2001 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual - Page 172

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. Plastic wheel ornaments: The plastic wheel ornaments are damaged easily by organic substances. If any organic substance splashes an ornament, be sure to wash it off with water and check if the ornament is damaged. NOTICE Do not use organic substances (gasoline, kerosene, benzine 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. 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. NOTICE To prevent damage to the antenna, make sure it is retracted before driving your Toyota through an automatic car wash. 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 surface 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 attach the heavily damaged plastic wheel ornament. It may fly off the wheel and cause accidents while the vehicle is moving. Aluminum wheels: Use only a mild soap or neutral detergent. Plastic bumpers: Wash carefully. Do not scrub with abrasive cleaners. The bumper faces are soft. Road tar: Remove with turpentine or cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces. 164