2009 Volvo C30 Owner's Manual - Page 192

08 Car care Washing and cleaning the car Washing the car The following points should be kept in mind when washing and cleaning the car: • Tar spots can be removed with kerosene or tar remover after the car has been washed. fully.Solvents or stain removers should not be used. • The car should be washed at regular intervals since dirt, dust, insects and tar spots adhere to the paint and may cause damage. To help prevent corrosion, it is particularly important to wash the car frequently in the wintertime when salt has been used on the roads. • A stiff-bristle brush and lukewarm soapy water can be used to clean the wiper blades. Frequent cleaning of the windshield and wiper blades improves visibility considerably and also helps prolong the service life of the wiper blades. CAUTION • • • Avoid waxing or polishing plastic or rubber components Polishing chromed strips can wear away or damage the surface Polishes containing abrasive substances should not be used • Wash off the dirt from the underside (wheel housings, fenders, etc). • Avoid washing your car in direct sunlight. Doing so may cause detergents and wax to dry out and become abrasive. To avoid scratching, use lukewarm water to soften the dirt before you wash with a soft sponge, and plenty of sudsy water. • In areas of high industrial fallout, more frequent washing is recommended. • After cleaning the engine, the spark plug wells should be inspected for water and blown dry if necessary. • Bird droppings: Remove from paintwork as soon as possible. Otherwise the finish may be permanently damaged. NOTE When washing the car, remember to remove dirt from the drain holes in the doors and sills. • A detergent can be used to facilitate the softening of dirt and oil. • A water-soluble grease solvent may be used in cases of sticky dirt. However, use a wash place equipped with a drainage separator. Exterior components Volvo recommends the use of special cleaning products, available at your Volvo retailer, for cleaning colored plastic, rubber, or ornamental components such as chromed strips on the exterior of your vehicle. The instructions for using these products should be followed care- • Dry the car with a clean chamois and 08 remember to clean the drain holes in the doors and rocker panels. 192