Performance Detailing Inc.

Common Questions about Auto Tinting

Q) What does the law say about vehicle window tinting?

A) Performance Detailing offers a large range of Tinting films including a number in our "Darkest Legal" range. If you would like to read more about the law and vehicle tinting we have prepared a page on this subject. . If you have any further questions about the law and vehicle tinting, please give us a call - we would be happy to discuss your requirements.

Q) Which car window tinting film do I choose?

A) One of our experienced friendly sales representatives can assist in recommending the best car window tinting film for a specific application - all provided as a no obligation-free service.

Q) How long will it take to tint the windows on my car?

A) An average car window tint (sedan) takes between 2 and a half and two hours. Of course if there is old plastic window tint film that needs to be removed it does take several hours longer depending on the old window tint film coming off? If time or commitments are an issue, ask about our pick up & delivery service.

Q) How long does it take my car window tinting to ;dry?

A) This depends on the weather, in the summer months when the temperature is over 80 degrees it normally takes around 2-3 Days how ever in the winter months it can take up to 4-5 days.

Q) How do I clean my windows after my windows have been tinted?

A) After 5 days, you may clean window films using window cleaner and a soft, lint-free cloth or towel. Abrasive products, which could scratch or damage the window tinting film, should not be used.

Q) I have been quoted $180 for a lifetime car window tint by someone else. Why?

A) Unless you have considerable experience with the various types of car window tints the average person cannot tell the difference by looking at them. Therefore it comes down to a matter of trust. There are numerous operators offering cheap car window tinting from their vans. Unfortunately they can be hard to locate again if warranty work is required. A warranty is only as good as the company who gives it. Performance Detailing has been established for years, so you can trust us to give you what you are paying for. Some companies avoid warranty obligations by changing their trading name. So Always ask "How long has the company been trading? & has it changed names recently?

Q) I have been quoted much more by a large company for the top of the range car window tinting. Why?

A) Unlike other large organisations Performance Detailing is NOT a franchise. Therefore we do not have to pay exorbitant monthly franchise fee's or royalties thus eliminating the need to pass on those ridiculous costs to our customers. In short, Performance Detailing offers it’s customers the Best car window tintnig products at the Best possible prices.

Q) I have seen some cars on the road with bubbly car window tint. Why?

A) Cars fitted with dyed window tint films will all bubble and blister eventually. It is not the quality of the installation it is simply a low-end quality product that only lasts a maximum of 3 to 5 years. Prior to today’s metallised car window tints, all films were dyed.

Q) What if I have 2 cars that I want to have windows tinted? Is there any discount?

A) Yes, if you book in two cars for complete window tint for the same day we will give you a discounted price..

Q) Do you offer mobile car window tinting services?

A) Yes, we do offer a mobile car window tinting services but as we need to tint your car windows successfully we require the car to be indoors in a dust free clean environment completely free of any breeze or wind. We also require access to bright lighting. So with these factors in mind it is much better to have your car windows tinted in our workshop. WE DO ONSITE tinting of windows for TRACTORS, GRADERS, BUSES ETC as we understand it is not possible to bring these types of commercial vehicles to us.

Common Questions about Paint Protection (Clear Car Bra)

Q. Does 3M paint protection film require special care?

A. No, the film can be treated just as any other surface on your vehicle.

Q. How much time is required for installation?

A. A standard installation can be completed in about 1-4 hours, but time can vary depending on the vehicle make, model and amount of coverage selected.

Q. How long does the film take to set/cure?

A. Paint protection starts immediately, but the film can take 2-10 days to fully adhere to your vehicle. The time will vary depending on weather, and temperature. The only limitation during this time period is no washing of the vehicle.

Q. Are there any chemicals used during the installation process that could harm my vehicle or the environment?

A. No, the only solutions used during installation are standard rubbing alcohol, baby shampoo, and tap water.

Q. Will my insurance company cover replacement of the film if I’m in an accident and vehicle repair is required?

A. Most major insurance carriers are reimbursing clients for film and the labor reinstall. We suggest that you check with your provider to be sure.

Q. How do you create different film designs?

A. Engineers use CAD technology to design each car kit individually. It is a time consuming process, but the detail and quality creates a better finished product.

Q. My car isn’t brand new, can I still get the protective film?

A. Yes, brand new cars present less challenges because they have little to no current damage, but 3M paint protection film can be applied to any vehicle.

Q. Can the film be removed?

A. Yes, if the film ever needs to be removed, 3M guarantees it will come off without damaging the original manufactured paint job.

Common Questions about Detailing

Q: Why should I have my car detailed instead of bringing it to the car wash?
A: Automatic car washes are unsafe for your car's paint. They use harsh chemicals that strip the wax and protection from your car, and the brushes will cause scratches in your car's paint called "car wash marks" or swirls.

Q: Why should I bother having my car detailed if I am selling it?
A: You don't get a second chance to make a first impression! Showing a clean, well detailed vehicle to a potential buyer will speak volumes about you, and show that the car was taken care of and not cosmetically neglected.
You can also add hundreds of dollars to the value of your car by having it properly detailed before you sell it. According to Kelly Blue Book, the front-runner in used car values, all cars have substantial differences in value between cosmetically flawed and cosmetically sound.

Q: Who will be working on my car?
A: Only trained staff members who have years of experience will service your car.

Q: Is Performance Detailing insured?

A: Yes, we are fully insured and bonded by State Farm.

Q: What does Performance Detailing do to protect the paint on my vehicle?
A: We use a two-coat procedure, where the 1st coat is a polish and the second coat consists of pure carnuba wax. This enhances the shine and durability of the wax.

Q: How long does a wax job last?
A: Typically, between 2-4 months (compared to many other waxes that last 1-2 months!). We suggest a wax every 3 months.

Q: How should I wash my car in between waxing?
A: We offer affordable wash maintenance programs in between waxing, but if you'd prefer to do it yourself, we strongly suggest using detergents that are made to help keep wax on vehicles -- no dish detergents! Only use a clean, wool mitt or micro fiber sponge and always chamois dry your vehicle.

Q: My local carwash offers detailing at half the prices of most professional detailer services, what is the difference?
A: This is a very good question! First of all the term 'Detailing' has been widely misused in the industry. A true detail consists of meticulous cleaning; professional swirl free polishing and protection of surfaces. Many carwashes simply cover dirt with shiny greasy solvent-based dressings. This not only traps the dirt inside but the solvents in many of these dressings actually damage the surfaces. Also, many inexperienced workers will run a hi-speed buffer over your paint causing damage and those ugly swirls on your paint or waxing over deep imbedded dirt. Make sure you ask many questions before allowing anyone to detail your car!

Q: When I bought my new car, the salesman told me I have a clear coat on my paint and it NEVER needs waxing. Is this true?
A: FALSE! This is simply one of the most misunderstood and incorrectly stated ‘facts’, detailers see. The fact is 'clear coat' is simply part of the paint system used on most cars and trucks manufactured since the early 1990's. This paint process consists of first painting the color (pigmented paint) that goes on flat without any shine, protection or durability. After the color has been added, clear urethane paint is added to make the finish hard and glossy. Older (pre 1990's and some newer) paints consist of a single stage paint, where the gloss and hardness is mixed with the color (pigment). Today’s clear coats simply make the paint look much more translucent with a deeper shine. Fact is, both paint systems MUST be waxed or sealed to protect them from the sun, pollution and other harmful elements. See also the question about paint sealants.

Q: My dealer added a paint sealant and said my car will never need waxing again, is this true?
A: Once again FALSE! This is one of the biggest marketing hypes we have ever seen! This is truly a play on word, meaning that 'sealant ' (which does last longer than wax) still needs to be re-applied every three to six months. Hence the statement “never waxes again” simply means sealant rather than wax must be applied again. If you paid the dealer for this coating you will find that the contract requires you to have this re-applied at specified periods to maintain the warranty. Waxing is a completely safe alternative, but only lasts about a month (spray on wax from a carwash may only last about a week). IMAGE AUTO DETAIL uses a top of the line polymer paint sealant that will last approx. 6 months.

Q: Buffing and waxing is the same thing aren't they?
A: Actually no! Waxing is simply a protective element that is applied to the paint surface. While waxing may help add some shine to the paint, it should not be confused with buffing. Buffing is a paint correction process that utilizes a high speed rotary buffing machine. This process is used to remove superficial scratches, blemishes and fading of a paint surface. The process consists of starting with a 'cutting compound' used to aggressively remove the damaged paint surface. Several polishing steps to smooth and restore the finish to a hi-gloss slippery finish follow this process.

Q: Will steam cleaning my carpets and seats remove all stains?
A: Unfortunately no. While pre-treating and steam extraction (part of our service) is the most effective cleaning procedure available, some spills (especially any with reddish dyes), can actually damage and dye carpet and upholstery fibers. Once this occurs, these fabrics can be cleaned, but color change is permanent unless material is replaced or re-dyed.

Q: Are touch less car washes okay for my car?
A: No, the chemicals in touch less car wash are even harsher and will put your paint at risk.

Q: Why do I need wax or a polymer sealant on my car?
A: Wax and sealants are the only way to protect your vehicle's finish. Rain, acid rain, snow, sunlight, bugs, tar, road grime, pollen, and bird droppings can all eat through your paint. Keeping your car well protected will reduce the chances of these elements harming your car, while providing a glossy finish and shine. Having your car waxed or sealed is no less important than changing your oil.

Q: My car's paint has a clear coat - do I still need wax?
A: Yes!

Q: My car is new. Do I still need it detailed?
A: Absolutely! New cars have usually been sitting on the lot or have been in transit for months before you drive away with them. New car dealerships rarely carry out full details on new vehicles, so there is a plethora of contaminants in your car's paint. Having your new car detailed will start you off on the right foot and ensure there is a proper layer of wax or sealant on the paint.

Q: Can I have my car polished but not waxed?
A: Polishing your car is what brings out the depth, gloss and shine for that "wet look" that most car enthusiasts crave. However, polishing adds no protection to your vehicle and in fact, usually strips any previous coat of wax on the paint. For this reason, it is absolutely essential that the car is waxed or synthetically sealed after polishing to "lock in" the polish and protect your car, yielding long lasting protection and shine.