2004 Mazda MAZDA3 Owner's Manual - Page 295

Maintenance and Care Appearance Care To minimize scratches on the vehicle's paint finish: • Rinse off any dirt or other foreign matter using lukewarm or cold water before washing. • Use plenty of lukewarm or cold water and a soft cloth when washing the vehicle. Do not use a nylon cloth. • Rub gently when washing or drying the vehicle. • Take your vehicle only to a car wash that keeps its brushes well maintained. • Don't use abrasive cleansers or wax that contain abrasives. Pay special attention to removing salt, dirt, mud, and other foreign material from the underside of the fenders, and make sure the drain holes in the lower edges of the doors and rocker panels are clean. Insects, tar, tree sap, bird droppings, industrial fallout, and similar deposits can damage the finish if not removed immediately. When prompt washing with plain water is ineffective, use a mild soap made for use on vehicles. Thoroughly rinse off all soap with lukewarm or cold water. Don't allow soap to dry on the finish. After washing the vehicle, dry it with a clean chamois to prevent water spots from forming. CAUTION • Don't use steel wool, abrasive cleaners, or strong detergents containing highly alkaline or caustic agents on chrome-plated or anodized aluminum parts. This may damage the protective coating; also, cleaners and detergents may discolor or deteriorate the paint. • To prevent damaging the antenna, remove it before entering a car wash facility or passing beneath a low overhead clearance. WARNING Driving with Wet Brakes: Driving with wet brakes is dangerous. Increased stopping distance or the vehicle pulling to one side when braking could result in a serious accident. Light braking will indicate whether the brakes have been affected. Dry the brakes by driving very slowly and applying the brakes lightly until brake performance is normal. 8-54