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Moisture creates the conditions in
which corrosion is most likely to occur.
For example, corrosion is accelerated
by high humidity, particularly when
temperatures are just above freezing.
In such conditions, the corrosive mate‐
rial is kept in contact with the car sur‐
faces by moisture that is slow to evap‐
orate.
Mud is particularly corrosive because it
is slow to dry and holds moisture in
contact with the vehicle. Although the
mud appears to be dry, it can still re‐
tain the moisture and promote corro‐
sion.
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 par‐
ticularly important to keep your car
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 car.
To help prevent corrosion
You can help prevent corrosion from
getting started by observing the fol‐
lowing:
Keep your car clean
The best way to prevent corrosion is to
keep your car clean and free of corro‐
sive materials. Attention to the under‐
side of the car 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 prevent corrosion. In winter,
hose off the underside of your car at
least once a month and be sure to
clean the underside thoroughly when
winter is over.
• When cleaning underneath the car,
give particular attention to the com‐
ponents under the fenders and other
areas that are hidden from view. Do a
thorough job; just dampening the ac‐
cumulated mud rather than washing
it away will accelerate corrosion rath‐
er than prevent it. Water under high
pressure and steam are particularly
effective in removing accumulated
mud and corrosive materials.
• When cleaning lower door panels,
rocker panels and frame members,
be sure that drain holes are kept
open so that moisture can escape
and not be trapped inside to acceler‐
ate corrosion.
Keep your garage dry
Don't park your car in a damp, poorly
ventilated garage. This creates a favor‐
able environment for corrosion. This is
particularly true if you wash your car 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
condition
Scratches or chips in the finish should
be covered with "touch-up" paint as
soon as possible to reduce the possibili‐
ty of corrosion. If bare metal is showing
through, the attention of a qualified
body and paint shop is recommended.
Bird droppings: Bird droppings are high‐
ly corrosive and may damage painted
surfaces in just a few hours. Always re‐
move bird droppings as soon as possi‐
ble.
Maintenance
7-86
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