
Maintenance and Care
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Follow all label and container directions when using a chemical cleaner or polish. Read all warnings and cautions.
qMaintaining the Finish
Washing
CAUTION
Do not spray water in the engine compartment. Otherwise, it could result in
To help protect the finish from rust and deterioration, wash your Mazda thoroughly and frequently, at least once a month, with lukewarm or cold water.
If the vehicle is washed improperly, the paint surface could be scratched. Here are some examples of how scratching could occur.
Scratches occur on the paint surface when:
lThe vehicle is washed without first rinsing off dirt and other foreign matter.
lThe vehicle is washed with a rough, dry, or dirty cloth.
lThe vehicle is washed at a car wash
that uses brushes that are dirty or too stiff.
lCleansers or wax containing abrasives are used.
NOTE
lMazda is not responsible for scratches caused by automatic car washes or
improper washing.
lScratches are more noticeable on vehicles with darker paint finishes.
To minimize scratches on the vehicle's paint finish:
lRinse off any dirt or other foreign
matter using lukewarm or cold water before washing.
lUse plenty of lukewarm or cold water and a soft cloth when washing the
vehicle. Do not use a nylon cloth.
lRub gently when washing or drying the vehicle.
lTake your vehicle only to a car wash that keeps its brushes well maintained.
lDo not use abrasive cleansers or wax that contain abrasives.
CAUTION
ØDo not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners, or strong detergents containing highly alkaline or caustic agents on
ØTo prevent damaging the antenna, remove it before entering a car wash facility or passing beneath a low overhead clearance.
Pay special attention to removing salt, dirt, mud, and other foreign material from the underside of the fenders, and make sure the drain holes in the lower edges of the doors and rocker panels are clean.