New Member Information

[Nick McKees37]

Welcome to Autogeek Online! - your number one source for car care tips & tricks from enthusiasts and professionals around the world.

Here at Autogeek Online, we strive to provide you with the most accurate, helpful information to guide you towards your detailing goals. Whether you have a show car with a flawless finish, or a daily driver that is in dire need of being restored, you will find a wealth of information in our multiple discussion forums.

First, it's good to familiarize yourself with the Forum Rules (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/introduce-yourself/24039-forum-rules.html). We try and provide a fun, family friendly environment where we can all get together and discuss why we're all here - car care and detailing! :buffing:

If you're new to an online discussion forum, here is a helpful article that clearly explains how it all works - How to Post on a Forum (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/introduce-yourself/7942-how-introduction-thread.html)

By clicking on "Today's Posts" you can view the most active threads that people have been participating in on that particular day. Each time someone posts in a thread, it "bumps" that thread to the top, making it the most recent thread.

Now that you're familiar with how a discussion forum works, feel free to take a look around the forum and explore all the various discussions currently going on.

Product Acronyms (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/hot-topics-frequently-asked-questions/5706-product-abbreviation-chart-acronyms.html)


How to Interact on a Discussion Forum

How to add an Avatar (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/tips-techniques-how-articles-interacting-discussion-forums/54992-how-add-avatar.html)

A tip to help yourself get great answers when you start a thread (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/tips-techniques-how-articles-interacting-discussion-forums/29344-tip-help-yourself-get-great-answers-when-you-start-thread.html)

How to write a good title for your thread (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/introduce-yourself/20306-how-write-good-title-your-post.html)

What to do when you see a problem on the forum (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/off-topic/24085-what-do-when-you-see-problem-forum.html)

How to share an article using a blue clickable link (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/tips-techniques-how-articles-interacting-discussion-forums/23913-how-share-article-using-blue-clickable-link.html)

How to expand the message box (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/tricks-tips-techniques/23245-how-expand-message-box.html)

How to tell if you're logged into the forum? (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-do-different-types-things-ag-discussion-forum/21293-how-tell-if-you-re-logged-into-forum.html)

Post your intro thread here but post topical question in the related forum group (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/introduce-yourself/20177-post-your-intro-thread-here-but-post-topical-question-related-forum-group.html)

How to use the "Editor Mode" to break a single quoted message up into smaller quoted sections (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/off-topic/20690-how-use-editor-mode-break-single-quoted-message-up-into-smaller-quoted-sections.html)

20 Minute Time Limit for Editing Messages (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/introduce-yourself/24089-20-minute-time-limit-editing-messages.html)




Working with Pictures on the Internet

How-To capture swirls, scratches, etchings and other surface defects with your camera (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/tips-techniques-how-articles-interacting-discussion-forums/26917-how-capture-swirls-scratches-etchings-other-surface-defects-your-camera.html)

How-to work with pictures on discussion forums (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-articles-discussion-forums/21320-how-work-pictures-discussion-forums.html)

How to upload a photo into your Autogeek Photo Gallery (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-do-different-types-things-ag-discussion-forum/21295-how-upload-photo-into-your-autogeek-photo-gallery.html)

How to insert an image from your photo gallery into your message (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-articles-discussion-forums/21313-how-insert-image-your-photo-gallery-into-your-message.html)

How to crop out the fluff and resize your pictures! - Using FREE online software! (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/tips-techniques-how-articles-interacting-discussion-forums/23918-how-crop-out-fluff-resize-your-pictures-using-free-online-software.html)

[Nick McKees37]

Detailing 101

You found Autogeek because you're on the hunt for the most informative source of information on the net when it comes to caring for your vehicle's appearance. Whether it's headlight restoration, machine polishing, leather care, or routine wash and wax maintenance, we have the information and tools to help you meet your car care needs. When shopping online, or searching our forum, you will only find the most accurate, helpful information available to you.



http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1090/IMG_1745.JPG


We take pride in carrying only the highest quality products available. Each and every product that we sell is tested by the experts before it reaches the hands of you, the consumer. The wealth of information available on the site and the forum is kept up to date with the most recent formulas and the latest and greatest products available.

Before jumping in head first, here is a quick summary of the most common types of products available.

Wax: A Wax is usually formulated using natural ingredients such as carnauba wax, beeswax, and other natural oils. A carnauba wax is used for show cars and avid detailing enthusiasts who desire the best shine possible. A high quality wax will contain 100% carnauba and provide about 3 months of protection.



Pinnacle Souverän™ Carnauba Paste Wax (http://www.autogeek.net/pinsouvwax.html)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1175/Wax11.jpg


Paint Sealant: A Paint Sealant utilizes a synthetic formula made up of polymers and other man made ingredients. A Paint Sealant is the ideal protection for longevity, especially during the harsh winter months. A durable Paint Sealant will provide 4-6 months of protection.



Wolfgang Deep Gloss Paint Sealant (http://www.autogeek.net/wg5500.html)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1175/Sealant1.jpg


Spray Wax: A Spray Wax comes in a variety of different formulas. Some utilize a synthetic blend of ingredients, while others feature carnauba. A Spray Wax is generally used as a booster to the existing layer or wax or sealant. A high quality Spray Wax will provide 3-4 months of stand alone protection.



Optimum Car Wax (http://www.autogeek.net/optimum-spray-wax.html)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1175/Spray1.jpg


All In One (AIO): An All In One product has the ability to clean, polish, and protect the paint in one step. Some AIO products contain abrasives which can remove minor swirls and scratches, along with oxidation. AIO's are great time savers if you want to keep your detail simple, but effective. A good AIO will provide 3-5 months of protection.



Pinnacle XMT 360 (http://www.autogeek.net/xmt-360.html)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1175/AIO1.jpg


Permanent Coating: Just as the name implies, this is a permanent coating for your vehicle's finish. It will provide protection for the life of the vehicle against the elements. Most Permanent Coatings feature a resin technology that permanently bonds to the paint, creating a mirror like shine. This type of protection is for more experienced users.



Optimum Opti-Coat 2.0 (http://www.autogeek.net/optimum-opti-coat.html)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1175/Coating1.jpg


You're now familiar with the basics, but what if your vehicle needs a little more work? Check out the Detailing Flow Chart pictured below. This chart clearly explains the steps necessary to properly detail your car to achieve a flawless, show car finish.



http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1175/flowchart.jpg


Machine Polishing 101


Now that you're familiar with the basics, why go about applying a wax by hand? A dual action polisher is the way to go if you want effective results - fast. A dual action polisher is completely paint safe, even in the hands of a beginner. Because a dual action polisher orbits the pad around a central spindle and rotates the pad on its own axis, it is much more paint safe than a circular (rotary) polisher.

We have a wide selection of dual action polishers, but I'll highlight the most popular, talked about polishers.

Porter Cable 7424xp: The Porter Cable 7424xp is the most recent dual action polisher from Porter Cable, which is a reputable tool company that has been around for years. Porter Cable has service centers all across the US and they are known for building outstanding, high quality tools that are built to last. The 7424xp is no exception, it features a powerful 4.5 amp motor, variable speed, and it's extremely easy to use. It has virtually no learning curve and is completely paint safe, even in the hands of a novice.


Porter Cable 7424xp Kits (http://www.autogeek.net/po.html)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1175/PC1.jpg


Flex XC3401: The Flex XC3401 is the Mercedes Benz of dual action polishers. The unit is built in Germany and features forced rotation, a variable speed with trigger lock, superior cooling, and it's ergonomically designed to provide hours of polishing with virtually no fatigue on the user. The machine is incredibly smooth and easy to use, even for beginners. If you want the best tool the first time, the Flex XC3401 is for you.



Flex XC3401 Kits (http://www.autogeek.net/flex-car-polishers.html)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1175/Flex31.jpg


Detailing Classes


Detailing 101 & 102 Class Sign-Up (http://www.autogeek.net/newproducts.html)

Several times a year we offer extensive Detailing Classes at the Show Car Garage here at our headquarters in Stuart Florida. If you want to learn how to create a show car finish using a polisher, the principles of machine polishing, or how to wet sand, cut & buff, these classes are for you. But if you can't make it but still want to learn how to do all of the above, we do offer Online Detailing Classes featuring Mike Phillips. These videos cover all the bases in detailing and will show you how to properly take care of your vehicle, all from the comfort of your own home.


Online Detailing Classes (https://aspdn-02.onstreammedia.com/palmbeachmotoring/)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1068/ppv-forum-banner.jpg (https://aspdn-02.onstreammedia.com/palmbeachmotoring/)


Happy Detailing! :buffing:

[Nick McKees37]

Ways to Keep in Touch


Technology is changing the way we communicate with those around us. The internet provides a wealth of information at your finger tips, and thanks to internet capable phones that feature the latest in cutting edge wireless technology, all this information is portable and accessible to everyone with an internet connection.

If you have an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, you can now stay in touch with Autogeek.net (www.autogeek.net) and the abundance of information that is available with these new applications.

With these new applications you can visit our Online Store, informative How-To Videos, Auto Detailing 101 for the latest tips and tricks, and AutogeekOnline.net.


Autogeek iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch Application! (http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/autogeek-net/id333271923?mt=8)


http://www.auto-geek.net/iphone/AG-app-1.jpghttp://www.auto-geek.net/iphone/AG-app-5.jpg


AutogeekOnline iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch Application! (http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/autogeekonline/id425171757?mt=8)


http://www.auto-geek.net/iphone/AGO-app-1.jpghttp://www.auto-geek.net/iphone/AGO-app-2.jpg


Facebook & Twitter


Another great way to keep in touch with your iPhone is to check out the Autogeek Twitter Page (http://twitter.com/). Get the latest tweets that include sales, new product launches, and company news right to your phone.

You can also follow me on the Autogeek Facebook Page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/AutoGeek/62664969988). This is a great way to keep in touch with the thousands of our fans and stay up to date with the latest tips and tricks on how to properly maintain your vehicle. New photos are uploaded weekly with what's in the Show Car Garage, Sema, and other exciting events and car shows.



http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1068/FBlogo1.jpghttp://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1068/facebook1.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/pages/AutoGeek/62664969988)


Channel


Also be sure to subscribe to the Autogeek YouTube Channel. Here you will find dozens of free videos that include everything from how-to videos featuring Mike Phillips, our Two Guys Garage and My Classic Car segments, and the latest product introductions.


Autogeek.net Youtube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/autogeek#p/u)


- ‪Autogeek TV Commercial with Matt Steele‬‏


If you don't have an iPhone, or just want to keep in touch with what's going on at Autogeek, check out our Tool Bar. It's a safe, free download that enables you to get the best of Autogeek with the convenience of a tool bar at the top of your internet explorer.



Autogeek Toolbar Download (http://autogeek.ourtoolbar.com/)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1073/AGtoolbar.jpg (http://autogeek.ourtoolbar.com/)


Car Wax Blog


Another great resource for information, including new product launches and up to date information regarding Sema and other exciting events, be sure to visit the Autogeek Car Wax Blog (http://www.carwaxblog.com/). Here you will find a ton of information regarding the company, what we're all about, customer testimonials, free desktop wallpapers, PBMA news, and more.


Autogeek Desktop Wallpapers (http://www.carwaxblog.com/category/free-desktop-wallpapers/)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/wallpaper/800x640/AG--13-800.jpg (http://www.carwaxblog.com/category/free-desktop-wallpapers/)


As Seen on TV Segments


If you're a car guy like me, every Sunday you get together with your friends and watch Speed TV and Fox Sports Network. If that's the case, I'm sure you've seen our How-To segments featured on My Classic Car with Dennis Gage, Two Guys Garage, Motorhead Garage, and "What's in the Garage". If you saw a segment on one of the shows, and can't quite remember what products were used, we now have a section on the site dedicated to segments there were "As Seen On TV" (http://www.autogeek.net/as-seen-on-tv.html). Here you can find each How-To segment along with a link to each product used.



http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/autogeek/AG-tv-logos-art.jpg (http://www.autogeek.net/as-seen-on-tv.html)




Now that you're familiar with all the different ways to keep in touch with Autogeek, go outside and detail your car! :buffing:

[Meghan]

How to Contact Us!

Email us or call us toll free at 1-800-869-3011 from 10 am-6 pm EST, Monday-Friday, and 10 am – 4 pm on Saturday.


Customer Service & Product Help (http://www.autogeek.net/contactus.html)

Live Support Product & Tech Help (http://www.autogeek.net/auto-detailing-live-help.html)


Im the MAN

For our International & Canadian Customers

International customers call 1-772-286-2701.
Canadian residents call 1-866-889-0695.
Email us or call us from 10 am-6 pm EST, Monday-Friday, and 10 am – 4 pm on Saturday.

Canada & International Shipping Info (http://www.autogeek.net/customerservice.html#23)

Live Support Product & Tech Help (http://www.autogeek.net/auto-detailing-live-help.html)

Customer Service & Product Help (http://www.autogeek.net/contactus.html)



http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/autogeek_2161_16990296
Price Match Policy

Information on our Price Match Promise (http://www.autogeek.net/price-match-policy.html)



Newsletters

Sign up to the Autogeek/PBMA newsletter for special offers, sales, and the latest news in car care. Newsletter subscribers regularly receive newsletter-only coupon codes. Get "in the know" with the Autogeek newsletter!

Newsletter & VIP Club (http://www.autogeek.net/nesiup.html)

[Meghan]

This thread is a little something we wanted to create to help all new and existing members with PBMA/Autogeek information. Also a little short how to on using the forum, all of our social media, and forms of communication. We are very open to suggestions if anyone feels we missed something, we want to make sure we cover it all. I think this will give the new members a "one stop" info center to help them learn the ropes around PBMA. This should also we a great resource center for existing members so they can get info fast!

[Flash Gordon]

Incredible :cheers:

[maximus20895]

Great information!

[BillE]

:wow:

I need to learn to poke around a LOT more.

Bill

[cjornholmes]

hello guys Im cjorn I been studying automechanics...but unfortunately I didnt complete the course...so I need to enhance my knowledge in auto. hope joining this forum will help me for it. and for questions that I'll know the answer I am very much willing to share it with you guys..thanks

[Mac Z.]

Good information! Glad to be here, hope I can learn a lot and maybe contribute some to help others from what I have learned over the years.

[BobbyG]

Nick,

This was allot of work and contains a bunch of important information. I feel making this a sticky, while very important, it also might be a great idea to be part of the welcome email to a new member once they've confirmed their membership....Sort of required reading..:props:

[Nick McKees37]

Nick,

This was allot of work and contains a bunch of important information. I feel making this a sticky, while very important, it also might be a great idea to be part of the welcome email to a new member once they've confirmed their membership....Sort of required reading..:props:

Already there Bobby. :props:

[Ibaneye]

Hello there. Great site/forum!

I am the recent buyer of a Challenger SRT8. I am somewhat overwhelmed by all this awesome information. It has been years since I hand washed and waxed. I must confess to using the local (pretty decent, as far as these things go) car wash, for my daily driver (Sport Trac). The owner is a neighbor and clean freak. However, I want to give the best care to my new vehicle. Time to get back into the swing :-) I found the following thread:

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-articles/19994-2008-lexus-250-pinnacle-detail.html

You guys think this is a good place to start? I have gotten so out of the loop :nomore:

Thanks, for any help.

- Iain

[Nick McKees37]

Hello there. Great site/forum!

I am the recent buyer of a Challenger SRT8. I am somewhat overwhelmed by all this awesome information. It has been years since I hand washed and waxed. I must confess to using the local (pretty decent, as far as these things go) car wash, for my daily driver (Sport Trac). The owner is a neighbor and clean freak. However, I want to give the best care to my new vehicle. Time to get back into the swing :-) I found the following thread:

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-articles/19994-2008-lexus-250-pinnacle-detail.html

You guys think this is a good place to start? I have gotten so out of the loop :nomore:

Thanks, for any help.

- Iain

Iain,

That's an excellent starting point. Just be sure to post before and after pictures or you will hear us all say....

:postpics:


:xyxthumbs:

[markstoppard]

Hi! My name is Mark Stoppard...I just moved from Boston to Indianapolis, and am hoping to start a small auto detailing business on the side. I work as on online marketer, but really love cars and want to make some money doing something I enjoy.

I look forward to learning from the community.