1998 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual - Page 152

Cleaning the interior Waxing your Toyota Polishing and waxing is recommended to maintain the original beauty of your Toyota's 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. CAUTION Do not wash the vehicle floor with water, or allow water to get onto the floor when cleaning the vehicle interior or exterior. Water may get into audio components or other electrical components above or under the floor carpet (or mat) and cause a malfunction; and it may cause body corrosion. Vinyl interior The vinyl upholstery may be easily cleaned with a mild soap or detergent and water. First vacuum over the upholstery to remove loose dirt. Then, using a sponge or soft cloth, apply the soap solution to the vinyl. After allowing it to soak in for a few minutes to loosen the dirt, remove the dirt and wipe off the soap with a clean damp cloth. If all the dirt does not come off, repeat the procedure. Commercial foaming- type vinyl cleaners are also available which work well. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. NOTICE Do not use solvent, thinner, gasoline or window cleaner on the interior. Carpets Use a good foam- type clean the carpets. shampoo to Begin by vacuuming thoroughly to remove as much dirt as possible. Several types of foam cleaners are available; some are in aerosol cans and others are powders or liquids which you mix with water to produce a foam. To shampoo the carpets, use a sponge or brush to apply the foam. Rub in overlapping circles. Do not apply water-the best results are obtained by keeping the carpet as dry as possible. Read the shampoo instructions and follow them closely. Seat belts The seat belts may be cleaned with mild soap and water or with lukewarm water. Use a cloth or sponge. As you are cleaning, check the belts for excessive wear, fraying, or cuts. NOTICE Always remove the plastic bumpers if your vehicle is re- painted and placed in a high heat paint waxing booth. High temperatures could damage the bumpers. 144