Exterior Care - Honda Accord Wagon 1995 Owner's Manual

Exterior Care

Washing
Frequent washing helps preserve
your car's beauty. Dirt and grit
can scratch the paint, while tree
sap and bird droppings can
permanently ruin the finish.
Wash your car in a shady area,
not in direct sunlight. If the car is
parked in the sun, move it into
the shade and let the exterior
cool down before you start.
NOTICE
Chemical solvents and strong
cleaners can damage the paint,
metal and plastic on your car.
Rinse the car thoroughly with
cool water to remove loose
dirt.
Fill a bucket with cool water.
Mix in a mild detergent, such
as dishwashing liquid or a
Appearance Care
product made especially for
car washing.
Wash the car, using the water
and detergent solution and a
soft-bristle brush, sponge, or
soft cloth. Start at the top and
work your way down. Rinse
frequently.
Check the body for road tar,
tree sap, etc. Remove these
stains with tar remover or
turpentine. Rinse it off
immediately so it does not
harm the finish. Remember to
rewax these areas, even if the
rest of the car does not need
waxing.
When you have washed and
rinsed the whole exterior, dry
it with a chamois or soft
towel. Letting it air-dry will
cause dulling and water spots.
As you dry the car, inspect it for
chips and scratches that could
allow corrosion to start. Repair
them with touch-up paint (see
7
page 14 ).
Power Antenna Cleaning
Every time you wash your car,
clean the antenna mast with a
dry cloth and mild detergent.
Scrub the antenna in upward
strokes to avoid bending it.
Make sure the antenna works
smoothly by turning the stereo
off and on several times with the
ignition switch ON (II). The
antenna does not need
lubricating. If you use a
"drive-through" car wash, make
sure you turn the stereo off first.
This retracts the antenna to
prevent damage from the
brushes in the car wash.