So...I have always done my own detailing; however, the Jeep has gotten to a pretty bad state. Lots of swirl marks and fine scratches from auto car washes, dust, dirt, etc. etc.

I want to have the Jeep professionally done so that I can begin to maintain the paint as it should be again.

I have always used Meguires, but I want to make a switch to Zaino on the Jeep.

A couple of questions arise from this.....

1) How do you choose a reputable auto detailer that is going to really know what they are doing and bring the "better than new" shine back?

2) I'm not worried about the engine bay detail or the inside as much, but with a black car, I know it has to be done right or otherwise it just looks like shit. Any specific questions I should ask?

3) Zaino doesn't have a list of people that use their products, so they can't recommend anyone. And seeing as how Zaino has a specific process to use, I'm not sure I would trust any detailer with a few hundred bucks worth of product to use it correctly. So, do I just let the detail I choose use their stuff and then switch to Zaino products when I go to re-do the work in a few months or do I just hope to get lucky and find someone who is familiar with the Zaino product?

4) Last but not least, anyone know of any great detailers in the Columbia, SC area??

Confused and scared to leave my Jeep with someone else to get the paint detailed to a mirror shine. :eek:

My replies below your questions:

1) How do you choose a reputable auto detailer that is going to really know what they are doing and bring the "better than new" shine back?

If they use the word “buff” walk away. If they tell you they are going to strive for ultimate paint correction, than you are on the right track. Ask them what machines and products they use. If they use anything that is off brand, walk away. Ask them about their process. Do they wash, claybar, and multi stage polish? What is their cost? With detailing, you will get what you pay for. If you expect to pay $200 and get a perfectly corrected vehicle, you are mistaken. A good detail can take anywhere from 10-12 hours for a single person. With that said, do the math… $25-30 per hour at 10-12 hours… price rang eis around $250 (low end) to $400. For the Jeep, I would expect to pay around $350-400.

2) I'm not worried about the engine bay detail or the inside as much, but with a black car, I know it has to be done right or otherwise it just looks like shit. Any specific questions I should ask?

“will you detail the engine bay?” If so, “what is your process, what chemicals are used and are you using a silicone based dressing?” Silicone dressings are a huge no-no in the engine bay. Something water based and water proof is ideal. See: Adam’s VRT dressing

3) Zaino doesn't have a list of people that use their products, so they can't recommend anyone. And seeing as how Zaino has a specific process to use, I'm not sure I would trust any detailer with a few hundred bucks worth of product to use it correctly. So, do I just let the detail I choose use their stuff and then switch to Zaino products when I go to re-do the work in a few months or do I just hope to get lucky and find someone who is familiar with the Zaino product?

Detailer’s choose their product. If you want Zaino, you have to find someone who uses it. For instance, if a customer came to me for a detail wanting me to use Zaino, I’d simply turn him away or offer to detail using the products I’m good with and comfortable with. You can’t really trust products on customer vehicles until you’ve had ample time to use them and get to know them. Using unfamiliar products could be disastrous.

Keep in mind good results can be reached with a variety of products. You may prefer Zaino, but be open to the fact that a good detailer might be able to achieve your desired results with a product of their choice!

4) Last but not least, anyone know of any great detailers in the Columbia, SC area??

Confused and scared to leave my Jeep with someone else to get the paint detailed to a mirror shine

You should be! Be careful about it and ask around for recommendations. I would gladly help advise you on this further. <Admin Edit - your NSV contact information removed>