Exterior Care - Mazda 2012 5 Owner's Manual

Exterior Care

Follow all label and container directions
when using a chemical cleaner or polish.
Read all warnings and cautions.
qMaintaining the Finish
Washing
CAUTION
When the wiper lever is in the AUTO
position and the ignition is switched
ON, the wipers may move
automatically in the following cases:
Ø If the windshield above the rain
sensor is touched or wiped with a
cloth.
Ø If the windshield is struck with a
hand or other object from either
outside or inside the vehicle.
Keep hands and scrapers clear of the
windshield when the wiper lever is in
the AUTO position and the ignition is
switched ON as fingers could be
pinched or the wipers and wiper
blades damaged when the wipers
activate automatically.
If you are going to clean the
windshield, be sure the wipers are
turned off completely―this is
particularly important when clearing
ice and snow―when it is most likely
that the engine is left running.
To help protect the finish from rust and
deterioration, wash your Mazda
thoroughly and frequently, at least once a
month, with lukewarm or cold water.
If the vehicle is washed improperly, the
paint surface could be scratched. Here are
some examples of how scratching could
occur.
Appearance Care
Scratches occur on the paint surface
when:
The vehicle is washed without first
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rinsing off dirt and other foreign
matter.
The vehicle is washed with a rough,
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dry, or dirty cloth.
The vehicle is washed at a car wash
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that uses brushes that are dirty or too
stiff.
Cleansers or wax containing abrasives
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are used.
NOTE
Mazda is not responsible for scratches
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caused by automatic car washes or
improper washing.
Scratches are more noticeable on vehicles
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with darker paint finishes.
To minimize scratches on the vehicle's
paint finish:
Rinse off any dirt or other foreign
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matter using lukewarm or cold water
before washing.
Use plenty of lukewarm or cold water
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and a soft cloth when washing the
vehicle. Do not use a nylon cloth.
Rub gently when washing or drying the
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vehicle.
Take your vehicle only to a car wash
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that keeps its brushes well maintained.
Do not use abrasive cleansers or wax
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that contain abrasives.
Maintenance and Care
8-55