Mazda 2009 MX-5 Miata, Owner'S Manual

Page: 378 / 444

Black plate (378,1)
Exterior Care
Follow
all
label and container directions
when using a chemical cleaner or polish.
Read all warnings and cautions.
q
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:
l
The vehicle is washed without first
rinsing off dirt and other foreign
matter.
l
The vehicle is washed with a rough,
dry, or dirty cloth.
l
The vehicle is washed at a car wash
that uses brushes that are dirty or too
stiff.
l
Cleansers or wax containing abrasives
are used.
NOTE
l
Mazda is not responsible for scratches
caused by automatic car washes or
improper washing.
l
Scratches are more noticeable on vehicles
with darker paint finishes.
To minimize scratches on the vehicle's
paint finish:
l
Rinse off any dirt or other foreign
matter using lukewarm or cold water
before washing.
l
Use plenty of lukewarm or cold water
and a soft cloth when washing the
vehicle. Do not use a nylon cloth.
l
Rub gently when washing or drying the
vehicle.
l
Take your vehicle only to a car wash
that keeps its brushes well maintained.
l
Don't use abrasive cleansers or wax
that contain abrasives.
CAUTION
Ø
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.
Ø
To prevent damaging the antenna,
remove it before entering a car
wash facility or passing beneath a
low overhead clearance.
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 finish 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. Don't allow soap
to dry on the finish.
8-50
Maintenance and Care
Appearance Care
MX-5_8Z78-EA-08K_Edition1 Page378
Thursday, October 23 2008 1:54 PM
Form No.8Z78-EA-08K