The difference between a car that looks good and a car that
looks fabulous is in the details. For the last six years, Gabriel
Escobedo, owner of Hollister Auto Detail, has been treating his
customers’ cars with tender loving care.
The difference between a car that looks good and a car that looks fabulous is in the details. For the last six years, Gabriel Escobedo, owner of Hollister Auto Detail, has been treating his customers’ cars with tender loving care.
“We take care of vehicles like they were our own,” Escobedo said. “We like cars and like to keep them clean.”
Escobedo’s definition of “clean” goes beyond most people’s. When a customer orders a complete detailing, it means shampooing the rugs, seats and headliner – with hot water, which gets out most stains – and cleaning the door panels, door jambs, windows and vents. Then the car is washed, including a pressure wash of the undercarriage and fender walls. Finally, it’s polished and buffed.
“To do a complete detail, it takes a whole day,” Escobedo said. “We do one vehicle at a time to give each vehicle the most personalized care.”
Hollister Auto Detail not only focuses on the inside of a vehicle, making it a comfortable place for drivers, but they know how important its outside appearance is.
“Our biggest challenge is oxidation,” Escobedo said. “That’s when the paint on a car is faded. We use special wax, compounds and products on the vehicle. A lot of times the oxidation can be buffed out. Sometimes the car will have to be repainted. The best thing people can do is bring their vehicle in to me so I can take a really good look at it. I’ll determine if it’s something we can fix.”
Escobedo uses a process called Perma-Plate to seal a vehicle’s finish. It’s an option when buying a new car that can cost up to $400, he said.
“Right now, when people come in for a complete detail, I’ll Perma-Plate their car for free. This also helps protect a vehicle’s finish against harsh water, which is a problem we have here in Hollister,” Escobedo said. “Another special we have right now is when customers come in for a complete detailing, we’ll Scotchgard their carpet and upholstery for half-price.”
Motorcyclists are equally enthused about making their ride stand out. Escobedo offers motorcycle detailing, including the application of a good chrome polish.
Owners of classic cars can also buy accessories at Hollister Auto Detail.
“These include fender strips, little mirrors, tail lights, visors, gold plating and emblems,” Escobedo said. “We sell hydraulics to pick up or lower cars and air bags to lift the car. We also sell wheels and P&S products.”
Not only does Escobedo own Hollister Auto Detail, he’s the proud owner of a 1974 Impala that’s gold with wrap-around murals.
“I’ve had the Impala since I was 17,” he said. “I’ve worked on it for the last 12 years. It was in the latest Lowrider video and magazine, and was in the Lowrider 2001 calendar. People that would like to come out and see my car are welcome to stop by.”
Hollister Auto Detail is located at 401 San Felipe Rd. Suite A. Business hours are Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information or to make an appointment, call 638-9124 or 821-0053.
