Some vehicles have air bags in the steering wheel only. Others have air bags for both the driver and passenger. Some vehicles have side impact air bags. Some have air bags in the headrests.

Some air bags can be deactivated by the driver if an infant seat is being used on the front seat. If a rear seat is available, the infant seat should always be placed on the rear seat.

Generally, seats should be as far away from the dash or steering wheel as is practical. Air bags are not a substitute for seat belts.

Impact sensors detect a collision. "Safing" and arming sensors ensure the deployment of the air bag when the collision is severe enough to warrant it. Sensors detect rapid deceleration. Some have a metal ball that is propelled forward when a collision occurs. Others have a weight attached to a spring with the weight being propelled forward during a collision.

Important: Students should not work on air bag systems. Only certified technicians should diagnose and repair air bag systems.

Students should understand the hazards and environmental concerns associated with cleaning products.

Students should detail paint, glass, vinyl, rubber and engine parts.

It is sometimes necessary to remove trim before enhancing a surface.

Clean the engine compartment first. Some areas may require the application of paint or coatings. Only paint designated for use on an auto engine should be used. Any leaks should be repaired and an oil change completed. All fluid levels should be inspected and topped up if necessary. The air filter should be replaced. The battery should be removed and the battery tray and battery terminals cleaned.

Wash the exterior of the vehicle. Inspect the paint for surface flaws that can be corrected without spray painting. Spot repair stone chips, minor rust, etc. and then polish the paint surface using a cleaner or rubbing compound. Take great care if a power polisher is used so as not to work through the layer of paint at the edges where the paint is thinnest. Wax should be applied to the renewed finish.

Inspect the glass and have any stone chips repaired.

Clean any chrome with an appropriate product.

Inspect the lights and replace bulbs as necessary. Inspect the headlight and turn signal glass and replace if necessary.

Inspect the tires. Replace them if they are badly worn. Many dealerships replace all four tires in order that all the tires are the same make. Clean tires last.

Dealers often enhance a vehicle by applying after-market products such as glass tints, decals/pin strips, or moulding. Sometimes moulding is placed down the side of a car to conceal small parking lot dints or to allow the lower part of the vehicle to be painted in a two tone scheme.

Begin by vacuuming the vehicle.

Inspect the interior and remove any after-market attachments that may be worn or loose. If the vehicle has an after-market radio, make sure the installation is rattle free. The radio should not have gaps around it and there should be no wires hanging down under the dash.

Cleaners are available for: leather, cloth, vinyl, rubber, plastic and polyurethane foam.

Empty the glove and other storage compartments. Clean and return only the owner’s manual to the storage area.

For a first-rate detailing job, the seats and some interior trim such as the arm rests may need to be removed.

Inspect the carpet and seats and use spot remover if necessary. Identify the nature of the stain (soil, grease, chocolate, oil, candy, road tar, or blood) to select a cleaning product. Clean the seats and carpets. Pay particular attention to creases. Any rips or tears should be repaired.

Vinyl repair products can be used to repair cracks or splits.

Clean the dash and door side panels. Empty all ash trays and clean them. The steering wheel, seat belts and door handles require special attention.

Inspect and clean the headliner and sun visors.

Inspect the door and window weather stripping. Repair if necessary.

Clean the glass exterior and interior.

Clean the door frames.

Clean the gas flap interior.

Remove everything from the trunk and clean with suitable cleaning products. Return the spare and jack to the trunk and store properly.

Detailing involves being very observant and exacting. It is not unusual to use a small tool to clean a groove.

Discuss entrepreneurial opportunities for students.

Fasteners include: clips, adhesives and screws.

Demonstrate how to test the seal and adjust the door as necessary.

Trim accessories include items such as: mirrors, luggage racks, lights, bras, locks, etc.