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Regaining sheen on your vehicle

is a new concept, which is getting popular fast

PHOTO: K. GANESAN.

SHINY FINISH All new look

In today's race against time, people often overlook certain chores. Say, for instance, cleaning of cars. This job perhaps does not fit in the scheme of everybody's schedule. Yet a dirty car often reflects badly on the personal image of the owner. But who finds time to clean cars regularly? Leave alone making it a look-alike of showroom condition. Yes, it is possible. Cars can regain their sheen with mere cleaning. P. Kumarappan and Thyagaraja.K., partners of Vikhar Car Valeters have done it! It is possible with the use of various chemicals, which lifts dirt from the car's body and gives it a glossy look.

Initially in the pharmaceutical field, Mr.Kumarappan was greatly impressed by the work done by his friend in Andhra Pradesh on his own car. He immediately underwent a three-month training and launched an exclusive valeting showroom in the Temple City.

After completing his training, he also sent two of his assistants to get hands-on training in Andhra Pradesh. The three-month-old car valeting unit functioning at Anna Nagar has so far rolled out 72 cars after giving them the `showroom condition.'

"The oldest car that was made to look brand new was a 1989- Maruti 800 model," quips Mr.Kumarappan.According to him, any car undergoing valeting work is sure to gain a chic look as it removes carbon deposit, restores painting, prevents colour fading, protects from ultra-violet rays and oxidation, refreshes the interiors and exteriors, besides giving a glossy look. All these factors combine into easy maintenance for the owner. "You simply need to wipe off the dust. Even the cushion type seats, which are otherwise dust collectors, are easy to clean," he says.

For the old and the new

Is car valeting meant only for used and old cars? The partners emphasise `No'.

Valeting can be done for both used and new cars. In old cars sheen is regained whereas in new cars the new look can be maintained throughout the year, they point out.

Claiming it to be the first exclusive valeting showroom in the State, Mr. Kumarappan says six persons work under him. "Through word of mouth, my work is getting publicized. My customer base is gradually expanding as people who love their cars are prepared to pay for a professional valet. The cleaning takes the car back to its original look both inside and out. We even polish the tyres."

The valeting task includes washing and polishing the outer surface, cleaning the windows and shampooing the upholstery.

To gain a stronghold in the city, the valeting unit offers a package, which includes annual maintenance, two exterior and three interior wash and monthly preservation - all at a cost of few thousands.

Chemical clean

For each part of the car, different chemicals are used. To gain customer's appreciation, valetors also pick up and drop the car after the work. Mr. Kumarappan next plans to do valaeting work for two-wheelers. "Very soon I will start," he promises, further sharing that his outlet in Coimbatore will be inaugurated next month.

"You need to be reasonably fit to work on cars because it is hard work. Love for cars helps you to put your heart into the job. Making them sparkle is a skill and there are no short-cuts," he stresses.

Respecting the time of car owners, Mr. Kumarappan and his cousin Mr. Thygaraja, clean the car swiftly and effectively within six hours.

M. Hariff of W auto confirms that it is very easy to maintain the car after valeting as it takes very little time to wipe off dust. City cardiologist Dr Vivek Bose nods in agreement and welcomes the concept wholeheartedly.

"If it gives new look to the car then why not?"

An occasional indulgence like this not only saves time but also makes vehicle owners immensely proud of their possession. So worth paying, is it not?

S.S.KAVITHA

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