CORROSION PROTECTION
MOST COMMON FACTORS
CONTRIBUTING TO VEHICLE
CORROSION
• The accumulation of moisture-retaining dirt and
debris in body panel sections, cavities, and
other areas.
Temperature
WARNING
A temperature increase will accelerate the rate of
corrosion to those parts which are not well ven-
tilated.
Do not allow wet seat belts to roll up in
the retractor. NEVER use bleach, dye, or
chemical solvents to clean the seat belts,
since these materials may severely
weaken the seat belt webbing.
Air pollution
Industrial pollution, the presence of salt in the air
in coastal areas, or heavy road salt use will accel-
erate the corrosion process. Road salt will also
accelerate the disintegration of paint surfaces.
• Damage to paint and other protective coatings
caused by gravel and stone chips or minor
traffic accidents.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE SUPPLY
EQUIPMENT (EVSE)
The Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
TO PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE FROM
CORROSION
• Wash and wax your vehicle often to keep the
vehicle clean.
can be cleaned by wiping gently with a soft cloth
INFLUENCE THE RATE OF
dampened in a 3% mild soap solution. Wipe and
rinse the soap solution off with a cloth dampened
CORROSION
Moisture
with water and allow the EVSE to dry in a shady
and well-ventilated place.
Accumulation of sand, dirt and water on the ve-
hicle body underside can accelerate corrosion.
Wet floor coverings will not dry completely inside
the vehicle, and should be removed for drying to
avoid floor panel corrosion.
• Always check for minor damage to the paint and
repair it as soon as possible.
• Keep drain holes at the bottom of the doors
open to avoid water accumulation.
• Check the underbody for accumulation of sand,
dirt or salt. If present, wash with water as soon
as possible.
Relative humidity
Corrosion will be accelerated in areas of high
relative humidity, especially those areas where
the temperatures stay above freezing, where at-
mospheric pollution exists, or where road salt is
used.
7-6 Appearance and care
English 
