Is this poor reptile a G-wagen? I would think any ML way too young to suffer from such a condition. I suppose you could run down to a local bodyshop and ask to buy some VERY aggressive rubbing compound. Meguiar's #2, #3, or 3M's medium cut combined with an orbital buffer should help smooth the shedding process. While we are talking bodyshops, do ask around at your local MBCA chapter or any other similar gathering of people who care about their car. Ask them for bodyshop recommendations. You can also call your insurance company and ask them which body shop they recommend. That way if the shop they send you to gives you any crap you have a bit more leverage.

Hope this helps...Lee