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 ventilated.
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 se-
verely weaken the seat belt webbing.
Air pollution
• Damage to paint and other protective
coatings caused by gravel and stone
chips or minor traffic accidents.
Industrial pollution, the presence of salt in
the air in coastal areas, or heavy road salt
use will accelerate the corrosion process.
Road salt will also accelerate the disinte-
gration of paint surfaces.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
INFLUENCE THE RATE OF
CORROSION
PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE FROM
CORROSION
• Wash and wax your vehicle often to keep
the vehicle clean.
Moisture
Accumulation of sand, dirt and water on
the vehicle 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 ar-
eas where the temperatures stay above
freezing, where atmospheric pollution ex-
ists, or where road salt is used.
Appearance and care 7-7
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