Volvo XC90 Owner's Manual page 203

IMPORTANT
Washing by hand is gentler to the paint-
work than an automatic car wash. Paint-
work is also more sensitive when it is new.
For this reason, handwashing is recom-
mended during the first few months with a
new car.
High-pressure washing
When using high-pressure washing, use
sweeping movements and make sure that the
nozzle does not come closer than 30 cm to
the surface of the car (the distance applies to
all exterior parts).
IMPORTANT
Rinse the entire car to remove loose dirt.
When using a pressure washer: Make sure
that the nozzle of the pressure washer is
not closer than 30 cm to the bodywork. Do
not spray directly onto the locks.
Testing the brakes
WARNING
Always test the brakes after washing the
car, including the parking brake, to ensure
that moisture and corrosion do not attack
the brake linings and reduce braking per-
formance.
Lightly depress the brake pedal now and then
when driving long distances in rain or slush.
This heats and dries the brake pads. Do the
same thing after starting in very damp or cold
weather.
Exterior plastic, rubber and trim
components
A special cleaning agent available from Volvo
dealers is recommended for the cleaning and
care of coloured plastic parts, rubber and trim
components (such as glossy trim mouldings).
When using such a cleaning agent the
instructions must be followed carefully.
08 Car care
IMPORTANT
Avoid waxing and polishing on plastic and
rubber.
When using degreasant on plastic and
rubber, only rub with light pressure if it is
necessary. Use a soft washing sponge.
Polishing glossy trim mouldings could
wear away or damage the glossy surface.
Polishing agent that contains abrasive
must not be used.
Polishing and waxing
Polish and wax the car if the paintwork is dull
or to give the paintwork extra protection.
The car does not need to be polished until it
is at least one year old. However, the car can
be waxed before this time. Do not polish or
wax the car in direct sunlight.
Wash and dry the car thoroughly before you
begin polishing or waxing. Clean off asphalt
and tar stains using tar remover or white spi-
rit. More stubborn stains can be removed
using fine rubbing paste designed for car
paintwork.
Polish first with a polish and then wax with
liquid or solid wax. Follow the instructions on
the packaging carefully. Many preparations
contain both polish and wax.
*
Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.
Cleaning
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