Subaru 2003 Impreza - Manual (Page 321)

IMPREZA(NA) A1850BE-A (ENGLISH)
Appearance care
10-4
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 op-
eration.
J Most common causes of corrosion
The most common causes of corrosion are:
1. The accumulation of moisture retaining dirt and
debris in body panel sections, cavities, and other
areas.
2. Damage to paint and other protective coatings
caused by gravel and stone chips or minor acci-
dents.
Corrosion is accelerated on the vehicle when:
1. It is exposed to road salt or dust control chemi-
cals, or used in coastal areas where there is more
salt in the air, or in areas where there is considerable
industrial pollution.
2. It is driven in areas of high humidity, especially
when temperatures range just above freezing.
3. Dampness in certain parts of the vehicle remains
for a long time, even though other parts of the ve-
hicle may be dry.
4. High temperatures will cause corrosion to parts
of the vehicle which cannot dry quickly due to lack
of proper ventilation.
J To help prevent corrosion
Wash the vehicle frequently. If you drive on salted
roads in the winter or if you live in a coastal area,
you should flush the underbody with fresh water fre-
quently.
After the winter has ended, it is recommended that
the underbody be given a very thorough washing.
Before the beginning of winter, check the condition
of underbody components, such as the exhaust sys-
tem, 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 per-
form this kind of maintenance and treatment if you
need assistance.
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. Occasionally check under