Automobile Detailers


Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics > Automobile Detailers > Overview
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Automobile Detailers

Automobile Detailers - Overview

Vehicle cleaners clean vehicles, machinery, and other types of equipment.

Vehicle cleaners often work at car washes, dealerships, or rental car agencies. They inspect the vehicle and assess how dirty it is and whether there is damage. They clean vehicles using:

  • Brushes
  • Scrapers
  • Soaps
  • Steam
  • Vacuums

Vehicle cleaners polish vehicles by applying wax and removing it by hand or with a buffing machine. They may apply paint to restore color or condition. Vehicle cleaners may take things apart in order to clean them thoroughly. Sometimes they soak parts in cleaning solutions. After these parts are cleaned, cleaners put them back together.

To clean the inside of vehicles, cleaners use vacuums. They may also steam clean the seats and carpets.

Vehicle cleaners operate cleaning equipment, such as pressure washers. They connect, disconnect, and clean the hoses on these machines. They make sure that all cleaning equipment is working properly and report any problems to a supervisor. Vehicle cleaners mix cleaning solutions and make sure enough cleaning supplies are on hand.

Vehicle cleaners may do minor maintenance, such as checking the tire pressure. They may replace windshield wiper blades and change tires. Cleaners remove protective coatings and plastic coverings on new cars.

Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.