2003 Mazda Miata MX-5 Owner's Manual - Page 226

J07R_8R09_EA_02G.book Page 47 Monday, July 1, 2002 11:30 AM Maintenance and Care Appearance Care Appearance(Polyvinyl only) Dress the top once a month after washing and drying it well. For best results, use a water-based leather treatment or vinyl top dressing. CAUTION • Don't use an automatic car wash. • Don't use strong soap, chemical detergents, or hot water, and don't wash the hardtop in direct sunlight or when the surface is warm. Thoroughly rinse with lukewarm or cold water. Don't allow soap to dry on the finish. Waxing Wax the hardtop when water no longer beads on the paint. Always wash and dry it before waxing. CAUTION • Some leather treatment products can ruin the top's gloss. Be careful of the one you choose. • Test on an inconspicuous, small corner of the top if you are not sure. • Don't get any car wax on the top. If you do, remove it with a good leather cleaner. • Too much treatment on the top can be as damaging as too little. Follow the manufacturer's directions. Don't overdo it! • Let the top dry completely before lowering after applying treatment or dressing. CAUTION • Wiping off dust or dirt with a dry cloth will scratch the finish. • Don't use abrasive wax. This may damage the protective coating and discolor or deteriorate the paint. NOTE M Detachable Hardtop Maintenance Washing To help protect the hardtop's finish, use a soft cloth or sponge to wash it. Insects, tar, tree sap, bird droppings, industrial fallout, and similar deposits can damage the finish if they are not removed immediately. When prompt washing with plain water is ineffective use a mild soap made for use on vehicles. A spot remover to remove oil, tar, and similar materials will usually also take off the wax. Rewax these areas. 8-47 Form No. 8R09-EA-02G