Exterior Care
Dust off the vehicle body after you drive. Regularly inspect your vehicle for scratches on painted surfaces. A scratch on a painted surface can result in body rust. If you find a scratch, promptly repair it.
Washing the Vehicle
Wash the vehicle regularly. Wash more frequently when driving in the following conditions:
- If driving on roads with road salt.
- If driving in coastal areas.
- If tar, soot, bird droppings, insects, or tree sap are stuck to painted surfaces.
Using an Automated Car Wash
- Fold in the door mirrors.
Make sure to follow the instructions indicated on the automated car wash.
Using High Pressure Cleaners
- Keep sufficient distance between the cleaning nozzle and the vehicle body.
- Take particular care around the windows. Standing too close may cause water to enter the vehicle interior. Do not spray water into the engine compartment.
Washing the Vehicle
Do not spray water into the air intake vents or engine compartment. It can cause a malfunction.
Applying Wax
A good coat of automotive body wax helps protect your vehicle’s paint from the elements. Wax will wear off over time and expose your vehicle’s paint to the elements, so reapply as necessary.
Maintaining the Bumpers and Other Resin Coated Parts
If you get gasoline, oil, engine coolant, or battery fluid on resin coated parts, they may be stained or the coating may peel. Promptly wipe it away using a soft cloth and clean water.
Cleaning the Window
Wipe using a glass cleaner.
Maintaining Aluminum Wheels
Aluminum is susceptible to deterioration caused by salt and other road contaminants. Use a sponge and mild detergent to wipe away promptly. Be careful not to use harsh chemicals (including some commercial wheel cleaners) or a stiff brush. They can damage the clear coat of the aluminum alloy wheels that helps keep the aluminum from corroding and tarnishing.
Applying Wax
NOTICE
Chemical solvents and strong cleaners can damage the paint, metal, and plastic on your vehicle. Wipe up spills immediately.
Maintaining the Bumpers and Other Resin Coated Parts
Ask a dealer about the correct coating material when you want to repair the painted surface of the parts made of resin.
Cleaning the Window
Wires are mounted to the inside of the rear window. Wipe along the same direction as the wires with a soft cloth so as not to damage them.
See also:
Daytime Running Lights
The high beam headlights come on slightly dimmer than normal when the
following
conditions have been met:
• The ignition switch is in ON .
• The headlight switch is off, or in .
• The park ...
Driving Safely with a Trailer
Parking
In addition to the normal precautions, place wheel
chocks at each of the trailer’s tires.
■Things You Need To Know Before Towing a Trailer
• Have the trailer properly serviced an ...
Fastening a Seat Belt
After adjusting a front seat to the proper position, and while sitting
upright and well
back in the seat:
Adjusting the Seats
1. Pull the seat belt out slowly.
2. Insert the latch plat ...