DD vs. Autogeek

I've subscribed to the Detailer's Domain products and school of thought. I have a buddy that is learning at about the same rate as me. We seem to end up with similar results, but he is into Autogeek's suite of products. I know the concepts of detailing are the same. Also, I'm sure products like Pinnacle and Blackfire are good products, but my personal snap judgement (which is usually right) tells me my product selections like Wolf's, Swissvax, NanoSkin, Sonax, etc. are superior. I'm interested in hearing some expert opinions.

Also, Auto Finesse products seem to be getting good press around here. My issue is that the branding/packaging seems way too Jersey Shore. I think it has contributed to me avoid buying their products. I'm not sure that their products are much better, but Swissvax branding tends to appeal me so much more.

 

here is my opinion, others will vary.

Based on my experience, they all do about the same thing. It is just as important how you use the products as the products themselves. Ive seen details done with complete off the shelf products and some with all boutique products. And on the internet, I doubt anyone could tell, in person it can be subtle....... but in reality its preference, testing and budget and working on your abilities. I think too many people put too much emphasis on "names" "packaging" and what the current hype is.

My suggestion is dig into this site, really read what is being said and I guarantee you, you will find some great information.

I agree on the packaging of Auto Finesse, it actually looks very close to my wifes shampoo.......

I am a big fan of chemical guys, optimum, 1Z, meguiars, stoners, Zeps, Wolfs etc....... I don't stick with all one brand, its not kitchen appliances........... They don't have to match.


ALSO, look past the marketing claims, hype and BS....... read the reviews of those who have durability tested products in real world daily driving conditions.

 

It's all in the mind. How many times have we talked about spending money on Swissvax when you can get similar results from using a much cheaper brand? It's a perception thing that some brands as superior than others just because.
Pretty much was Kilo said, read reviews and find what works.

 

It's all in the mind. How many times have we talked about spending money on Swissvax when you can get similar results from using a much cheaper brand? It's a perception thing that some brands as superior than others just because.
Pretty much was Kilo said, read reviews and find what works.

 

There are a lot of very good inexpensive products out there. Lines like Duragloss and Poorboys actually have some very good products. You do not need to spend a lot of money to get quality stuff. Collinite 476 is the cheapest carnauba available and will outlast pretty much any other wax made. Its not the prettiest, but during the winter, who cares. Polishes come down to personal preference. Look at the product reviews here, on L2D and Detailing World. See what guys are saying. If you're not sure, ask. You know someone here has already used the products you are interested in. I've been detailing for 20 years now and can honestly say that in every product line, there are a few standouts, most are average and some just plain suck. You can always see if someone will trade or sell you a small sample of the products you are interested in.

 

great advice above.

here's my 2 cents from an amateur that has spent way too much on products:

follow kilo6_one's advice and really dig into the site and look for the level-headed discussions. Whenever a new product comes out the threads tend to lean towards that product being the greatest ever. Never buy based on a thread like that. Do some real searching for long term use of the product. I've got a cupboard full of products of the moment.
also on the subject of hype, if it has to have a lot of hype then it is likely missing something in the quality department.

911Fanatic has a great point with finding samples, the perfect way to try new products.

Keep in mind that at the right angle and in the right light most cars can look pretty good in pictures. A stunning picture doesn't always mean a great product. It might just be a very talented detailer or a very good photo.

also great advice on how not every product from any source is great. When I first started I fell into the matching products thing.

A less expensive, yet longer lasting lsp might not look quite as wow as a very expensive product right after you are done, but months later when it is still looking the same it will be way better than a short lived product that looked fantastic for a week.

 

Get your hands on samples. Detailers are a very giving breed. Atleast most of the ones I've ever dealt with, and I've done business with many many great people here at DB and across the net.

Find something that gives you the results you like and stick with it, but dont be scared to branch out now and again.

 

I spend a lot of time and money on/at AG. Initially I expected all their house brands to be just OK. However, once I started using them I feel they really are top shelf products. I really like the Wolfgang stuff, I think it's excellent. However, I buy a lot of other brands as well. Plus you can't beat their frequent BOGOs and free samples on these products. I don't mind spending $150.00 on a wax (Fuzion) when its on sale/ free shipping/ free refill/ and I can get a same of something else. I love the product and feel its looks can't be beat. However, that's pretty much my limit price wise. As for the polishes, they freely admit they are made by Menzerna - so, no issue their.

 

Price is always the equalizer........ people need to stop thinking that because its X amount its better.


There are no right or wrong products, and for most of us budget is a major factor. last thing you want to do is pay $300.00 for products that you do not like.......... it has been said here, hit up the for trade area, or the classified. people will always be happy to sell or trade you samples. try to connect with other enthusiasts in the area you live.......

but its also about having fun too......... so if you like a flashy bottle, go for it!

 

Thanks for the input! I too am not interested in wasting money. I just haven't tried any of AG's products.

 

I am always a supporter of forum sponsors. be patient, some good black Friday deals will probably pop up.........

Also, try getting resolution from AG for anything, versus Phil or any of the other supporters.

 

Ill say that while I like SV Crystal Rock... I like Concourso more.... and while I like Concourso... Lusso Oro does the same thing

 

^^^ I like HRE wheels, but Rotas do the same thing..............lol


And I have never owned Rotas. HRE's yes........ I am a wheel snob, just like there are wax snobs, whine and beer snobs and I was at the butcher the other day and there are apparently Sausage snobs. almost punched a guy for talking about the corriander notes in the sausage they made.

 

Well said.

 

Many, Many products are just relabeled. They just license their product to be used by another company under a different brand name.

Out of respect for the online stores and forums I use, I won't mention which products are the same but I will give an example in the retail marketplace.

Kenmore doesn't make any of their appliances. They are made by the large, name brand manufactures with just enough cosmetic changes to make them look different but many people swear by Sears and won't own anything else.

 

This is true about a lot of things. There aren't a lot of companies in the states that make their own detailing chemicals. Yet, there are a lot companies that do more than just relabeled the bottle, change the scent, and change the color.

One example; Johnson Controls makes about 90% of all car batteries sold in the US (according to a JC rep). The batteries that are sold as Autozone, Sams Club, Walmart, etc... Are made by the same company. What makes them different is the quality of the lead plates/ acid, and the warranty. Really all you need to worry about is price vs warranty.

Same with Snap On, Cornwell, Mac Tools. I'm sure that Snap On makes some of their tools, but I guarantee that a lot of their tools are made by a company that also makes tools for other companies. However, when it comes to hand tools, they offer a lifetime warranty. If it breaks, it gets replaced for free. But, there's an 800% mark up on SO tools and can be replaced 8-9 times before it cuts in to their profit.

Rebranding isnt necessarily a bad thing if they can offer something different

 

I'll take Adam's any day of the week......and twice on Sunday.

 

Kenmore is no longer whirlpool......... its samsung.
Sad if you ask me.

but beyond names and brands, its the service............. before, during and after the sale.

 

It is usually customer service that ultimately adds value to the price. If you take 10 companies all selling the same basic product, it is the other stuff that differentiates them.

What is funny is one person can take a product, market it better even at a higher price, and make money and then you see people complaining when that is a perfect example of a free enterprise system.

 

My 2 cents. Take the best of both worlds and make it your own.