James, DC's top rated detailer standing in front of the Capitol

Contact James

I'm looking forward to hearing about your project.
Call/Text
301-549-9786
Email
james@dawsonsdetailing.com
4 Years
of Ceramic Protection
3 Stage
Paint Correction
~20 Hours
Per Car
15,000 Hours
James's Experience
the Preservation Detail by James Dawson

Meet the DMV's Master Detailer. Perfected Paint, Protected for Years—All at Your Doorstep.

A precise, technical, and painstaking paint correction that must be seen to be believed. Embark on a multi-day polishing journey to preserve and enhance your car’s beauty. All from the comfort of your driveway.

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A detailer polishing out scratches and swirl marks on a McLaren.
Swirl marks and scratches in a car's paint.

Mobile Ceramic Coating and Swirl Mark Correction in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia

James Dawson brings expert-level paint correction and ceramic coating services directly to clients, delivering flawless results without the need for a shop visit.

Specializing in eliminating swirl marks, enhancing gloss, and applying long-lasting ceramic coatings, every service is performed with precision and care. Serving discerning car owners across the DMV, James ensures top-tier protection and a showroom-quality finish—right at their doorstep.

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Discover the preservation detail

Preservation-focused paint correction. Over 4 years of ceramic coating protection.

James Dawson's Preservation Detail is a deliberate, methodical and 2-3 paint restoration. Every step is handled with the utmost precision by the expert who understands the importance of preservation.

A top detailer paint correcting a Ferrari in Sterling, Virginia

15,000+ Hours Polishing Expert

I’ve spent the better part of a decade becoming one of the reputable detailers in Maryland, D.C., and Virginia.
James Dawson at the AMMO Masterclass

World Class Training

James has travelled the country training with the nation's top detailers.
James Dawson cleaning a supercar in front of the Jefferson Memorial

Never Outsourced

Unlike other companies, I personally handle every car from start to finish.

A Glimpse into Unmatched Craftsmanship

Paint correction and ceramic coating, explained.

Discover how James Dawson's Preservation Detail turns your vehicle into a masterpiece.

Swirl marks and scratches on this Porsche 911.
What is Paint Correction?

Paint correction is the meticulous process of removing swirl marks, scratches, and oxidation to restore clarity and depth to your vehicle’s finish. Using precision polishing techniques, I refine the paintwork to eliminate defects without unnecessary removal of clear coat. Every car is different, so I tailor my approach to achieve a flawless, mirror-like shine while preserving the integrity of your paint.

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A detailer applying a ceramic coating.
Why Should You Ceramic Coat Your Car?

Ceramic coating creates a durable, hydrophobic layer that repels water, dirt, and contaminants, making maintenance effortless. It enhances gloss, depth, and clarity while protecting against UV rays, oxidation, and chemical stains. Unlike wax, it lasts for years, preserving your paint’s finish and reducing the need for frequent polishing or reapplication.

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A detailer inspecting swirl mark removal on a car's paint.
The Importance of Hiring an Expert Technician

Ceramic coating is only as good as its application, and I don’t leave anything to chance. With my expertise in paint correction and precision application, I ensure every surface is flawlessly prepped for maximum durability and performance. Unlike rushed, mass-market coatings, my process guarantees a mirror-smooth finish that lasts—protecting your investment with unmatched craftsmanship.

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"James is one of those rare folks these days who truly takes pride in his work. I cannot thank him enough for his efforts and expect that even the most discerning customers will be truly satisfied with his services. This is someone that you can trust."

Gordon W, Potomac MD
2025 VW Golf R, Preservation Detail

"I've had my Porsche detailed before but nothing close to what James did. It looks better than the day I bought it."

Ruben S.
2017 Porsche 911, Preservation Detail + Wheel Removal

"I was incredibly nervous about trusting a stranger with my car. When I met him the morning of the detail, I got the sense that my car was in trustworthy hands. He did not disappoint; the car looks incredible!"

Marcus S.
2008 Ferrari F430, The Works

"Far and away the best detail I've seen, and most devoted professional I've met to date. I will be having him back and proudly recommending him to my friends."

Sanjay F., Great Falls, Va.
2003 Lamborghini Murcielago, 1 of 300. Preservation Detail

Trust begins with knowing who’s behind the work.

Restoring your car's paint is an investment in your car’s future, and I welcome you to scrutinize your options. You deserve to know who will be working on your vehicle and their credentials.

My commitment to transparency is rare in this industry—I’m here to create an unforgettable experience rooted in trust, skill, and personal connection.

Contact James
James, DC's top rated detailer standing in front of the Capitol

The region's most thorough detailer

Every inch polished to perfection.

A detailer meticulously polishing a car.
Contact

Preservation isn't just about holding onto the past—it's a proactive stand for the future. By protecting what matters, we're challenging neglect and redefining priorities.

WHat it entails

You dreamt of it.
You worked and saved for it.
You made it happen.
Now, I'll handle making it look perfect.

There are only a few detailers with the skillset, dedication and passion to work at this level on a single vehicle. This service is exclusive and limited to a handful of cars per month.

Stage 1: Prep

Wheels safely removed to clean the inside of the rims, suspension components, and brake calipers.

Undercarriage and exhaust system scrubbed

Car will be washed with filtered, deionized water

Paint safely cleansed to ensure no scratching or micro-marring

Fender wells degreased, scrubbed clean, and dressed (if plastic)

Clay bar treatment (if deemed necessary)

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The Detailer Trusted by Collectors

Insured and skilled to care for the world’s finest vehicles.

Preserving the value and beauty of the world’s rarest vehicles.

My Preservation Detail is tailored to the unique needs of each car, ensuring every surface is treated with respect and care. Whether it’s a rare classic or a cutting-edge hypercar, I bring the technical expertise and insurance to handle vehicles of extraordinary value.

Dawson's Detailing cleaning a sports car interior

Only 3 spots left this month

Call James to experience a new level of car care.

Book this to inquire about getting your car's paint restored. During this consultation, I'll discuss the steps undertaken during a preservation detail and ask you about your goals, your car, and make sure that you and I are a good fit for each other. We will discuss pricing for your vehicle as well as availability, should you want to proceed.

Contact Info

FAQ

Find answers to frequently asked questions here.

Are you mobile, or do you have a shop?
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I am completely mobile! I have a 100 gallon water tank and filtration system built into my mobile unit. I'll perform this service at your home, no need to take your car anywhere! If you don't have access to a garage I can polish in, that's ok! We can arrange alternative options.
Why is it called a Preservation Detail?
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The ethos of a detailer should always be to preserve the original condition of the car. To ensure the original paint job's beauty is preserved, I take incredible care with the paint: proper edge work with 1 inch polishers, measuring the thickness of the paint, heat management and residue control means your car will be in the safest hands possible.
What can I expect from a consultation call?
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I'll gather information about your needs in order to provide you with a quote. Once I know the make and model, your location, and the level of perfection I can give you availability and pricing. Furthermore, I'll walk you through what my process includes, and what you can expect moving forward.
Do you do ceramic coatings?
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Yes. A ceramic coating is a robust and excellent option to protect your freshly perfected car's paint. While it can be skipped to cut down on cost, this is generally not recommended; If you're spending the money getting the paint perfected, then you'd ideally want to protect it as well as possible.
How much does it cost?
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Proper paint correction requires an extremely skilled technician; I've performed at an extreme caliber for years. Every car is different and I'll need to assess your vehicle's condition and your expectations to provide an accurate quote. Please reach out for a free quote and I'll be in touch.
How long does a paint correction take?
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The detail will take around 16 hours.
Services in NOVA, D.C., and Maryland:Luxury car detailing in McLean, VAMobile Ceramic Coating in Arlington, VAHigh-end detailing in Great Falls, VAPaint Correction in Bethesda, MDMobile car detailing in Alexandria, VADetailing for luxury cars in Fairfax, VAPremium detailing in Tysons Corner, VAHigh-caliber detailing in Reston, VACar detailing in Washington, D.C.Luxury auto detailing in Chevy Chase, MDCar detailing in Washington, D.C.