Test Spot on Client's car

[Clutch34]

How does one do a test spot on a client's car? Do most of you do it on the hood or trunk or another spot? How large of a test spot?

I know cleaning and polishing the paint is done AFTER washing the car and clay barring (if needed), so would it still be ok to do a test spot without washing the car first and/or clay barring on a client's car?

I've read some threads about doing a test spot on a client's car just to show them what the final product can potentially look like to win them over into hiring you. Sounds like a good plan, but obviously the car isn't washed prior to that cuz they haven't hired you yet, that's why I'm wondering about the test spot on a client's car.

[ClearlyCoated]

Re: Test Spot on Client's car

A horizontal surface (Hood, trunk) is generally best for demonstration purposes, but it doesn't hurt to let the client point out the most swirled area because that's the spot that concerns him/her the most.

Clean the the test area with a QD (you're not going to hurt the paint with a QD) and personally, I would clay the area just to let the client feel the difference. Then break out the DA and take your time laying down multiple passes. This allows the client to see how much work goes into polishing even a small panel and gives them an idea of how much value they're receiving for their dollar.

Keep up a running commentary as you work the area. Explain the technology and professional products involved (emphasizing that the products you use are not available OTC at Pep Boys or WalMart), explain the paint and clear coat layers and how most defects are actually in the clear coat, and how you are abrading the clear coat to REMOVE the defect (as opposed to covering it with a wax or glaze).

With enough information the client will begin to figure out why he can have his car "detailed" at the local car wash in 90 minutes for only $60, and why it will cost substantially more to have it professionally detailed by you. Add in some free tips as to how they can maintain their finish after the paint has been corrected.

Finish up the process by sealing the test area. This puts a bookmark in the client's mind that sealing is a necessary part of the polishing process and they will be more receptive to have the sealant added to the job.

Good luck!

[akimel]

Re: Test Spot on Client's car

How to do a Test Spot

[xantonin]

Re: Test Spot on Client's car

ClearlyCoated, very nice information, thank you. Makes me want to do test spots on people's cars just to show them the potential!

[Clutch34]

Re: Test Spot on Client's car

Thanks for the info ClearlyCoated!! Definitely a way to sell yourself!