Auto Detailer

Program Outline

Instruction Sets
Your at-home learning program includes six Instruction Sets designed to take you step-by-step through the techniques and skills you'll employ in your new career in Auto Detailing.

Here's how it works
Your first Instruction Set will be sent to you as soon as your enrollment has been accepted. Other Instruction Sets will follow as you complete your exams, so that you will always have training materials to work with. Here is an overview of what you'll learn and the order in which you'll receive your learning materials:

Instruction Set 1

Learning Strategies
The advantages of learning at home; types of study materials; types of examinations; accessing and using the features of our website; determining what kind of learner you are; establishing a study schedule; using study tips; preparing for and taking examinations.

Introduction to Automotive Detailing
Definition of detailing; overview of the detailing process; importance of dirt removal; safety; disposal of chemical and cleaning agents.

Instruction Set 2

Tools and Materials for Automotive Cleaning
Exterior washing and drying equipment and products; interior cleaning equipment and products.

Practical Exercise 1

Learning Aid: Detailing checklist form

Instruction Set 3

Engine Compartment Detailing
Degreasing the engine; minor repairs and methods; masking and painting; rubber and plastic treatments; additional safety concerns for engine detailing.

Cleaning Automotive Exteriors
How to work with body surfaces, vinyl tops, grills, wheels and tires; wheel wells and undercarriage.

Practical Exercise 2

Equipment:
• Degreaser
• Fender brush
• Tire brush
• Non-acid Wheel Cleaner
• Sprayers
• Super Soap

Instruction Set 4

Cleaning Automotive Interiors
Vacuuming and shampooing of cloth seats, headliners, door panels, and carpets; wipe down of vinyl dashboards, door panels, and trim panels; cleaning trunk, door jams, and glass.

Tools and Materials for Automotive Finishing
Exterior finishing equipment; blemish repair products; buffing, polishing, waxing, and treatment products.

Automotive Exterior Finishing
Blemish repair; buffing and polishing; waxing by hand and machine; treating and maintaining chrome plating and stainless steel.

Practical Exercise 3

Equipment:
• Upholstery brush
• Liquid Carnauba Wax
• Carpet shampoo
• Chrome and Wheel Polish
• Detail brush/vent brush
• Leather and Vinyl Cleaner
• High Gloss Dressing
• Quick Shine
• Acid Rain Remover
• Exterior detail brush

Instruction Set 5

Automotive Trim and Interior Finish
Vinyl crack repair and seam stitching; repainting, polishing, and waxing; vinyl, plastic, rubber, leather, and tire treatments; cleaning and maintaining trunks.

Final Wipe Down
Excess wax and treatment removal; masking methods and paint matching; site location, lighting, and method of final inspection.

Practical Exercise 4

Equipment:
• Odor Eliminator
• Tire and rubber conditioner
• Quick Detailer
• Glass Cleaner

Instruction Set 6

Detailing Classic and Antique Cars
Applying detailing techniques to classic cars; special considerations of antique autos.

Starting and Operating an Auto Detailing Business
Record-keeping; advertising; setting prices; customer service; accounting and payroll; zoning regulations.

Practical Exercise 5

Work Experience Option

 

Online Library and Librarian
Students in Penn Foster Career School have access to an online library for use during their studies. Students can use this library to do the required research in the courses they complete or can use it for general reference and links to valuable resources. The library contains helpful research assistance, articles, databases, books, and Web links. A librarian is available to answer questions on general research-related topics via email and assist students in research activities during their studies with Penn Foster Career School.

We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.