2010 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab Owner Manual - Page 381

380 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Front Axle What Causes Corrosion? Front axle fluid level should be at the bottom of the fill Corrosion is the result of deterioration or removal of plug. paint and protective coatings from your vehicle. Appearance Care and Protection from Corrosion Protection of Body and Paint from Corrosion Vehicle body care requirements vary according to geographic locations and usage. Chemicals that make roads passable in snow and ice, and those that are sprayed on trees and road surfaces during other seasons, are highly corrosive to the metal in your vehicle. Outside parking, which exposes your vehicle to airborne contaminants, road surfaces on which the vehicle is operated, extreme hot or cold weather and other extreme conditions will have an adverse affect on paint, metal trim, and underbody protection. The most common causes are: • Road salt, dirt and moisture accumulation • Stone and gravel impact • Insects, tree sap and tar • Salt in the air near seacoast localities • Atmospheric fallout/industrial pollutants Washing • Wash your vehicle regularly. Always wash your vehicle in the shade using MOPAR௡ Car Wash or equivalent, or a mild car wash soap, and rinse the panels The following maintenance recommendations will enable completely with clear water. you to obtain maximum benefit from the corrosion resistance built into your vehicle.