I remember a long time ago, wanting to produce some aftercare instruction pamphlets for my detailing clients.  My focus was on producing some cheap post ceramic coating maintenance sheets for my clients.  I went with a very popular print promotional business to have these items produced.  I picked a low cost option from a volume operation, without much thought.  When they arrived, I did not like how they looked.  They were not cut precisely.  They felt overtly thin and cheap.  I threw them away immediately.  But I did not call or email to complain!  I did not ask to have them redone.  I did not tell anyone about it on social media.  I did not hold them responsible or question what was likely explicitly and implicitly shown on their website.  That is because my failed expectations were totally my fault!  Although I did not want to budget to a certain level for this project, I overestimated the value I could receive in this situation.  I was not going to blame a business for my assumptions and lack of effort in calibrating expectations.  Most of the people who are upset about a detailing service take the opposite approach.  Even with or without understanding the detailing process, most customer disappointment is usually avoidable with some effort.

“I got paint correction for XYZ do I have permission to be mad?”

Which leads me to the following.  Attachment to a single stage correction, which is technically just an enhancement service.

Consumers who are particular about their car, I need you to humble yourself enough to look at this from a detailing business owner’s perspective.  Even those that cater to (like myself) a higher-end enthusiast type clientele, we will receive a majority of calls from people who genuinely want to make their car look slightly better and not spend a lot of money or time away from it.  Most detailers are bombarded with these kinds of customers.  So that you are not lumped into that category, you have to ‘speak up’ and communicate you are little more particular.  As someone who is a certain way about his car, I understand that is not fair, but it is a reality.  They (for your own good) may not have employees who are skilled at meeting your expectations.  Also pointing out concerns and shopping for professionals who are known for fixing your problem is important.  A local car wash allegedly offers a correction and coating service.  No one I know who would book with me, would ever entertain those services from a car wash.  But there a business for every type of customer.  Finding the right fit is partially on you.

I am on your side with more communication and effort with transparency.  I am one of those detailers who puts in effort to set expectations, and within reason tries to do a little more.  I have also been yelled at, had profanities uttered, and dealt with people who were unpleasant, in an effort to get information so I would not have to guess or read their mind.  I also have a professional website, that should prepare anyone for the kind of interaction they will have with me.  Imagine what other detailers go through on ‘eggshells’ from people who just want a price, without context.

IF SWIRL MARKS ARE A 100 PERCENT DEAL BREAKER, ASK THEN PAY THE MONEY FOR A 2 STAGE CORRECTION.

That also may mean you need to find a paint correction specialist detailer.  Many businesses may not have a staff capable or skilled at offering multiple step machine polishing services.  This is often why a one stage correction is the only option available, coupled with the majority accepting (expectations/budget) a one stage correction.

Who is a ceramic coating for?

I am going to put this plainly.  If you had no interest in detailing aside from what you heard ceramic coatings may do, this is likely not for you.  What I would caution you on is your interest in having it washed?  Are you thinking with a coating, you do not have to worry about swirls or you do not need to regularly wash your car.  Neither of those beliefs are valid.

All about years?

Have you ever thought on these 2, 3, 5, 10, and all eternity coatings, how did the supplier and detailing business get this durability rating?  Have you heard this is an unregulated industry!

Communication & Expectations To Bring This Together

If this makes many of you uncomfortable, let me remind, I am not only a business owner but also a CONSUMER.  Many of us have preached in the industry to detailers to educate and set expectations.  The problem is more and more consumers have taught us they value the most seamless process possible.  And this time I am not speaking to detailing business owners, I am speaking to you (customers).   Your lack of effort and assumptions will affect the quality of experience you have.  Third point, more than ever this advice is needed to protect you.  More detailers are entering the market in a time of minimal regulation. And accreditation for professional Ceramic Coating and more recently Paint Protection Film with less vetting has become more common.  That means you have to put more effort into this process, at a time businesses are geared to rush you in and out the door.