Mazda 2003 Miata MX-5, Owner'S Manual

Page: 222 / 257

8-43
Maintenance and Care
Appearance Care
Form No. 8R09-EA-02G
Follow all label and container directions
when using a chemical cleaner or polish.
Read all warnings and cautions.
▼
Maintaining the Finish
Washing
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:
•
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.
To minimize scratches on the vehicle’s
paint finish:
•
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.
•
Don’t use abrasive cleansers or wax
that contain abrasives.
Exterior Care
NOTE
•
Mazda is not responsible for
scratches caused by automatic car
washes or improper washing.
•
Scratches are more noticeable on
vehicles with darker paint finishes.
•
Don’t 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.
•
To prevent damaging the antenna,
retract it before entering a car wash
facility or passing beneath a low
overhead clearance.
CAUTION
J07R_8R09_EA_02G.book Page 43 Monday, July 1, 2002 11:30 AM