Volvo 1992 240 - Manual (Page 135)

1992 Volvo 240
Washing
The car should be washed at regular intervals since dirt, dust, insects and tar spots adhere to the paint
and may cause damage.
When washing the car, do not expose it to direct sunlight. Use lukewarm water to soften the dirt before
you wash with a sponge, and plenty of water, to avoid scratching.
A detergent can be used to facilitate the softening of dirt and oil. Special car washing detergent or
household detergent can be used. A suitable mixture is about 2.5 fl. oz. (8.5 cl) of detergent to 2.6 US
gal. = 10 liters of warm water. After washing with a detergent the car should be well rinsed with clean
water.
A water soluble grease solvent may be used in cases of sticky dirt. However, use a washplace equipped
with a drainage separator.
Dry the car with a clean chamois and remember to clean the drain holes in the doors and rocker panels.
Tar spots can be removed with kerosene or tar remover after the car has been washed.
Power radio antenna (optional) must be dried after washing.
During high pressure washing the spray mouthpiece must never be closer to the vehicle than 12" (30
cm). Do not spray into locks.
CAUTION: It is particularly important to wash the car frequently in the winter time, to prevent
corrosion, when salt has been used on the roads. Also wash off the dirt on the underside (Wheel
housings and fenders etc.)
WARNING: When the car is driven immediately after being washed, carefully apply the brakes
several times in order to remove any moisture from the brake linings.
pg. 99 Washing, Cleaning, Anti-rust treatment
Automatic washing - simple and quick
An automatic wash is a simple and quick way to clean your car, but it is worth remembering that it can
never be as thorough as when you yourself go over the car with sponge and water. Keeping the
underbody clean is most important, especially in the winter. Some automatic washers do not have
facilities for washing the underbody.
Before driving into an automatic wash, make sure that side view mirrors, auxiliary lamps, etc., are
secure, otherwise there is risk of the machine dislodging them. You should also lower the antenna.
We recommend that you do not wash your car in an automatic wash during the first six months (because
the paint will not have hardened sufficiently).
During high pressure washing the spray mouthpiece must never be closer to the vehicle than 13" (30
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