CORROSION PROTECTION
MOST COMMON FACTORS
CONTRIBUTING TO VEHICLE
CORROSION
Temperature
High temperatures accelerate the rate of
corrosion to those parts which are not well
ventilated.
WARNING
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.
Most vehicle corrosion is caused by:
∙
The
accumulation
of
moisture-
Air pollution
retaining dirt and debris in body panel
Industrial pollution, the presence of salt in
the air in coastal areas, or heavy road salt
use accelerates the corrosion process.
Road salt also accelerates the disintegra-
tion of paint surfaces.
sections, cavities, and other areas.
∙
Damage to paint and other protective
coatings caused by gravel and stone
chips or minor traffic collisions.
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 accumula-
tion.
Relative humidity
∙
Check the underbody for accumulation
of sand, dirt or salt. If present, wash with
water as soon as possible.
Corrosion will be accelerated in areas of
high relative humidity, especially those ar-
eas where the temperatures stay above
freezing and where atmospheric pollution
exists and road salt is used.
Appearance and care 7-7
English 
