The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and particularly the 2016 Mercedes S550 Coupe, represents the pinnacle of automotive luxury and engineering. These vehicles, with their original price tags soaring around $121,000, are the flagship models of the Mercedes-Benz brand. Recently, a friend, Joe, acquired a pristine, low-mileage 2016 Mercedes S550 4MATIC Coupe from Texas and entrusted it to Autogeek for a comprehensive detailing service, both inside and out. This detail wasn’t just a wash and wax; it was a full-scale paint correction and ceramic coating application to bring this luxury coupe to its absolute best.
Upon arrival, a meticulous inspection revealed a few areas needing attention. The most noticeable issue was staining on the rubber seals beneath the anodized aluminum trim. It appeared a previous detailer had inadvertently applied compound or polish to this trim, causing unsightly white stains. This imperfection detracted from the otherwise immaculate condition of the 2016 Mercedes S550.
The texture of this rubber seal suggested a woven or cloth-like composition, implying that aggressive scrubbing might damage the surface. Therefore, any cleaning approach would require careful consideration to avoid further harm to the delicate trim of this 2016 Mercedes S550. Later, we’ll share a simple yet effective technique to prevent this type of trim staining when detailing Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Further assessment using the baggie test revealed significant bonded contaminants across all horizontal surfaces, including the glass. A substantial film of contamination was present, necessitating a thorough clay bar treatment. In fact, two clay bars were fully spent in the process of decontaminating the 2016 Mercedes S550, highlighting the level of embedded impurities.
Using a swirl finder light, the paint exhibited light swirls and random isolated deeper scratches (RIDS). While not severe, these imperfections were detracting from the deep gloss expected of a luxury vehicle like the 2016 Mercedes S550. A test spot also indicated the paint was on the harder side, common for German automobiles, requiring a more aggressive approach to paint correction.
Paint Correction Process for the 2016 Mercedes S550
The paint correction process for this 2016 Mercedes S550 commenced with compounding the entire vehicle, including the glass, using Wolfgang Uber Compound. A FLEX Supa Beast rotary polisher, set to speed 6, was employed for the bulk of the compounding work. For the hood and trunk lid, areas with more pronounced swirls and scratches, a two-step approach was taken: first, the RUPES Coarse Wool Pad, followed by the RUPES 180mm Yellow Foam CP Pad, both used with the Wolfgang Uber Compound. This combination effectively tackled the harder paint of the 2016 Mercedes S550.
Pro Tip: Protecting Trim During Polishing
A crucial tip for anyone detailing a Mercedes-Benz, especially models like the 2016 Mercedes S550 with sensitive trim, is to protect plastic, vinyl, and rubber trim before polishing. The simplest and most effective method is to mask off the trim using high-quality painter’s tape, such as green 3M brand tape. This preventative measure ensures that polishing compounds do not stain or damage these delicate areas, saving time and frustration in the long run. This was essential in maintaining the pristine condition of the trim on this 2016 Mercedes S550.
After compounding, the residue was carefully wiped away using TRC FTW orange microfiber towels. This revealed a deep, clear finish, perfectly prepared for the next stage: applying Wolfgang Profi Ceramic Coating to protect the revitalized paint of the 2016 Mercedes S550.
Re-inspecting the paint with the swirl finder light in the same areas as before confirmed the successful removal of swirls and imperfections. The paint correction stage had effectively restored the clarity and depth of the 2016 Mercedes S550‘s finish.
The results were immediately apparent – a dramatically enhanced gloss and clarity, showcasing the true potential of the 2016 Mercedes S550’s paint.
The aerodynamic lines, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz coupes, were further accentuated by the flawless paint finish achieved through the correction process on this 2016 Mercedes S550.
With the paint corrected, the 2016 Mercedes S550 was ready for its new home and the elements. Despite having a two-car garage occupied by other prized vehicles, this S550 would be parked outdoors, making robust paint protection essential.
Wolfgang Profi Ceramic Coating for Lasting Protection
To ensure long-lasting protection against the harsh South Florida sun and rain, two layers of Wolfgang Profi Ceramic Coating were applied to the 2016 Mercedes S550. This professional-grade, 9H-rated ceramic coating provides a durable barrier against environmental contaminants, UV rays, and minor scratches, maintaining the corrected paint’s gloss and clarity for years to come.
The products used in this detail were carefully selected for their performance and compatibility with luxury vehicles like the 2016 Mercedes S550. These included:
- Wolfgang Uber Compound: For effective paint correction on even harder clear coats.
- Wolfgang Perfekt Finish Paint Prep: To ensure a clean surface for optimal ceramic coating adhesion.
- Wolfgang Profi Ceramic Coating: For professional-grade, long-lasting paint protection.
- FLEX Supa BEAST Polisher: A powerful and efficient tool for paint correction.
- RUPES D-A System Pads: Including coarse wool and yellow foam pads for effective compounding and polishing.
- Speed Master Coating Applicator: Designed for even and efficient ceramic coating application.
- The Rag Company FTW and Cobra Forrest Green Edgeless Microfiber Towels: For safe and effective residue removal.
Maintaining the Showroom Shine of Your 2016 Mercedes S550
Maintaining the detailed finish of your 2016 Mercedes S550 is straightforward. Regular washing with a quality car wash soap and a clean wash mitt is essential. Utilizing a leaf blower or car dryer to remove water minimizes water spots and further enhances the coating’s hydrophobic properties. For owners seeking to preserve their vehicle’s appearance, investing in quality microfiber towels and proper washing techniques are worthwhile endeavors.
The paint on the 2016 Mercedes S550, while exhibiting light swirls, proved to be quite hard, necessitating a compound for effective correction. Random Isolated Deeper Scratches (RIDS) were addressed within reasonable limits, recognizing the importance of preserving the factory clear coat thickness, especially for a daily driver exposed to the elements. The extensive glass surfaces of the S550 also received attention, with contamination removed and ceramic coating applied (excluding the windshield). Detailing a full-size luxury car like the 2016 Mercedes S550 requires a significant time investment, underscoring the importance of appropriate pricing for such services.
The 2016 Mercedes S550 detail exemplifies how proper techniques, quality products, and attention to detail can revitalize and protect a luxury vehicle, ensuring it maintains its showroom shine for years to come.
