The 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 roadster, finished in Aegean Blue Metallic, is a stunning vehicle that perfectly blends performance and luxury. Boasting a robust 302HP engine with 339ft/lb of torque and equipped with the AMG Sport Package, this SL500 is a joy to drive. Even with low mileage, like the 7,000 miles on this particular model, time and storage can take their toll, necessitating a thorough detailing to restore its showroom shine.
This guide details the meticulous cleaning process undertaken on a low-mileage 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, focusing on often-overlooked areas to provide an educational resource for enthusiasts looking to care for their own vehicles. While this car presented with minimal swirls, it did exhibit scratches and significant water spots, particularly on horizontal surfaces, alongside a considerable accumulation of brake dust.
Interior Revitalization of the 2006 SL500
The interior of this 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, while already in good condition, was targeted for a deep clean and protective treatment. The initial step involved vacuuming the carpets and floor mats to remove loose debris. A solution of Woolite and water was then used to meticulously clean all interior surfaces with microfiber towels. Despite appearing clean initially, convertible interiors, especially dark ones, often harbor hidden dirt and contaminants. This cleaning process proved effective in lifting away unseen grime.
Attention to detail is paramount, and this detail extended to cleaning all cracks and crevices to eliminate any accumulated debris, ensuring no area was overlooked in the pursuit of interior perfection for this 2006 SL500.
Detailed view of the steering wheel in a 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after interior cleaning, highlighting the engine start/stop button on the shift knob.
Close-up of the meticulously cleaned wood grain interior trim inside the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, showcasing the rich texture and finish.
Detailing process focused on cleaning the air vents of a 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 to remove dust and buildup.
The driver’s seat, a high-contact area, typically accumulates the most dirt. Even with low mileage, the left side of the seat in this 2006 SL500 showed signs of dirt and dye transfer from denim. To address this, a 10:1 dilution of All-Purpose Cleaner (APC) was applied and gently agitated with a leather brush.
Before cleaning image showing dirt and denim dye transfer on the driver’s side leather seat of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500.
Following the cleaning, Optimum Protectant Plus was applied to all leather surfaces, including the seats. This UV protectant was chosen for its non-greasy, non-shiny finish, preserving the original, new-leather look of the 2006 SL500’s interior.
After cleaning and treatment image showcasing the revitalized leather driver seat in the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 with a matte, protected finish.
Detailed shot of the dashboard in the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 interior, emphasizing the cleanliness and attention to detail.
Close-up view of the center console area inside the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, highlighting the detailed cleaning of controls and trim.
Detailed image of the door panel inside the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, showing the thorough cleaning and protection applied.
Door shuts often accumulate dirt and grime. The door shuts of this 2006 SL500 were no exception and were cleaned using Optimum No Rinse (ONR) diluted as a quick detailer. This product effectively removed the buildup without requiring rinsing, streamlining the detailing process.
Before cleaning image of the door jamb on the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, showing accumulated dirt and grime.
After cleaning image of the Mercedes-Benz SL500 door jamb, demonstrating the effectiveness of detailing in restoring cleanliness.
The pedals, constantly exposed to dirty shoes, require specific cleaning. For the 2006 SL500 pedals, APC and a brush were used, followed by wiping with a damp cloth to remove residue. Care was taken to avoid greasy or slippery finishes, crucial for pedal safety and function.
Image focusing on the pedals of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, showing the results of detailed cleaning to remove dirt and scuff marks.
Exterior Transformation of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500
Moving to the exterior, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 was visibly in need of a comprehensive cleaning. The transformation process began with addressing the heavily soiled wheel wells and wheels.
Full view of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 before detailing, highlighting the need for exterior cleaning.
Close-up of the dirty wheel wells on the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, showcasing significant grime buildup.
The SL500’s adjustable suspension was utilized to raise the vehicle, providing better access to the wheel wells and side skirts. This feature is particularly useful for detailed cleaning and maintenance.
Image of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 with its height-adjustable suspension raised to facilitate easier access for wheel well and side skirt cleaning during detailing.
Wheel cleaning commenced with P21S Wheel Gel applied to the rims and calipers, and P21S Total Auto Wash (TAW) on the tires and wheel wells. These products effectively loosened brake dust and grime.
Application of P21S Gel Wheel Cleaner and Total Auto Wash on the AMG wheels of the Mercedes-Benz SL500 to break down brake dust and dirt.
Each wheel and wheel well received approximately 10-12 minutes of dedicated cleaning due to the heavy buildup. Brushes were used to ensure thorough cleaning within the wheel well areas.
Detailed image of the Mercedes-Benz wheels after a thorough cleaning process, showing the rims and tires restored to a clean condition.
After rinsing, the presence of water beading indicated existing wax or sealants, which needed removal before polishing. Chemical Guys Wash & Clear was employed at a paint prep ratio using a foam gun to strip these layers and ensure a clean surface for polishing. A two-bucket wash method with Grit Guards was implemented to prevent reintroducing contaminants to the paint during the wash process.
Gilmour foam gun applying Chemical Guys Citrus Wash & Clear to the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, preparing the surface for detailing by removing old waxes and sealants.
Following the wash, claying was performed using Optimum Instant Detailer as a lubricant. This step removed bonded contaminants from both horizontal and vertical surfaces, which were heavily contaminated, resulting in a smooth surface ready for polishing.
Shampoo dwelling on the surface of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after claying, ensuring all loose contaminants are removed prior to polishing.
Menzerna PO203 was selected for a one-step polishing process. Known for its versatility, it provides both defect correction and a finish ready for Last Step Products (LSP). Following polishing, IPA wipedowns were conducted to ensure no fillers or masking agents were present, revealing the true corrected finish.
Todd Cooperider polishing the hood of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 with Menzerna PO203 to correct minor imperfections and enhance paint gloss.
Areas like the underside of the side skirts, often missed, were also meticulously polished using a 4” white spot buff pad for precision.
Detailing specialist polishing the side skirts of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 with Menzerna Power Finish, paying attention to lower and often overlooked areas.
Close-up of the paint finish on the Mercedes-Benz SL500 after polishing with Menzerna Power Finish, showing enhanced clarity and gloss before sealant application.
The glass roof, exhibiting heavy water spots, was polished with Optimum Poli-Seal using a white polishing pad. This product offers mild correction and leaves behind a slick, protective finish.
Polishing the panoramic glass roof of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 with Optimum Poli-Seal to remove water spots and enhance clarity.
The Aegean Blue Metallic paint of this 2006 SL500, a dynamic color shifting between grey and light blue, was further enhanced by polishing.
Macro shot revealing the metallic flake in the Aegean Blue Metallic paint of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after polishing, highlighting the depth and shimmer of the finish.
After polishing and IPA wipedown, Optimum Opti-seal was applied for protection, followed by P21S 100% wax for added depth and shine. The underside of the trunk lid, often overlooked, was thoroughly cleaned, revealing years of accumulated grime.
Before detailing image showing grime buildup on the underside of the trunk lid of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500.
After detailing image of the trunk lid underside on the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, showing the area cleaned and restored to a like-new condition.
Even the emblems were polished using a PC with a white pad and Menzerna 106FA polish to remove embedded dirt and oxidation.
Mercedes-Benz emblem before polishing, showing signs of dirt and oxidation that detract from the vehicle’s appearance.
Mercedes-Benz emblem after polishing, showcasing the restored shine and detail achieved through meticulous detailing.
Mercedes-Benz badge before detailing, exhibiting dirt accumulation and dullness prior to the cleaning and polishing process.
Mercedes-Benz badge after detailing, highlighting the enhanced clarity and shine of the emblem following careful polishing.
Exhaust tips, often neglected, were cleaned with P21S TAW and 0000 steel wool, then polished to a bright finish.
Before detailing image of the Mercedes-Benz SL500 exhaust tips, showing carbon buildup and dullness before cleaning.
After detailing image of the Mercedes-Benz SL500 exhaust tips, demonstrating the transformation to a bright, polished, and like-new condition.
Final Reveal: The Detailed 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500
The result of 11 hours of meticulous work is a stunningly revitalized 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500. The Aegean Blue Metallic paint now exhibits deep reflections and a wet look, showcasing the true beauty of this roadster.
Indoor shot of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after detailing, showcasing the clean and glossy finish under garage lighting.
Interior view of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after a comprehensive detail, highlighting the cleanliness and renewed condition of the cabin.
Front view of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 post-detailing, emphasizing the enhanced paint gloss and overall refreshed appearance of the vehicle.
Side profile of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after detailing, illustrating the smooth, reflective paint surface and meticulous attention to detail.
Rear view of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after detailing, showing the deep shine and restored condition of the paint and trim.
Close-up of a detailed wheel on the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, highlighting the clean rim, tire, and wheel well after professional detailing.
Moody indoor shot of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 interior post-detailing, emphasizing the luxurious and meticulously cleaned environment.
Reflection shot off the hood of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, demonstrating the mirror-like finish achieved through professional paint correction and detailing.
Close-up showing the tire shine on the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after detailing, highlighting the attention to detail in every aspect of the vehicle.
Sun reflection on the trunk lid of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, illustrating the defect-free and highly reflective paint surface achieved through detailing.
Reflection along the side panel of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500, showcasing the smooth and glossy finish of the Aegean Blue Metallic paint after detailing.
Full sunlight shot of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 post-detailing, capturing the brilliance and depth of the paint under natural light.
Front three-quarter view of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 in sunlight after detailing, highlighting the restored paint clarity and overall vehicle condition.
Angled sunlight view of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after detailing, showing the dynamic reflections and enhanced paint appearance.
Rear view of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 in sunlight following detailing, emphasizing the restored paint quality and attention to rear details.
Image showcasing the “wet look” achieved on the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 paint after detailing, emphasizing the depth and gloss of the finish.
Rear driver’s side view of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after detailing, showing the consistent high-quality finish across the vehicle’s surfaces.
Final sunlight shot of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500 after detailing, capturing the overall beauty and enhanced condition of the vehicle.
Close-up of the Mercedes-Benz SL500 badge post-detailing, highlighting the cleanliness and polished finish of even the smallest details.
This comprehensive detailing process demonstrates the transformative effect of meticulous car care, bringing out the best in even well-maintained vehicles like this 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL500.
