DIY Detail vs. Jimbo’s Detailing – Full Breakdown of What Actually Works

From ceramic coating stacks to overly complicated washes, here’s why DIY Detail might be overthinking everything—and how Jimbo’s Detailing simplifies the process without sacrificing results.

The DIY Detail System: Where It Goes Off the Rails

DIY Detail has built a complex stack of products and steps, including:

Rinseless wash as a default for every scenario
All Clean APC as a pre-soak (harsh and risky)
A ceramic stack with multiple layers, each with its own quirks
Gold Standard Polish that gives oily, temporary results

The problem? It sounds pro—but in the real world, it’s just harder, riskier, and doesn’t produce better results.

Let’s Break Down the Issues

1. Rinseless Wash vs. Pre-Soak Foam

DIY Detail pushes rinseless as a one-size-fits-all solution. But skipping a proper pre-soak is a fast track to swirl marks.

Read: DIY Detail Rinseless Wash vs. Foam Pre-Soak

2. Pre-Soaking with an APC? Bad Idea.

Using an all-purpose cleaner (APC) like All Clean for paint pre-soak is dangerous. It’s too aggressive, strips protection, and can stain sensitive trim.

Better option: The Super Soaper – safe for coatings and gentle on paint.

3. The Polish That Tricks You

DIY’s Gold Standard Polish is packed with oils that fake gloss—but leave no lasting correction. You have to use a damp towel to wipe off the residue, which screams outdated chemistry.

Upgrade to: Picture Perfect Polish – real correction, zero dust, one-step simplicity.

4. Their Ceramic Stack Is Overkill

Layering multiple DIY Detail ceramics doesn’t make your car more protected—it just adds complexity. The Gloss Boss delivers up to 5 years of protection with one easy wipe-on step.

Full comparison here.