158
Wash the underside of the vehicle
thoroughly when winter is over.
See Washing and waxing your Toyotaº
for more tips.
Check the condition of your vehicle's
paint and trim. If you find any chips or
scratches in the paint, touch them up im-
mediately to prevent corrosion from start-
ing. If the chips or scratches have gone
through the bare metal, have a qualified
bodyshop make the repair.
Check the interior of your vehicle. Wa-
ter and dirt can accumulate under the floor
mats and could cause corrosion. Occa-
sionally check under the mats to make
sure the area is dry. Be particularly careful
when transporting chemicals, cleansers,
fertilizers, salt, etc; these should be trans-
ported in proper containers. If a spill or
leak should occur, immediately clean and
dry the area.
Use mud shields on your wheels. If you
drive on salted or gravel roads, mud
shields help protect your vehicle. Full-
size shields, which come as near to the
ground as possible, are the best. We rec-
ommend that the fittings and the area
where the shields are installed be treated
to resist corrosion. Your Toyota dealer will
be happy to assist in supplying and instal-
ling the shields if they are recommended
for your area. Do not park your vehicle in a damp,
poorly ventilated garage.
If you wash
your vehicle in the garage, or if you drive
it in covered with water or snow, your ga-
rage may be so damp it will cause corro-
sion. Even if your garage is heated, a wet
vehicle can corrode if the ventilation is
poor. Washing your Toyota by hand
Work in the shade and wait until the ve-
hicle body is not hot to the touch.
CAUTION
When cleaning under floor or chas-
sis, be careful not to injure your
hands.!
Convertible models-For washing instruc-
tions for the convertible top, see Convert-
ible topº.
1. Rinse off loose dirt with a hose. Re-
move any mud or road salt from the un-
derside of the vehicle or in the wheel
wells.
Washing and waxing your
Toyota
ProCarManuals.com
