SLK/R170: 98 SLK Scratched Paint Dash/Console Fixed
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 26
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From: Daytona Beach, Florida
2005 SLK55
98 SLK Scratched Paint Dash/Console Fixed
I bought a used 98 SLK with 50K miles, before I bought it the dealer sprayed the dash face pieces, glove box, etc. with a matching gray spray paint which easily scratched off with a finger nail. I removed all the paint and discovered the dash is made of solid black plastic which looks 1000% better then the scuffed parts and won't show scratches. See before/after picture so you can appreciate the change.
Last edited by maestro89; Mar 25, 2007 at 06:39 PM. Reason: Added Before and After Picture
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 26
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From: Daytona Beach, Florida
2005 SLK55
Motsenbocker Lift off Water Gel Based Stripper
I used this product, it was quick and did not have fumes or bad smell and is a gel so can be brushed on and works in minutes. NOTE of caution, the product will ruin the fake factory carbon trim if left on to long, better to remove parts you want black. Also the edges were tricky, I went over a few times with a course sponge and, used a black sharpie in small tight areas like seams. Also, take the opportunity to use something like amour all on edges before you reinstall parts. Here is a better before and after.
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Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 26
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From: Daytona Beach, Florida
2005 SLK55
I used Motsenbocker Lift off Water Gel Based Stripper...Everyone that has seen in person has said it looks 100% better, I agree. The scratches looked horrible.
All the paint has been removed, it's true black, the shininess is from my trial and error of what dressing looks the best, but it was temporary and is now even shine and color. Also, a great help was a set of dental tools like the dentist uses on your teeth - it was great at getting the paint out of crevices and a plastic putty knife for the big sections, see photo, paint practically falls off.
All the paint has been removed, it's true black, the shininess is from my trial and error of what dressing looks the best, but it was temporary and is now even shine and color. Also, a great help was a set of dental tools like the dentist uses on your teeth - it was great at getting the paint out of crevices and a plastic putty knife for the big sections, see photo, paint practically falls off.
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2007
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From: Dallas, TX
2008 E63 wagon (1 of 62)
Wow... I have never seen it done like this before. Most people just replace the interior parts instead of doing something like this. It does look alot better with the black though.
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Joined: Nov 2001
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From: Laguna Niguel, CA
I've never heard of anyone replacing their interior. I've heard of people chemically stripping their interiors with EZ Off oven cleaner. I've heard of one guy having it media blasted but these people took their interiors apart which not only seems like a ton of work but also means you can't easily drive the car while it's apart. Many seem to repaint the parts after being stripped. It's good to see one that was done in the car and not painted. I think it's the way to go. Too many things you bring in a small car like that (laptops, briefcases, ipods, cell phones, etc) that will scratch the finish that it's good not to have any finish. I'll have to show my kid the pictures and see if she agrees we should do this to her car.
As an alternative you can touch up the interior. It comes out pretty good with the correct paint but then another scratch appears and it becomes a weekly chore.
As an alternative you can touch up the interior. It comes out pretty good with the correct paint but then another scratch appears and it becomes a weekly chore.
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Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2007
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From: Daytona Beach, Florida
2005 SLK55
I wanted to add...another thing I did to mine while I had the center consul apart was to reverse the plastic sheaths around the emergency brake and slider cover compartment over lighter. Over time the plastic became faded, but the other side is a cool ribbed black.
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I bought a used 98 SLK with 50K miles, before I bought it the dealer sprayed the dash face pieces, glove box, etc. with a matching gray spray paint which easily scratched off with a finger nail. I removed all the paint and discovered the dash is made of solid black plastic which looks 1000% better then the scuffed parts and won't show scratches. See before/after picture so you can appreciate the change.
Avery
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Joined: Jun 2006
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great solution to a pesky problem!
Thanks for sharing the pics. I've been wondering what to do. I have a 2000 that is not scratched too badly, but it's only a matter of time before a little scratch here and there begins to add up!
I'm not ready to strip mine yet as I still like the way the tan interior looks, but eventually it will be necessary.
How about this.... does anyone know how to install a remote controlled lifter for the trunk? My trunk struts need replacing just like others on here have mentioned, but I wondered if there is a reasonable after-market solution to make opening the truck even easier.
Anyone know of any?
I'm not ready to strip mine yet as I still like the way the tan interior looks, but eventually it will be necessary.
How about this.... does anyone know how to install a remote controlled lifter for the trunk? My trunk struts need replacing just like others on here have mentioned, but I wondered if there is a reasonable after-market solution to make opening the truck even easier.
Anyone know of any?
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