When it comes to mobile detailing, there’s nothing quite like rescuing a vehicle that’s been forgotten by time. Recently, we had the opportunity to detail a 2018 Chevy Silverado with just 16,000 miles—but it had been sitting for years without being driven. The result? A truck covered in algae, dirt, and streaks, with buildup in every crevice and door jamb.
This job wasn’t just a routine wash—it was a full-blown restoration detail, and exactly the kind of challenge we specialize in with our mobile detailing services.
The Condition
Despite its low mileage, the Silverado looked like it had been parked in a forest. Thick layers of algae and dirt coated the paint, and nearly every exterior seam and door jamb was packed with debris. The paint had streaks etched in from years of exposure to dirt and standing moisture.
This wasn’t just a dirty truck—it was a deep-clean emergency. Here’s how we tackled it step by step.
Step-by-Step: Heavy-Duty Mobile Detailing Process
- Pre-Wash with All-Purpose Cleaner
We started with a pre-wash using an all-purpose cleaner applied via foam cannon. This foamed solution was designed to break down organic buildup and grime stuck to the paint. After letting it dwell, we followed up with a power wash to strip away the loosened contaminants. This step was so intense, we nearly ran out of water. - Power Wash
After the pre-wash foam and cleaner had done their job, we thoroughly power washed every inch of the truck. This included wheel wells, underbody edges, and all the algae-covered surfaces. - Contact Wash
Next, we hand-washed the Silverado using a gentle wash mitt and the two-bucket method. This ensured all remaining surface contaminants were removed without adding new scratches to the already stressed paint. - Clay Bar Treatment
We followed with a full clay bar decontamination to pull embedded contaminants from the clear coat. Years of neglect meant the paint had a lot of stubborn grit that the clay bar helped eliminate. - Polish & Sealant
One of the biggest issues was the amount of etched-in streaks and dullness from years of dirt exposure. We performed a machine polish to remove these imperfections and followed it up with a paint sealant to restore gloss and add long-term protection. - Compressed Air Crevice Cleaning
All the seams, emblems, and tight areas had extensive dirt buildup, especially in door jambs and exterior gaps. We used high-pressure compressed air to blow out every crevice and ensure a fully clean finish—inside and out.
Before Photos
Here’s what the Silverado looked like when it first arrived:
After Photos
After a full mobile detailing transformation, the Silverado looked showroom ready:
The Result
What rolled into the driveway looking like a truck lost to nature rolled out looking like a showroom piece. The transformation was dramatic—the paint had depth and shine, the crevices were clean, and the overall look was night and day.
This detail was a perfect showcase of what professional mobile detailing can do for even the most neglected vehicles.
Why Choose Our Mobile Detailing Service?
If you have a vehicle that’s been sitting—or just needs serious attention—we bring the skill, equipment, and dedication right to your driveway. From deep cleaning to paint correction and protection, our mobile detailing services are designed to restore your vehicle’s true beauty.
📅 Book your mobile detail today and let us bring your vehicle back to life.