Exterior Care - Honda 1994 Accord Wagon Reference Owner's Manual

Exterior Care

Washing
Frequent washing helps preserve
your car's beauty. Dirt and grit
can scratch the paint, while tree
sap and bird droppings can
permanently ruin the finish.
Wash your car in a shady area,
not in direct sunlight. If the car is
parked in the sun, move it into
the shade and let the exterior
cool down before you start.
NOTICE
Chemical solvents and strong
cleaners can damage the paint,
metal and plastic on your car.
Only use the solvents and
cleaners recommended in this
Owner's Manual.
Rinse the car thoroughly with
cool water to remove loose dirt.
Appearance Care
Fill a bucket with cool water.
Mix in a mild detergent, such as
dishwashing liquid or a product
made especially for car
washing.
Wash the car, using the water
and detergent solution and a
soft-bristle brush, sponge or
soft cloth. Start at the top and
work your way down. Rinse
frequently.
Check the body for road tar,
tree sap, etc. Remove these
stains with tar remover or tur-
pentine. Rinse it off immediately
so it does not harm the finish.
Remember to rewax these
areas, even if the rest of the car
does not need waxing.
When you have washed and
rinsed the whole exterior, dry it
with a chamois or soft towel.
Letting it air-dry will cause
dulling and water spots.
As you dry the car, inspect it for
chips and scratches that could
allow corrosion to start. Repair
them with touch-up paint (see
page 168).
Power Antenna Cleaning
Every time you wash your car,
clean the antenna mast with a dry
cloth and mild detergent. Scrub
the antenna in upward strokes to
avoid bending it.
Make sure the antenna works
smoothly by turning the stereo off
and on several times with the
ignition switch ON (II). The
antenna does not need
lubricating. If you use a
"drive-through" car wash, make
sure you turn the stereo off first.
This retracts the antenna to
prevent damage from the brushes
in the car wash.