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Maintenance
9-70
Moisture breeds corrosion
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 material is
kept in contact with the vehicle surfaces
by moisture that is slow to evaporate.
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 retain
moisture and promote corrosion.
High temperatures can also accelerate
corrosion of parts that are not properly
ventilated so the moisture can be
dispersed. For all these reasons, it is
particularly 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
Keep your vehicle clean
The best way to prevent corrosion is
to keep your vehicle clean and free of
corrosive materials. Attention to the
underside 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 prevent corrosion. In winter,
hose off the underside of your vehicle
at least once a month and be sure to
clean the underside thoroughly when
winter is over.
• When cleaning underneath the
vehicle, pay particular attention to the
components under the fenders and
other areas that are hidden from view.
Do a thorough job; just dampening
the accumulated mud rather than
washing it away will accelerate
corrosion rather 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 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 condition
Scratches or chips in the finish should
be covered with “touch-up” paint as
soon as possible to reduce the possibility
of corrosion. If bare metal is showing
through, the attention of a qualified body
and paint shop is recommended.
Bird droppings are highly corrosive and
may damage painted surfaces in just a
few hours. Always remove bird droppings
as soon as possible.
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