1996 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual - Page 271

Don't wash your vehicle in the direct rays of the sun. Don't use strong soaps or chemical detergents. Use liquid hand, dish or car washing (mild detergent) soaps. Dm3 use cleaning agents that me petroleum based, or that contain acid or abrasives.All cleaning agents should be flushed promptly and not allowed to dry on the surface, orthey could stain. D y the finish with a r soft, clean chamois or a 100% cotton towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting. High pressure carwashes may cause water to enter your vehicle. I NOTICE: Foreign materialssuch as calcium chloride and other and tar, tree sap,bird salts, ice melting agents, road oil droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc. can damage your vehicle's finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter. Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your Pontiac by hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint finish. You can get GM-approved cleaning products from your dealer. (See "AppearanceCare and Materials" in the Index.) Exterior painted surfaces are subject aging, weather to and chemical falloutthat can take their toll over aperiod of years. You can help to keep the paint finish looking new by keeping your Pontiac garaged or covered Your Pontiac has a "basecoat/clearcoat" paintfinish. The whenever possible. clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored basecoat. Always use waxesand polishes that are non-abrasive and made far a basecoat/clearcoat paintf ~ s h . 6-48