UV rays: slowly breaks down the clear coat, so paint turns dull, hazy and chalky, and reds and blacks fade first.

Interior damage: dashboards, door cards and leather dry out, fade and crack.

Cumulative damage: a car parked outside daily takes this hit over a garaged car.

Coastal salt air: can dull paint and trim over time, and a decontamination wash helps clear it.

Bird droppings: acidic and can mark clear coat if left, and a coating makes them easier to wipe off.

Tree sap: sticks to paint and hardens, and is safest removed by a professional then sealed.

Tar and road grime: stains lower panels and wheels, and tar and iron remover lifts it.

Rain and hard water: can leave mineral spots, and a sealant or coating helps water shed.

Asset maintenance: Typically a car is your second-biggest purchase. Detailing is maintenance on an asset, in the same way as servicing the engine.

Resale value: a car with glossy, swirl-free paint and a clean cabin sells faster and holds its price better. Buyers judge condition in seconds.

Ceramic coating: a hard, slick layer that resists UV, stains and bonded contaminants, and makes every future wash quicker.

Sealant: three months of protection, a low-commitment way to start.

Air and allergens: dust, pollen, pet hair and crumbs build up in carpets and seats. A deep vacuum and wipe-down removes what daily life leaves behind.

Odour: spilled drinks, food and damp cause smells that air fresheners only mask. Cleaning at the source fixes them.

Glass: streak-free glass cuts glare, especially low sun and night driving, which is a safety benefit as well as a comfort one.

Feel: clean, dressed surfaces and a tidy cabin make a car feel newer and calmer to drive.

Kids and pets: family used and pets? Get the biggest reset, since wear is heaviest there.