2005 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 257

Car care Use a hose to clean the underside of the car thoroughly. After it has dried, use a brush or spray to apply a viscous anti-corrosion agent to any worn or damaged areas, to prevent the onset of corrosion. Even after the anti-corrosion warranty has expired, it makes good sense to continue to maintain the rustproofing. Seams in the body, especially those in the doors and trunk lid, are particularly vulnerable to corrosion from the outside, caused by grit and salt thrown up from the road, and to corrosion from the inside, largely as a result of condensation. Keep the seams clean and at the first sign of any rust, apply a thin, penetrating, anti-corrosion oil. Your Saab dealer will be pleased to give you further advice. 255 What causes rust? Steel body panels of automobiles are subject to rusting whenever air and moisture manage to penetrate the protective finish. 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 a greater 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. Preventive maintenance The following procedures are necessary to help protect against rusting. Refer also to the terms and conditions of the Performation Limited Warranty 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.