Debadge option?
 

Do you know if there is an option to debadge the ML? In Europe, most cars can be ordered debadged withe model info deleted (the logo of course stays). I prefer the look.

Yes, the same delete code applies for NA vehicles. But why? You can accomplish the same result with fishing line.

Because I've done that before and I can always see the outline of the letters - and why risk any damage to the paint or invest in the effort if I can have it done at the time of manufacture?

Do you have to know the debadge code option?

Interesting... I never knew you could order a "debadged" MB..

Code is 260.

Thanks YYZ - my dealer didn't seem to know that so obliged by removing all my badges. Did a great job, no residue or outline. Nothing worse IMO than an M-B that looks like a gaudy 1982 Buick with all the "BlueEfficiency" and "4Matic" badging. I even take off the model designation as well. Just seems cleaner to me.

Next time I'll just use 260!

Post up a picture of the debadged ML so we can see :D

I think MB is hearing you. For 2013, MLs will no longer have that stupid "BlueEfficiency" badge on the side. Not only did it detract from the looks, it was confusing...people would think it was Bluetec diesel. It was also misleading, as if they get great gas mileage..ha! ...especially with the ML550, a total gas hog (which I shamefully have on order).

If it saves gas, wouldn't it be "Green Efficiency"?

Will do - need to wash the beast first though!

Debadged Photo
 

After a quick wash!

Looks really good

You're right...in fact, I was told by a MB rep that was also the reason why they dropped the Blue Efficiency badge. He said that "Blue" is better understood as something environmental in countries other than the U.S., but in the U.S., "blue" just added to the confusion the label created.

When I first saw that badge, I assumed the vehicle had a diesel engine (as in BlueTec) and that 'blue' stood for the color of the Diesel Exhaust Fluid the system needs to produce the cleaner exhaust. Of course, that was stupid, since it meant neither.

He also said it is typical of MB to badge some new technology, then drop it after a year or two.

Thanks!

I'll be doing mine this weekend.

Get the fishing line out!

Or dental floss.

And heat gun.

Debadge
 

Did mine today - took 20 minutes total.

1. Soften adhesive with heat gun or hair dryer
2. Use fishing line or dental floss to saw through the adhesive as close to the body as possible
3. Remove bulk of adhesive remnants with fingernail
4. Use paint thinner of Goof Off to remove residue
5. Polish with a fine polish/glaze
6. Wax
7. Enjoy the clean look!

http://greg-w.smugmug.com/Cars/2008-.../DSC3565-M.jpg

http://greg-w.smugmug.com/Cars/2008-.../DSC3562-M.jpg

http://greg-w.smugmug.com/Cars/2008-.../DSC3564-M.jpg

http://greg-w.smugmug.com/Cars/2008-...3569-sm-XL.jpg

That's b/c you didn't do it right. And, when they put on clear bra, they clean the paint with acetone. A little 3M adhesive remover will NOT harm the paint.

I debaged a Chevy Tahoe with badges that had been on their for YEARS. 3M adhesive remover & elbow grease will take them off. Polish the area when all the adhesive is gone, wax and you're never know they were there.

Many factories have used simple clean varsol for years to clean paint.
I have done the same.
Like the Goof Off or Goo Gone too.

Todays paint is especially tough with chemicals.