Mazda 3 Owner's Manual page 553

Bright-Metal Maintenance
Use tar remover to remove road tar and
insects. Never do this with a knife or
similar tool.
To prevent corrosion on bright-
metal surfaces, apply wax or chrome
preservative and rub it to a high lustre.
During cold weather or in coastal areas,
cover bright-metal parts with a coating
of wax or preservative heavier than
usual. It would also help to coat them
with noncorrosive petroleum jelly or
some other protective compound.
CAUTION
Do not use steel wool, abrasive cleaners,
or strong detergents containing highly
alkaline or caustic agents on chrome-
plated or anodised aluminium parts. This
may result in damage to the protective
coating and cause discolouration or
paint deterioration.
Undercoating
This special coating is applied to the
critical parts of the underside to protect
vehicles from damage caused by
chemicals or stones. This coating is liable
to be damaged with time. Check this
coating periodically.
An expert repairer, we recommend an
Authorised Mazda Repairer are well
informed on how repairs should be made.
Consult an expert repairer, we recommend
an Authorised Mazda Repairer.
Appearance Care
Aluminium Wheel Maintenance
A protective coating is provided over the
aluminium wheels. Special care is needed
to protect this coating.
CAUTION
Do not use any detergent other than mild
detergent. Before using any detergent,
verify the ingredients. Otherwise, the
product could discolour or stain the
aluminium wheels.
NOTE
Do not use a wire brush or any
abrasive cleaner, polishing
compound, or solvent on aluminium
wheels. They may damage the
coating.
Always use a sponge or soft cloth to
clean the wheels.
Rinse the wheels thoroughly with
lukewarm or cold water. Also, be
sure to clean the wheels after driving
on dusty or salted roads to help
prevent corrosion.
Avoid washing your vehicle in an
automatic car wash that uses high-
speed or hard brushes.
If your aluminium wheels lose lustre,
wax the wheels.
Maintenance and Care
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6–73
Some models.