2002 Saab 9-5 Owner's Manual - Page 236

236 Car care and technical information Preventive maintenance The following procedures are necessary to help protect against rusting. Refer also to the terms and conditions of the Sheet Metal Coverage described in the warranty booklet. 1 Wash the car frequently, and wax at least twice a year. Under adverse conditions, where there is a rapid buildup of dirt, sand or road salt, wash your car at least once a week. After extreme exposure to salted snow or slush, evidenced by a white film on the car, wash the car immediately. Frequent washing will prevent paint damage from acid rain and other airborne contaminants such as tree sap and bird droppings. If any of these contaminants are noticed on the car the finish should be washed immediately. • Begin washing by rinsing the entire car with water to loosen and flush off heavy concentrations of dirt (include the underbody). • Sponge the car with a solution of either a good quality car soap or mild general purpose (dish washing) detergent and water. • Rinse car thoroughly with clean water. • After washing, check and clear all drains in doors and body panels. • Wipe the car dry, preferably using a chamois. 2 Clean the underside of the car during the winter. Use high pressure water to clean the car's underside (floor panels, wheel wells) at least at mid- winter and in the spring. 3 Inspect the car frequently for leaks or damage, and arrange for needed repairs promptly. After washing or after heavy rain, check for leaks. When washing the car inspect body surfaces for paint damage. While checking for leaks, lift the floor mats and check beneath them. Water can collect in these areas and remain for prolonged periods. Dry any wet areas including the floor mats. Have leaks repaired as soon as possible. Use touch-up paint to repair small scratches or minor finish damage. Areas where metal is exposed will rust quickly and MUST be repaired immediately by touch-up or professional repainting. Rust must be removed, the bare metal primed and painted. Major body damage should be repaired immediately and new panels or exposed areas should be undercoated with anti- corrosion material. Repairs of this type are the owner's responsibility and are not covered under warranty. What causes rust? Steel body panels of automobiles are subject to rusting whenever air and moisture manage to penetrate the protective finish, and body panels may rust through if the process is unchecked. Rusting can occur wherever water is trapped or where the car's panels are continuously damp. Damage to paint and undercoating by stones, gravel and minor crashes immediately exposes metal to air and moisture. Road salts used for de-icing will collect on the bottom of the car and promote rusting. Areas of the country with high humidity have great potential for rust problems, especially where salt is used on roads or there is moist sea air. Industrial pollution (fallout) may also damage paint and promote rusting.