Car wash damage alerts and more

I thought it would be beneficial to add some of the latest car care alerts and news regarding the car care industry that I have found on the net from various sources. Click on the links to read the latest posts, articles and research in the car wash and auto detailing industry

Car Wash Damage Reports

Pontiac mirror damage
Damage to Dodge Ram PU's and Dodge Durango's
Prep or No Prep at the Express Exterior
GMC Envoy Bumper Damage
Volvo gas cap cover damage
Mercedes Gas Cap Covers
GM mirror coming apart
Ford Explorer hatch door trim falling off
Chrysler 300, new model, Roof problem
Ford Focus Mirror Damage
Chrysler-made mini van tailight damage
Jaguar Damage

More commercial car wash damage reports

In 2002, the ICA issued damage reports on several vehicle models by Volvo, Mercedes-Benz and Jeep.

Volvo. The Volvo sunroof is probably the damage issue that caused the biggest stir in the industry this year. Sunroofs on the new models have been shattering in the blow-off area of carwashes. This issue has been of particular concern to car-wash operators and the ICA because it involves safety.

Volvo is currently investigating the situation. In the meantime, the company has agreed to cover all sunroof failures under its new-car warranty. If a carwash operator experiences Volvo sunroof failure at his carwash, he should have the vehicle owner report the incident to his local Volvo retailer immediately.

As a precautionary measure, the ICA suggests operators have Volvo owners close the interior sunscreen before entering the carwash.

Mercedes Benz. Bumpers on the Mercedes ML 320 and ML430 SUVs are reportedly being damaged by carwash side wraps when plastic retainers at the vehicles' rear wheel openings are broken or missing. The company says there have not been enough instances to substantiate a change. Operators are therefore instructed to contact the company to report incidents of bumper damage.

Jeep. This is an example of a quality-control issue. The radio antenna mast on some Jeep Liberty vehicles will break just above the threaded section if not properly installed. DaimlerChrysler responded to the situation by issuing a technical service bulletin informing dealers of proper antenna tightening.

Cozzo says the ICA will typically contact the manufacturer after reports of two or three incidents of damage, but this is often not enough to warrant action. Manufacturers are more likely to start paying attention once 15 to 20 incidents have been identified. Ward was able to present Volvo with 44 incidents of damage, which were more than enough to get their interest. He adds that the company was quick to take action once the seriousness of the situation was realized.

"The Volvo sunroof was a great example of a working partnership to find a resolution that made both parties satisfied," Thorsby says.

Commercial car wash and retail wax lawsuit

Parties in lawsuit attacking the use of the word 'wax' agree to settlement.

by: James Gormley, News

The parties involved in a class-action lawsuit that challenged the use of the word “wax” on products made by three major car wash chemical manufacturers have reached a tentative settlement agreement.

A seven-count class-action lawsuit, known as Garner vs. Healy, accused carwash chemical manufacturers Turtle Wax, Inc., Blue Coral/Slick 50, Inc., and Simoniz USA, Inc., of selling car wash customers products that were “falsely marketed” as wax.

Plaintiffs John A. Garner of Racine, WI, and Steven G. Grant of Chicago represented all consumers who purchased Turtle Wax, Blue Coral, or Simoniz products at carwashes between 1993 and 1997. The two men, who are represented by the Chicago-based law firm Edelman, Combs, and Latturner, claim they have purchased Turtle Wax, Blue Coral and Simoniz products at automatic carwashes since the 1970s.

As part of the settlement, the two original plaintiffs will each receive $2,000 and their attorneys will get a total of $220,000 if the court approves the terms. Any member of the public who can prove they were part of this class — in other words, who can verify that they purchased these products at a carwash between 1993 and 1997 — is entitled to a rebate of $1.34.

More importantly, within six months from when the settlement is finalized, the three manufacturers must include a statement on their product packaging if the products do not actually contain carnauba wax.

Product claims - One of the major questions in the lawsuit, which was filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, was whether Turtle Wax, Blue Coral and Simoniz advertised any of their commercial carwash products as wax, when they, in fact, contained no natural “wax,” such as carnauba or bees wax.

“The products were falsely described as sealer waxes, foam waxes, polish waxes, foam polishes, and protectants,” according to the complaint. “They have the same basic ingredients, none of which is a ‘wax.’"

The complaint also said that Turtle Wax, Blue Coral, and Simoniz themselves have created a perception among consumers that car-care products claiming to be waxes contain some form of natural wax. The complaint says all three companies are “leading” manufacturers of car-care products that contain natural waxes, which are used by detailers and consumers.

“As a result of the widespread marketing of real wax automotive products by defendants and others, the terms ‘wax,’ ‘polish,’ and ‘protectant,’…came to signify products which contain wax and which function as polishes and protectants,” according to the complaint.

In their answers, all three companies deny creating the discrepancy. Some of the other specific charges against the carwash chemical manufacturers are:

• All three companies violated their states’ consumer fraud laws by advertising ineffective products as waxes, polishes, sealants or protectants.

• All three companies committed a breach of express warranty by advertising their products as having polishing and protecting characteristics that they do not have.

Negative publicity - The case of Garner vs. Healy is not the first time chemical manufacturers have been taken to court to defend their products as waxes. In July of 1999, Hot Wax, Inc., Racine, WI, won a federal lawsuit it filed against S/S Car Care Inc., North Canton, OH, manufacturer of Royal Sheen products. Hot Wax attorneys claimed that S/S advertised non-wax products as wax, and damaged Hot Wax’s ability to sell products containing actual carnauba wax.

But Hot Wax’s victory was short lived. On appeal, the jury’s original award of $300,000 was slashed to $52,000, as a judge ruled the company had not shown that it suffered damages. Another suit, filed by Hot Wax against Turtle Wax, was dismissed because it was filed too late. Hot Wax also lost a suit against Stone Soap Co. Inc., Sylvan Lake, MI.

But Garner vs. Healy was by far the most publicized ‘wax’ case and the carwash industry — operators, suppliers and manufacturers included — watched very closely because of the potential for widespread negative publicity. As it was, a number of local television news stations, most notably in the Philadelphia and Los Angeles markets, picked up on the story and have run “consumer awareness” or “consumer alert” segments on their news programs questioning the benefit of carwash wax. The Western Carwash Association (WCA) even felt compelled to issue a statement in response to recent inquiries by local news organizations into the ongoing carwash wax controversy. But for the most part, the car washing industry emerged from the lawsuit relatively unscathed. The manufacturers say they are looking forward to a conclusion. “We’re happy that the case is moving forward toward a settlement,” said Phil Zaidek, vice president and general counsel for Turtle Wax. “We’re hopeful that the court will approve this agreement.”

Buying a new car before you do read these money saving tips

Proper car care is a financially rewarding experience regardless of the age of the vehicle; but for those who are buying a new car I have added some car care tips to help you keep your vehicle looking new and to protect its value at resale time. New car owners should be aware that the resale value of a vehicle depends on two things: mechanical and cosmetic appearance.

Tips to save you money before you buy:

* Do your research on the latest technology before you buy. Especially, when it comes to things like automotive accessories, window tint, vehicle protection systems or paint, fabric, vinyl, leather & rust protection packages.

* Ask the dealership you plan to buy from how much the package will cost prior to making an offer. It is important to note that most automobile dealerships offering accessories, window tint, paint, fabric, vinyl, leather & rust protection packages sell these upgrades, services and installations at a premium price and in most cases do not even perform the work in-house themselves. The work is usually subcontracted to auto detailing shops.

* Call around to professional detail shops who offer the upgrades you want - many times you can get the same product or better for less cost. Find out which detail shop the car dealership sends cars to and call them for pricing.

* The average cost for a paint, fabric, rust and leather/vinyl protection package at a dealership costs between $800-1200 but when you factor in the interest the package ends up costing well over $2000.00. By cutting out the dealership as the middleman and going straight to a professional auto detailer to get the protection package you can save yourself $400-$1200.00.

* If you are offered a warranty of any kind read the fine print. All warranties look great at first sight but once you have a true understanding of them many fail to meet your expectations.

Tips for sale contract:

* Find out where your car will be detailed prior to delivery. Many car dealerships do not perform the detailing in-house. Instead, they subcontract it to professional detailer's. Do your research to find the most reputable detail shop and if the dealership you plan to buy from does not use the detailer of your choice make it a part of the contract. Many people are unaware of the fact that they are paying an administration fee for this service which is to be of the highest standards; yet many of the detail shops fall below this standard and the end result could be costly. A new car must be prepped properly to remove glue from the paint. Adhesive that is left to remain eventually gets baked on by the sun and etches itself into the paint. A skilled professional detailer can provide the best care for your car and ensure that it is prepped, cleaned and that any protection packages you purchase are applied correctly whereas an amateur or low cost detail shop may fail to follow correct procedures or use low grade retail products. For more information about automotive detailing see the following article:Everything you need to know about automotive detailing - Guelph automotive detailing expert Diamond Detailing

Tips for car care:

* New car owner's should always buy extended service or warranty plans. Regular service checks should be performed at approved dealers and maintenance should be followed as per the manufacturers recommendations. It is always wise to keep all receipts and records of maintenance - this is proof to potential buyers that you have taken excellent care of the car and that it is in good mechanical condition.

* Paint touch up stick that matches the paint on the vehicle. You may purchase this at the dealership where you are buying the car or if you are good at making deals you may be able to convince them to throw one in with the sale (but add it to the contact). The paint stick will allow you to touch up small stone chips. Stone chips are the result of a hard impact usually by gravel or other debris on the road which causes the paint to become damaged. In some cases it may become cracked or may actually take a piece of the paint off the car. Left untreated the unprotected spots will collect moisture and will lead to rust or what is better known in this industry as cancer. Therefore, it is imperative that you keep up with the stone chips so that your car does not become damaged. If you are not inclined to do the touch-ups yourself get a professional detailer to do them for you.

* Stone chip guard has become a necessity these days. Modern vehicles seem to have become more prone to stone chips for many reasons including but not limited to the body styles, road debris and the types of automotive paint being used. Scratch proof or stone chip vinyl films are the leading protection method available on the market and can prevent damage caused by scuffs, stones and scratches. Many new cars do come stock with this vinyl film applied to the vulnerable parts of the automobile but for those that don't it is highly recommended that you purchase a kit to protect door handles, fenders, bumper, mirrors, door ledges, hood or other parts that may be susceptible to chips. Most dealerships offer these kits and installation but the buyer should do some research prior to buying. Ask the dealership how much the package will cost prior to making an offer then call around to professional detail shops who offer the service - many times you can get the same product or better for less cost.

* Paint Protection, fabric protection, vinyl /leather protection and rust protection are an absolute must have when it comes to complete automotive protection. Vehicles that are left unprotected will become damaged and in some cases the damage can be quite costly. For more information about protection packages see the following articles:
Guelph Automotive Fabric Protection - Guelph Auto Detailing Expert Diamond Detailing

Guelph Automotive Leather Protection - Guelph Automotive Detailing Expert Diamond Detailing

Guelph Automotive Paint Protection - Guelph Car Detailing Expert Diamond Detailing

Guelph Rust Proofing - Platininum Protection Electronic Rust Modules

Follow manufacturers car wash tips or have a skilled professional detailer perform your car cleaning services to eliminate damage to paint, rims, tires, moldings, plastic...

Chrysler suggests you "Wash your vehicle regularly. Always wash your vehicle in the shade using a mild car wash soap, and rinse the panels completely with clear water…. Avoid using automatic car washes that use acidic solutions or harsh brushes that may damage the wheel’s protective finish."

Ford suggests you "Wash the vehicle frequently…rinse the vehicle with clear, cold water…. Do not wash your vehicle with hot water. Also do not wash your vehicle while it sits in direct sunlight or while the body is hot…do not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners, fuel, or strong detergents…. These can damage your vehicle’s protective coating and paint…. Tire brushes used in automatic car washes may damage the painted finish on your aluminum wheels or wheel covers. Before going to a car wash, find out if the brushes are abrasive."

Mercedes Benz suggests you "Do not use hot water or wash your car in direct sunlight. Use only a mild car wash detergent…. Thoroughly spray the car with a diffused jet of water. Direct only a very weak spray towards the ventilation intake…. If the vehicle has been run through an automatic car wash…re-wipe the recessed sections in the tail lamps…if necessary.

Infinity suggests you "Clean the vehicle thoroughly using a mild soap…mixed with clean, lukewarm (never hot) water. Do not use strong household soap, strong chemical detergents, gasoline or solvents."

Ferrari suggests you "Make sure that the paintwork is not directly sprayed with a high pressure jet, as damage may result. Wash all the paintwork using…ample quantities of water and a neutral shampoo…. We recommend not having the car washes by [those] automatic washing plants which…employ very aggressive detergents."

General Motors suggests "The best way to preserve your vehicle’s finish is to keep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm or cold water…. Don’t use cleaning agents that are petroleum based, or that contain acid or abrasives…. High pressure vehicle washes may cause water to enter your vehicle…. Don’t take your vehicle through an automatic vehicle wash that has silicon carbide tire cleaning brushes."

Season car care tips and maintenance schedule

A vehicle doesn't stand a chance unless it has been professionally treated. Each season brings new challenges but a well protected vehicle has a fighting chance.

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

* Wash every 2 weeks
* Exterior detail every 30 days - 90 days
* Vacuum every 2 weeks
* Shampoo and detail interior every 30 - 90 days
* Have paint chips touched up as you notice them
* Seal the paint with wax every 60 - 90 days

FALL & WINTER CAR CARE - Canadian winters can take their toll on your vehicle. Protective barriers applied to your paint, tires, glass, plastic, carpet, upholstery, vinyl, rubber, plastic and metal arm it against salt, sun, gravel,ice and snow.

Regular washing & waxing protects the vehicle's exterior from corrosion, fading, peeling and scratches. If moisture penetrates the paint it will expand and contract from thawing and freezing - weakening the paint. Ultraviolet light and environmental pollution can then penetrate the clear coat. The result is oxidation; a dull or hazy appearance. All colors are susceptible to oxidation but dark color paints are at greater risk because these color pigments tend to absorb more UV than light colors. Oxidation can be fix but it costly. The process involves decontaminating and removing the top layer of paint through a compounding process and high speed polishing. In severe cases wet sanding is required.

Exterior Detailing - To prevent etching, erosion, cracking, fading and corrosion additional exterior detailing should include proper cleaning and protective treatments to tires, paint, rims, wheel wells, chrome, glass, plastic, vinyl and rubber surfaces.

Interior Detailing - Interior detailing reduces damage and erosion that can occur to carpets, vinyl and upholstery. During the winter high levels of moisture are accumulated in the vehicle causing mold and mildew - creating an unhealthy environment and deterioration. Regular shampooing, vacuuming and treatment the various surfaces with protective coatings protect the interior of your car from moisture, salt, allergens and debris.

SPRING & SUMMER CAR CARE is essential in the protection against extreme heat, industrial fallout, acid rain, hail, bird droppings, humidity, road dust, debris, sap, bugs, road paint and road oil. Follow the same schedule as winter to prevent rust, peeling, flaking, cracking, fading, etching and erosion. Special attention should also be given to your leather and vinyl interiors.

Now that I have your attention lets talk about Competition Vs. Rivalry

A while back I wrote the following articles:
Deadly pathogens in your car are a possibility
Amateur poachers a disgrace to the auto detailing industry
Pro's Vs The Joe's
Some questions are more important than the answers

Well it seems that one business owner whom I have always considered the non-competition has become a big fan of Diamond Detailing. What had started as lurking around to get my prices and badmouthing me to my contracted service people has led to an infatuation with visiting my website and this blog on a daily basis.

Apparently it seems we got their attention with the article:
Deadly pathogens in your car are a possibility. The detailer responsible for doing the job I spoke of in the article came forward. It's unfortunate but instead learning from their mistakes and creating opportunity to improve themselves they decided to put on an ugly display of their true colors.

A few weeks back on a Monday morning as I was standing in line at Timmie's for my morning coffee along came a person who placed their hand on my arm and said my name. As I looked at this person I was confused because I didn't know who they were. Immediately the razor sharp tongue came spewing from their mouth and in a matter of 5 minutes I was called an idiot, stupid, I was told I don't know anything, I'm a liar and an a**hole. Classy!

After leaving the coffee shop I went to my store and found that this express detailer had left a message on Sunday only hours after I had posted the article. What had started out sounding like a call from someone I should know, ended quite bitterly stating that they suggest I get a hold of them immediately so we could work things out. Since the message was left before the incident at the coffee shop I didn't bother. If the immature actions taken at the coffee shop was any indication of how they planned on working it out -why bother. I don't have time for people who can't take responsibility for their actions and have no interest in improving themselves.

In their defense - it is true that I only have the customers side of this story and didn't have that of this so-called detailer; but the bottom line is that the job wasn't done right, it could have endangered people's lives and had the job been done right in the first place the client would not have come to me to fix it.

A few weeks past and then I received a phone call from this same car cleaner. The call was made not from their shop but from an automotive dealership. They stated that they were calling because they had a car they couldn't handle and wanted to see if I could do it. Then they went on to say well I thought it would be better to work together than to be enemies. I explained that I was booked up and couldn't get over to the dealership to look at the car immediately. I was given the contact info of the used car salesperson before the conversation ended.

I thought to myself maybe they did learn something from experience. After getting all angry inside and then calming down perhaps they saw the article for which it was intended. Not to criticize and not to harm their business - the words were not directed at them but directed to everyone who offers express or complete detailing services who is not equipped, trained or knowledgeable about the services they are providing. Then as I surfed the net I was quickly slapped in the face and was returned to reality. This detail shop replaced an old ad which stated that they did express detailing and had 9 years experience with a new version stating they have 15 years experience and offer highest quality and the lowest priced express and complete detailing. Apparently, they didn't learn a thing and that is scary! New info added today> I guess after reading this article they decided to pull the free classified ad.

When are they going to learn that competition, not rivalry, allows us to view our opponents clearly, Don't know the difference - think it's the same? Unfortunately it's not. Rivalry which is what this person has chosen; ends in a negative outcome while competition brings about positive changes.

I've never had plans nor do I plan on being this persons' rival and until they can fall into a category where I can consider them as competition, there is no struggle to compete. If people did their job properly and stopped selling services they aren't trained for, equipped and knowledgeable to perform I wouldn't have half as much to write. When I spend day after day repairing damage caused by car washes and amateurs I feel there is a real need for the public to be more aware of amateurs posing as professionals and how it has a direct impact on their investment.

What is fabric protection and why do I need it for my car?

Fabric protection is a coating that penetrates into each fiber of your car upholstery. It forms an invisible barrier that protects against permanent damage resulting from debris (water, moisture, salt, dirt and various spills) and preserves the color, life and beauty of your carpet and upholstery. Upholstery treated with high quality, professional grade, fabric protection gives the vehicle owner time to clean spills before they become stains and protects against ultra violet discoloration, moisture absorption, mold and mildew.

Fabric protection is a valuable investment that no car owner should do without; especially in today's world. People spend more time in thier vehicles, therefore the vehicle becomes dirtier, is more vulnerable to spills and the measure of wear and tear will be greater. Fabric protection prevents pre-mature aging and inhibits the penetration of spills such as coffee, pop, water, tea, milk and juices without affecting the natural appearance or texture of the fiber.

Fabric protection helps to maintain the vehicle's appearance and aids in the resale value. An unprotected car interior will deteriorate quicker, be reduced in value, could lead to costly repairs and requires more frequent and thorough cleanings.Read the entire article about fabric protection here > Guelph Automotive Fabric Protection - By Guelph Auto Detailing Expert Diamond Detailing

Spring Bling It's A Car Cleaning Frenzy

Automotive detailing is at an all time high and it would appear that the car cleaning frenzy in Guelph is not alone. Last year Canadians spent hundreds of millions on interior and exterior enhancements to keep their vehicles looking new. Car owners are becoming motivated to prolong the appearance of their vehicles and there is strong evidence that these numbers will increase over the next few years.

So if you've wondered where I've been for the past month - I've been in overdrive! The month of May has been crazy at Diamond Detailing. It seems everyone wants a Spring makeover for their car. Yes, it's that time of year when clients want to de-winterize their vehicle, recondition the interior / exterior bringing it back to its pristine condition and to protect the vehicle from the hot weather ahead.

We've gained many new clients this Spring through word of mouth; so I wanted to take a moment to thank our retail clients and the automotive dealerships who have allowed Diamond Detailing to earn your trust; as your car care guardian. Diamond Detailing values all of its customers and appreciates the loyalty, support and referrals you have given us.

Have a safe and happy summer everyone!

Nanotechnology Dangers in The Automobile Industry

Nanotechnology is the generic name given to the production or use of very small, or ‘nano’ particles. Nanotechnology is engineering at the atomic scale. One nanometre is a billionth of a metre, or about 1/80,000 the width of a human hair. Nanotechnology works on a scale of up to 100 nanometres. A grain of sand is a million nanometres across. A red blood cell is 10,000 nanometres.

Thousands of nano-technology applications are already being used in the production of household cleaners, sunscreen, cosmetics, coatings, computer chips, medical equipment, medicine and many more but over the past few years nano particle technology has taken a giant leap in the automotive industry. Many manufacturers are producing automobile wax, cleaners and automotive paint using this new technology despite the fact that the physical properties of chemicals change at this scale, they are a potential health and safety hazard.

The mere presence of nanomaterials (materials that contain nanoparticles) is not in itself a threat. It is only certain aspects that can make them risky, in particular their mobility and their increased reactivity. Only if certain properties of certain nanoparticles were harmful to living beings or the environment would we be faced with a genuine hazard.

In addressing the health and environmental impact of nanomaterials we need to differentiate two types of nanostructures: (1) Nanocomposites, nanostructured surfaces and nanocomponents (electronic, optical, sensors etc.), where nanoscale particles are incorporated into a substance, material or device (“fixed” nano-particles); and (2) “free” nanoparticles, where at some stage in production or use individual nanoparticles of a substance are present. These free nanoparticles could be nanoscale species of elements, or simple compounds, but also complex compounds where for instance a nanoparticle of a particular element is coated with another substance (“coated” nanoparticle or “core-shell” nanoparticle).

There seems to be consensus that, although one should be aware of materials containing fixed nanoparticles, the immediate concern is with free nanoparticles. Because nanoparticles are very different from their everyday counterparts, their adverse effects cannot be derived from the known toxicity of the macro-sized material. This poses significant issues for addressing the health and environmental impact of free nanoparticles.

To complicate things further, in talking about nanoparticles it is important that a powder or liquid containing nanoparticles is almost never monodisperse, but will contain a range of particle sizes. This complicates the experimental analysis as larger nanoparticles might have different properties than smaller ones. Also, nanoparticles show a tendency to aggregate and such aggregates often behave differently from individual nanoparticles.

Potential risks of nanotechnology can broadly be grouped into three areas:

* Health and environmental risks from nanoparticles and nanomaterials;
* The risk posed by molecular manufacturing (or advanced nanotechnology);
* Societal risks

Health issues

There are four entry routes for nanoparticles into the body: they can be inhaled, swallowed, absorbed through skin or be deliberately injected during medical procedures (or released from implants). Once within the body they are highly mobile and in some instances can even cross the blood-brain barrier.

Nanoparticles are likely to be dangerous for three main reasons. Firstly, many may damage the lungs. We know that 'ultra fine' particles from diesel machines, power plants and incinerators can cause considerable damage to human lungs. This is both because of their size (as they can get deep into the lungs) and also because they carry other chemicals including metals and hydrocarbons in with them.

Secondly nanoparticles can get into the body through the skin, lungs and digestive system. This may help create 'free radicals' which can cause cell damage. There is also concern that once nanoparticles are in the bloodstream they will be able to cross the blood-brain barrier.

Thirdly the human body has developed a tolerance to most naturally occurring elements and molecules that it has contact with. It has no natural immunity to new substances and is more likely to find them toxic.

The danger of contact with nanoparticles is not just speculation. Research has shown that some nanoparticles do cause lung damage in rats, while others have been shown to lead to brain damage in fish and dogs.

At the moment no one knows for certain how dangerous the many different types of nanoparticles are likely to be to humans. However it is important that we do not allow workers to be exposed to an unknown danger where effects may not be known for years, even decades.

These risks were highlighted in a report from the Royal Society which said 'nanotechnology offers many potential benefits, but its development must be guided by appropriate safety assessments and regulation to minimize any possible risks to people and the environment.' It also called for a tightening up of regulations.

The insurance company, Swiss Re has already been quoted as warning that the uncertainty about the risks that nanotechnology and nano-pollution pose means that they currently will not offer insurance to the industry.

Health and Safety Executives on nanotechnology confirm that employers should take a precautionary approach and ensure that workers are not exposed to nanoparticles. It states that 'as the risks arising from exposure to many types of nanoparticles are not yet completely understood, control strategies should be based on a principle of reducing exposure as much as possible.' The production and use of nanoparticles needs to be done within a contained process so that employees are not exposed to any potential unknown risk. Nanomaterials should be treated just like any other serious health risk. Unions have been alerted to act now to ensure that we do not have a rerun of the asbestos tragedy where hundreds of thousands of people were exposed to a killer dust that even today kills over 3,000 people a year.

A number of studies have shown that at least some nanoparticles can penetrate cells and tissues, migrate through the body, brain and cause biochemical damage, toxicity and in some cases have caused death. How these nanoparticles behave inside the organism is one of the big issues that needs to be resolved. Basically, the behavior of nanoparticles is a function of their size, shape and surface reactivity with the surrounding tissue. They could cause “overload” on phagocytes, cells that ingest and destroy foreign matter, thereby triggering stress reactions that lead to inflammation and weaken the body’s defense against other pathogens. Apart from what happens if non- or slowly degradable nanoparticles accumulate in organs, another concern is their potential interaction with biological processes inside the body: because of their large surface, nanoparticles on exposure to tissue and fluids will immediately absorb onto their surface some of the macromolecules they encounter. This may, for instance, affect the regulatory mechanisms of enzymes and other proteins.

At a mid-March fact-finding meeting at the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), researchers reported that nanoparticles are showing up in the livers of research animals, can seep into living cells, and perhaps piggyback on bacteria to enter the food chain.


Environmental Issues

Not enough data exists to know for sure if nanoparticles could have undesirable effects on the environment. Two areas are relevant here: (1) In free form nanoparticles can be released in the air or water during production (or production accidents) or as waste byproduct of production, and ultimately accumulate in the soil, water or plant life. (2) In fixed form, where they are part of a manufactured substance or product, they will ultimately have to be recycled or disposed of as waste. We don’t know yet if certain nanoparticles will constitute a completely new class of non-biodegradable pollutant. In case they do, we also don’t know yet how such pollutants could be removed from air or water because most traditional filters are not suitable for such tasks (their pores are too big to catch nanoparticles).

Health and environmental issues combine in the workplace of companies engaged in producing or using nanomaterials and in the laboratories engaged in nanoscience and nanotechnology research. It is safe to say that current workplace exposure standards for dusts cannot be applied directly to nanoparticle dusts.

To properly assess the health hazards of engineered nanoparticles the whole life cycle of these particles needs to be evaluated, including their fabrication, storage and distribution, application and potential abuse, and disposal. The impact on humans or the environment may vary at different stages of the life cycle.

Regarding to the risks from molecular manufacturing, an often cited worst-case scenario is "grey goo", a hypothetical substance into which the surface of the earth might be transformed by self-replicating nanobots running amok. This concept has been analyzed by Freitas in "Some Limits to Global Ecophagy by Biovorous Nanoreplicators, with Public Policy Recommendations" [1] With the advent of nan-biotech, a different scenario called green goo has been forwarded. Here, the malignant substance is not nanobots but rather self-replicating organisms engineered through nanotechnology.


Societal risks

Societal risks from the use of nanotechnology have also been raised. On the instrumental level, these include the possibility of military applications of nanotechnology (for instance, as in implants and other means for soldier enhancement like those being developed at the Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies at MIT [2]) as well as enhanced surveillance capabilities through nano-sensors.

On the structural level, critics of nanotechnology point to a new world of ownership and corporate control opened up by nanotechnology. The claim is that, just as biotechnology's ability to manipulate genes went hand in hand with the patenting of life, so too nanotechnology's ability to manipulate molecules has led to the patenting of matter. The last few years has seen a gold rush to claim patents at the nanoscale. Over 800 nano-related patents were granted in 2003, and the numbers are increasing year to year. Corporations are already taking out broad ranging monopoly patents on nanoscale discoveries and inventions. For example, two corporations, NEC and IBM, hold the basic patents on carbon nanotubes, one of the current cornerstones of nanotechnology. Carbon nanotubes have a wide range of uses, and look set to become crucial to several industries from electronics and computers, to strengthened materials to drug delivery and diagnostics. Carbon nanotubes are poised to become a major traded commodity with the potential to replace major conventional raw materials. However, as their use expands, anyone seeking to manufacture or sell carbon nanotubes, no matter what the application, must first buy a license from NEC or IBM.

So what does this all mean and why would should you as a detailer or a car owner have concern about nano particles and polymers? Basically what it comes down to is a health and safety precaution. Nanotechnology has not had enough research to determine the potential health, safety and environmental hazards. In the automotive industry several car manufacturers have already begun using nanoparticle paint, glass, parts and interior components. If current information pertaining to nano particles as a health risk is correct, this coould mean that you are being exposed to a toxic substance that may result in illness or death.

Until more research has been conducted and Government regulations have been adopted requiring that manufacturers label products containing nano particles and identify which nano particles it does contain it would probably be wise to be cautious or not be in contact with nano products at all. For now, car detailers using chemicals, waxes and compounds should take extra precaution to avoid possible contact with free floating particles that could potentially enter the mouth, nose and skin. So what is the best method of protection? No one knows. There has not be any safety equipment designed yet to effectively protect against nano contact. The particles are too small for conventional respirators and possibly even gloves.

Until conclusive findings are made, Diamond Detailing will not will not knowingly engage in the use of any chemicals or products manufactured using nanotechnology as we feel we have a duty to protect our clients and ourselves.

Nano products recalled
Nanotechnology hope hype or hell
Nanotechnology could be the new asbestos
Nanotechnology a new challenge for occupational health and safety

Deadly pathogens in your car are a possiblity

A while back we had a client who had spilled raw unprocessed milk for making cheese in his van. The retired gentleman had taken his vehicle to an express detail shop to be cleaned and the odor removed but they failed to complete the task properly so he came to us for our help.

He explained he was living on a pension and the cheese he makes was quite costly to produce - in fact, he could buy it cheaper at the store; but loved making it himself. So he had gone out to a farm bought 4 gallons of milk and on the way home the bucket spilled over. He went on to explain that he was so upset at himself because his hobby had cost him so much. Between having to re-buy the milk, paying the express detail shop for a job that they didn't do right and having to pay us that his batch of cheese had become the most expensive cheese in the world.

We felt badly for him. The express detail shop should have never taken on that project. They are not equipped or knowledgeable enough to deal with a catastrophe like this. Spot shampooing the carpet, spraying it with air freshener and running the air does not resolve anything. The carpets and underlay were full of mold and the smell was beyond words. View the photos to see what the other shop left behind.

This vehicle recon was a huge undertaking. We had to completely gut this van. After removing the carpet it was given several cleanings to eliminate stains and ensure that the milk was completely removed from carpet and underlay. The van itself had to be completely cleaned using a medical grade antibacterial/anti-fungal solution. A three step system was used to decontaminate the contents and the air. The treatment we used is one that is utilized by hospitals to disinfect laundry, food areas and to make surgical rooms sterile. The first step was to decontaminate the empty van including the ac/heat and vent system. This ensures that there is no chance for mold, bacteria or odor regrowth. Once the carpet and freshly cleaned seats had gone through the drying process, they underwent the same decontamination process. Upon completion everything was placed back inside the vehicle, along with the freshly cleaned seats for a final decontamination and then allowed to air out.

We had the vehicle for 3 days, when he came to pick it we showed him the photo's and explained the entire process to him. He was disgusted by what he saw in the pictures, but he was elated by the final result. He couldn't thank us enough and kept insisting that he should pay us more because he had no idea how in depth the process was going to be. We declined his offer and he ended up taking a pile of business cards to hand out to people he knew. "Give trust, and you'll get it double in return" quoted by Kees Kamies

This story appalls me because the other shop had sold him on a service they could not perform. They lacked the equipment, chemicals, knowledge & training therefore they had no business performing this task. Instead of telling him they couldn't do it or refer him to someone that could they took his money. This in itself is a crime but that isn't the worst of it. In doing so, they put this mans' health at risk. Raw milk can carry salmonella, E. coli O157:H7 or listeria. If this milk contained any of these pathogens this man, his wife, grandchildren or anyone else in the van who made contact with it; would have been exposed to deadly pathogens. Something as simple as his grandson rubbing his hands on the carpet; could have transferred deadly bacteria onto his hands and in the event he didn't wash them, he could have transferred them to his mouth, food or another person through contact.

This is a serious issue and one that should be a lesson to all amateur detailers out there. When you are cleaning a car you must factor in the health risks for both the client and yourself. This includes the chemicals & equipment you use, the protection you wear and the process you utilize. Failure to eliminate possible hazards is a risk to your clients that you don't want to take; nor do you want to create a problem.

You must understand chemistry and be knowledgeable about the chemicals you use. Learn what health risks may be associated with them if any, use them as directed, do your research and always wear the necessary protective gear to protect yourself from exposure. A good example would be using ammonia and bleach (although I would hope you wouldn't ever be using these in a car) but if you did, you could be manufacturing a deadly gas that could cause you or your client to have respiratory failure. Certain chemicals may be poisonous to animals and small children. Several chemicals can be potentially dangerous to individuals with allergies and asthma; so keep this in mind to prevent accidents.

A professional detailer must also have the knowledge, training and equipment to deal with everything including bio-hazards. Failure to meet these requirements puts your health and the health of others at risk. Blood borne pathogens can include but are not limited to hepatitis.

Over the years I have been exposed to many toxic, bio-hazardous and potentially dangerous scenarios including toxic substances, mold, bacteria, syringes, blood, vomit, feces, urine and viruses... but because I assume the risk is there, I protect myself as best I can before it is too late. You don't know where a car has been, what mold, bacteria, fungus, toxins and gases exist so you must take precaution.

Detailers who aren't experienced or knowledgeable enough to effectively or safely remove them, should abstain completely and let the real professional detailers do the job. I have a greater respect for people who admit they can't do something than those who take someone's money and wing it. No one wins when you fail and no money is worth jeopardizing your health or that of someone else !

Take the extra mile to bring about a customers smile

Yesterday I had a gentleman bring in his wife's brand new car that he had accidentally spilled a corrosive chemical in. He had taken it to another shop which only added to the problem. When he took it to them, he had a gas can in the back, which they spilled. So on top of them not getting the stain out, he now had gas in his carpet and flammable and toxic vapors in the vehicle.

Everyday is a rewarding experience for me at my shop but is alway nice to see a client who is overjoyed when they see how you have taken the proper steps necessary to return their car back to its original state. When he came to pick-up the car it was like new again, the smell was permanently eliminated, the carpet cleaned and reconditioned. He was ecstatic and said can I kiss you? Of course, me being the kidder that I am said "sure butI'm not so sure how good I will be." He laughed and said "you have no idea just how happy this is going to make my wife she was so mad at me."

It is occasions like this that truly make my day. The joy you receive from knowing you worked hard to provide a quality service is great but the ultimate joy comes when you see what the client gets out of it.

Do the companies you deal with deserve your business?

Do the companies you deal with deserve your business? A recent study by Strativity showed that of all the corporate executives interviewed, only half thought their company deserved customers’ business. By their own admission, companies have no idea why they would deserve your business.

So what is customer service? Customer service is the provision of service to customers before, during and after a purchase. Consumers equate customer service with the ability to constantly and consistently, delight him/her and exceed their needs but in today's capitalistic society it is rare. It seems that the bigger companies get the less customer service they offer.

Customers are fed up with companies who treat them badly and it's driving people to become ex-customers. With so many new businesses opening up you would think that this shouldn't be a problem but it is - even among competitors offering lower prices. Regardless of selection, price and quality consumers still want and are entitled to legendary customer service. Companies are neglecting this part of the business equation on a daily basis because it takes less effort to gain new clients than it does to train employees, surrender to the customer and improve themselves. In the eyes of corporations, it is easier to draw in new clients through expensive advertising and it is this this short-term thinking that has caused commerce to be in the sad state that it is today.

So why are companies spending a fortune to capture new clients instead of trying to keep existing clients? Well Reichheld's detractor theory says that "companies are hooked on bad profits. Whenever a customer feels misled, mistreated, ignored, or coerced, then profits from that customer are bad." He also states that "profiting in this fashion is disastrous, because bad profits choke off a company's best opportunities for true growth, the kind of growth that is both profitable and sustainable. The pursuit of bad profits alienates customers, demoralizes employees and it blackens the reputation. With this in mind it would make sense why so many businesses today are changing hands, merging and closing their doors.

As a small business owner I understand the importance of providing legendary customer service - it not only adds value to your business it also aids in converting ordinary customers into lifetime customers. I have learned that it is cheaper to keep a client than to replace one. So as a consumer I realize the only defense I have and the only way I can help bring about change is to avoid buying from companies who do not provide me with the same caliber of service that I offer to my clients.

In fact, last week I had a fellow email me his email said " Hi i represent a manufacturer of car care products out of Toronto, and i would like to introduce our product line to you." I emailed him back to say " Thank-you for taking the time to contact me. Diamond Detailing caters to a lot of high end luxury and exotic sports cars so the majority of the chemicals I use are professional grade, superior quality & come at a premium price from Italy, England, Germany and Australia so chances are that unless you have a product of high caliber I probably would not be interested but feel free to send some info about your products by mail or email to my shop and if I am interested in any I will let you know. I appreciate the contact and I will add you to my contact list should I require anything new in the future. "

Today I received his reply which stated "Hi do you think italy,england,germany,etc produces professional grade products not CANADA, I GUESS THEN YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT QUALITY. AS A BUSINESS PERSON YOU SHOULD BE MORE OPEN MINDED AND SUPPORT LOCAL ECONOMY BEFORE SUPPORTING OTHERS."

Wow, how about that for customer care! His response absolutely blew my mind. The lack of knowledge about the industry struck me first. If you have something or know of something that equally compares to the products I currently use why wouldn't he have provided info about them and provided some details as to why they are better or equivalent. Secondly, if he thought he had a Canadian product of equal caliber to the ones I use why didn't he just present them to me? Anyhow, I emailed him back with this statement "What company is it that you work for Sir? Your tone is not appreciated or called for. I was pleasant in my response to your email and I did give you the opportunity to send me some info about what it is that you sell. Where I buy my products is my business! If Canada produced a product equal in quality I would be using it - fact is, to date they don't. Please refrain from expressing your economic & political beliefs and learn to have a bit of finesse. You had an opportunity to sell me on your product - but with the attitude you just displayed you can forget about it. This was the most unpleasant and unprofessional experience I think I have encountered. Good luck with your endeavor, I think you will need it if this is how you treat potential clients."

Unprofessional and rude behavior shouldn't be the norm nor should it be accepted or tolerated by clients. Corporations and small businesses alike need to take a step back to a time where they acknowledged that it is the customers who ultimately pay the bills and pay the salaries. Without customers, there is no business.

Diamond Detailing Expanding

It's official Diamond Detailing is expanding. I am thrilled to announce that Diamond Detailing has purchased a property in Guelph and another in Toronto. This new acquisition will enable Diamond Detailing Automotive Reconditioning Technician to continue in it's successful growth.

The newly obtained Toronto location is a huge undertaking. The 7000sq foot building will be completely renovated over the next year to transform it into our professional detailing school. The Diamond Detailing Automotive Reconditioning Technical School will be the first of it's kind in North America, possibly the world and will cater to automotive detailer's worldwide. As with everything that we do we want it to be the best. This will not be the average detailing school it will be much more. Tuition fees will be very high and the course lengthy. Strict registration requirements into the course must be met before an a student can be enrolled. This detailing course will be more intense than anything offered at traditional detailing classes and will not be for the weak at heart. It is a grueling course designed for students who have professional detailing experience that want to take it to the next level. The estimated duration of the course will be 12 months - yes, that's right twelve month's. Diamond Detailing has negotiation plans on the table with exotic car, marine, aircraft, RV and motorcycle manufacturers, world renowned automotive finishing experts and other Master detailers to add educational value to the course.

Plans for the new Guelph location is another project in the works that will begin later this summer. Plans and location for the Guelph expansion will remain top secret until the project is ready to open but a sneak preview into the project suggests that Diamond Detailing will be taking the Professional Detailing Industry to new heights. No we are not franchising - not even close. We've got something else in mind. The 355 Elmira Rd North Unit 139 location in Guelph where Diamond Detailing Automotive Reconditioning Technician currently resides will remain as the main location - so nothing will change there.

It has been a busy year working at my shop, teaching private detailing courses, being commisioned to perform some work in the US and in addition to that I have been running back and forth to Toronto to meet with realtors, lawyers, contacting the right Government departments, corresponding with everyone we need to make these projects come to life and writing a book but it has been a fantastic experience. The thing I will miss most over the next year will be the inability to fly down to the US to perform classes or detailing because I simply won't have the time. Once the projects are up and running and with careful scheduling I will again be able to accommodate my American clients.

I must say I am lucky to have a wife that is business orientated, talented, willing to stand by, lend a hand and push me out the door to get me where I need to be. I don't think I could have gotten through the past year without her. She has done an extraordinary job calculating, planning and scheduling my time to ensure that the reputation, service and workmanship at Diamond Detailing remain at the top. I can say with confidence that I have no mental reservations about being able to split up my time between the new projects and the main location - Diamond Detailing will not suffer or do without me. The Elmira Rd location is where my heart and soul resides because it is there that I get to do what I really love and talk with my clients.

To get through the hardest journey we need take only one step at a time, but we must keep on stepping...

Pro's VS The Joe's

Well my latest blog Amateur poachers a disgrace to the auto detailing industry stirred up quite a buzz. I have received positive feedback from several people, but the one I want to talk about is the one titled pro's detailers vs the jo detailers 1-0. A detailer in Toronto just wanted to say that it was about time someone stood up to expose the truth and begin educating customers. He said the industry needs to be redefined to separate the amateurs from the pro's because all to many times he has seen shops sell themselves as professional detailers with 9 years experience but their workmanship is no more than that of amateur level. He added that time alone does not make you a professional and I must agree.

I too, have met many who think that the time factor alone makes them a professional. In fact, I spoke to one today who is local in the city. These guys took 3 month's training, bought a franchise and now they are pro's. This amazes me; these people who wash cars, do express details or have nothing more than amateur skills to offer, honestly believe they are professional detailers and sell themselves as such. What's worse is the customers buy into it and end up paying these amateurs to damage their cars. This is why consumer education is so important. Clients need to be aware of the potential risks they are taking when they contract unskilled car cleaners and be able to see the difference between what the pseudo pro and a real pro or master can do. Once customers have experienced the difference, see the financial rewards and the long-term outcome of having a real professional care for their car they will never turn back.

I also received other emails from people who just wanted to share their car detailing horror stories. Each one is important and unfortunate. I feel badly for these people but the stories they told are not unlike the ones I hear on a daily basis. Individuals sold them on a valued professional service, took their money only to deliver less than professional results and in many cases their prized possessions were marred.

I should add that some of these people wanted to know the who and where of it all but I'll tell you the same thing I told them - as much as I would like to put a stop to bad business practices I can't name names. It isn't my responsibility to tell you who to avoid. It is ultimately up to the consumer to figure out who is a pro auto detailer and who is a joe detailer. All I can do is recommend other professionals.