Kia Sportage 2023 Manual page 529

Maintenance
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.
Interior care
Interior general precautions
Prevent chemicals such as perfume, cos-
metic oil, sun cream, hand cleaner, and
air freshener from contacting the interior
parts because they may cause damage
or discoloration. If they do contact the
interior parts, wipe them off immedi-
ately. If necessary, use a mixture of
warm water and mild non-detergent
cleaner (test all cleaners on a concealed
area before use). Use proper car cleaner
to clean interior parts.
CAUTION
僅 Never allow water or other liquids to
come in contact with electrical/elec-
tronic components inside the vehicle
as this may damage them.
僅 When cleaning leather products
(steering wheel, seats etc.), use neu-
tral detergents or low alcohol content
Appearance care
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