2003 Lexus GS 300 Owners Manual - Page 338

BODY Plastic wheel ornaments: The plastic wheel ornaments are damaged easily by organic substances. If any organic substance splashes an ornament, be sure to wash it off with water and check if the ornament is damaged. Automatic car wash Your vehicle may be washed in an automatic car wash, but remember that the paint can be scratched by some types of brushes, unfiltered washing water, or the washing process itself. Scratching reduces paint durability and gloss, especially on darker colors. The manager of the car wash should be able to advise you whether the process is safe for the paint on your vehicle. CAUTION Do not attach the heavily damaged plastic wheel ornament. It may fly off the wheel and cause accidents while the vehicle is moving. Aluminum wheels: Use only a mild soap or neutral detergent. Urethane bumpers and side moldings: Wash carefully. Do not scrub with abrasive cleaners. The bumper and side molding faces are soft. Road tar: Remove with turpentine or cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces. Waxing your Lexus Polishing and waxing is recommended to maintain the original beauty of your Lexus' finish. Apply wax once a month or if the vehicle surface does not repel water well. 1. Always wash and dry the vehicle surface before you begin waxing, even if you are using a combined cleaner and wax. 2. Use a good quality polish and wax. If the finish has become extremely weathered, use a car-cleaning polish, followed by a separate wax. Carefully follow the manufacturer 's instructions and precautions. Be sure to polish and wax the chrome trim as well as the paint. 3. Wax the vehicle again when water does not bead but remains on the surface in large patches. NOTICE Do not use organic substances (gasoline, kerosene, benzine or strong solvents), which may be toxic or cause damage. 3. Rinse thoroughly - dried soap can cause streaking. In hot weather you may need to rinse each section right after you wash it. 4. To prevent water spots, dry the vehicle using a clean soft cotton towel. Do not rub or press hard - you might scratch the paint. 317