Washing The Car; Suitable Detergents; Bird Droppings - Volvo 850 User Manual

1994 Volvo 850
pg. 7:6 Washing

Washing the car

The car should be washed at regular intervals since dirt, dust, insects and tar spots adhere to the paint
and may cause damage.
NOTE: It is particularly important to wash the car frequently in the wintertime to prevent corrosion,
when salt has been used on the roads.
When washing the car, do not expose it to direct sunlight. Use lukewarm water to soften the dirt
before you wash with a sponge, and plenty of water, to avoid scratching.
A detergent can be used to facilitate the softening of dirt and oil.
A water-soluble grease solvent may be used in cases of sticky dirt. However, use a washplace
equipped with a drainage separator.
Dry the car with a clean chamois and remember to clean the drain holes in the doors and rocker
panels.
The power radio antenna (sedans) must be dried after washing.
Tar spots can be removed with kerosene or tar remover after the car has been washed.
A stiff-bristle brush and lukewarm soapy water can be used to clean the wiper blades. Frequent
cleaning improves visibility considerably.
Wash off the dirt from the underside (wheel housings fenders, etc.).
In areas of high industrial fallout, more frequent washing is recommended.
NOTE: During high pressure washing the spray mouth piece must never be closer to the vehicle than
13" (30 cm). Do not spray into the locks.
When washing or steam cleaning the engine, avoid spraying water or steam directly on the electrical
components or toward the rear side of the engine.
After cleaning the engine, the spark plug wells should be inspected for water and blown dry if
necessary.

Suitable detergents

Special car washing detergents or liquid dishwashing detergent can be used. A suitable mixture is about
2.5 fl. oz. (8.5 cl) of detergent to 2.6 US gal. (10 liters) of warm water. After washing with a detergent
the car should be well rinsed with clean water.

Bird droppings

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