Questions For Mercedes Detail I'm Doing In 2 Weeks.

[Grand Am GT]

It's a Black 450, three years old. When I spoke w/the woman over the phone, she couldn't remember if it was CL/SL, etc. I thought I could figure it out via the net, but there are so many number/letter combos that I haven't as yet. And I was hoping I would also come across the wheel type.

1. Silly question, but does not knowing the "letters" matter at all?

2. Does anyone know if Mercedes uses more than one type of wheel, or if there is a standard one they use?

Thank you.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Questions For Mercedes Detail I'm Doing In 2 Weeks.

Whether the vehicle is a GL, ML or any other MB model doesn't really matter. Some MB paints tend to be rather hard and therefore a bit difficult to correct, while others respond much better to machine polishing. Even if you knew the exact model and year it wouldn't really matter much - it's going to be what it's going to be, but you won't know what that is until you start working on it. This is why test spots are so important before you start working in earnest.

As for the wheels, if they're factory wheels they'll either be the typical German silver paint with a clear coat, or chrome. Either way, Meguiar's Hot Rims All Wheel Cleaner will be your wheel cleaner of choice. Keep in mind, however, that German cars are notorious for generating a ton of brake dust, so if this car hasn't been properly washed recently you may need a couple applications of the wheel cleaner, along with a decent wheel brush, to really clean them up properly.

[Grand Am GT]

Re: Questions For Mercedes Detail I'm Doing In 2 Weeks.

Thank you, Michael!

Would GC All Wheel Cleaner work just as well? And if I remember correctly what I've read, they could be waxed? Yes/No? Or would that not even be necessary with Hot Rims Cleaner?

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Questions For Mercedes Detail I'm Doing In 2 Weeks.

Gold Class All Wheel Cleaner would be fine to use as well. Waxing is always an option too - keep in mind that if they're a factory wheel their either painted and clear coated, polished and clear coated, or chrome. In any case waxing is perfectly fine.

After market wheels do tend to change things a bit though, with bare, polished aluminum and anodized (including so called "black chrome") being the by far the most delicate surfaces you'll encounter.

[Grand Am GT]

Re: Questions For Mercedes Detail I'm Doing In 2 Weeks.

Thanks again!

[Tuck91]

Re: Questions For Mercedes Detail I'm Doing In 2 Weeks.

Not sure if this helps but I did an SL550 today and it had chrome wheels that cleaned up easily with soap and water:

[chris328]

Re: Questions For Mercedes Detail I'm Doing In 2 Weeks.

what is that place in all your pics? some detailing garage your work at? or your house? nice pics btw!

[Grand Am GT]

Re: Questions For Mercedes Detail I'm Doing In 2 Weeks.

Thank, Tuck!

Good to know.

Nice job, btw!