Manual

234
Environmental conditions which
accelerate corrosion
❒ Road salt, dust control chemicals, sea
air or industrial pollution will all ac-
celerate the corrosion of metal.
❒ High humidity will increase the rate
of corrosion particularly when the
temperature range is just above the
freezing point.
❒ Moisture in certain areas of a vehi-
cle for an extended period of time
may promote corrosion even though
other body sections may be com-
pletely dry.
❒ High temperatures will cause an ac-
celerated rate of corrosion to parts
of the vehicle which are not well ven-
tilated to permit quick drying.
This information illustrates the neces-
sity of keeping your vehicle (particular-
ly the underbody) as clean and dry as
possible. It is equally important to repair
any damage to the paint or protective
coatings as soon as possible.
HOW TO HELP PREVENT
CORROSION
Wash your vehicle frequently
The best way to preserve the finish on
your vehicle and to help avoid corrosion
is to keep it clean with frequent washing.
Wash your vehicle at least once during the
winter and once immediately after the
winter. Keep your vehicle, particularly the
underside, as clean and dry as possible.
If you frequently drive on salted roads,
your vehicle should be washed at least
once a month during the winter. If you live
near the ocean, your vehicle should be
washed at least once a month throughout
the year.
For washing instructions, refer to the “Ve-
hicle Cleaning” section.
CORROSION
PREVENTION
It is important to take good care of your
vehicle to protect it from corrosion. List-
ed below are instructions for how to
maintain your vehicle to prevent corro-
sion. Please read and follow these in-
structions carefully.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
ABOUT CORROSION
Common causes of corrosion
❒ Accumulation of road salt, dirt, mois-
ture, or chemicals in hard to reach ar-
eas of the vehicle underbody or frame.
❒ Chipping, scratches and any damage to
treated or painted metal surfaces re-
sulting from minor accidents or abra-
sion by stones and gravel.