The Mercedes Benz Sl 500, a roadster synonymous with luxury and performance, deserves meticulous care to maintain its prestige. This Aegean Blue Metallic SL 500, boasting a potent 302HP engine and the sought-after AMG Sport Package, recently visited our detailing studio for a comprehensive rejuvenation. While this beauty resides mostly in its garage and has only clocked 7,000 miles, it was in need of more than just a quick wash. Despite the low mileage, the exterior showed signs of neglect with scratches and stubborn water spots, particularly on horizontal surfaces. Brake dust had accumulated heavily on the wheels, and the overall finish lacked the pristine condition one expects from a Mercedes Benz.
This detail wasn’t about dramatic paint correction on heavily swirled paint. Instead, it was an opportunity to showcase the importance of thorough detailing, focusing on often-overlooked areas and demonstrating best practices for maintaining a luxury vehicle like the Mercedes Benz SL 500. Consider this a detailed guide to pampering your own SL, ensuring it always looks its absolute best. Prepare for a photo-rich journey as we dive deep into the detailing process of this exceptional machine, starting with the interior.
Interior Revival: Cleaning and Protecting the Cockpit of the SL 500
Stepping inside the SL 500, the cockpit was in respectable condition for its age, appearing relatively clean at first glance. However, appearances can be deceiving. Our goal was to not only clean but also to deeply cleanse and protect every surface within this luxurious interior. A dark interior, especially in a convertible, tends to accumulate a surprising amount of dust and grime, even when seemingly well-maintained.
We began with a thorough vacuuming of the carpets and floor mats to remove loose dirt and debris. Next, a mild yet effective cleaning solution of Woolite and water was mixed. Using plush microfiber towels, we meticulously cleaned all interior surfaces – from the dashboard and door panels to the center console and leather seats. As anticipated, the seemingly clean surfaces released a significant amount of hidden dirt and contaminants, proving the necessity of a deep clean even on low-mileage vehicles.
To ensure no area was missed, we paid close attention to the often-neglected cracks and crevices. These areas tend to trap dust, crumbs, and other debris. Fine brushes and detailing swabs were employed to extract every trace of buildup, ensuring a truly pristine interior environment.
Alt text: Detailed view of the Mercedes SL500 steering wheel after interior cleaning, showcasing clean leather and trim.
A notable feature of the SL 500 is the engine start/stop button located atop the shift knob – a subtle yet sophisticated touch.
Alt text: Polished wood grain trim in the Mercedes SL500 interior, highlighting the luxurious finish after professional detailing.
Alt text: Immaculate dashboard controls of a Mercedes SL500, emphasizing the attention to detail in car interior cleaning.
The air vents, often overlooked, were meticulously cleaned using fine brushes and detailing tools to remove dust and ensure optimal airflow.
Alt text: Close-up of air vents being cleaned in a Mercedes SL500, showing the process of interior vent detailing.
The driver’s seat, particularly the left bolster, typically bears the brunt of wear and tear. Even with low mileage, this SL 500 was no exception. Visible dirt and dye transfer from denim were evident on the leather.
Alt text: Before image showing a dirty Mercedes SL500 leather seat, highlighting the need for professional leather cleaning.
To address this, an all-purpose cleaner (APC) diluted to a 10:1 ratio was applied. A soft leather brush was used to gently agitate the cleaner, lifting away the embedded dirt and dye.
Following the cleaning, all leather surfaces throughout the interior were treated with Optimum Protectant Plus. This premium UV protectant not only safeguards the leather from sun damage but also leaves a natural, non-greasy finish, preserving the original look and feel of the Mercedes Benz leather. It enhances the interior without adding an artificial shine.
Alt text: After image of a Mercedes SL500 driver seat, showcasing clean and protected leather after professional interior detailing.
Alt text: Interior detail of a Mercedes SL500 dashboard, emphasizing the clean and refined surfaces post-detailing.
Alt text: Detailed center console of a Mercedes SL500, showing the results of meticulous interior cleaning and detailing.
Alt text: Door panel detail in a Mercedes SL500 interior, demonstrating the thorough cleaning of all interior components.
Door shuts and jambs are notorious for accumulating dirt and grime. The SL 500 was no different, exhibiting noticeable buildup in these areas.
Alt text: Before image of dirty Mercedes SL500 door shuts, illustrating areas often neglected in regular car cleaning.
Optimum No Rinse (ONR) diluted as a quick detailer was used to effectively clean these areas. Its gentle yet powerful formula safely removed the grime, leaving behind a clean and protected surface.
Alt text: After image of clean Mercedes SL500 door jambs, highlighting the improvement from professional car detailing.
Finally, the pedals – often subjected to the most direct abuse from dirty footwear – were addressed. An APC and a stiff brush were used to dislodge dirt and scuff marks. The pedals were then wiped down with a damp cloth to remove any residue, ensuring a non-greasy, safe finish. Safety is paramount, especially on pedals, so avoiding slippery finishes is crucial.
Alt text: Pedals of a Mercedes SL500 being detailed, focusing on cleaning and ensuring a non-slip finish for safety.
With the interior meticulously cleaned and protected, it was time to turn our attention to the exterior of this stunning Mercedes Benz SL 500.
Exterior Transformation: Restoring the Aegean Blue Metallic Shine
The exterior of the Mercedes Benz SL 500, while free of heavy swirl marks, presented its own set of challenges. Scratches and water spots marred the finish, and a general layer of grime dulled the Aegean Blue Metallic paint. The wheels and wheel wells were heavily soiled, requiring significant attention.
Alt text: Mercedes SL500 in Aegean Blue Metallic before exterior detailing, showing the initial dirty condition.
The wheel wells were particularly dirty and difficult to access due to the car’s low profile.
Alt text: Close-up of dirty Mercedes SL500 wheel wells before cleaning, demonstrating the buildup of road grime.
A useful feature of the SL 500 is its adjustable height suspension. Utilizing the highest setting provided increased ground clearance, making it easier to access and clean the wheel wells, as well as the side skirts during polishing.
Alt text: Mercedes SL500 with its adjustable suspension raised, allowing for easier access to wheel wells and side skirts during detailing.
As with any proper detail, the wheels were addressed first. The buildup of brake dust was substantial, indicating the need for a strong wheel cleaning regimen.
Alt text: Heavily soiled wheels and tires of a Mercedes SL500 before cleaning, showing significant brake dust accumulation.
P21S Wheel Gel was generously applied to the rims and calipers, allowing it to dwell and break down the stubborn brake dust. Simultaneously, P21S Total Auto Wash (TAW) was sprayed onto the tires and wheel wells to begin loosening dirt and grime in those areas.
Alt text: Application of P21S Gel Wheel Cleaner and P21S Total Auto Wash on Mercedes AMG wheels during the detailing process.
Each wheel and wheel well required approximately 10-12 minutes of dedicated cleaning due to the heavy contamination. Various brushes were used to reach all areas and ensure thorough cleaning.
Alt text: Finished and clean Mercedes AMG wheels of the SL500 after detailed wheel cleaning, showcasing the restored shine.
After rinsing the wheels, it was evident that the paint still had existing wax or sealant protection, indicated by water beading. To ensure proper polishing, these existing layers needed to be removed. Chemical Guys Wash & Clear, a citrus-based wash, was used at a paint prep ratio to strip away the old protection. A Gilmour foam gun was used to apply a thick layer of foam, dwelling on the surface to further break down any remaining waxes or sealants. The two-bucket wash method, along with Grit Guards, was employed to meticulously wash the car, ensuring no dirt was reintroduced to the paint during the process.
Alt text: Gilmour foam gun being used to apply thick foam for washing the Mercedes SL500, a key step in car detailing.
Following the wash, the paint was clayed using Optimum Instant Detailer as a lubricant. Claying is crucial for removing embedded contaminants that washing alone cannot remove, leaving the paint smooth and ready for polishing. The level of contamination was significant on both horizontal and vertical surfaces, highlighting the necessity of this step. Another foam wash was performed after claying to ensure a completely clean surface before polishing.
Alt text: Car shampoo foam dwelling on the Mercedes SL500 paint, preparing the surface for polishing after washing and claying.
While the paint was largely swirl-free, it exhibited random scratches and water spot etching, particularly on horizontal panels. Menzerna PO203 Power Finish was selected for a one-step polishing process. This versatile polish offers both cut and finishing capabilities, making it ideal for removing minor defects and enhancing gloss in a single step. Multiple IPA wipedowns were performed after polishing to ensure no fillers were masking true correction results.
Alt text: Professional detailer Todd Cooperider polishing the Mercedes SL500 paint to remove imperfections and enhance shine.
Often overlooked areas like the underside of the side skirts also received polishing attention, demonstrating true detailing thoroughness. Smaller 4” pads were utilized for these tighter areas, and an exercise mat was used for comfort during lower panel work.
Alt text: Polishing the lower side skirt of the Mercedes SL500 with Menzerna Power Finish, showcasing attention to detail in car care.
The results after polishing with PO203S were impressive, even before the application of a Last Step Product (LSP).
Alt text: Paint finish of the Mercedes SL500 after polishing with Menzerna Power Finish, demonstrating improved clarity and gloss.
The glass roof, heavily affected by water spots, was polished using a Porter Cable polisher with a white polishing pad and Optimum Poli-Seal. Optimum Poli-Seal offers mild polishing capabilities combined with sealant protection, effectively cleaning the glass and adding durable water repellency.
Alt text: Polishing the glass roof of the Mercedes SL500 to remove water spots and enhance clarity with machine polishing.
The Aegean Blue Metallic paint is a dynamic color, shifting between grey and light blue depending on the light. A macro shot reveals the depth and flake within the metallic finish.
Alt text: Macro detail of the Aegean Blue Metallic paint on the Mercedes SL500, revealing the metallic flake and paint texture.
After polishing was complete, an IPA wipedown followed by Optimum Instant Detailer wipedown prepared the paint for sealant application. Optimum Opti-Seal was chosen as the sealant for its ease of application, natural look, and durability, especially in harsh winter conditions. It was applied with a red applicator pad and buffed off after curing with a soft microfiber towel and a light mist of Optimum Instant Detailer.
To further enhance the finish, P21S 100% Carnauba Wax was applied by hand over the sealant. While not the most durable wax, P21S 100% wax is renowned for its rich finish, ease of use, and quick removal, adding an extra layer of depth and warmth to the paint.
The underside of the trunk lid, above the license plate, is another frequently neglected area. This SL 500 had accumulated years of grime in this spot.
Alt text: Before image of the Mercedes SL500 trunk lid underside, highlighting the accumulation of dirt and grime.
After thorough cleaning, this area was restored to like-new condition.
Alt text: After image of the Mercedes SL500 trunk lid underside, showcasing the clean surface after professional detailing.
Even the emblems showed signs of embedded dirt that washing alone couldn’t remove.
Alt text: Mercedes emblem before detailing, revealing embedded dirt and grime requiring polishing for restoration.
The emblems were carefully polished using a Porter Cable polisher with a white pad and Menzerna 106FA polish, restoring their shine. All-in-one products like Optimum Poli-Seal or Klasse AIO are also excellent choices for emblem polishing.
Alt text: Polished Mercedes emblem after detailing, demonstrating the restored shine and cleanliness of the car emblem.
Similarly, the Mercedes Benz badge showed dirt buildup.
Alt text: Mercedes SL500 badge before detailing, exhibiting dirt buildup and needing cleaning and polishing.
Polishing brought back the original luster of the badge.
Alt text: Clean Mercedes SL500 badge after detailing, highlighting the restored shine and detail of the car badge.
The exhaust tips were heavily tarnished. P21S TAW and 0000 steel wool were used for initial cleaning, followed by polishing to a brilliant shine.
Alt text: Exhaust tips of the Mercedes SL500 before detailing, showing tarnish and needing cleaning and polishing.
The polished exhaust tips now gleamed, complementing the meticulously detailed Mercedes Benz SL 500.
Alt text: Polished Mercedes SL500 exhaust tips after detailing, showcasing the restored shine and cleanliness of the exhaust outlets.
The Finished Masterpiece: Showroom Ready Mercedes Benz SL 500
After 11 hours of meticulous work, the Mercedes Benz SL 500 was transformed. The Aegean Blue Metallic paint radiated depth and clarity, the interior exuded luxury, and every detail, from the wheels to the emblems, was perfected. Even under cloudy skies, the results were stunning.
Alt text: 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, showcasing the full car in a garage setting with enhanced shine.
Alt text: Side profile of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, highlighting the sleek lines and paint correction.
Alt text: Front angle view of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, emphasizing the clean front fascia and headlights.
Alt text: Rear angle view of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, showing the polished rear and taillights.
Alt text: Interior and exterior view of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, showcasing both aspects of the car.
Alt text: Low angle shot of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, emphasizing the wheels and lower body panels.
Alt text: Close-up of 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed wheels, highlighting the cleanliness and restored condition of the rims.
Moody indoor shots further accentuated the depth of the finish.
Alt text: Moody indoor shot of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, showcasing the paint depth and reflections.
Alt text: Hood reflection of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 after detailing, demonstrating the mirror-like finish achieved.
Alt text: Close-up of 2006 Mercedes SL500 tires with tire shine after detailing, highlighting the tire and wheel detail.
Finally, with the sun making an appearance, the true beauty of the Aegean Blue Metallic paint was revealed. Capturing reflections in this color proved challenging, but the results speak for themselves.
Alt text: Sun reflection on the trunk lid of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 after detailing, showcasing the defect-free paint.
Alt text: Sun reflection on the side panel of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 after detailing, demonstrating the smooth and reflective surface.
Alt text: 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, with sunlight highlighting the hood and paint clarity.
Alt text: 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, sunlit front view showcasing the car’s overall enhanced appearance.
Alt text: 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, sunlit side view emphasizing the paint’s gloss and reflections.
Alt text: Rear view of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 in sunlight after detailing, demonstrating the clean and polished rear design.
Alt text: 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, capturing reflection and wet look of the paint in sunlight.
Alt text: Back driver’s side view of a 2006 Mercedes SL500 in sunlight after detailing, showing the car’s contours and finish.
Alt text: 2006 Mercedes SL500 detailed by Esoteric Detail, full sunlit view of the car highlighting the paint correction and detailing.
Alt text: Close-up of the 2006 Mercedes SL500 badge after detailing, sunlit to show the restored emblem detail.
This Mercedes Benz SL 500 detail serves as a testament to the transformative power of professional car care. It highlights that even vehicles in seemingly good condition can benefit significantly from a thorough detailing process, ensuring they maintain their showroom shine and prestige for years to come.
