Kia K5 2021 Owner's Manual page 559

Maintenance
High-corrosion areas
If you live in an area where your
vehicle is regularly exposed to cor-
rosive materials, corrosion protec-
tion is particularly important. Some
of the common causes of acceler-
ated corrosion are road salts, dust
control chemicals, ocean air and
industrial pollution.
Moisture breeds corrosion
Moisture creates the conditions in
which corrosion is most likely to
occur. For example, corrosion is
accelerated by high humidity, par-
ticularly when temperatures are
just above freezing. In such condi-
tions, the corrosive material is kept
in contact with the vehicle's surface
by moisture that evaporates slowly.
Mud is particularly corrosive
because it dries slowly and holds
moisture in contact with the vehicle.
Although the mud appears to be
dry, it can still retain the moisture
and promote corrosion.
High temperatures can also acceler-
ate corrosion of parts that are not
properly ventilated so the moisture
can be dispersed. For all these rea-
sons, it is particularly important to
keep your vehicle clean and free of
mud or accumulations of other
materials. This applies not only to
the visible surfaces but particularly
to the underside of the vehicle.
To help prevent corrosion
You can help prevent corrosion from
beginning by observing the follow-
ing:
Keep your vehicle clean
The best way to prevent corrosion is
to keep your vehicle clean and free
of corrosive materials. Attention to
the underside of the vehicle is par-
ticularly important.
If you live in a high-corrosion area
where road salts are used, near the
ocean, areas with industrial pollu-
tion, 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.
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 damp-
ening the accumulated mud rather
than washing it away will accelerate
corrosion rather than prevent it.
Water under high pressure and
steam are particularly effective in
removing accumulated mud and
corrosive materials.
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 accel-
erate corrosion.
Appearance care
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