sjcsl55

OK, these days synthetics are so good it is tough to tell... I searched the forums and couldn't find anything.

Does anyone *honestly* know what interior trim components on an '04 SL55 is and isn't genuine leather?

For example: I know the headliner isn't real suede, but is actually a synthetic called Alcantara (which is actually preferable to me... more durable then suede).

mark anderson

As far as I know, unless you have the designo package, the only thing leather is the seats.

CynCarvin32

Seats, front of shifter, shifter boot, steering wheel rim, and I think door inserts. Other than that the rest is nicely stitched fake leather known as MB text. Actually is a great middle ground as leather on a dash or rear deck will crack with age but MB Text is basically bomb proof.

sjcsl55

OK, this is interesting... this site supposedly claims to list the "standard equipment" as found on a 2004 SL55 AMG window sticker:

http://consumerguideauto.howstuffwor...-equipment.htm

Under the interior section, it says:

"Hand-fitted AMG-designed perforated leather seating w/premium leather dash, console, doors, armrests, roll bar, rear cabin panels"

So, maybe it's a form of leather typically called "Bonded Leather" in the furniture business?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bonded_Leather

Maybe Mercedes instead calls it MBtex? A fake leather, but made from real leather fibers?

Just curious...

TampabaySL65AMG

I spoke to the Tampa stealership recently about detailing products for my car (08SL65) specifically for the dash board ... I didn't walk away feeling confident they knew what they were talking about ... although they did say don't use Armor-all products ... I give them credit for that.

I'm particularly curious what leather-type material/synthetic the dash is made out of ... and what is the recommended detail product to use.

I checked the detail forums ... I didn't see any responses that were specific to late model-SLs and / or a recommended product to use ... can anyone assist???

TampabaySL65AMG

Disregard my last ... one of my questions was addressed ... I just saw the other posting from AMGfan ... going for the Leatherique products myself.

EXECMALIBU

In my 2006 SL65 everything and I do mean everything in the interior is 100% leather!

The dash, door panels, back panels, roll bar ,sun visors etc etc are all leather. In my SL55 only parts of the car were leather. Ther might be a full lather option for the SL55.

I do worry about the dash and rear panel beibg leather and try to pary in the shade at all times.(**** about my cars)

maxabo

It's on option, here in Europe called "Leather Exclusive".
That means that you get pretty much EVERYTHING in leather...

I've had both with and without. Strongly recommend it!
I's veeeery nice!