1998 Lexus ES 300 Owners Manual - Page 236

BODY 2. Wash with a mild car-wash soap, mixed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use a soft cotton mitt and keep it wet by dipping it frequently into the wash water. Do not rub hard - let the soap and water remove the dirt. Aluminum wheels: Use only a mild soap or neutral detergent. Urethane bumpers and side moldings: Wash carefully. Do not scrub with abrasive cleaners. The bumper and side molding faces are soft. Road tar: Remove with turpentine or cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces. Automatic car wash Your vehicle may be washed in an automatic car wash, but remember that the paint can be scratched by some type of brushes, unfiltered washing water, or the washing process itself. Scratching reduces paint durability and gloss, especially on darker colors. The manager of the car wash should be able to advise you whether the process is safe for the paint on your vehicle. Waxing your Lexus Polishing and waxing is recommended to maintain the original beauty of your Lexus' finish. Once a month or if the vehicle does not repel water well, apply wax. 1. Always wash and dry the vehicle before you begin waxing, even if you are using a combined cleaner and wax. 2. Use a good quality polish and wax. If the finish has become extremely weathered, use a car-cleaning polish, followed by a separate wax. Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions and precautions. Be sure to polish and wax the chrome trim as well as the paint. 3. Wax the vehicle again when water does not bead but remains on the surface in large patches. NOTICE Do not use gasoline or strong solvents, which may be toxic or cause damage. 3. Rinse thoroughly - dried soap can cause streaking. In hot weather you may need to rinse each section right after you wash it. 4. To prevent water spots, dry the vehicle using a clean soft cotton towel. Do not rub or press hard - you might scratch the paint. 236