This Aegean Blue Metallic Mercedes Benz SL500 roadster is a stunning vehicle, boasting 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with the AMG Sport Package, it offers a driving experience that feels inherently “right” from the moment you settle into the driver’s seat. While not the full AMG SL55, this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 still delivers a potent blend of luxury and performance.
The owner of this particular model, a cherished 2006 Mercedes Benz, contacted us seeking a comprehensive clean-up. Despite its remarkably low mileage of only 7,000 miles, accumulated primarily in garage storage, the car presented several detailing challenges. A close inspection revealed no swirl marks, a testament to careful ownership, but it did exhibit a collection of scratches and noticeable water spots, particularly on the horizontal surfaces. The exterior also showed a significant accumulation of general dirt and stubborn brake dust clinging to the wheels.
Recognizing that this detailing project wouldn’t yield the dramatic paint correction transformations often showcased, we decided to shift our focus. Instead, we aimed to meticulously document the often-overlooked smaller details that contribute to a truly exceptional car care experience. Our goal was to provide an educational insight into the nuances of automotive detailing, especially for enthusiasts keen to maintain their own vehicles, including models like the distinguished 2006 Mercedes Benz.
As is often the case, enthusiasm took over, resulting in a wealth of photographs detailing each step of the process. Let’s begin with the interior rejuvenation.
The interior of this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500, while well-maintained, was due for a thorough refresh. Our strategy for this dark cockpit was to perform a deep clean across all surfaces, followed by the application of protective treatments. After meticulously vacuuming the carpets and floor mats, we prepared a cleaning solution of Woolite and water. Using a microfiber towel, we systematically cleaned every interior surface. Experience with convertibles, especially those with darker interiors like this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500, has shown us that even seemingly clean interiors can harbor significant dirt and contaminants. This proved true once again.
Following the initial surface cleaning, we turned our attention to the often-neglected cracks and crevices, ensuring the removal of any accumulated debris.
Note the engine start/stop button on top of the shift knob – a cool feature of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
Cleaning the air vents, crucial for maintaining a fresh and hygienic interior environment in any car, including a 2006 Mercedes Benz:
The driver’s seat, particularly the left bolster, typically endures the most wear and tear. Even with only 7,000 miles, this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 was no exception. It exhibited some dirt accumulation and dye transfer from denim, requiring specific attention.
For this task, we utilized an all-purpose cleaner (APC) diluted to a 10:1 ratio and gently agitated the area with a dedicated leather brush.
After cleaning, we treated the leather, including the rest of the interior leather surfaces, with Optimum Protectant Plus. This UV protectant is favored for its non-shiny, non-greasy finish, restoring the leather to a natural, like-new appearance, ideal for preserving the sophisticated interior of a 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
The door jambs, often overlooked, also showed a buildup of dirt, dust, and grime, common even in well-maintained vehicles like this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
We cleaned these areas with Optimum No Rinse (ONR) in a spray bottle at a quick detailer (QD) dilution ratio, effectively removing the grime and restoring cleanliness to the door shuts of the 2006 Mercedes Benz.
Finally, the pedals, constantly subjected to dirty shoes, received their share of attention. For this, we used APC and a brush, followed by wiping down with a damp cloth to remove any residue. Care is crucial when cleaning pedals to avoid leaving any greasy or slippery finish, ensuring driver safety in this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500. Note – the smudge on the trim above the pedals was also addressed!
With the interior revitalized, we transitioned to the exterior of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500. For several exterior areas, we captured compelling before and after photos, illustrating the transformative effect of professional detailing. The following section may jump between different areas as we detail the exterior process.
From the images below, it’s clear that this 2006 Mercedes Benz was in dire need of a thorough exterior cleaning.
The wheel wells were heavily soiled and presented access challenges.
A notable feature of the SL500, including this 2006 model, is its height-adjustable suspension with three settings. This can be raised to navigate steep inclines without scraping. Here, we utilized the fully raised setting to improve access to the wheel wells and side skirts for cleaning and polishing on this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
As standard practice, wheel cleaning was the first step of the exterior detailing process. As evident, the wheels of this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 required significant effort.
We started by applying P21S Wheel Gel to the rims and calipers, working one side of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 at a time, allowing a few minutes for dwell time. While the wheel gel worked, we sprayed the tires and wheel wells with P21S Total Auto Wash (TAW).
The wheels and wheel wells were thoroughly cleaned using brushes. Each wheel and well took approximately 10-12 minutes due to the heavy buildup of dirt and brake dust on this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
After rinsing, we observed water beading, indicating existing wax or sealant. These needed removal before polishing to prevent interference. To aid in removal, we used Chemical Guys Wash & Clear at a paint prep ratio (2oz/gal). A Gilmour foam gun was used to pre-soak the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500, followed by a two-bucket wash method, also incorporating CGWC in one 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 dirt.
Following the wash, we clayed the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 using Optimum Instant Detailer as a clay lubricant. High-quality lubrication during claying is essential to prevent surface marring. We found significant contamination on both horizontal and vertical surfaces, necessitating thorough claying to achieve a smooth surface ready for polishing.
To ensure a pristine surface for polishing, we performed a second foam wash after claying, guaranteeing the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 was completely clean.
Despite being largely swirl-free, the paint exhibited random scratches and water spot etching, particularly on horizontal panels. Our chosen approach was a one-step polish using Menzerna PO203. This versatile polish offers good cutting power with the right pad and leaves a finish ready for last step products (LSP). However, we recommend IPA wipedowns afterward to verify no fillers or masking effects are present, ensuring true correction on this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500. After a test section, PO203 proved to be the optimal choice.
Attention to detail extends to often-missed areas like the underside of side skirts. For these tighter spots on the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500, we switched to a 4” white spot buff pad and used an exercise mat for comfort.
Post-PO203S polishing, before LSP application, showcasing the corrected paint of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
The glass roof, heavily water-spotted, was polished with a PC polisher, a white polishing pad, and Optimum Poli-Seal. This combination provides sufficient cut to clean the glass while leaving a slick, protective finish lasting for months, ideal for maintaining the panoramic roof of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
The Aegean Blue Metallic paint is captivating, shifting from grey to light blue depending on light. This macro shot reveals the flake detail in the paint of this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
With polishing complete, we performed an IPA wipedown followed by an Optimum Instant Detailer wipedown, preparing the finish for sealant. Optimum Opti-seal was chosen for its ease of application and natural look, avoiding a plastic-like sheen. Its durability, proven through a harsh Midwest winter, makes it a reliable protectant for the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
Applied with a red applicator pad and buffed out after curing with a soft MF towel and a light mist of Optimum instant detailer.
After sealing, P21S 100% wax was hand-applied with a separate red applicator pad. While not the most durable wax, P21S 100% provides a beautiful finish, easy application and removal, and quick curing, enhancing the gloss of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
An often-missed area is the underside of the trunk lid above the license plate. This area on the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 had accumulated about three years of grime.
After cleaning and detailing, the underside of the trunk lid of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 is spotless.
Even the emblems showed significant grime buildup, beyond simple surface dirt on this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
Emblems were polished using a PC with a white pad and 106FA polish (or alternatives like Optimum Poli-Seal or Klasse AIO).
Before detailing, the Mercedes badge on the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 was dull and dirty.
After polishing, the Mercedes badge on the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 is bright and reflective.
Exhaust tips were heavily tarnished. They were cleaned with P21S TAW and 0000 steel wool, then polished, restoring their shine on this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
After cleaning and polishing, the exhaust tips of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 are gleaming.
Ready for the after-shots? These were initially taken indoors due to weekend cloudiness and rain. The owner kindly left the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 for a few extra days until sunlight returned.
Even a simple shot of a clean wheel on this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 can be captivating.
Moody indoor shots highlighting the depth of detail in this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
Finally, the sun emerged, allowing for outdoor shots. Capturing reflections in this color is challenging, but we aimed for the best possible results on this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
No defects visible on the trunk lid of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500 under direct sunlight.
Or on the side panel of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500, revealing the quality of the paint correction.
Or on the hood of the 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500, demonstrating the mirror-like finish achieved through professional detailing.
Reflection and wetness – a perfect combination showcasing the results of detailing on this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500!
And finally, a close-up of the badge on the beautifully detailed 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500.
Total time invested in detailing this 2006 Mercedes Benz SL500: 11 hours.
If you have any comments or questions regarding the detailing process for your own vehicle, especially models like the 2006 Mercedes Benz, feel free to share them below.
