Underbody Maintenance; Chemical Paint Spotting - Pontiac 2009 Vibe Owner's Manual

9-90 Vehicle Service and Care

Underbody Maintenance

Chemicals used for ice and snow
removal and dust control can collect
on the underbody. If these are not
removed, corrosion and rust can
develop on the underbody parts such
as fuel lines, frame, floor pan, and
exhaust system even though they
have corrosion protection.
At least every spring, flush these
materials from the underbody
with plain water. Clean any areas
where mud and debris can collect.
Dirt packed in close areas of
the frame should be loosened before
being flushed. Your dealer/retailer
or an underbody car washing
system can do this for you.

Chemical Paint Spotting

Some weather and atmospheric
conditions can create a chemical
fallout. Airborne pollutants can
fall upon and attack painted surfaces
on the vehicle. This damage can
take two forms: blotchy, ring-shaped
discolorations, and small, irregular
dark spots etched into the paint
surface.
Although no defect in the paint job
causes this, we will repair, at no
charge to the owner, the surfaces
of new vehicles damaged by this
fallout condition within 12 months
or 12,000 miles (20 000 km) of
purchase, whichever occurs first.