Corrosion protection 449
.
.
Dampness in certain parts of the
vehicle remains for a long time, even
though other parts of the vehicle may
be dry.
High temperatures will cause corrosion
to parts of the vehicle which cannot dry
quickly due to lack of proper ventilation.
of maintenance and treatment if you need
assistance.
10-2. Corrosion protection
Your SUBARU has been designed and
built to resist corrosion. Special materials
and protective finishes have been used on
most parts of the vehicle to help maintain
fine appearance, strength, and reliable
operation.
Repair chips and scratches in the paint as
soon as you find them.
Check the interior of the vehicle for water
and dirt accumulation under the floor mats
because that could cause corrosion. Oc-
casionally check under the mats to make
sure the area is dry.
Keep your garage dry. Do not park your
vehicle in a damp, poorly ventilated gar-
age. In such a garage, corrosion can be
caused by dampness. If you wash the
vehicle in the garage or put the vehicle into
the garage when wet or covered with
snow, that can cause dampness.
& To help prevent corrosion
Wash the vehicle regularly to prevent
corrosion of the body and suspension
components. Also, wash the vehicle
promptly after driving on any of the
following surfaces.
& Most common causes of cor-
rosion
The most common causes of corrosion
are:
.
The accumulation of moisture retaining
dirt and debris in body panel sections,
cavities, and other areas.
.
Roads that have been salted to prevent
them from freezing in winter
Mud, sand, or gravel
Coastal roads
.
.
.
Damage to paint and other protective
coatings caused by gravel and stone
chips or minor accidents.
If your vehicle is operated in cold weather
and/or in areas where road salts and other
corrosive materials are used, the door
hinges and locks, rear gate lock, and hood
latch should be inspected and lubricated
periodically.
After the winter has ended, it is recom-
mended that the underbody be given a
very thorough washing.
Corrosion is accelerated on the vehicle
when:
.
It is exposed to road salt or dust control
chemicals, or used in coastal areas
where there is more salt in the air, or in
areas where there is considerable
industrial pollution.
Before the beginning of winter, check the
condition of underbody components, such
as the exhaust system, fuel and brake
lines, brake cables, suspension, steering
system, floor pan, and fenders. If any of
them are found to be rusted, they should
be given an appropriate rust prevention
treatment or should be replaced. Contact
your SUBARU dealer to perform this kind
.
It is driven in areas of high humidity,
especially when temperatures range
just above freezing.