2004 Mazda RX-8 Owners Manual - MyMazda

J60E_8R65-EA-03C_Edition2.book Page 41 Saturday, April 26, 2003 1:48 PMMaintenance and CareAppearance CareFollow all label and container directionswhen using a chemical cleaner or polish.Read all warnings and cautions.▼ Maintaining the FinishWashingExterior CareTo help protect the finish from rust anddeterioration, wash your Mazdathoroughly and frequently, at least once amonth, with lukewarm or cold water.If the vehicle is washed improperly, thepaint surface could be scratched. Here aresome examples of how scratching couldoccur.Scratches occur on the paint surfacewhen:• The vehicle is washed without firstrinsing off dirt and other foreignmatter.• The vehicle is washed with a rough,dry, or dirty cloth.• The vehicle is washed at a car washthat uses brushes that are dirty or toostiff.• Cleansers or wax containing abrasivesare used.To minimize scratches on the vehicle’spaint finish:• Rinse off any dirt or other foreignmatter using lukewarm or cold waterbefore washing.• Use plenty of lukewarm or cold waterand a soft cloth when washing thevehicle. Do not use a nylon cloth.• Rub gently when washing or drying thevehicle.• Take your vehicle only to a car washthat keeps its brushes well maintained.• Don’t use abrasive cleansers or waxthat contain abrasives.CAUTIONDon’t use steel wool, abrasivecleaners, or strong detergentscontaining highly alkaline or causticagents on chrome-plated or anodizedaluminum parts. This may damage theprotective coating; also, cleaners anddetergents may discolor or deterioratethe paint.NOTE• Mazda is not responsible forscratches caused by automatic carwashes or improper washing.• Scratches are more noticeable onvehicles with darker paint finishes.8-41Form No. 8R65-EA-03C