Care; Paint; Power Washer; Washing By Hand - Mercedes-Benz SL Operator's Manual

cleaning agents. These cleaning agents can
damage the paintwork or plastic parts.
! Make sure that the automatic
transmission is in position N when washing
your vehicle in a tow-through car wash. The
vehicle could be damaged if the
transmission is in another position.
! Make sure that:
the side windows are fully closed.
R
the ventilation/heating is switched off
R
(the OFF button has been pressed).
the windshield wiper switch is in position
R
0.
Otherwise, the vehicle might be damaged.
You can wash the vehicle in an automatic car
wash from the very start.
If the vehicle is very dirty, pre-wash it before
cleaning it in an automatic car wash.
After using an automatic car wash, wipe off
wax from the windshield and the wiper
blades. This will prevent smears and reduce
wiping noises caused by residue on the
windshield.

Washing by hand

In some countries, washing by hand is only
allowed at specially equipped washing bays.
Observe the legal requirements in all
countries concerned.
X
Do not use hot water and do not wash the
vehicle in direct sunlight.
X
Use a soft sponge to clean.
X
Use a mild cleaning agent, such as a car
shampoo approved by Mercedes-Benz.
X
Thoroughly hose down the vehicle with a
gentle jet of water.
X
Do not point the water jet directly towards
the air inlets.
X
Use plenty of water and rinse out the
sponge frequently.
X
Rinse the vehicle with clean water and dry
thoroughly with a chamois.
X
Do not let the cleaning agent dry on the
paintwork.
When using the vehicle in winter, remove all
traces of road salt deposits carefully and as
soon as possible.

Power washers

G
WARNING
Do not use power washers with circular-jet
nozzles (dirt grinders) to clean your vehicle, in
particular the tires. You could otherwise
damage the tires and cause an accident.
! Always maintain a distance of at least
11.8 in (30 cm) between the vehicle and the
power washer nozzle. Information about
the correct distance is available from the
equipment manufacturer.
Move the power washer nozzle around
when cleaning your vehicle.
Do not aim directly at any of the following:
tires
R
door gaps, roof gaps, joints, etc.
R
electrical components
R
battery
R
connectors
R
lights
R
seals
R
trim
R
ventilation slots
R
Damaged seals or electrical components
can lead to leaks or failures.
Cleaning the paintwork
! Do not affix:
stickers
R
films
R
magnetic plates or similar items
R
to painted surfaces. You could otherwise
damage the paintwork.

Care

501
Z