CAUTION
When cleaning the inside of the windows, do not
use sharp-edged tools, abrasive cleaners or chlo-
rine-based disinfectant cleaners. They could
damage the electrical conductors, such as rear
window defogger elements.
SEAT BELTS
WARNING
•
Do not allow wet seat belts to roll up in the
retractor.
•
Never use bleach, dye or chemical solvents to
clean the seat belts, since these materials
may severely weaken the seat belt webbing.
The seat belts can be cleaned by wiping them with
a sponge dampened in a mild soap solution.
Allow the belts to dry completely in the shade before
using them. (See “Seat belts” in the “1. Safety —
seats, seat belts and supplemental restraint system”
section.)
MOST COMMON FACTORS
CONTRIBUTING TO VEHICLE
CORROSION
•
The accumulation of moisture-retaining dirt and
debris in body panel sections, cavities, and other
areas.
•
Damage to the paint surface and other protec-
tive coatings caused by gravel and stone chips
or minor traffic accidents.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
INFLUENCE RATE OF CORROSION
Moisture
The accumulation of sand, dirt and water on the
inside floor of the vehicle can accelerate corrosion.
Wet floor carpet/floor mats will not dry completely
inside the vehicle. They should be removed and
completely dried to avoid floor panel corrosion.
Relative humidity
Corrosion will be accelerated in areas of high rela-
tive humidity.
Temperature
High temperatures accelerate the rate of corrosion
to those parts which are not well ventilated.
Corrosion will also be accelerated in areas where
the temperatures stay above freezing.
Air pollution
Industrial pollution, the presence of salt in the air in
coastal areas, or heavy road salt use accelerates
the corrosion process. Road salt also accelerates
the disintegration of paint surfaces.
TO PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE FROM
CORROSION
•
Wash and wax your vehicle often to keep the
vehicle clean.
•
Always check for minor damage to the paint sur-
face and if any exists, repair it as soon as pos-
sible.
•
Keep the drain holes in the lower edge of the
doors open to avoid water accumulation.
•
Check the vehicle underbody for accumulation
of sand, dirt or salt. If present, wash with water
as soon as possible.
CAUTION
•
Never remove dirt, sand or other debris from
the passenger compartment by washing it out
with a hose. Remove dirt with a vacuum
cleaner or broom.
•
Never allow water or other liquids to come in
contact with electronic components inside the
vehicle as this may damage them.
Chemicals used for road surface deicing are ex-
tremely corrosive. They accelerate corrosion and
CORROSION PROTECTION
Appearance and care 7-5
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