2006 Lexus GS 300 Owners Manual - Page 1249

BODY 1. Rinse off loose dirt with a hose. Remove any mud or road salt from the underside of the vehicle or the wheel wells. 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. Fuel filler door: Do not apply water (high−pressure car wash, for example) at or near the fuel tank inlet with the fuel filler door opened. If the water enters the air vent, you may experience trouble with refueling or rough engine idling. Plastic wheel ornaments: The plastic wheel ornaments are damaged easily by organic substances. If any organic substances splash an ornament, be sure to wash them off with water and check if the ornament is damaged. Aluminum wheels: Use only a mild soap or neutral detergent. Plastic bumpers and side moldings: Wash carefully. Do not scrub with abrasive cleaners. The bumper and side molding faces are soft. Exterior lights: Wash carefully. Do not use organic substances or scrub them with a hard brush. This may damage the surfaces of the lights. Road tar: Remove with turpentine or cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces. 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. NOTICE D Do not use organic substances (gasoline, kerosene, benzine or strong solvents), which may be toxic or cause damage. D Do not scrub any part of the vehicle with a hard brush, which may cause damage. Automatic car wash Your vehicle may be washed in an automatic car wash, but remember that the paint can be scratched by some types 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. 603