Reviving a 2024 Tesla Model X Plaid: A Platinum‑Level Detail in Fort Myers & SWFL

Owning a Tesla Model X Plaid is about more than just driving one of the world’s most advanced electric SUVs—it’s a commitment to preserving a vehicle that offers supercar‑level performance in a family‑friendly package. With its tri‑motor powertrain producing 1 020 horsepower and Falcon Wing doors that turn heads, the Plaid demands respect on the road and in the driveway. But performance alone doesn’t keep a vehicle in top shape. Southwest Florida’s salty air, intense sunshine and year‑round humidity can rapidly degrade paint, plastics and upholstery. That’s why professional detailing is not a luxury—it’s essential car care.

In this post we take you behind the scenes of a Platinum Detail we performed on a 2024 Model X Plaid for a local owner. This portfolio‑style blog documents our process and explains why a comprehensive interior and exterior detail is critical for modern, high‑tech vehicles. You’ll learn how our Fort Myers‑based mobile team tackles everything from pet hair removal and undercarriage cleaning to clay‑bar decontamination and ceramic spray sealants. Throughout the article we’ll reference authoritative sources to demonstrate why our methods align with manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices.

Understanding the Tesla Model X Plaid

The Model X is a mid‑size luxury crossover SUV produced by Tesla since 2015. It shares much of its platform with the Model S, but the Plaid variant introduced a tri‑motor all‑wheel‑drive powertrain rated at 1 020 hp. This configuration gives the Plaid supercar‑like acceleration—0‑60 mph in about 2.5 seconds—while still offering three rows of seating, a panoramic windshield and distinctive Falcon Wing rear doors that improve access. In June 2025 Tesla refreshed the Model X, adding dynamic ambient lighting and improved third‑row space. All versions incorporate sophisticated safety systems like Autopilot, multiple cameras and ultrasonic sensors.

These cutting‑edge features create unique detailing challenges. For example, the camera lenses and ultrasonic sensors must remain clean yet scratch‑free. The panoramic windshield and soft vegan‑leather interior (Tesla uses synthetic “vegan leather” in modern vehicles) require gentle products. High‑voltage batteries and electronics need to stay dry. And because the Plaid’s exterior panels are lightweight aluminum, they’re prone to scratching if washed improperly. A one‑size‑fits‑all car wash doesn’t cut it—in fact Tesla advises against harsh chemicals and brushes. Its owner’s manual recommends flushing away dirt and hand washing with a soft cloth and mild shampoo, avoiding highly alkaline or caustic cleaners, and using a pressure washer at least 12 inches from the surface. It also cautions against washing in direct sunlight or aiming water jets at seals and electronics.

Why a Platinum Detail Matters in Southwest Florida

Florida’s climate is a double‑edged sword: it offers pleasant driving weather nearly year‑round, but the same conditions can wreak havoc on vehicles. High humidity accelerates rust formation, affecting undercarriages, brake lines and even the paint. Intense, year‑round sunlight fades paint, cracks dashboards and degrades upholstery. Salty air from the Gulf of Mexico corrodes metal parts and electronics. For owners of high‑value vehicles like the Model X, these elements can quickly erode a car’s appearance and resale value.

Professional detailing counters these threats. Industry experts note that regular waxing and paint protection film shield paint from fading and peeling, while UV‑protective window tinting and regular interior detailing prevent sun damage inside the cabin. They also recommend frequent undercarriage washes to remove salt and other corrosive materials. Our Platinum Detail combines all these recommendations into one comprehensive service, ensuring every inch of your vehicle is cleaned, decontaminated and protected.

What Is a Platinum Detail?

At Vibrant Mobile Detail, our Platinum Detail is our most exhaustive package. It blends our full interior detail and exterior detail into a single service. Unlike a quick wash, professional detailing is a meticulous process that involves thorough cleaning, restoration and finishing of a vehicle, targeting both interior and exterior. The goal is not only to make the vehicle look good on the surface but also to preserve its long‑term value and safety. According to detailing experts, exterior services typically include washing and drying, clay‑bar application, polishing and waxing, each step playing a crucial role in removing contaminants and protecting paint from UV damage. Interior detailing involves vacuuming, steam cleaning and conditioning of all surfaces, eliminating stains and odors and creating a healthier environment.

Our Platinum Detail follows these best practices while tailoring them to the unique needs of each vehicle and owner. Below we break down our process into an interior service and an exterior service, followed by additional options like pet‑hair removal, smart glass and undercarriage cleaning.

Deep‑Cleaning the Interior

1. Pre‑inspection and preparation

Every detail begins with a walk‑through of the vehicle. We assess the condition of the seats, carpets, dash, door panels and cargo areas. If there is excessive sand or pet hair—common in beach towns like Fort Myers—we let the client know that additional labor may be required, just as Tesla warns owners that detailing can vary based on usage. Customers can opt out of this charge, but heavy deposits of hair or sand cannot always be fully removed without extra time and tools.

2. Vacuuming and debris removal

We start by removing floor mats and personal items, then vacuum every nook and cranny of the cabin. Professional detailers use vacuum attachments and specialized nozzles to clean hard‑to‑reach areas like air vents, seat seams and door jambs. For the Model X Plaid, we pay special attention to the track around the Falcon Wing doors and the seat bases, where crumbs and pet hair tend to accumulate. Our pet hair removal tools (rubber brushes, pumice stones and specialized vacuums) gently lift fur from fabrics without damaging the synthetic vegan leather.

3. Compressed air and Tornador cleaning

Next, we use compressed air and a Tornador—a professional tool that blasts a fine mist of cleaning solution while spinning the air stream—to dislodge embedded dirt from seams, cup holders and storage compartments. This tool is particularly effective for the Model X’s intricate center console and seat rails. By blowing debris loose before wiping, we minimize the risk of scratching glossy surfaces.

4. Shampooing and steam cleaning seats and carpets

After the loose debris is removed, we shampoo the carpets and fabric surfaces using an extractor. For leather or vegan‑leather seats, we apply a pH‑balanced cleaner and conditioner designed to nourish without leaving residue. If there are stubborn stains or lingering odors, we employ steam cleaning—an approach that industry guides describe as safe for most surfaces and effective at eliminating grime, bacteria and odors without harsh chemicals. Our team also offers an ozone treatment on request to neutralize smoke or pet odors at their source.

5. Cleaning and conditioning hard surfaces

We then wipe down all interior surfaces—dashboards, door panels, center console, steering wheel and seat backs—using a non‑caustic, UV‑protective interior cleaner. Following Tesla’s guidance, we avoid highly alkaline or caustic chemicals and stay away from abrasive pads or scrapers that could damage soft plastics. Once clean, we apply a conditioner to plastics and rubber to prevent fading and cracking from Florida’s intense sunlight.

6. Pet hair removal as an add‑on

Our client for this Platinum Detail travels with her dog, so she opted for our pet hair removal add‑on. Pet hair can weave into carpet fibers and become a health hazard, trapping allergens and bacteria. Thorough removal requires a combination of vacuuming, brushing and adhesive rollers. Industry sources advise that high‑traffic vehicles or families with pets may benefit from interior detailing every three months to keep upholstery free from spills, hair and odors. Our pet hair service ensures that interior fabrics and seat seams are clean and ready for the next adventure.

7. Interior glass and smart‑glass treatment

We finish the cabin by cleaning the inside of all glass surfaces using an automotive glass cleaner. Tesla cautions against scraping or using abrasive cleaners on glass. For this client we also applied Smart Glass, an add‑on hydrophobic treatment that repels water and makes future cleaning easier. Tesla’s manual notes that hydrophobic coatings should be applied to side and rear windows—not the front windshield—to avoid interfering with Autopilot cameras. We follow that guideline and instruct the client to avoid the front windshield. The result is crystal‑clear visibility and reduced water spotting.

Perfecting the Exterior

1. Initial rinse and decontamination

Properly washing a Model X requires careful planning. According to Tesla, owners should flush grime and grit from the vehicle using a hose before hand washing. We use deionized water to avoid leaving mineral deposits, then focus on the wheel wells, panel seams and undercarriage to remove accumulated road salt—a critical step since the manual warns that salt can corrode the underside of the vehicle. The undercarriage wash is particularly important in coastal areas; industry sources recommend frequent undercarriage cleaning to remove salt and prolong the life of your vehicle.

2. Hand wash using two‑bucket method

We then hand wash the exterior with a soft microfiber wash mitt and pH‑neutral car shampoo, following Tesla’s admonition to use a mild, high‑quality car shampoo and to avoid highly alkaline or caustic ingredients. We never wash in direct sunlight because soap can dry on the surface and leave streaks. We also maintain at least 12 inches between the pressure washer nozzle and the paint and avoid spraying sensors or electronic modules. After the wash, we rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a chamois, as the manual suggests.

3. Wheel, tire and rim cleaning

Next, we tackle the wheels. Brake dust and road grime can bake onto rims, so we use a non‑acidic wheel cleaner and various brushes to clean spokes, barrels and calipers. We also clean the wheel wells and apply a water‑based tire dressing to give the rubber a natural satin sheen. Water‑based dressings don’t sling onto the paint and are safe for tires and trim.

4. Clay‑bar and iron decontamination

After washing, microscopic contaminants like brake dust and industrial fallout remain embedded in the paint. Following industry best practices, we perform a clay‑bar treatment. This step gently shears away bonded contaminants, leaving the paint surface smooth. We then use an iron decontamination solution to dissolve ferrous particles. These steps prepare the paint for polishing and maximize the bond of subsequent waxes and sealants.

5. Polish and wax with dual‑action polisher

Once the paint is clean, we polish using a dual‑action polisher and a fine polishing compound. Polishing removes light swirl marks and restores gloss. Detailing professionals note that machine polishing is the preferred way to address mild scratches and swirl marks. We always perform a test spot to determine the least aggressive combination that yields the best results. After polishing we apply Meguiar’s finishing wax (a high‑quality polymer wax) to enhance gloss and add a sacrificial layer of protection. Waxes not only boost shine but also shield paint from harmful UV rays and environmental damage.

6. Ceramic spray sealant

While wax provides good protection, many clients want the longevity and hydrophobic properties of a ceramic coating. Experts explain that ceramic coatings form a liquid polymer that bonds to your car’s paint, creating a shield against dirt, water and UV damage. For our Platinum Detail we apply a ceramic spray sealant over the wax. This hybrid product offers several months of protection and makes future washing easier. For clients seeking multi‑year durability, we offer a full ceramic coating service through our dedicated ceramic coating page.

7. Trim and window care

We treat black plastic and rubber trim with a UV‑resistant dressing to restore color and prevent fading. For the glass, we clean all exterior windows and mirrors with an automotive glass cleaner and apply a hydrophobic sealant to the side and rear glass, again following Tesla’s recommendation to avoid applying such coatings to the front windshield. A clean, treated windshield improves visibility and safety—a benefit noted by detailing experts, who point out that clean headlights and windows contribute to improved safety.

8. Final inspection and finishing touches

Finally, we perform a thorough inspection, check our work under both natural and artificial lighting and polish any residual smudges. We clean door jambs, wipe down the trunk and frunk (front trunk) areas and confirm that all electronic components are dry and functioning. The vehicle is then presented to the client for a walk‑through.

Add‑On Services: Customizing Your Detail

Not every owner needs the same services. Our Platinum Detail allows for several add‑ons to address specific concerns:

Pet hair removal

As mentioned, pet hair can embed deeply into carpets and seat fibers. Comprehensive removal requires time, patience and specialized tools. Detailing guides suggest that high‑traffic vehicles or families with pets might need more frequent interior detailing. Our add‑on includes thorough hair removal using brushes, vacuums and adhesive tools, followed by a final inspection to ensure minimal allergens remain.

Smart Glass treatment

This hydrophobic coating repels rain and dirt, improving visibility and reducing the need for frequent glass cleaning. Tesla advises applying hydrophobic treatments only to the side and rear windows, so we follow that guidance.

Undercarriage pressure clean

Florida’s salty air and humid conditions mean road salt, sand and moisture can collect under your vehicle and accelerate corrosion. Regular undercarriage cleaning removes these corrosive materials and helps prolong the life of your frame and brake components. We use a low‑pressure washer to flush out dirt while maintaining a safe distance from sensitive parts, as recommended by Tesla.

Why Professional Detailing Beats a Quick Wash

Some drivers might wonder if professional detailing is worth it when a drive‑through wash is quicker and cheaper. Here’s why the experts—and our clients—trust detailing:

1. Comprehensive cleaning: Unlike a basic car wash that only removes surface dirt, professional detailing cleans, reconditions and protects every inch of the vehicle. Detailers focus on hidden contaminants, interior fabrics and even engine bays.

2. Enhanced appearance and protection: Exterior detailing involves washing, clay‑bar treatment, polishing and waxing. Wax and ceramic protection shield paint from UV rays and environmental damage, keeping the car looking new.

3. Healthier interior: Interior detailing removes stains, odors, allergens and bacteria. Industry guides note that odor elimination often involves steam cleaning, fabric shampooing or ozone treatment.

4. Increased resale value: Regular detailing preserves the vehicle’s value by keeping it in top condition. Industry sources emphasize that a well‑maintained exterior and fresh, spotless interior make a vehicle more desirable to buyers.

5. Improved safety and performance: Clean headlights, windows and cameras provide better visibility, while removing dirt from engine components can improve performance. Tesla’s manual also warns that cameras and sensors must remain clean for Autopilot to function properly.

6. Tailored expertise: Experienced detailers know how to handle different materials and paint types. Industry experts advise choosing a detailing service based on experience, reputation and customer reviews, and industry guides note that professional services offer advanced solutions like paint correction and ceramic coatings that DIY methods can’t match.

The Story Behind This Detail

Our client, a Fort Myers resident, scheduled a Platinum Detail for her 2024 Model X Plaid through our online mobile detailing page. She owns multiple pets and frequently transports them in her Tesla, so pet hair had accumulated throughout the cabin. She also drives along coastal roads where salt spray and sand are common. Her goal: restore the “new car” feel and protect her investment.

Consultation and estimate

When we arrived at her home, we conducted a pre‑inspection and explained our process. We pointed out the heavy pet hair on the second‑row seats and in the carpeted cargo area. Because Tesla’s upholstery is made from durable synthetic leather, we assured her that steam cleaning and gentle brushes would not damage the material. We also discussed our add‑on services: pet hair removal, Smart Glass and undercarriage cleaning. She decided to include all three.

Interior transformation

We began by vacuuming and blowing out debris using compressed air. Pet hair removal took extra time—we used a rubber pet‑hair brush to agitate hair fibers and a pumice stone on the carpets. Our Tornador tool helped dislodge dirt from tight seams and cup holders. Once the loose debris was gone, we shampooed the carpets and steam‑cleaned the seats. The vegan leather responded beautifully to our conditioner, restoring a supple feel without leaving it greasy. We wiped down the interior surfaces with a pH‑balanced cleaner and applied UV protectant. An ozone treatment neutralized any lingering odors. Finally, we cleaned the glass and applied Smart Glass to the side and rear windows following Tesla’s guidelines.

Exterior rejuvenation

For the exterior, we rinsed the vehicle thoroughly, focusing on the undercarriage to remove salt and sand. We hand washed the paint with a microfiber mitt and mild shampoo, ensuring we kept our pressure washer nozzle at a safe distance. After drying, we performed a clay‑bar and iron decontamination treatment, then polished the paint with a dual‑action polisher. The black paint responded well, with swirl marks disappearing and a mirror‑like finish emerging. We applied Meguiar’s finishing wax and followed up with a ceramic spray sealant for long‑lasting protection. The wheels and tires received a deep clean, and we applied a water‑based tire shine. Finally, we treated the trim and cleaned the windows.

Results and client feedback

By the end of the day, the Model X Plaid looked spectacular—better than showroom condition. The interior smelled fresh and felt soft to the touch. The owner was thrilled, noting that the “Falcon Wing doors looked even more dramatic with the paint gleaming” and that our pet hair removal “made it feel like a brand‑new car.” She appreciated that we followed Tesla’s guidelines, carefully cleaning sensors and cameras and avoiding harsh chemicals. Her 2024 Plaid is now protected against the corrosive effects of our coastal environment, and we recommended she schedule maintenance details every six months to maintain the results.

Our Tools, Products and Expertise

We’ve been detailing vehicles in Fort Myers and Southwest Florida since 2013, serving car owners across Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Naples and beyond. Our team uses deionized water, dual‑action polishers, high‑quality waxes, ceramic coatings and professional vacuums to deliver consistent, high‑level results. We are fully mobile—your driveway or office becomes our shop. We carry our own power and water, so you don’t need to provide anything. Our detailers receive ongoing training, and we stay current with manufacturer guidelines (like Tesla’s cleaning recommendations) and industry innovations.

We also take customer satisfaction seriously. Industry articles stress the importance of choosing a reputable detailer with experience and strong customer reviews. We’re proud to have over 350 five‑star reviews and to be Southwest Florida’s top‑rated mobile detailer. Our packages range from basic mobile detailing to superior detailing and full ceramic coating services. Each service is designed to protect your investment and enhance your driving experience.

Maintaining Your Tesla After the Detail

A Platinum Detail restores your vehicle to near‑new condition, but ongoing care is key to preserving the results. Here are a few tips:

• Wash every two weeks: Use a gentle, pH‑neutral shampoo and microfiber mitt to remove dust and road grime. Avoid washing in direct sunlight and never use abrasive brushes or dirty cloths.

• Rinse and dry thoroughly: After each wash, rinse with clean water and dry with a soft chamois or microfiber towel to prevent water spots.

• Keep sensors and cameras clean: Tesla’s manual notes that cameras and ultrasonic sensors must remain free of dirt and condensation for Autopilot to function properly. Wipe camera lenses gently with isopropyl alcohol wipes if necessary.

• Apply a sacrificial layer: Reapply a spray sealant every few months. For longer‑term protection, consider a professional ceramic coating.

• Detail the interior regularly: Vacuum and wipe down interior surfaces monthly and schedule a full interior detail at least twice a year. For families with pets or children, more frequent detailing may be necessary.

• Protect from Florida’s climate: Use sunshades to shield the interior from the intense sun, apply paint protection film to high‑impact areas and rinse the undercarriage after visiting the beach or driving through salty roads.

Conclusion: Invest in Your Vehicle’s Future

The 2024 Tesla Model X Plaid is a technological marvel and a significant investment. In Southwest Florida’s challenging climate, maintaining that investment requires more than a drive‑through car wash. Professional detailing—especially an all‑inclusive service like our Platinum Detail—protects your vehicle’s paint, preserves its interior and ensures that advanced features like cameras and sensors continue to operate flawlessly.

By combining manufacturer‑recommended cleaning practices with industry‑backed detailing techniques and climate‑specific care, we deliver a level of service that not only restores but improves your vehicle. Our recent Model X Plaid project showcases the transformation that is possible: from pet‑hair‑covered seats and sandy carpets to a spotless, gleaming SUV ready to turn heads again.

If your vehicle deserves similar treatment, we invite you to explore our mobile detailing, superior detailing and ceramic coating services. Have questions or special requests? Our friendly team is just a phone call away. Don’t let Florida’s sun and salt take a toll on your car—invest in professional detailing and enjoy a vehicle that looks and feels vibrant for years to come.