As a seasoned car detailer, I’ve worked on everything from exotic sports cars to rugged off-road vehicles, but when I received the call to detail a 2024 Tesla Cybertruck for the first time, I knew this job would be unlike anything else. The Cybertruck’s stainless steel exterior, unique shape, and sheer size make it stand out from anything else on the road. Today, I’m sharing my in-depth experience detailing a Cybertruck in Orlando, with tips, challenges, and insights to help you understand how to take care of this futuristic truck.
Before diving into the wash, I like to give the vehicle a thorough inspection. The Cybertruck, especially with its unique angular design and large surfaces, requires extra attention to ensure that dirt, road grime, and even minor surface imperfections are caught before we start cleaning.
•Exterior Material: As this particular Cybertruck had a matte finish with a vinyl wrap, it was important to use a pH-neutral soap to avoid damaging the surface. I learned early on that using harsher chemicals could lead to staining, especially on vinyl surfaces.
•Wheels: The Cybertruck’s massive tires and rims are prone to collecting brake dust and road grime, so this area needed special attention. The owner also requested that no tire shine be applied, as he’d experienced “slinging” issues in the past (when dressing is applied but not wiped down properly, leading to residue splattering).
After a thorough rinse, I applied a pH-balanced soap using a foam cannon, which allowed me to safely clean the matte vinyl without leaving streaks. Using a foam cannon is a lifesaver when working on a vehicle this size, especially when combined with lubrication from a high-quality soap.
When detailing a Cybertruck in Orlando’s humid climate, it’s important to work quickly to avoid water spots from drying on the surface. The foam not only cleans but also provides lubrication, which helps prevent scratches and other surface imperfections.
Despite its futuristic look, the Cybertruck still requires an old-school hand wash. I used a two-bucket method with grit guards to minimize the risk of introducing scratches while cleaning. A soft microfiber wash mitt is essential to prevent marring on the vinyl wrap and stainless steel.
One of the most challenging areas was the massive windshield—it’s one of the largest windshields on any vehicle, and reaching all the way across requires patience (and sometimes an assistant). It’s also important to note that this windshield tends to pick up a lot of dirt and dust, especially in urban environments like Orlando.
The interior of the Cybertruck is as futuristic as its exterior. With vegan leather seats, minimalist design, and Tesla’s massive center screen, it’s crucial to use the right products.
•Seats: I used a vegan leather cleaner and conditioner to ensure that the seats stay soft and don’t crack over time. Given Orlando’s heat, keeping the interior surfaces conditioned is important for longevity.
•Touchscreen Care: Tesla’s touchscreen is large and sensitive, so I used a screen-safe cleaner to wipe down any fingerprints and ensure a streak-free finish.
•All-Weather Mats: This particular Cybertruck had all-weather mats, which makes cleaning much easier. I simply removed the mats, washed them with soap, and used a vacuum to ensure the rest of the cabin was debris-free.
Wheels and tires are often neglected, but with the Cybertruck, they’re a significant part of its bold aesthetic. The client requested no tire dressing, as he had experienced slinging issues in the past. Instead, I focused on thoroughly cleaning the rims and using a metal polish to bring out their natural shine.
Here’s where it gets interesting. Florida has specific restrictions on tint colors. Tints in red, blue, and amber are a big no-no. These colors are typically reserved for emergency and law enforcement vehicles, so it’s important to steer clear of them to avoid any legal issues.
s with any new vehicle, there are always quirks and challenges. Here are a few I encountered while detailing the Cybertruck:
•Scratch Sensitivity: Even though the Cybertruck looks tough, the vinyl wrap is prone to scratching. The client mentioned he had scratched part of the vinyl trying to buff it by hand, making it worse. I had to be extra cautious with products and avoid using anything too abrasive.
•Massive Windshield: One of the most difficult tasks was cleaning the windshield—without the proper tools, reaching every corner was a challenge. I recommend using a long-handled window cleaning tool to make the job easier.
•No Tire Shine Preference: The owner specifically requested that no tire shine be applied to prevent slinging, which is when the product is improperly applied and ends up splattering onto the vehicle’s surface. I made sure to clean the tires thoroughly without adding any dressing.
Orlando presents its own set of challenges when it comes to car detailing. The heat, humidity, and frequent rain mean that vehicles like the Cybertruck need regular cleaning and protection. Applying a ceramic coating and keeping the vehicle maintained with pH-balanced products ensures that the truck stays in top condition, even in the most challenging environments.
Detailing a Cybertruck in Orlando for the first time was an exciting challenge. Its futuristic design, stainless steel exterior, and sheer size make it a unique project for any detailer. By using the right products, tools, and techniques, I was able to achieve a pristine finish that left the client thrilled with the results.
Whether you’re driving through Downtown Orlando, cruising around Lake Eola, or taking your Cybertruck on a road trip, keeping it clean and protected is essential. The combination of ceramic coating, regular detailing, and attention to detail will ensure that this futuristic vehicle remains in showroom condition for years to come.