Sun Damaged rear headrest - can they be 'cleaned'? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

tivoliman · #1 03-27-2010, 05:28 PM

My daughter's car (1990 300E 2.6) seems to be in teh sun most of teh time.

When we first bought the car - I think the rear head rests were 'clean'.

They have been in the down position, and there is some sun damage.

Is there a product that can help restore the MB Tex?

Is there something that can prevent further damage.

The pictures below show the damaged side and the clean side 9the side not shown to the sun).

Thanks.

JohnM. · #2 03-27-2010, 11:38 PM

That damage is most likely irreversible. There are plenty of products that will protect against sun fade/damage. But once it's happened, I think you are out of luck. Re-dying is the only thing that comes to mind (not sure if MB-TEX is dyeable). Only other option I see is finding a nice pair via eBay or thru someone parting out a car on the forums here.

SunGuy · #3 03-28-2010, 12:54 PM

JohnM is absolutely right about reversing/cleaning faded MBTex or anything for that matter.

IMO, you'll need two products to effect repair and protect for the future. Most auto paint sellers carry a product from SEM Corp that is custom mixed to the color you desire and placed in a spray can. This material is not paint, per se, but a coating that bonds deeply with the vinyl/MBTex. Their website contains a 'dealer locator'...http://www.semproducts.com/ Follow the material prep instructions to the letter, then spray away-

Once the color is restored and had a chance to cure, I recommend a protectant like 303 brand as it contains a sun protection formulation, and will provide a natural finish (as opposed to ultra shiney like ArmourAll)

If this 2-step process doesn't appeal to you, it's either off to the upholsterer or boneyard. Have fun-

Bob

tivoliman · #4 03-28-2010, 02:58 PM

I'll look for those products.

My first choice is to restore the appearance, but my primary concern is that the material will tear.

Discolor is better than holes.

Thanks