1996 GMC Suburban Owner's Manual - Page 311

Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts. ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicalsfrom 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. Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a period of years. You can help to keep the paint finish looking new by keeping your vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible. Aluminum Wheels (If So Equipped) Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean clothwith mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax may then be applied. The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted surface of your vehicle. Don't use strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, abrasive cleaners or abrasive cleaningbrushes on them because you could damage the surface. Don't take your vehicle through an automatic vehicle wash that has silicon carbide tire cleaning brushes. These brushes can also damage the surface of these wheels. Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Parts Bright metal parts should be cleaned regularly to keep their luster. Washing with water is all that is usually needed. However, you may use GM Chrome Polish on chrome or stainless steel trim, if necessary. Use special care with aluminum trim. To avoid damaging protective trim, never use auto orchrome polish, steam or caustic soap to clean aluminum. A coating of wax, rubbed to high polish, is recommended for a l l bright metal parts. Tires To clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner. I NOTICE: When applying a tire dressing always take care to wipe off any overspray or splash from painted all surfaces on the body or wheels of the vehicle. Petroleum-based products may damage the paint finish. 6-57