2009 Mazda CX-9 Owner's Manual - Page 470

Maintenance and Care Appearance Care qCavity Protection Cavities are treated for protection at the factory, but additional protective treatment after the vehicle has been put into use will extend the life of the body. We recommend that you consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer concerning this additional precaution. qUnderbody Maintenance Road chemicals and salt used for ice and snow removal and solvents used for dust control may collect on the underbody. If not removed, they will speed up rusting and deterioration of such underbody parts as fuel lines, frame, floor pan, and exhaust system, even though these parts may be coated with anti-corrosive material. Thoroughly flush the underbody and wheel housings with lukewarm or cold water at the end of each winter. Try also to do this every month. Pay special attention to these areas because they easily hide mud and dirt. It will do more harm than good to wet down the road grime without removing it. The lower edges of doors, rocker panels, and frame members have drain holes that should not be clogged. Water trapped there will cause rusting. qBright-Metal Maintenance l l l Use tar remover to remove road tar and insects. Never do this with a knife or similar tool. To prevent corrosion on bright-metal surfaces, apply wax or chrome preservative and rub it to a high luster. During cold weather or in coastal areas, cover bright-metal parts with a coating of wax or preservative heavier than usual. It would also help to coat them with noncorrosive petroleum jelly or some other protective compound. CAUTION 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 result in damage to the protective coating and cause discoloration or paint deterioration. WARNING Dry wet brakes by driving very slowly and applying the brakes lightly until brake performance is normal: Driving with wet brakes is dangerous. Increased stopping distance or the vehicle pulling to one side when braking could result in a serious accident. Light braking will indicate whether the brakes have been affected. 8-56