Mazda Not a Manual manual Exterior Care, QMaintaining the Finish

Models: Not a Manual

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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 engine-starting problems or damage to electrical parts.

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 chrome-plated or anodized aluminum parts. This may damage the protective coating; also, cleaners and detergents may discolor or deteriorate the paint.

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.

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Page 384
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Mazda Not a Manual manual Exterior Care, QMaintaining the Finish