Contributor Guidelines
Thank you for your interest in contributing to AutoDetailPedia. If you live for the deep gloss of a perfectly corrected panel, the crisp snap of clean leather, and the science behind safe, smart cleaning, you’re in the right garage. We champion hands-on detailing, evidence-backed techniques, and interior care that respects materials and time.
Please read these guidelines carefully before pitching. They’ll help you craft a standout submission—and help our readers trust every word. Quality matters. So does experience.
What We Are Looking For
We accept articles that are:
- Original: Your work must be 100% unique and unpublished elsewhere (including your own site). We check. First‑hand experience, your own photos, and data from your testing are highly encouraged.
- Actionable: Show, don’t just tell. We love step‑by‑step guides, real-world case studies, troubleshooting flows, and clear “what to use, when, and why.” Readers should be able to do the work after reading.
- Depth: Most features land between 1,000 and 2,000 words. Go deeper if needed. Include process photos, dilution ratios, pad/polish combos, and before/after outcomes when applicable.
- Evidence‑Driven: Cite trustworthy sources (manufacturer TDS/SDS, ASTM references where relevant), share measurements (paint thickness, gloss readings, pH), and explain the “why” behind the “how.”
- Safe & Responsible: Emphasize proper PPE, ventilation, safe chemical handling, and surface/material compatibility. We do not publish risky shortcuts.
- Clear & Structured: Use descriptive headings, concise steps, and scannable lists. Plain language. Precise guidance. No fluff.
Topics of Interest
- How‑to tutorials: safe wash methods, decon/clay, one‑step vs. multi‑step correction, ceramic/sealant/wax application
- Interior care: leather (aniline, coated), fabric/Alcantara, stain removal, odor remediation, steam cleaning, extraction techniques
- Case studies: before/after jobs, water spot/etching recovery, overspray removal, headlight restoration, trim revival
- Product testing and comparisons: shampoos, APCs, iron removers, polishes, pads, coatings, quick detailers, microfiber
- Detailing chemistry: pH, surfactants, solvents, dwell time, dilution math, cross‑compatibility and curing considerations
- Tools & technique: DA vs. rotary, pad selection, pressure washer setups, foam cannons, extractors, lighting and inspection
- Wheels, tires, and engine bays: brake dust removal, protection strategies, safe degreasing, dressing best practices
- Maintenance programs: wash schedules, topper routines, interior upkeep plans for families, pets, and rideshare vehicles
- Professional workflow: job checklists, customer education, quality control, mobile setups, shop organization
- Climate & environment: winter salt protection, coastal corrosion, hard‑water management, garage vs. outdoor detailing
What We Do Not Accept
- Press releases or sales pitches.
- Posts with excessive self‑promotion, link stuffing, or unrelated outbound links.
- Content generated entirely by AI tools without human editing, first‑hand insight, or fact‑checking.
- Plagiarism, spun content, or reworked material from other publications.
- Unsafe, misleading, or unverified methods that could damage vehicles or endanger readers.
- Images you don’t own or lack permission to use (we prefer original photos and will request proof if needed).
How to Submit
Send a brief pitch—2–3 sentences describing your idea—along with links to two writing samples via the contact us page. To help us evaluate quickly, include: a working headline, target reader (DIY or pro), a 3–5 bullet outline, estimated word count, your detailing background (years, specialties, certifications if any), any original photos/video you can provide, and disclosure of brand relationships or affiliations. If we’re interested, we’ll reply within 5 business days. We edit for clarity, accuracy, and safety; we may request revisions or additional evidence (e.g., process photos, TDS/SDS references). No paid link placements or “dofollow” requests—ever. Let’s teach well, protect surfaces, and raise the bar together.
