2001 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 228

Maintenance and care The brushes used in some automatic car washes may damage the finish on your wheels. Before going to a car wash, find out if the brushes are abrasive. Cleaning non-painted plastic exterior parts Use vinyl cleaner for routine cleaning. Clean with a tar remover if necessary. Do not clean plastic parts with thinners, solvents or petroleum-based cleaners. Cleaning mirrors Do not clean your mirrors with a dry cloth or abrasive materials. Use a soft cloth and mild detergent and water. Be careful when removing ice from outside mirrors because you may damage the reflective surface. Cleaning the exterior lamps Wash with the same detergent as the exterior of your vehicle. If necessary, use a tar remover such as Ford Extra Strength Tar and Road Oil Remover (B7A-19520-AA). To avoid scratching the lamps, do not use a dry paper towel, chemical solvents or abrasive cleaners. Cleaning the engine Engines are more efficient when they are clean because grease and dirt buildup keep the engine warmer than normal. When washing: • Take care when using a power washer to clean the engine. The high pressure fluid could penetrate the sealed parts and cause damage. • Do not spray with cold water to avoid cracking the engine block or other engine components. • Never apply anything to the drive belt (including belt dressing). 228