised their David,I hope that some people take them on board. Dad 🙂👍
24 years old. Starting this month and my partner is my gf. Two motivated individuals ready to enjoy detailing. Purchased my essential equipment to start. Thought of a business name, logo, business plan etc. I love all types of weather. I’d prefer the rain over 9-5. I like clean cars. I clean my own car. I like being my own boss. Still living at home so not as much financial responsibility as others. No rent. No kids. For me it would be fun as well as a business. Starting practice on my car and family cars this month and then accepting customers 😀😀.
Hi,Dave I'm 66 and I did 2 car's today over 4 hour's and I still love it.did the works pre wash,wheels, tyre's,inside windows,etc. Then stand back and soak 🤩in the results and see The owners expressions of pride in their cars
Spot on... started business in 94 after 10 years learning in showrooms,crash centres ,press cars &show cars, at 57 the body hurts but still going strong, haven't advertised in 5 years,still have a continuous full diary and have had many clients over 20 years. Look after the clients and they look after you. Really enjoy the channel
@Epic Car Show Detailing cheers , probably hurt as much as your Dad :D, but I still learn all the time, we've come along way from saddle soap for leather and beeswax polish 😀
Dave I’ve been detailing fulltime since 2021 FT but technically I didn’t just START. but I am making 8000$ a month every month. About to sign a lease for a 1500 sq feet shop…. LETS GO DAVE!!!
That is why when I started in 2010 I made sure to have other skills besides knowing how to detail a car. I started painting and welding and that brought a different type of clientele. Went from airbrushing to detailing painting and restoring. So when dealing with a customer I can offer all that.
I love your videos! I started a detail business less than a year ago. I do it on a part time bases because I have a full time job. I just turned 60 and I have open heart surgery on December 1st. I can't wait to start detailing again, I have a ton of energy and I can see doing this for at least 10 years. I love cars and the instant gratification of detailing, but what I love the most is the customer faces when they see their car like new. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.
60yrs old... What an inspiration. I'm sure this work is much better than a desk job at helping you stay in shape and feeling younger! And to do it for another 10yrs is truly amazing!
@@brian4828 thank you Brian, I'm still recovering from my open heart surgery, in going to cardiac rehab 3 days a week and I'm feeling great. I can't wait for this rainy weather to stop here in northern California so I can start detailing again. Have an awesome day 😊
Just some info for those starting and don't have for a pressure washer, I started at 17 with Chemical guys waterless car wash with carnauba wax. I bout a lot of microfiber rags, as well as spray bottles. The concentrate is about 100$ for a gallon. and it makes 16 gallons. I used Baby water from Walmart due to the PH balance. I was nervous seeing cars with a lot of dirt on them. But I'm telling you, for basic exterior wash that leaves a good shine, it is great to start off with. I Used A Kirby Vacuum to clean the inside and also shampoo the carpets and seats. As time went on, purchased pressure washer and much more and stronger chemicals that worked more specifically for certain task, but many ways to start off without a lot of capital to test the waters and see if the business is something you really want to do. Everything fit in the trunk of my 2002 Chevy Impala. hahaha
You’ve done the hard yards and built yourself up to where you are by your hard work your passion and your honesty . It’s not an easy occupation . Can’t wait for each new episode . No BS .
Well i have been in business since 2014 and around that time there were not many mobile detailing businesses. To date 2023 i have seen a huge increase in people coming out of nowhere with a mobile detailing business, so the competition over here has definitely given customers too many options. I don't have a lot of major skills such as ppf, or window tinting but instead to add extra income and to get through the winter. I have put 2 industrys into 1 business which is me offering mobile detailing and home & office cleaning since i have an extractor, a steamer, and a steam extractor. A lot of the products we use are also home safe so why not provide a car cleaning and a home cleaning service at the same time.
Hi Dave. I have seen a massive amount of kit for sale online, and not only valeting/detailing, but also window cleaning and exterior cleaning equipment. The lockdown gave a lot of people time to go through TH-cam and Instagram and see the glamorous world of car detailing, but the reality of owning a business is brutal, and thats a harsh wake-up call for a lot of people. I'm 56 this year, and totally sick of working on cars, I've been at it for 50 years, but until I win the lottery or something like that, I will have to keep bangin on at it. Great video Dave, keeping it real as always.
Thanks mate. It's a good time to buy used equipment right now for sure. It's definitely brutal on the mind and body. I'm exhausted but nothing a few days in Spain won't fix
to be honest the fact that many have chucked towel in and moved on from valeting, is surely a good thing for those who really do want to make a business from it and who have a genuine passion for cars, just means less competition going forward, so maybe 2023 could be a great opportunity for the ones who are dedicated and passionate about it, i started up from home a couple months back as we have a large facility here, its been very tough going, but just lately there's been more interest, so hopefully things pick up, we also run a airb&b here so i try using that to my advantage with offering valets to guests during their stay, i think it could work out well,
Really informative video Dave, I have to admit with the age issues. Being 36 now but still a gym goer 3-5 days a week lifting 200kg on a deadlift and squat, my lower back doesn’t like a interior clean much these days
Wish I could get back in the gym. Always made me feel better. I use car dryer to blow all the dirt out the cars now and it takes so much pressure off my back
You are correct. I am retired now from the corporate automotive world and I DIY my own cars. But, I can see how your knees, back, arms and dealing with both CR and marketing your services can lead to very long working hours.... And a sore back!
A lot of this advice also applies to self-employment in the hospitality industry too. We have been doing this for over ten years. The last three years have killed us. We are selling up and going back to retail: oh holiday pay, days off every week ... Bring it on.
i quit my job to detail full time and nothing is perfect. however, ill say there are a few things every detailer can do to generate more income. i found a business willing to pay $500 per detail and they usually call 2-3 times a month. businesses often pay more than regular people. the slower detailing gets in the winter the better you have to beat google ads. during the summer you can have a horrible google ad layout and make insane dough. the winter you need to be accurate because you're targeting a smaller pool of people. you can flip 5 cars in the winter. pay a teenage to put up 500 door hangers. there is a lot that can be done you just have to be willing. im launching my own product also. it depends on the detailer tbh.
I’m just starting, I already didn’t like 5 cars, but I need to gain some experience before summer time comes, I love people’s reactions when they see the results of my job
Everything thing you said is spot on I’ve had my detailing business for over 10 years now and experienced and still do the highs & lows I do window cleaning as an extra service too it’s striking that balance as well, Like you said if you do good work people will always get you back and referrals is the best advertising too I’m getting closer to the 50 mark and feel like I’ve worked harder then ever compared to when I was younger I do 50 plus hours a week lately my advice is look after yourself too you will just have to have experience for yourself all the pitfalls to learn till you find your fit in the business, Hello from Australia love your channel 👍
In my 50s and love to detail. It’s backbreaking work no doubt. I think a person‘s needs to keep their expectations in check, and focus on the quality of the work you do, before all else.
Yo! I started detailing on a bike and trailer too! Then I realized that in my area, people will just drive to me if I offer a $5 discount! But now I think I might take it up to the next level!
I'm not convinced that age is the make a break for this business. I am 53 years old and I'm retired with a pension. Now granted the pension does provide a nice safety net. But I'm still building my business into an over six figure per year business. I mean, yeah the joints and tendons aren't as flexible as they once were, but it's just getting used to it. The body could still adapt. Great advice in great video as always. Thank you for putting this out. 👍
Another great video, Dave. Having watched all of your videos, I started up nearly 2 years ago in London. It does take time, and I think it's a bit more saturated down here. I definitely need a water tank but use customers power, I haven't got a van but use my estate car so saves me money that way and is more than acceptable, as long as your customer service is great, time keeping, hard work, deliver the work to a high standard and at the price you quote you will get recommended and repeat customers. It's definitely slowed since the energy bills went up, so I'm glad my overheads are kept in check. I'd say that you might need a part time job to supplement income as the business grows. And I'm an old man of 47 so it's hard work. But worth it.
Hi mate yeah October the first saw the biggest drop with online retailers in the industry too. It was like someone switched the lights off. This weather is brutal today. Absaloutely freezing
@Epic Automotive Detailing my quiet month was September it completely died overnight. Something to consider as help for people is if they use something like Google business and Ads is look at the data its telling you. Check its recommendations and keywords people are searching for and look at the flow of people through your website and social media. If you're getting 100 visits a week, for example, but no bookings are your prices and services, what people are looking for. You have to be prepared to adjust as you don't get it right the first time.
Love the story of David’s journey and honesty. I’m subscribed. 🇵🇷 He paid the price and sacrificed. I enjoyed the age facture issues. Thanks again for being sincere.
Recently left the dealership where I was working. My body (at 35 years old) couldn't take the 50 hours a week as well as going to kickboxing 3 times a week. And then doing a few private cleans at the weekend. While I do miss doing it day in day out, I at least have the skills to properly do my own car and my family and friends. Did dream of doing it myself as a business but my area is just full of local scratch and shines and soo many mobile valeters.
Demographic in my area isn't affluent so it is slim pickings. Wouldn't mind my own car wash but somewhere that hits the balance between volume and quality. Sort of a middle ground area between a valet and a detail. But that is something that needs a lot of planning
@MrMoz0887 it's not an easy job to do day in day out. I reckon all the chemicals you use can have an effect on your body if your not using the gloves and googles all the time
@@richlee509 I did it for 3.5 years at a high volume dealership. It was brutal looking back at it now. And it pained me the way they did clean the cars. But never used them methods on my own customers. And I do think the constant use of chemicals did affect me while there. My breathing is better now.
Lovely video Dave, biggest problem with the industry is the customer’s lack of understanding over what it means to ‘safely’ clean a car and certainly a complete lack of understanding over decontaminating a car and protecting it. This is why they baulk over paying £50 for a ‘wash’ when they can visit the local Swirl Masters car wash for a few quid 🥴 Just started a new office job, located on a modern business park, all newish cars around me, it rained the other day and every car I saw from the upstairs window was ‘flat’ in terms of protection 😢
Sadly no one cares nowadays most people don't even know what paintwork protection is A few years ago I used to make very good handmade car paste wax for fun and offer it to work mates to try for free No one knew how to wax a car or anything about paintwork decontamination Most said they never washed their car and some said they go down the local scratch and shine twice a year 😥
Looked to set up a few years ago in the credit crunch back in 2008 when I was made redundant but reality quickly set in, now I manage a busy dealership with experienced valetors, personally now just do jobs for friends and family, wouldn’t consider setting up now especially here in the Midlands the big clients aren’t plentiful enough and the the rest don’t want to pay the prices.
Yeah this business takes the enjoyment out of car cleaning sometimes which is sad. I feel slightly lucky being down south of London but far enough to be away from the madness
Damn, I started in October of last year and wish I’d of know all of this before I financed a van, bought a load of stuff and BOOM.. winter. Thank you for the amazing advice and great help, can’t wait for the video on detailing!
Really great honest advice (as usual) Dave for the start up car valeters out there pondering this lifestyle. At nearly 55 it's not for me for sure but I could see the attraction of starting a business if you really enjoy this type of thing as a 20 something with boundless levels of energy - as long as you have a long term game plan because as you say the older you get the worse it gets.
@@epicautomotivedetailing Also Dave well done for your increasing success to date. It sounds like you have earned that success judging from what you said about how things were when you started out. I wish you all the success for the future also. That time spent with your dad as well - priceless (if a little competitive too)
I do my valeting with a pedal bike and a trailer, work 6-7 days a week and I'm in my 50s and I have no energy costs. I find social media drives prices down and expectations too high
Thanks Peter. Yeah I have family in Perth they say it's mega hot. We had a hot day last year where I filmed a Rolls Royce and it was so difficult to get right
Personally I have not been able to make it work. It is not a get rich quick sceem and you will make loses however if you can break even then I would say you have done well. I had difficulty trying to keep the costs down and public opinion is £10-15 is the expected norm for an exterior wash and polish based on mid size vehicle & for an extra £5 have the inside vacuum cleaned. The market is saturated but this guy is sharing valuable information for example why everyone is hell bent about a van with water purifier and pumped system always blows my mind. You don't need fancy branded polishes or waxs but a decent quality product will suffice. Remember people have different expectations and that will be your hardest lesson. Critical clients can often make you feel like you suck at the job, but reality is you probably done remarkably good one. Its hard work and you will get aches and pains especially in the colder months. For me i had to leave it as my bills just where not getting paid how ever you are you own boss and you do meet nice people and i love being outside but just not when it very cold. I wish everyone the best best of luck in the valeting/detailing world survival of the fittest polish your way to success take care all.
Hi Mike, so glad you pulled through. I need to find that passion again. The stresses of life can really take away that desire to work on your own cars.
Hi from the Channel Islands Dave. Starting in 2 weeks full time as have to leave current job for private reasons. Really looking forward to it used to do it back a few years ago but partner let me down so going solo. Got a 4x4 that has plenty of room to fit my gear (250l tank genny etc). Not much competition over here and I'm only 20 and don't have much outgoings so thought now would be the best time. I only have business insurance that covers public liability etc so pretty sure that's enough correct me if wrong. Love to watch the vids you have defo inspired me to do this to :)
Thanks so much. Seriously good luck with it. 20 is a good age to start. You can achieve so much in this business. So many avenues whether it's social media, TV work, selling products, to running a franchise. Plenty of opportunities out there
@@epicautomotivedetailing I watched them and it was truly heartwarming. Such nice people in this world. And you crack me up literally 🤣. Not sure if you mean to be funny but you certainly are. Love the series truly.
Thanks Mate appreciate it. I think there is light because although work has dried up for a few people it will soon boom again once the weather picks up
Great video Dave, not that I’m considering starting a valeting business, but what you put out is compulsive viewing regardless. Really insightful business message that I’d guess can be applied to anything. Great work 👍🏻
As you mentioned, there have been lots of FB posts asking about starting out and others finishing. It's been a perfect storm mixed with a world that couldn't have been imagined a few years ago. If someone had suggested everyone go home and work there for 2 years, they would have been escorted from the building! Lots of people who have been detailing as a business for years have had to finish so what chance does someone thinking they can start from scratch have? Even suppliers like Bouncers who make great products closed and that was before the worst of the financial situation bit. Who is going to pay for a detail when they struggle to pay for everything else?
I never tried bouncers car care but heard good things. From what I heard his strategy was a tad old fashioned and sadly you have to adapt to trends and social media wasn't for him I don't think. I started a car care brand when the hosepipe ban happened which was unfortunate but I held on and now it's picking up at a positive rate.
you dont aim for clientele that cannot afford your service, detailing is a luxury service after all. Its a delegation, people dont have time do it themselves because their time is valuable, if you position yourself correctly you will never struggle for clientele even in recession
Thank you for the video Dave👍. You hit the nail completely on the head with your wise words 👌. As you rightly said one needs to think very carefully before going self employed and it's of the utmost importance to have a passion for that business.
Wow few things. Firstly top notch advice re routes to market. Most organisations have no clue about their customers or how to use social channels. Have to say this is the first time i seen SEO mentioned in a detailing video. Second, brilliant cash flow advice, both for forecasting and not burdening yourself with overheads as you start out. Finally, despite 16 years Dave your passion still spills over and is i’m sure an inspiration for a lot of people considering starting out on this profession. My only criticism is that at 58 i’m clearly past it 😅
Hi Jon. No you're not past it but definitely recommend you get help to start with. I would say it would be easier starting a detailing business in a unit where you can spend a day or so on a car to take the pressure off driving around getting set up etc
Good video, some excellent points. Here’s my tuppence 😁 1. Absolutely bang on with regard to the van. I started my business over a year ago in the boot of my car. As I grew the business I ended up buying a lockable box trailer and still use that to this day. Other than occasionally struggling to park on customers’ property, it’s a great option and I have no intention of buying a van. 2. Water and electricity - Although I’m in Northern Ireland where water is charged at a fixed rate to all households (not individual usage), it has never been an issue or a concern. I inform all customers that I will need access to a water tap and electricity within relative reach of the vehicle and not once has this ever been a problem. Some of my customers even have their own extension leads and hose reels prepared for me to save me the hassle of using my own. In my opinion, as long as your customer is made aware that you will require water and electricity and you have factored this into your pricing then this shouldn’t be a problem. If it is a problem then that customer is probably not worth your time and effort. 3. Have other income sources. January was a very poor month for me. I lost 21 days of trade due to poor weather condition. This was okay because I have multiple income sources. Look into delivering parcels for Amazon, food on Just Eat, groceries on Beelivery and so on. These self-employed driver jobs are a fantastic way to keep the money coming in when you simply can’t do the valeting work.
Thanks for sharing your input Dane. I know many people spend time going through these comments so you will be helping others so honestly i'm very thankful 🙏
A really excellent video Dave, its great to have channels like yours. In this business you can feel quite isolated so it’s great to hear professional opinions and stories. Cheers!
Hrmm, not sure that you need to have a passion for actual cars? I'm just thinking the passion for make something look good again 😍 No matter the cars design or brand. At least that counts for me. Making a car (any brand) looking nice and smooth again, really is satisfying 😁 (just ought to state that for those who watch this vid). You're SO good covering and talking about the details!!! I'm really impressed in the whole starting a company-topic! I'm leaning back here thinking "wow, that makes sense". I have a question: Car care products you recommended, are any of those either "green", sustainable or biodegradable? I love this video so freakin' much!
Thank you Dave I have just spent around £1000 more than that on machines, cleaning products etc.. I made myself a list with your other video a bought everything, but I bought as well the steam machine and the carpet/upholstery cleaner machine etc... hopefully, I will find my customers
I'm a mechanic and I'm looking at doing a car cleaning thing because there is just no money in fixing cars for someone else and if I clean cars there's less chance of something going wrong.
I do like watching you and your Dad, you do have to get him out of the house sometimes😂😂I don't think I will ask my gardener to clean my cars. I will leave it to me or send it to get them detailed 😎
Thanks Jason. Sorry I meant gardeners can learn skills needed to clean cars (not necessarily detail them as such) I'm bringing in a gardener in a few weeks to see how he copes
I’m a window cleaner, have been for 8 years but don’t enjoy it. I enjoy cleaning cars so combining both. At the moment Jan to April seem to be the hardest months.
@@daveroberts703 thanks Dave. That's very kind. Yes I got few more products coming out. Literally spent every penny to my name in getting new unit sorted but soon as I'm in I'll be doing events where people can come and network with other car cleaners
@@epicautomotivedetailing bless you. Oh wow great. Congratulations and can’t wait for more products. I’m 45 and I do struggle especially my hands with RSI 😫 back & knees. I came unfortunately to this trade late but I absolutely love my job and seeing end results, also customer’s comments. ❤️
@@daveroberts703 so I was suffering with bad hips but soon as I ditched the stubby gun and went back to a longer lance it took the pain away. Less bending down.
i dont care about the small things my work my sweat and my passion and drive will come good in the end i am gonna be starting out soon thats what matters and i can only hope my cliants or cliants will realize that in the quality of my work and i wont take anything less than perfection i dont care where ita a vw polo or a ferrari the work is the same .😊
I’m retiring from teaching after 30 years next year. Been a car guy my whole life and I’m thinking about detailing part time when I retire to supplement my retirement income. Any thoughts?
Hello as a part time job yeah it's great because you have a nice balance. Full time is where things get tough because your passion becomes a chore for some people. Not everyone
No need to put it on hold. There's no shame in not machine polishing.90% of The clients you will work for won't ever need machine polishing if you start as a car cleaner. Detailing goes more on depth and there's where people (clients) get confused between a valeter and a detailer
@@justinford8996 you need to do a fair few practice cleans of cars small medium and large. Look at areas you do well in and ones you struggle. Once you develop good routines you can give yourself a goal for cleaning a car in 1-2 hours. I charge from £65 for a maintenance wash and vac. But this is on weekly cars so they always stay spotless and rarely need hoovering. But to get to this stage I had to make a lot of mistakes along the way with very bad quality cars
Very honest vídeo! I LOVE cars and motorcycles, but being a music professor i find difficult to coordinate it with the hobby (or possible job) of car detailing... Cheers from Neuquén!
Dave power tools hmm, only joking, I must say that fiat 500 is well cool ( for a fiat ) anyway, you deserve it mate plus back in the good books with the misses, keep up the good work
Very good video. I retired a few years back when I turned 60 and thought about auto detailing as a business to make some side money. However, while I love cleaning my cars, I don't like doing interior work. Why? Well, I am not as nimble as I was when I was younger BUT, I am 6'6" and getting in and out of cars, especially the small ones, is a PITA! The good thing about being tall and cleaning cars, is that I rarely have to use a step stool to wash the roofs of my cars. Hahaha
Don't forget if you want to learn the Basic Skills needed to Wash your Car whether its for your business or even just as a hobby you can watch Bite Sized videos on my other channel.
👉 www.youtube.com/@howtodetailyoutube
Do you think this is a business you can grow to have people working for you?
I started my car cleaning business last year when I was 34. I'm never going to work for anyone else again. I embrace the suck and just do what needs to be done. Pain is a part of the job.
Well done wise words 👏
hows it going?
How's the work going mate. Thinking about doing the same this year.
Why not film the process (like Ammo NYC or The Detail Geek) and post it on TH-cam? Create solid titles and thumbnails to make the video(s) highly clickable...people will gobble that up! This could be a really solid way to 1) get new clients and 2) make additional income from TH-cam.
Many have actually gone on to make far MORE from their TH-cam videos than they did from the actual detailing! Just a thought :)
I am not 62 until May Son 😂. As you know I was a car valeter when I was 22. Working for Ford's and yes I could do up to 7cars inside and out. Although the products that are available now didn't exist back in 1983. So everything was very basic then. Still that said I did enjoy it. Good points raised their David,I hope that some people take them on board. Dad 🙂👍
As good as Dad lol
he likes you there to provide the fake chocs
@@tmphotography8443 it runs in our family we love a good choco clack from Lidl 😂😂
@@THETATTOOGARDENER83 I'm turning my parents over to the joys of Aldi fake chocs. It's Lidl choc filled donuts that are my downfall lmao
Solid content. We started June of 2022 and haven’t looked back!
24 years old. Starting this month and my partner is my gf. Two motivated individuals ready to enjoy detailing. Purchased my essential equipment to start. Thought of a business name, logo, business plan etc. I love all types of weather. I’d prefer the rain over 9-5. I like clean cars. I clean my own car. I like being my own boss. Still living at home so not as much financial responsibility as others. No rent. No kids. For me it would be fun as well as a business. Starting practice on my car and family cars this month and then accepting customers 😀😀.
It’s three months later, how are things going?
@@TyG92he ded
Hows business now?
First channel that breaks with the American dream stories. Just honest and I really appreciate that in 2023.
Hi,Dave I'm 66 and I did 2 car's today over 4 hour's and I still love it.did the works pre wash,wheels, tyre's,inside windows,etc. Then stand back and soak 🤩in the results and see The owners expressions of pride in their cars
Amazing stuff well done Frank. You should share your story it would help inspire others
@@epicautomotivedetailing To be honest the 2 car's were in the one driveway and I did the stages in Tandem non stop.A Lexus and a Tuson
Hei sounds great would love to hear from you... I wanna start this
Spot on... started business in 94 after 10 years learning in showrooms,crash centres ,press cars &show cars, at 57 the body hurts but still going strong, haven't advertised in 5 years,still have a continuous full diary and have had many clients over 20 years. Look after the clients and they look after you. Really enjoy the channel
Thanks Rick, massive respect you been at this way longer than me 👏
@Epic Car Show Detailing cheers , probably hurt as much as your Dad :D, but I still learn all the time, we've come along way from saddle soap for leather and beeswax polish 😀
@@rickgoddard6746 yeah it's evolved on such a crazy Level now
Dave I’ve been detailing fulltime since 2021 FT but technically I didn’t just START. but I am making 8000$ a month every month. About to sign a lease for a 1500 sq feet shop…. LETS GO DAVE!!!
That's awesome money. You should be proud that's a really good
@@epicautomotivedetailing thank you my friend. Thanks you guys. A lot of hardwork as we know
How much does it cost to start?
@Evri500 from what I've seen, $400-$1000 depending on the quality of your equipment.
@@epicautomotivedetailinglove this video
That is why when I started in 2010 I made sure to have other skills besides knowing how to detail a car. I started painting and welding and that brought a different type of clientele. Went from airbrushing to detailing painting and restoring. So when dealing with a customer I can offer all that.
great outlook mate. Car cleaners can learn so many other skills like restoring cigarette burns in carpets or wheel refurbs
I love your videos! I started a detail business less than a year ago. I do it on a part time bases because I have a full time job. I just turned 60 and I have open heart surgery on December 1st. I can't wait to start detailing again, I have a ton of energy and I can see doing this for at least 10 years. I love cars and the instant gratification of detailing, but what I love the most is the customer faces when they see their car like new. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.
Thank you very much for your kind words
60yrs old... What an inspiration. I'm sure this work is much better than a desk job at helping you stay in shape and feeling younger! And to do it for another 10yrs is truly amazing!
@@brian4828 thank you Brian, I'm still recovering from my open heart surgery, in going to cardiac rehab 3 days a week and I'm feeling great. I can't wait for this rainy weather to stop here in northern California so I can start detailing again. Have an awesome day 😊
@@truthmatters2020 you are quite welcome. All the best to you for a speedy recovery my friend!
Is it profitable
Just some info for those starting and don't have for a pressure washer, I started at 17 with Chemical guys waterless car wash with carnauba wax. I bout a lot of microfiber rags, as well as spray bottles. The concentrate is about 100$ for a gallon. and it makes 16 gallons. I used Baby water from Walmart due to the PH balance. I was nervous seeing cars with a lot of dirt on them. But I'm telling you, for basic exterior wash that leaves a good shine, it is great to start off with. I Used A Kirby Vacuum to clean the inside and also shampoo the carpets and seats. As time went on, purchased pressure washer and much more and stronger chemicals that worked more specifically for certain task, but many ways to start off without a lot of capital to test the waters and see if the business is something you really want to do. Everything fit in the trunk of my 2002 Chevy Impala. hahaha
You’ve done the hard yards and built yourself up to where you are by your hard work your passion and your honesty . It’s not an easy occupation . Can’t wait for each new episode . No BS .
Thank you 🙏
Well i have been in business since 2014 and around that time there were not many mobile detailing businesses. To date 2023 i have seen a huge increase in people coming out of nowhere with a mobile detailing business, so the competition over here has definitely given customers too many options. I don't have a lot of major skills such as ppf, or window tinting but instead to add extra income and to get through the winter. I have put 2 industrys into 1 business which is me offering mobile detailing and home & office cleaning since i have an extractor, a steamer, and a steam extractor. A lot of the products we use are also home safe so why not provide a car cleaning and a home cleaning service at the same time.
Hi Dave. I have seen a massive amount of kit for sale online, and not only valeting/detailing, but also window cleaning and exterior cleaning equipment.
The lockdown gave a lot of people time to go through TH-cam and Instagram and see the glamorous world of car detailing, but the reality of owning a business is brutal, and thats a harsh wake-up call for a lot of people. I'm 56 this year, and totally sick of working on cars, I've been at it for 50 years, but until I win the lottery or something like that, I will have to keep bangin on at it.
Great video Dave, keeping it real as always.
Thanks mate. It's a good time to buy used equipment right now for sure. It's definitely brutal on the mind and body. I'm exhausted but nothing a few days in Spain won't fix
@@epicautomotivedetailing enjoy ☀️☀️☀️
@@dalydetailz2120 you started detailing cars from the age of 6 🤔🙄
@@bestcrazyboy8487😂asked my self the same question 😅
@@dalydetailz2120 no from the age of 13,
to be honest the fact that many have chucked towel in and moved on from valeting, is surely a good thing for those who really do want to make a business from it and who have a genuine passion for cars, just means less competition going forward, so maybe 2023 could be a great opportunity for the ones who are dedicated and passionate about it, i started up from home a couple months back as we have a large facility here, its been very tough going, but just lately there's been more interest, so hopefully things pick up, we also run a airb&b here so i try using that to my advantage with offering valets to guests during their stay, i think it could work out well,
Really informative video Dave, I have to admit with the age issues. Being 36 now but still a gym goer 3-5 days a week lifting 200kg on a deadlift and squat, my lower back doesn’t like a interior clean much these days
Wish I could get back in the gym. Always made me feel better. I use car dryer to blow all the dirt out the cars now and it takes so much pressure off my back
Or maybe the bad form on the deadlifts lol.Just kidding I’m in the same boat
Pick up your stretching and core exercises, might be pushing too hard on heavy weights. Try a lighter weight and no junk food or alcohol!
You are correct. I am retired now from the corporate automotive world and I DIY my own cars. But, I can see how your knees, back, arms and dealing with both CR and marketing your services can lead to very long working hours.... And a sore back!
A lot of this advice also applies to self-employment in the hospitality industry too. We have been doing this for over ten years. The last three years have killed us. We are selling up and going back to retail: oh holiday pay, days off every week ... Bring it on.
Yeah I can imagine I'm just praying the world gets back to normal soon
i quit my job to detail full time and nothing is perfect. however, ill say there are a few things every detailer can do to generate more income. i found a business willing to pay $500 per detail and they usually call 2-3 times a month. businesses often pay more than regular people. the slower detailing gets in the winter the better you have to beat google ads. during the summer you can have a horrible google ad layout and make insane dough. the winter you need to be accurate because you're targeting a smaller pool of people. you can flip 5 cars in the winter. pay a teenage to put up 500 door hangers. there is a lot that can be done you just have to be willing. im launching my own product also. it depends on the detailer tbh.
Bout to start in 2025 and I’m excited! I’m not working for another company or another jerk I’m my own boss and will grow my business.
On point. Eye-opening. Appreciate your honesty and the hard work you've done.
Best advice ever [treat all cars the same] I wash a gwagon the same way I wash a Chevy. I came along way tried to share my journey on my channel
Thanks mate. Wishing all the success in your business 🙏
I’m just starting, I already didn’t like 5 cars, but I need to gain some experience before summer time comes, I love people’s reactions when they see the results of my job
Hello nice one thats great news. Your on the right track
He is right about the van, you dont need it, I just started mine and everything fits inside of my honda fit which is a relatively small car
Thanks Luis
Everything thing you said is spot on I’ve had my detailing business for over 10 years now and experienced and still do the highs & lows I do window cleaning as an extra service too it’s striking that balance as well,
Like you said if you do good work people will always get you back and referrals is the best advertising too I’m getting closer to the 50 mark and feel like I’ve worked harder then ever compared to when I was younger I do 50 plus hours a week lately my advice is look after yourself too you will just have to have experience for yourself all the pitfalls to learn till you find your fit in the business,
Hello from Australia love your channel 👍
Thanks so much for your comment really appreciate it 🙏
Great video.I’m 42 been detailing for the last 5 years an I love it I do it full time. An wouldn’t want to do anything else, great video
Hello mate thanks for commenting. nice to hear some positive thoughts on this industry
@@epicautomotivedetailing 💪💪
Thanks for posting. One of the most Honest videos on DETAILING as a BUSINESS OWNER (U.S.A) AS OF 2023
Thanks My Friend Hope it helps
In my 50s and love to detail. It’s backbreaking work no doubt. I think a person‘s needs to keep their expectations in check, and focus on the quality of the work you do, before all else.
Yo! I started detailing on a bike and trailer too! Then I realized that in my area, people will just drive to me if I offer a $5 discount! But now I think I might take it up to the next level!
Great idea well done ✅
I'm not convinced that age is the make a break for this business. I am 53 years old and I'm retired with a pension. Now granted the pension does provide a nice safety net. But I'm still building my business into an over six figure per year business. I mean, yeah the joints and tendons aren't as flexible as they once were, but it's just getting used to it. The body could still adapt.
Great advice in great video as always. Thank you for putting this out. 👍
Thank you
Good honest, solid, helpful information based in reality.
No one starts at the top!
Thanks Simon
Another great video, Dave. Having watched all of your videos, I started up nearly 2 years ago in London. It does take time, and I think it's a bit more saturated down here. I definitely need a water tank but use customers power, I haven't got a van but use my estate car so saves me money that way and is more than acceptable, as long as your customer service is great, time keeping, hard work, deliver the work to a high standard and at the price you quote you will get recommended and repeat customers.
It's definitely slowed since the energy bills went up, so I'm glad my overheads are kept in check. I'd say that you might need a part time job to supplement income as the business grows.
And I'm an old man of 47 so it's hard work. But worth it.
Hi mate yeah October the first saw the biggest drop with online retailers in the industry too. It was like someone switched the lights off. This weather is brutal today. Absaloutely freezing
@Epic Automotive Detailing my quiet month was September it completely died overnight. Something to consider as help for people is if they use something like Google business and Ads is look at the data its telling you. Check its recommendations and keywords people are searching for and look at the flow of people through your website and social media. If you're getting 100 visits a week, for example, but no bookings are your prices and services, what people are looking for. You have to be prepared to adjust as you don't get it right the first time.
Love the story of David’s journey and honesty. I’m subscribed. 🇵🇷 He paid the price and sacrificed. I enjoyed the age facture issues. Thanks again for being sincere.
Thank you Carlos
Recently left the dealership where I was working. My body (at 35 years old) couldn't take the 50 hours a week as well as going to kickboxing 3 times a week. And then doing a few private cleans at the weekend.
While I do miss doing it day in day out, I at least have the skills to properly do my own car and my family and friends. Did dream of doing it myself as a business but my area is just full of local scratch and shines and soo many mobile valeters.
Sorry to hear that. Location can have a huge effect. Lots of hand car washes around here too
Demographic in my area isn't affluent so it is slim pickings.
Wouldn't mind my own car wash but somewhere that hits the balance between volume and quality. Sort of a middle ground area between a valet and a detail. But that is something that needs a lot of planning
@MrMoz0887 it's not an easy job to do day in day out. I reckon all the chemicals you use can have an effect on your body if your not using the gloves and googles all the time
@@richlee509 I did it for 3.5 years at a high volume dealership. It was brutal looking back at it now. And it pained me the way they did clean the cars. But never used them methods on my own customers.
And I do think the constant use of chemicals did affect me while there. My breathing is better now.
People have to pay there dues like you did! Build gradually and stop going big early. Great honest video 🎉
Thanks Mate I certainly done that. Its been one heck of a long run
Lovely video Dave, biggest problem with the industry is the customer’s lack of understanding over what it means to ‘safely’ clean a car and certainly a complete lack of understanding over decontaminating a car and protecting it. This is why they baulk over paying £50 for a ‘wash’ when they can visit the local Swirl Masters car wash for a few quid 🥴
Just started a new office job, located on a modern business park, all newish cars around me, it rained the other day and every car I saw from the upstairs window was ‘flat’ in terms of protection 😢
Thanks mate. Yeah it's up to us to make things clear for them for sure
lol swirl masters
Sadly no one cares nowadays most people don't even know what paintwork protection is
A few years ago
I used to make very good handmade car paste wax for fun and offer it to work mates to try for free
No one knew how to wax a car or anything about paintwork decontamination
Most said they never washed their car and some said they go down the local scratch and shine twice a year 😥
Looked to set up a few years ago in the credit crunch back in 2008 when I was made redundant but reality quickly set in, now I manage a busy dealership with experienced valetors, personally now just do jobs for friends and family, wouldn’t consider setting up now especially here in the Midlands the big clients aren’t plentiful enough and the the rest don’t want to pay the prices.
Yeah this business takes the enjoyment out of car cleaning sometimes which is sad. I feel slightly lucky being down south of London but far enough to be away from the madness
I love this because it's very honest and direct not a lot of BS sales tactics. Great Video 🌹
Thank you 🙏
That's whats insane im not a huge car fanatic but i lovd reconditioning cars and making them look new again
Nice video and helpful advice. Much appreciated. Thanks
Thank you
Damn, I started in October of last year and wish I’d of know all of this before I financed a van, bought a load of stuff and BOOM.. winter.
Thank you for the amazing advice and great help, can’t wait for the video on detailing!
It's brutal isn't it lol. That first winter does shock you but you soon adapt 🙏
What an amazing, Interesting and informative video. Well done young man, keep up with your video's 👍🏾
Much appreciated more coming soon just in process of having unit being renovated
Really great honest advice (as usual) Dave for the start up car valeters out there pondering this lifestyle. At nearly 55 it's not for me for sure but I could see the attraction of starting a business if you really enjoy this type of thing as a 20 something with boundless levels of energy - as long as you have a long term game plan because as you say the older you get the worse it gets.
I'm really struggling compared to when I was in my twenties. It's a relentless job that changes with the weather so mentally it can be draining on me
@@epicautomotivedetailing Also Dave well done for your increasing success to date. It sounds like you have earned that success judging from what you said about how things were when you started out. I wish you all the success for the future also.
That time spent with your dad as well - priceless (if a little competitive too)
@@karllelliott681 thanks Karl. I worked so hard and now it's moving into TV and Media which is mad to think it would of ever been possible
@@theone7644 Nope - definitely not for me!
@@karllelliott681
Not all 55ers are made equal!
I love how far you have come in this journey. Well done you fully deserved
Thanks Yusaf. Honestly I wish I had filmed all the hard times in the past to show people how hard I worked. It's definitely been a great journey
I do my valeting with a pedal bike and a trailer, work 6-7 days a week and I'm in my 50s and I have no energy costs. I find social media drives prices down and expectations too high
Mate fair play that's incredible I would love to see how you do it. I used to use a bike trailer
@@epicautomotivedetailing waterless wash n wax, tfr if needed, cordless vacuum etc, we work in car parks, busy on most days unless totally rained off
Great video. I know it's wet in the UK. Try detailing in australia when the temps are in the 40s. Your advice is great for all countries.
Thanks Peter. Yeah I have family in Perth they say it's mega hot. We had a hot day last year where I filmed a Rolls Royce and it was so difficult to get right
@@epicautomotivedetailingwhy did the heat make it difficult?
Best side job to have. I work from 3 am and off at 11:30 am then I do my washes.
Wow well done 👏👏
I think it's good to know for your own cars it saves you a lot of money
Definitely
Personally I have not been able to make it work. It is not a get rich quick sceem and you will make loses however if you can break even then I would say you have done well. I had difficulty trying to keep the costs down and public opinion is £10-15 is the expected norm for an exterior wash and polish based on mid size vehicle & for an extra £5 have the inside vacuum cleaned. The market is saturated but this guy is sharing valuable information for example why everyone is hell bent about a van with water purifier and pumped system always blows my mind. You don't need fancy branded polishes or waxs but a decent quality product will suffice. Remember people have different expectations and that will be your hardest lesson. Critical clients can often make you feel like you suck at the job, but reality is you probably done remarkably good one. Its hard work and you will get aches and pains especially in the colder months. For me i had to leave it as my bills just where not getting paid how ever you are you own boss and you do meet nice people and i love being outside but just not when it very cold. I wish everyone the best best of luck in the valeting/detailing world survival of the fittest polish your way to success take care all.
I got hit by a double decker bus in 2015, almost ended me…. I love detailing as it’s my therapy for me
Hi Mike, so glad you pulled through. I need to find that passion again. The stresses of life can really take away that desire to work on your own cars.
Great video and very likable guy! Keep up the good work
Thank you 🙂
Always well informed & honest. Good video mate
Thanks Paul appreciate it very much
Good lad. Work hard, be upbeat. Get on with it !
Thanks Paul
Iv'e always wanted to start a car detailing business, now after watching your videos I want to do it even more. Are you hiring people by any chance?
Hi from the Channel Islands Dave. Starting in 2 weeks full time as have to leave current job for private reasons. Really looking forward to it used to do it back a few years ago but partner let me down so going solo. Got a 4x4 that has plenty of room to fit my gear (250l tank genny etc). Not much competition over here and I'm only 20 and don't have much outgoings so thought now would be the best time. I only have business insurance that covers public liability etc so pretty sure that's enough correct me if wrong. Love to watch the vids you have defo inspired me to do this to :)
Thanks so much. Seriously good luck with it. 20 is a good age to start. You can achieve so much in this business. So many avenues whether it's social media, TV work, selling products, to running a franchise. Plenty of opportunities out there
All your clients are your boss. I am self-employed as well and my clients are my boss if I want repeat business.
In my last video I just uploaded I show people what my clients did for me and it was a miracle
@@epicautomotivedetailing I watched them and it was truly heartwarming. Such nice people in this world. And you crack me up literally 🤣. Not sure if you mean to be funny but you certainly are. Love the series truly.
@@denisef1153 thank you. I just say whatever rubbish comes out of my mouth lol. I just get the camera out and film whatever is in front of me
Another top video. And times are difficult but they is light at the end of the tunnel 😊
Thanks Mate appreciate it. I think there is light because although work has dried up for a few people it will soon boom again once the weather picks up
Woah! I was looking at a review for my Karcher power washer I just ordered, guess I should start my cleaning business now xD
Love to keep us hanging about what you have coming up in other videos init,
( promoting ) at its finest
im learning lol. hopefully ill be filming today but soon as im in the unit ill be filming daily
@@epicautomotivedetailing sounds good to me
GREAT advice! Thanks!
Thank you
I built decks with a 66 year old and he would hump lumber downhill in the snow at 10°F and he's still doing it 2 years later at 68
Always help to have equipment to help minimize the wear and tear on your body Ir adjustable detailing chairs or stools, knee pads, etc..
Right on bro!🔥😎👍🏼
cheers my friend
great vid, ready to put the work in and get my business started.
Great video Dave, not that I’m considering starting a valeting business, but what you put out is compulsive viewing regardless.
Really insightful business message that I’d guess can be applied to anything.
Great work 👍🏻
Thanks Kevin. Appreciate that comment. the channel is having a major makeover soon once im in the unit
@@epicautomotivedetailing good luck with that 👍🏻
@@kevincross9206 cheers Kevin
Enjoyed the video, an interesting perspective from across the pond. Wish you luck sir!
Thanks Vince appreciate it
As you mentioned, there have been lots of FB posts asking about starting out and others finishing.
It's been a perfect storm mixed with a world that couldn't have been imagined a few years ago. If someone had suggested everyone go home and work there for 2 years, they would have been escorted from the building! Lots of people who have been detailing as a business for years have had to finish so what chance does someone thinking they can start from scratch have? Even suppliers like Bouncers who make great products closed and that was before the worst of the financial situation bit. Who is going to pay for a detail when they struggle to pay for everything else?
I never tried bouncers car care but heard good things. From what I heard his strategy was a tad old fashioned and sadly you have to adapt to trends and social media wasn't for him I don't think. I started a car care brand when the hosepipe ban happened which was unfortunate but I held on and now it's picking up at a positive rate.
you dont aim for clientele that cannot afford your service, detailing is a luxury service after all. Its a delegation, people dont have time do it themselves because their time is valuable, if you position yourself correctly you will never struggle for clientele even in recession
Scared advice
Thank you for the video Dave👍. You hit the nail completely on the head with your wise words 👌. As you rightly said one needs to think very carefully before going self employed and it's of the utmost importance to have a passion for that business.
Thanks Karl. I hope the message gets across to the right person 🙏
nice video man. @ 15:02 I noticed you using something to remove pet hair. What kind of tool is this?
Thank you ive got a pet hair removal video coming out on my new channel next month @howtodetailyoutube
Wow few things. Firstly top notch advice re routes to market. Most organisations have no clue about their customers or how to use social channels. Have to say this is the first time i seen SEO mentioned in a detailing video. Second, brilliant cash flow advice, both for forecasting and not burdening yourself with overheads as you start out. Finally, despite 16 years Dave your passion still spills over and is i’m sure an inspiration for a lot of people considering starting out on this profession. My only criticism is that at 58 i’m clearly past it 😅
Hi Jon. No you're not past it but definitely recommend you get help to start with. I would say it would be easier starting a detailing business in a unit where you can spend a day or so on a car to take the pressure off driving around getting set up etc
Good call on the insurance. I have this for my insurance which I use when I'm photographing on site in case of trips etc.
be amazed how many photographers do location work without liability insurances. And they aren't much but better to be safe and covered just in case
Thanks mate
Good video, some excellent points. Here’s my tuppence 😁
1. Absolutely bang on with regard to the van. I started my business over a year ago in the boot of my car. As I grew the business I ended up buying a lockable box trailer and still use that to this day. Other than occasionally struggling to park on customers’ property, it’s a great option and I have no intention of buying a van.
2. Water and electricity - Although I’m in Northern Ireland where water is charged at a fixed rate to all households (not individual usage), it has never been an issue or a concern. I inform all customers that I will need access to a water tap and electricity within relative reach of the vehicle and not once has this ever been a problem. Some of my customers even have their own extension leads and hose reels prepared for me to save me the hassle of using my own. In my opinion, as long as your customer is made aware that you will require water and electricity and you have factored this into your pricing then this shouldn’t be a problem. If it is a problem then that customer is probably not worth your time and effort.
3. Have other income sources. January was a very poor month for me. I lost 21 days of trade due to poor weather condition. This was okay because I have multiple income sources. Look into delivering parcels for Amazon, food on Just Eat, groceries on Beelivery and so on. These self-employed driver jobs are a fantastic way to keep the money coming in when you simply can’t do the valeting work.
Thanks for sharing your input Dane. I know many people spend time going through these comments so you will be helping others so honestly i'm very thankful 🙏
A really excellent video Dave, its great to have channels like yours. In this business you can feel quite isolated so it’s great to hear professional opinions and stories. Cheers!
Hrmm, not sure that you need to have a passion for actual cars? I'm just thinking the passion for make something look good again 😍 No matter the cars design or brand. At least that counts for me. Making a car (any brand) looking nice and smooth again, really is satisfying 😁 (just ought to state that for those who watch this vid).
You're SO good covering and talking about the details!!! I'm really impressed in the whole starting a company-topic! I'm leaning back here thinking "wow, that makes sense".
I have a question: Car care products you recommended, are any of those either "green", sustainable or biodegradable?
I love this video so freakin' much!
Nice one Dave, as always sound advice. Ppl should take all you've said onboard and realise its pretty damn hard work.
Definitely a challenge. We need some nice weather desperately
this is some good advice, i am gonna have to listen twice
Thank you 🙏
Thank you Dave I have just spent around £1000 more than that on machines, cleaning products etc.. I made myself a list with your other video a bought everything, but I bought as well the steam machine and the carpet/upholstery cleaner machine etc... hopefully, I will find my customers
Hey hows it going and any advice youd like to share
That’s some real talk thanks bro
Thank You Jorge
Hello Dave,great video,worth knowing to do get into the mobile side of it.
Thanks Steven 😀
I'm a mechanic and I'm looking at doing a car cleaning thing because there is just no money in fixing cars for someone else and if I clean cars there's less chance of something going wrong.
I do like watching you and your Dad, you do have to get him out of the house sometimes😂😂I don't think I will ask my gardener to clean my cars. I will leave it to me or send it to get them detailed 😎
Thanks Jason. Sorry I meant gardeners can learn skills needed to clean cars (not necessarily detail them as such) I'm bringing in a gardener in a few weeks to see how he copes
Definitely glad to see the truth being told !!
Absolutely it's getting tougher in this industry so you have to adapt or it finishes you very quickly
I’m a window cleaner, have been for 8 years but don’t enjoy it. I enjoy cleaning cars so combining both. At the moment Jan to April seem to be the hardest months.
Great great video
Thanks mate appreciate the feedback
Hey legend 🙌
Yes you’ve grafted for it fair play 👏
Great video mate. 👍
Thanks Dave appreciate the kind words
@@epicautomotivedetailing it’s true, and your such a lovely caring helpful person. Loving your products btw. ❤️ hoping there will be more.🤞👍
@@daveroberts703 thanks Dave. That's very kind. Yes I got few more products coming out. Literally spent every penny to my name in getting new unit sorted but soon as I'm in I'll be doing events where people can come and network with other car cleaners
@@epicautomotivedetailing bless you. Oh wow great. Congratulations and can’t wait for more products.
I’m 45 and I do struggle especially my hands with RSI 😫 back & knees. I came unfortunately to this trade late but I absolutely love my job and seeing end results, also customer’s comments. ❤️
@@daveroberts703 so I was suffering with bad hips but soon as I ditched the stubby gun and went back to a longer lance it took the pain away. Less bending down.
Yes passion for cars even on the days you don’t wanna work will get yah out of bed 💪🏻
Yeah, us vehicle people know it. J sleep thinking about cleaning cars.
Ion care about cars but I do like cleaning and seeing how it looks when I’m finished
Another fantastic and informative video Dave
You keep going mate your doing a unbelievable job 👍🏼
Thanks Mark. Sometimes it's nice to do the odd straight up advice videos 🙂
i dont care about the small things my work my sweat and my passion and drive will come good in the end i am gonna be starting out soon thats what matters and i can only hope my cliants or cliants will realize that in the quality of my work and i wont take anything less than perfection i dont care where ita a vw polo or a ferrari the work is the same .😊
I’m retiring from teaching after 30 years next year. Been a car guy my whole life and I’m thinking about detailing part time when I retire to supplement my retirement income. Any thoughts?
Hello as a part time job yeah it's great because you have a nice balance. Full time is where things get tough because your passion becomes a chore for some people. Not everyone
Hi. I valeted my 1st car for money today and I struggled with the carpets. I have a george. The car was a vauxhall. Do you have any videos on carpets.
Hi mate it's a very good topic which is on my video list
Im looking at starting but keep putting the brakes on because I dont do machine Polishing?
No need to put it on hold. There's no shame in not machine polishing.90% of The clients you will work for won't ever need machine polishing if you start as a car cleaner. Detailing goes more on depth and there's where people (clients) get confused between a valeter and a detailer
@@epicautomotivedetailing are thought people would expect car cleaner prices if you had that title? Ive no idea what prices to start at?
@@justinford8996 you need to do a fair few practice cleans of cars small medium and large. Look at areas you do well in and ones you struggle. Once you develop good routines you can give yourself a goal for cleaning a car in 1-2 hours. I charge from £65 for a maintenance wash and vac. But this is on weekly cars so they always stay spotless and rarely need hoovering. But to get to this stage I had to make a lot of mistakes along the way with very bad quality cars
@@epicautomotivedetailing appreciate this. Ive been doing Transporters. From pre wash to ceramic detailer it can take all day from dirty.
@@justinford8996 watch my other channel called how to detail. Its full of quick and easy advice to follow along
Ab
Another awesome video Dave, informative and very useful as always thanks bud
Thanks Eamon Appreciate it. Just happy to share some truths about the business
Very honest vídeo! I LOVE cars and motorcycles, but being a music professor i find difficult to coordinate it with the hobby (or possible job) of car detailing...
Cheers from Neuquén!
when you love car cleaning and transform it into a business it does take out some of the fun but it can still be very rewarding
Awesome video and love the positivity! Keep up the great work!
Dave power tools hmm, only joking, I must say that fiat 500 is well cool ( for a fiat ) anyway, you deserve it mate plus back in the good books with the misses, keep up the good work
Very good video. I retired a few years back when I turned 60 and thought about auto detailing as a business to make some side money. However, while I love cleaning my cars, I don't like doing interior work. Why? Well, I am not as nimble as I was when I was younger BUT, I am 6'6" and getting in and out of cars, especially the small ones, is a PITA! The good thing about being tall and cleaning cars, is that I rarely have to use a step stool to wash the roofs of my cars. Hahaha
Thanks Bob yeah I understand. The interior is the bit that really slows you down. I'm not as fit as I used to be so I sympathize
5 days a week is what I do now and I'm 52 no weekends whatsoever unless it's big money
It's a nice balance. How you finding this cold weather?
I’m 37 and will be returning from the military next year. I’m more fit than 95 percent of 18 year old today.
Amazing stuff. I need to get back on track and get healthy
I have a deal with Arnold Clark so I clean the cars they get so they can sell it for more and I do it cheaper than the previous one
Superb insight mate
Cheers mate