2009 Mazda CX-9 Owner's Manual - Page 468

Maintenance and Care Appearance Care Exterior Care Follow all label and container directions when using a chemical cleaner or polish. Read all warnings and cautions. l l l qMaintaining 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 l 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. 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. l Mazda is not responsible for scratches caused by automatic car washes or improper washing. 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. 8-54