Washing And Cleaning The Car; Rain Sensor - Volvo S40 Owner's Manual

2007 Volvo S40
177 08 Car care

Washing and cleaning the car

automatic washers do not have facilities for washing the underbody.
CAUTION
Before driving into an automatic car wash, turn off the optional rain sensor to avoid damaging the
windshield wipers.
Make sure that side view mirrors, auxiliary lamps, etc, are secure, and that any antenna(s) are
retracted or removed. Otherwise there is risk of the machine dislodging them.
Chromed wheels: Clean chrome-plated wheels using the same detergents used for the body of the
vehicle. Aggressive wheel-cleaning agents can permanently stain chrome-plated wheels
WARNING
When the car is driven immediately after being washed, apply the brakes several times in order to
remove any moisture from the brake linings.
Engine cleaning agents should not be used when the engine is warm. This constitutes a fire risk.
Exterior lighting
Condensation may form temporarily on the inside of the lenses of exterior lights such as headlights, fog
lights, or taillights. This is normal and the lights are designed to withstand moisture. Normally,
condensation will dissipate after the lights have been on for a short time.
Polishing and Waxing
Normally, polishing is not required during the first year after delivery, however, waxing may be
beneficial.
Before applying polish or wax the vehicle must be washed and dried. Tar spots can be removed with
kerosene or tar remover. Difficult spots may require a fine rubbing compound.
After polishing use liquid or paste wax.
Several commercially available products contain both polish and wax.
Waxing alone does not substitute for polishing a dull surface.
A wide range of polymer-based waxes can be purchased today. These waxes are easy to use and
produce a long-lasting, high-gloss finish that protects the bodywork against oxidation, road dirt and
fading.
Do not polish or wax your vehicle in direct sunlight (the surface of the vehicle should not be warmer
than 113° F (45° C).
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