Who are they?
DADs are independent detailers who use our products and who we think will be able to offer a good service to our customers. Some DADs are cheap, others are expensive. But all have to pledge that they are proficient, professional and insured up to the wotsits. You can see some of their work in the DAD Gallery.

Does it cost money for them to join?
No. DADs don’t pay to be on our scheme, so they can’t buy their way in. They just have to meet our demanding DAD criteria and impress or pester myself and pj enough. If there’s a space on the scheme, we may then let them join. Some authorised detailer schemes charge high fees, but these fees often cover unnecessary training costs, or advertising that detailers don’t need or want.

So what are the criteria?
The criteria changes annually, but covers minimum standards expected of the detailer, especially in areas such as paintwork correction. DADs generally have to be:

• Full time
• Capable of machine correcting paint to a high standard
• Be professional and courteous
• Have adequate insurance cover

What can you expect from a DAD?
DADs offer general car cleaning and valeting services, just like the hand car wash guys you see around. But DADs are also able to machine polish, so they can correct paint defects. And instead of using dubious techniques, gritty sponges and water blades, a DAD will have the skills and knowledge to detail a car properly using high end products. Whether it’s washing, claying, polishing or waxing, they know their stuff and use the right stuff. It’s a big difference.

What makes a DAD better than a car wash or local sponge monkey?
Car washes and hand car wash guys have their place. But that’s not anywhere near decent paintwork. Often a car wash guy means well, but he could accidentally inflict swirls into paintwork because of the techniques and gear he is using. He just wants to get the job done quickly, and if the car looks more or less clean and the customer is happy, so is he. It isn’t ‘detailing’, where the attention to detail sets the end result apart from a mere valet. If all a car wash guy leaves behind is a bit of dirt, you have done well. If he drops the sponge when you aren’t looking, he may have accidentally put fine scratches into the paint. Luckily, these can normally be removed quickly and safely by a DAD...

Do DADs clean more than cars?
DADs have cleaned cars, mopeds, yachts… even helicopters… inside and out. You can see some of their work in the DAD Gallery.

Do they come to me or do I go to them?
It depends on the DAD. Some have units where you can take your car, others offer a mobile service. The DAD scheme offers national coverage within the UK, with many DADs travelling great distances to keep their customers happy. But always try a local DAD first.

How much can I expect to pay?
Prices range from as little as a few pounds for a wash up to 1000 GBP or more. Tipping is discretionary, but any cash should be sent to our offices here at Dodo Juice, in an envelope with the detailer’s name on. You can be sure that we will ‘look after it’ for them in PJ’s ‘Lime Green Chrysler 300C Savings Account’.

What facilities do they need?
This will depend on the DAD, so ask them when you book. Mobile detailers often have their own water supply, but most need access to a power source and some may want to use your external tap. Shelter (garage or car port) is preferable, in case of adverse weather conditions. If the car is kept on the road, it may also cause problems. Let the DAD know the score and something can usually be worked out. The lucky DADs operating out of units have no such problems, but you may need to consider collection and delivery arrangements. Finally, DADs are typical British workpeople and respond well to a cup of tea and a biscuit. Treat them well and they will probably work harder or for longer. You may even get some useful advice or a discount next time around.

How do I book? Is a deposit needed?
You book directly with the DAD, using the details shown on the main map. A deposit may sometimes be required.

What about payment?
Payment is also made directly to the DAD. The poor old Dodo doesn’t get a look in. Some of our DADs accept credit cards, gold bullion and payments to Swiss bank accounts. Others take cheques and paypal, but all will be happy with cash. Please note that Dodo Juice does not take any commission from DADs or detailing – every penny goes to the detailer. We make our money solely from product sales.

What if there’s a problem?
DADs are human, despite our best efforts to weld a rotary polisher onto a robot sporting the head of Henry Hoover. If you have a problem with a DAD or their work, try and sort it out directly with them, in the first instance. In legal terms, your contract has been made with them, so try and find a remedy with them. If this doesn’t work, you can contact us at ' theDodo at dodojuice dot com ' and we’ll see what we can do. Bad DADs get kicked off the scheme, so we need to know if there’s misbehaviour or dissent in the ranks. And remember, all feedback (good or bad) can be left on the good DAD, bad DAD forum section.

I’m a pro detailer, can I join the scheme?
If you are a full time pro detailer who can machine polish to a high standard and wish to join the scheme, you will need to send an email to ' theDodo at dodojuice dot com ' to get hold of the current criteria list. If you meet the criteria, get back in touch and if there’s room on the scheme, we will consider your application.