IDA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield IDA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What rules under the the COLREG requires a compulsory use of radar → Rule 7 and 19
2. What is a common cause of ceramic coating 'high spots' after application? → Failing to level the coating with a microfiber cloth within the flash time window
3. What is the purpose of a paint depth reading before and after polishing? → To verify that sufficient clear coat remains and document how much was removed
4. What is the recommended maintenance wash method for a ceramic-coated vehicle to preserve coating performance? → Two-bucket hand wash with a pH-neutral shampoo using proper grit guard technique
5. The 3rd Officer uses the engines and sound signaling apparatus for collision avoidance, what will be his appropriate action to make prior to its usage → Timely notice on the engine room of the intended change
6. Which machine polisher provides the least risk of burning through paint due to its random orbital motion? → Random orbital dual-action polisher
7. What does "UMS" stands for? → Unmanned machinery space
8. A customer requests a tire dressing that will not leave a greasy or glossy appearance. Which product type best meets this need? → Matte or satin water-based tire dressing
9. What is the term for the defect pattern that appears as fine circular scratches under direct lighting? → Swirl marks
10. What environmental conditions are ideal for applying a ceramic coating? → Controlled environment between 60–80°F with low humidity and no direct sunlight
11. How long should a vehicle typically be kept out of rain after a ceramic coating application? → At least 24–48 hours or per manufacturer specification
12. What is the purpose of the 'pre-rinse' step in a professional wash process? → To remove loose dirt and debris before contact washing to minimize scratching
13. Which gas was released in the Bhopal gas tragedy? → Methyl isocynide
14. What is the primary purpose of paint correction in the IDA detailing process? → To eliminate surface defects such as swirl marks, scratches, and oxidation
15. What is the function of an 'installation gel' or 'slip solution' when applying PPF? → It allows the film to be repositioned on the panel before final squeegee installation
16. When selecting a brush for cleaning between wheel spokes, which type is most appropriate? → Soft-bristle detailing brush or wheel woolie
17. What is the flash point of propane gas? → −104 °C
18. What specialty service involves applying vinyl wrap film to change a vehicle's color without repainting? → Vehicle wrap or vinyl wrap application
19. What is the recommended sequence for restoring oxidized polycarbonate headlights? → Wet sand through progressively finer grits → machine polish → apply UV sealant
20. What dilution ratio of an all-purpose cleaner (APC) is typically appropriate for cleaning a lightly soiled plastic door panel? → 1:10 to 1:20 (5%–10% APC)
21. What is the primary functional difference between a carnauba wax and a synthetic paint sealant? → Synthetic sealants bond chemically to paint and typically outlast natural carnauba wax
22. How should a detailer treat vinyl dashboard surfaces to prevent cracking over time? → Apply a UV-protective, matte-finish vinyl conditioner to replenish plasticizers
23. What is the purpose of using a 'snow foam' pre-wash on a heavily soiled vehicle? → To encapsulate and lift heavy soiling before contact washing, reducing scratch risk
24. _______________ is/are designed to provide the information needed to protect users from any hazard that may be associated with the chemical. → Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
25. What does iron fallout remover (iron decontaminator) primarily target when used on wheels? → Embedded ferrous metallic particles from brake dust
26. What pH range is considered safe for a wash shampoo used on a ceramic-coated vehicle? → pH 6–8 (neutral to mildly alkaline)
27. What is 'paint protection film' (PPF) primarily used for in professional detailing? → To physically protect high-impact areas from rock chips, road debris, and minor scratches
28. What does the term 'curb rash' refer to in wheel detailing? → Scuffs and scratches on the wheel rim from contact with curbs
29. What is the recommended order of operations when detailing a vehicle interior according to IDA standards? → Clean from top to bottom, finishing with vacuuming and glass
30. When detailing chrome wheels, which abrasive product should be avoided to prevent damage? → Aggressive rubbing compound or coarse metal polish