E350:Question on exterior paint
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: San Francisco Bay Area
2006 E350
E350:Question on exterior paint
Alas, my two-months-plus new e350 has acquired the dreaded sprinkler hard water spots on the paint and the windshield. My dealer service rep wants me to buy a $200 detailing package from them that includes applying clay to the surface to get rid of the spots. I am reluctant to do this to new paint and am wondering if anyone else has experienced this same situation. I have searched this board and found references to applying vinegar solution to the paint, but I personally won't be able to do that right now. If anyone else has had to deal with spots on new paint-- and how to prevent this from happening again-- I'd appreciate your advice. Thanks.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 693
Likes: 1
From: Mansfield, TX
11 ML350W2 / 17 GLC300
I have clayed my cars to remove spots and other contaminants from the paint. I use Griots Garage clay and Speed Shine but there are others that must be as good. The Speed Shine is used as a lubricant and the clay itself wont hurt the paint. Spritz on the lubricant and work the clay over the spots. They should come off. As to prevention, the best way is to stay away from sprinklers. 
To make it easier to remove the spots, I use a good carnuba wax but others will give you their favorite products. I recently had a fender repainted on my 210 wagon and the shop's written instructions warned against using any silicon products on the paint.
To make it easier to remove the spots, I use a good carnuba wax but others will give you their favorite products. I recently had a fender repainted on my 210 wagon and the shop's written instructions warned against using any silicon products on the paint.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 4,968
Likes: 2
From: FL410
'05 E320 CDI, '08 BMW X5 4.8i, '11 Duramax 2500HD
for GOD's sake, you must wax (a minimum of Carnuba wax, but ideally synthetic polymer) as soon as you take position of it, this will prevent these kids of problem. I've owned 6 nice cars, all of them took 3 layers of wax the next day I rolled them home, and when I sold the pas 4 I got compliments on the paint work liking like new.. it's because of the wax..
Super Member
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 820
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From: Chicago Western Burbs
'06 SL65
I wouldn't let anyone touch my paint. Even during service, I tell them never to wash my car. The best is to do it yourself (wash/clay/paint cleanse/polish/sealant/wax). Some steps you can take out if your paint is in good condition. The prep you put into the paint before sealant/wax is most important IMO. Like many have mentioned, check out the detail section for more info.
