User's Guide Part 3

6 – 56
Maintenance and Care
Appearance Care
To help protect the fi nish 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:
•
The vehicle is washed without first
rinsing off dirt and other foreign matter.
• The vehicle is washed with a rough, dry,
or dirty cloth.
• The vehicle is washed at a car wash that
uses brushes that are dirty or too stiff.
• Cleansers or wax containing abrasives
are used.
NOTE
• Mazda is not responsible for scratches
caused by automatic car washes or
improper washing.
•
Scratches are more noticeable on
vehicles with darker paint fi nishes.
To minimize scratches on the vehicle's
paint fi nish:
• Rinse off any dirt or other foreign matter
using lukewarm or cold water before
washing.
• Use plenty of lukewarm or cold water
and a soft cloth when washing the
vehicle. Do not use a nylon cloth.
• Rub gently when washing or drying the
vehicle.
• Take your vehicle only to a car wash
that keeps its brushes well maintained.
• Do not use abrasive cleansers or wax
that contain abrasives.
CAUTION
Do 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.
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.
Insects, tar, tree sap, bird droppings,
industrial fallout, and similar deposits
can damage the fi nish if not removed
immediately. When prompt washing with
plain water is ineffective, use a mild soap
made for use on vehicles.
Thoroughly rinse off all soap with
lukewarm or cold water. Do not allow
soap to dry on the fi nish.
After washing the vehicle, dry it with a
clean chamois to prevent water spots from
forming.
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