Kia Sedona 2024 Owner's Manual page 591

Maintenance
Mud is particularly corrosive because it
dries slowly and holds moisture in con-
tact with the vehicle. Although the mud
appears to be dry, it can still retain the
moisture and promote corrosion.
High temperatures can also accelerate
corrosion of parts that are not properly
ventilated so the moisture can be dis-
persed. For all these reasons, it is partic-
ularly 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 following:
Keep your vehicle clean
The best way to prevent corrosion is to
keep your vehicle clean and free of cor-
rosive materials. Attention to the under-
side of the vehicle is particularly
important.
If you live in a high-corrosion area where
road salts are used, near the ocean,
areas with industrial pollution, acid rain,
etc.—, you should take extra care to pre-
vent corrosion. In winter, hose off the
underside of your vehicle at least once a
month and be sure to clean the under-
side thoroughly when winter is over.
When cleaning underneath the vehicle,
give particular attention to the compo-
nents under the fenders and other areas
that are hidden from view. Do a thor-
ough job; just dampening the accumu-
lated mud rather than washing it away
will accelerate corrosion rather than pre-
vent it. Water under high pressure and
steam are particularly effective in
removing accumulated mud and corro-
sive materials.
When cleaning lower door panels, rocker
panels and frame members, be sure that
drain holes are kept open so that mois-
ture can escape and not be trapped
inside to accelerate corrosion.
Keep your garage dry
Don't park your vehicle in a damp,
poorly ventilated garage. This creates a
favorable environment for corrosion.
This is particularly true if you wash your
vehicle in the garage or drive it into the
garage when it is still wet or covered
with snow, ice or mud. Even a heated
garage can contribute to corrosion
unless it is well ventilated so moisture is
dispersed.
Keep paint and trim in good con-
dition
Scratches or chips in the finish should be
covered with "touch-up" paint as soon as
possible to reduce the possibility of cor-
rosion. If bare metal is showing through,
the attention of a qualified body and
paint shop is recommended.
Bird droppings: Bird droppings are
highly corrosive and may damage
painted surfaces in just a few hours.
Always remove bird droppings as soon
as possible.
Don't neglect the interior
Moisture can collect under the floor
mats and carpeting and cause corrosion.
Check under the mats periodically to be
sure the carpeting is dry. Use particular
care if you carry fertilizers, cleaning
materials or chemicals in the vehicle.
Appearance care
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