per Mercedes Benz: "RULES" for caring for a matte finish MB:
- Has a soft Matte-effect finish instead of traditional gloss
- Matte effect is entirely in the Clearcoat.
- The other paint layers are identical to traditional gloss finish
- More Durable than traditional finishes
- No Wax, Polishes, Sealers – these can damage the finish.
- Improper care can cause shiny or bright spots, these cannot be removed mechanically
(e.g., by polishing)
- Damage can only be repaired by reapplying Matte Clearcoat
- Blending and spot repairs generally result in unacceptable appearance, so Matte Clearcoat
must be applied edge-to-edge on the affected panel(s)
Routine Washing
- Wash Magno Matte paint by hand only
- An automatic car wash can cause uneven shiny spots
- For routine washing, use Mercedes-Benz Car Shampoo (Part# A001 986 41 71 10) or
other mild soap
- Use only a soft clean sponge or microfiber cloth
- Always use plenty of water.
- Avoid washing in direct sunlight or when paintwork is warm
- Dry vehicle using a Chamois or microfiber cloth to avoid water spots
Difficult Soils
- Pre-soak difficult soils to loosen and soften
- A soft bristle toothbrush can be used gently if necessary
- A pressure washer can help remove stubborn soils
- Remove insects with Mercedes-Benz Insect Remover (Part# A002 986 11 71 11)
- Remove Tar and Tar Stains with Mercedes-Benz Tar Remover (Part# A001 986 40 71)
- Use VM&P Naphtha to remove tree resins, fuel stains and other difficult soils
(Commercially available at hardware and paint stores as a type of paint thinner)
- Use Silicone Remover for waxes, oils and greases (Commercially available at auto body
paint stores)
No other products should be used on Magno Matte Paint
Precautions
- Never rub or scrub the paint surface
- Avoid Paint cleaners and harsh detergents
- Remove any contaminants immediately
- Use care to keep oils and greases off the finish
- Never allow adhesive stickers, tape or magnets on the finish
- Avoid brushes, terrycloth, wash mitts or other rough items.
- Never use car wax, car polish, or paint sealant
- Never use rubbing compound, clay bar, sandpaper or any abrasive items
- Never perform any polishing or other mechanical operations
- Be sure to address any soiling or paint faults promptly to avoid damage
- Use approved fender covers, and don’t allow them to rub or move against the paint
- Avoid letting anything touch the paint – colleagues, clothing, papers, etc.
As it was an extremely expensive option on MBs at least and do not want to make an equally expensive mistake, So I stick with these. So, no clay.
Polishing will add sheen. As noted above, the MB I care for has a couple of shiny spots which are very obvious. The local Audi dealer had an A7 damaged just pulling the plastics off.