The Mercedes Benz SL500 is an iconic roadster, a perfect blend of luxury and performance. Equipped with the AMG Sport Package, it elevates the driving experience, though it’s important not to confuse it with the full-fledged AMG SL55. These vehicles are undeniably stunning, offering a sense of occasion every time you slide into the driver’s seat. Even with low mileage, like the beautiful Aegean Blue Metallic SL500 we recently detailed, these cars benefit significantly from professional care to maintain their pristine condition and inherent value.
This particular Mercedes Benz Sl500 Amg, boasting a mere 7,000 miles, was brought to us by an owner who recognized the need for a comprehensive clean-up despite its limited use. While a swirl-free finish was a pleasant surprise, the car presented its own set of challenges, including noticeable scratches and stubborn water spots, particularly on the horizontal surfaces. A significant buildup of brake dust on the wheels and general exterior grime further indicated the need for meticulous detailing.
Knowing this wouldn’t be a dramatic paint correction showcase, we decided to shift our focus. Our aim was to meticulously document the often-overlooked smaller details that contribute to a truly exceptional detailing job. This approach allows us to offer an educational perspective for enthusiasts eager to enhance their car care knowledge. As is often the case, our photographic documentation grew somewhat extensive – we hope you appreciate the thoroughness! We began, as is logical, with the interior.
The interior of this Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG was in commendable condition, appearing relatively clean at first glance. Our strategy revolved around deep cleaning the dark interior surfaces and applying a protective layer to preserve their condition. Following a thorough vacuuming of the carpets and floor mats, a mild Woolite and water solution was prepared to gently cleanse all interior surfaces using microfiber towels. Experience dictates that even seemingly clean convertible interiors, especially those with darker palettes, harbor a surprising amount of hidden dirt and contaminants. This proved true once again.
After the initial surface cleaning, we meticulously addressed all cracks and crevices to eliminate any lingering debris. This detailed approach ensures no area is overlooked, contributing to a truly refreshed interior.
Alt: Close-up of Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG steering wheel showcasing detailed stitching and controls.
A noteworthy feature is the engine start/stop button located on top of the shift knob, a subtle yet sophisticated touch in the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG design.
Alt: Rich wood grain trim and leather upholstery detailing inside a Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG cabin.
Alt: Detailed view of Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG center console highlighting luxurious materials and craftsmanship.
Even the air vents received dedicated attention, ensuring every element of the interior was thoroughly cleaned.
Alt: Air vent detailing process on a Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG interior, removing dust and grime for optimal airflow.
The driver’s seat, typically bearing the brunt of use, was no exception, even with the car’s low mileage. The left bolster exhibited minor dirt accumulation and dye transfer from denim, requiring specialized cleaning.
Alt: Before cleaning image of Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG leather seat showing dirt and denim dye transfer on the bolster.
For this, we employed an All-Purpose Cleaner (APC) diluted to a 10:1 ratio, gently agitating the leather with a dedicated leather brush. This carefully lifts the embedded dirt and grime without damaging the leather surface.
Following cleaning, we treated all leather surfaces within the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG interior with Optimum Protectant Plus. This premium UV protectant provides a non-greasy, natural finish, preserving the leather’s suppleness and preventing premature aging without an artificial shine.
Alt: After cleaning and conditioning, Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG driver seat leather restored to a clean, matte factory finish.
Alt: Close-up of Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG interior showcasing meticulously cleaned leather and trim details.
Alt: Detailed interior shot of Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG door panel highlighting the contrast between leather and trim.
Alt: Showcasing the impeccable cleanliness of the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG interior after professional detailing.
Door shuts, often neglected, also accumulated their share of dirt, dust, and grime on this Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG.
Alt: Before cleaning, Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG door jamb exhibiting dirt and grime buildup in the shut.
These were thoroughly cleaned using Optimum No Rinse (ONR) diluted as a quick detailer in a spray bottle. ONR is excellent for safely cleaning delicate areas without the need for rinsing.
Alt: After detailing, pristine Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG door jambs, demonstrating meticulous cleaning and attention to detail.
Finally, the pedals, enduring constant contact with footwear, received their due attention. An APC and a detailing brush were used to loosen and remove dirt, followed by a wipe-down with a damp cloth to eliminate any residue. Careful product selection is paramount for pedals, avoiding any greasy or slippery finishes that could compromise driving safety. And yes, the smudge on the trim above the pedals was also addressed!
Alt: Detailing process on Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG pedals, ensuring a clean and safe driving interface.
With the interior revitalized, we transitioned to the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG exterior. We captured some compelling before-and-after shots on specific areas, so the following section might jump between different stages of the exterior detailing process for illustrative purposes.
The overall exterior condition clearly signaled the urgent need for a comprehensive cleaning.
Alt: Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG exterior before detailing, showing general dirt accumulation and lack of shine.
The wheel wells were particularly challenging, heavily soiled and difficult to access effectively.
Alt: Heavily soiled wheel wells of a Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG, demonstrating the need for thorough cleaning.
A notable feature of the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG is its height-adjustable suspension with three settings. This allows for increased ground clearance when navigating steep inclines, preventing scraping. We utilized the fully raised setting to gain easier access to the wheel wells and side skirts during the detailing process.
Alt: Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG with its adjustable suspension raised to facilitate wheel well and side skirt detailing.
As always, wheel cleaning was the initial step for the exterior. The extent of brake dust and grime buildup was immediately apparent.
Alt: Severely dirty Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG wheels and tires coated in brake dust and road grime before cleaning.
P21S Wheel Gel was generously applied to the wheel rims and calipers, working on one side of the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG at a time, allowing a few minutes for dwell time. Simultaneously, P21S Total Auto Wash (TAW) was sprayed onto the tires and wheel wells to begin breaking down grime.
Alt: P21S Wheel Gel and Total Auto Wash products effectively dissolving brake dust on Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG wheels.
Each wheel and wheel well demanded approximately 10-12 minutes of dedicated cleaning due to the heavy accumulation of dirt and brake dust. Brushes of various sizes were employed to ensure thorough cleaning within the wheel well areas.
Alt: Impeccably clean Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG wheels and tires after professional detailing, showcasing restored shine.
Following rinsing, water beading was observed, indicating the presence of existing waxes or sealants. These needed to be removed prior to paint polishing to prevent interference with the polishing process. Chemical Guys Wash & Clear, at a paint prep ratio of 2oz/gallon, was used to aid in stripping these existing protectants. A Gilmour foam gun was utilized to pre-soak the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG, followed by a two-bucket wash method, incorporating CGWC in the wash bucket. Given the heavy contamination, the wash mitt was thoroughly rinsed in the rinse bucket with a Grit Guard after each section to prevent re-introducing contaminants to the paint surface.
Alt: Gilmour foam gun applying Chemical Guys Citrus Wash & Clear to Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG for pre-wash cleaning.
After a comprehensive wash, the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG was clayed using Optimum Instant Detailer as a clay lubricant. This exceptionally slick lubricant minimizes friction and prevents marring during the claying process, which is crucial for removing embedded contaminants. The paint surface, both horizontal and vertical, exhibited significant contamination and greatly benefited from the clay bar treatment. This process, though time-consuming, yielded a dramatically smoother surface, preparing it optimally for polishing.
To ensure a squeaky-clean surface completely ready for polishing, a second foam wash was performed after the clay bar treatment to remove any remaining clay residue and loosened contaminants.
Alt: Foam shampoo dwelling on the surface of the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG after clay bar treatment, ensuring a clean surface for polishing.
Despite being swirl-free, the paintwork presented random scratches and water spot etching, especially on horizontal panels. Menzerna PO203 was selected for a one-step polishing process. This versatile polish offers both effective defect correction and a high-gloss, LSP-ready finish. Multiple IPA wipedowns were performed post-polishing to ensure no fillers or masking agents were present, revealing the true level of correction achieved. Test sections confirmed PO203 as the ideal choice for this Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG.
Alt: Professional detailer Todd Cooperider polishing the paint of a Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG to enhance gloss and remove minor imperfections.
The underside of the side skirts, often neglected areas, were also meticulously polished, highlighting our commitment to comprehensive “detail”ing. Smaller 4” white spot buff pads were utilized for these tighter areas. An exercise mat was used for comfort and to soften the hard floor during lower panel polishing.
Alt: Polishing the lower side skirt area of a Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG with Menzerna Power Finish and a spot buff pad for precise correction.
The results after PO203S polishing, before Last Step Product (LSP) application, already demonstrated significant paint enhancement.
Alt: Inspecting the paint finish of the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG after Menzerna Power Finish polishing, showcasing improved clarity and reflection.
The glass roof, exhibiting heavy water spotting, was polished using a Porter Cable (PC) polisher, a white polishing pad, and Optimum Poli-Seal. Optimum Poli-Seal offers sufficient cutting power to remove water spots while leaving behind a slick, protective finish for lasting clarity.
Alt: Polishing the panoramic glass roof of the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG to remove water spots and enhance clarity.
The Aegean Blue Metallic paint presented a dynamic color, shifting between grey and light blue hues depending on the light. A macro shot captures the intricate metallic flake within the paint.
Alt: Macro detail shot of the Aegean Blue Metallic paint on the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG, revealing the depth and shimmer of the metallic flake.
Following polishing, an IPA wipedown was performed, followed by an Optimum Instant Detailer wipedown to ensure a pristine surface for sealant application. Optimum Opti-Seal was chosen as the paint sealant for its ease of application, natural look, and proven durability, especially in harsh winter conditions.
Application was done using a red applicator pad, and after curing, the sealant was buffed off with a soft microfiber towel and a light mist of Optimum Instant Detailer for enhanced gloss.
P21S 100% wax was then hand-applied using a separate red applicator pad over the sealant. While not the most durable wax, P21S 100% wax provides an exceptional finish, easy application, and quick removal, requiring minimal cure time.
The underside of the trunk lid, above the license plate, is another frequently overlooked area. This Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG had accumulated about three years of grime in this area.
Alt: Before cleaning, underside of Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG trunk lid showing accumulated grime and dirt.
The transformation after detailing is significant.
Alt: After detailing, clean underside of Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG trunk lid, highlighting the thoroughness of the detailing process.
Even the emblems exhibited significant contamination beyond simple surface dirt.
Alt: Before detailing, Mercedes Benz emblem covered in embedded dirt and oxidation, requiring polishing for restoration.
Emblems were polished using a PC polisher, a white pad, and Menzerna 106FA polish. All-in-one products like Optimum Poli-Seal or Klasse AIO are also effective options for emblem polishing.
Alt: After detailing, Mercedes Benz emblem restored to a bright, reflective shine through polishing.
Before:
Alt: Before detailing, Mercedes Benz SL500 badge showing dirt accumulation and diminished luster.
After:
Alt: After detailing, Mercedes Benz SL500 badge cleaned and polished to a like-new condition, enhancing the vehicle’s appearance.
Exhaust tips were also in poor condition. They were first cleaned with P21S TAW and 0000 steel wool, followed by polishing to restore their shine.
Alt: Before detailing, Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG exhaust tips heavily tarnished with carbon buildup and oxidation.
After:
Alt: After detailing, Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG exhaust tips polished to a brilliant shine, completing the exterior enhancement.
Now, for the after-detailing showcase. Indoor garage shots are presented first, as the weather remained cloudy and rainy throughout the weekend. The owner graciously allowed the Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG to stay for a few extra days until optimal sunlight conditions emerged for outdoor photography.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed interior, showcasing clean leather, trim, and surfaces.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed exterior, highlighting the deep gloss of the Aegean Blue Metallic paint in garage lighting.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed, side profile showcasing the sleek lines and enhanced paint condition.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed front view, emphasizing the clean grill and headlights.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed, interior and exterior showcasing comprehensive detailing results.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed, rear angle highlighting the polished finish and clean lines.
This shot focuses specifically on the meticulously cleaned wheel.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed wheel, showcasing restored shine and cleanliness.
Moody indoor shots further emphasize the depth of the finish.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed, moody indoor shot highlighting the paint’s reflectivity.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG hood reflection, demonstrating the mirror-like finish achieved through detailing.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG tire shine, showcasing the attention to detail even in tire dressing.
Finally, with the sun making an appearance, we captured outdoor shots as promised. Capturing reflections on this color proved challenging, but we aimed to showcase the enhanced finish to its fullest potential.
Flawless trunk lid finish.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG trunk lid sun reflection, demonstrating the defect-free paint after detailing.
Impeccable side panel reflection.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG side panel sun reflection, showcasing the smooth, reflective paint surface.
Hood reflection under sunlight.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG hood reflection in sunlight, highlighting the enhanced clarity and gloss.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed exterior, showcasing the Aegean Blue Metallic paint under natural sunlight.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed, three-quarter front view emphasizing the roadster’s design and paint finish.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed rear view, showcasing the clean lines and enhanced paint condition.
Reflection and wetness captured.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed, side view capturing wet reflection and paint gloss.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed, rear driver’s side view showcasing the enhanced paint and detailing results.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailed, full side profile highlighting the car’s elegance and the detailing outcome.
And finally, a close-up of the emblem.
Alt: 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG badge, showcasing the polished emblem and overall detailing quality.
Total time invested in this Mercedes Benz SL500 AMG detailing project: 11 hours.
