Kia PICANTO 2023 Manual page 533

Maintenance
High temperatures can also accelerate
corrosion of parts that are not properly
ventilated so the moisture can be dis-
persed.
For all these reasons, it is particularly
important to keep your vehicle clean and
free of mud or accumulations of other
materials. This applies not only to the
visible surfaces but particularly to the
underside of the vehicle.
To help prevent corrosion
You can help prevent corrosion from
getting started by observing the follow-
ing:
Keep your vehicle clean
The best way to prevent corrosion is to
keep your vehicle clean and free of cor-
rosive materials. Attention to the under-
side of the vehicle is particularly
important.
僅 If you live in a high-corrosion area —
where road salts are used, near the
ocean, areas with industrial pollution,
acid rain, etc.—, you should take extra
care to prevent corrosion. In winter,
hose off the underside of your vehicle
at least once a month and be sure to
clean the underside thoroughly when
winter is over.
僅 When cleaning underneath the vehi-
cle, give particular attention to the
components under the fenders and
other areas that are hidden from view.
Do a thorough job; just dampening
the accumulated mud rather than
washing it away will accelerate corro-
sion rather than prevent it. Water
under high pressure and steam are
particularly effective in removing
accumulated mud and corrosive
materials.
僅 When cleaning lower door panels,
rocker panels and frame members, be
sure that drain holes are kept open so
that moisture can escape and not be
trapped inside to accelerate corrosion.
Keep your garage dry
Don't park your vehicle in a damp,
poorly ventilated garage. This creates a
favorable environment for corrosion.
This is particularly true if you wash your
vehicle in the garage or drive it into the
garage when it is still wet or covered
with snow, ice or mud. Even a heated
garage can contribute to corrosion
unless it is well ventilated so moisture is
dispersed.
Keep paint and trim in good con-
dition
Scratches or chips in the finish should be
covered with "touch-up" paint as soon as
possible to reduce the possibility of cor-
rosion. If bare metal is showing through,
the attention of a qualified body and
paint shop is recommended.
Bird droppings : Bird droppings are
highly corrosive and may damage
painted surfaces in just a few hours.
Always remove bird droppings as soon
as possible.
Don't neglect the interior
Moisture can collect under the floor
mats and carpeting and cause corrosion.
Check under the mats periodically to be
sure the carpeting is dry. Use particular
care if you carry fertilizers, cleaning
materials or chemicals in the vehicle.
These should be carried only in proper
containers and any spills or leaks should
be cleaned up, flushed with clean water
and thoroughly dried.
Appearance care
8
8 111