From Mud to Mirror: Full SUV Detailing on a Mercedes-Benz GLS400d

From Mud to Mirror: Full SUV Detailing on a Mercedes-Benz GLS400d

When a Mercedes-Benz GLS400d rolls into the studio covered in thick layers of mud and grime, you know it’s going to be a satisfying transformation. In this article, I’ll walk you through the full detailing process I followed to restore this luxury SUV to showroom condition — using some of the best professional-grade products on the market, including Gyeon Quartz, Koch-Chemie, and Stjärnagloss.

🚘 The Challenge: Extreme Mud and Off-Road Dirt

This GLS400d came in looking like it had just finished a rally through the Irish countryside. The bodywork, wheels, and lower trim were completely caked in dried mud. This level of contamination required not just one, but two stages of pre-wash before I could safely begin contact washing.

🧼 Step-by-Step Detailing Process

1. Pre-Wash Stage 1: Stjärnagloss Frost

The first pre-wash stage involved Stjärnagloss Frost, a powerful citrus-based pre-cleaner that helps break down thick grime and organic contamination. It was sprayed generously across the lower panels, bumpers, arches, and wheels to start lifting the heaviest buildup.

2. Pre-Wash Stage 2: Koch-Chemie Green Star

Next, I applied Koch-Chemie Green Star, an all-purpose cleaner (APC) diluted to the right ratio to tackle remaining stubborn dirt and ensure a safe foundation for contact washing.

3. Contact Wash with Gyeon Bathe+

Once the pre-wash rinses were complete, I used Gyeon Bathe+ for the main wash — a pH-neutral shampoo enhanced with SiO₂ to provide slickness and light protection. The two-bucket method and soft microfiber mitt ensured a swirl-free result.

4. Wheel Cleaning

Wheels were deep cleaned using a triple-product combo:

  • Gyeon Wheel Cleaner – to remove brake dust

  • Gyeon Iron – for iron fallout

  • Stjärnagloss Frost – for additional degreasing and rubber treatment

5. Interior Detailing

Inside the vehicle, I began with a full vacuuming of all surfaces, including mats, seats, and under the pedals.

  • Plastics and trims were cleaned with Gtechniq Tri-Clean, an anti-bacterial cleaner safe for all surfaces.

  • Leather seats were gently agitated with Koch-Chemie Pol Star, using a soft brush and microfiber wipe-down.

6. Finishing Touch: Gyeon Cure

To lock in the gloss and provide short-term hydrophobic protection, I applied a final layer of Gyeon Cure, a SiO₂-based sealant that enhances shine and water beading.


🎥 All Captured in Cinematic ASMR Style

What makes this detail unique is not just the result, but the way it’s captured. The entire process was filmed in a cinematic, ASMR-style format, allowing viewers to experience the soothing sounds and satisfying visuals of the transformation.

If you enjoy satisfying detailing content, make sure to watch the video here and see every step for yourself.


🛠️ Products Used:

  • Gyeon Bathe+

  • Gyeon Wheel Cleaner

  • Gyeon Iron

  • Gyeon Cure

  • Stjärnagloss Frost

  • Koch-Chemie Green Star

  • Koch-Chemie Pol Star

  • Gtechniq Tri-Clean


📍 Detailing Location

Ark Auto Detailing – Professional Detailing Studio

Based in Newtownards, Northern Ireland

🚗 Expanding soon to Dublin, Ireland

📞 Book your detail: +44 7394 436607

📧 hello@arkautocare.co.uk