Moisture Breeds Corrosion

Moisture creates the conditions in which corrosion is most likely to occur. For example, corrosion is accelerated by high humidity, particularly when temperatures are just above freezing. In such conditions, the corrosive material is kept in contact with the car surfaces by moisture that is slow to evaporate.

Mud is a particular enemy of corrosion protection because it is slow to dry and holds moisture in contact with the vehicle. Even though the mud appears to be dry, it can still retain moisture and promote corrosion.

High temperatures can also accelerate corrosion of parts that are not properly ventilated so the moisture can be dispersed. For all these reasons, it is particularly important to keep your car clean and free of mud or accumulations of other materials. This applies not only on the visible surfaces but particularly to the underside of the car.

    See also:

    Battery recharging
    Your vehicle has a maintenance-free, calcium-based battery. • If the battery becomes discharged in a short time (because, for example, the headlights or interior lights were left on while the vehic ...

    Good braking practices
    WARNING • Whenever you leave or park your vehicle, always set the parking brake as far as possible and fully engage the vehicle's transaxle into the P (Park) position. If the parking brake is ...

    Filter inspection
    The climate control air filter should be replaced according to the Maintenance Schedule. If the vehicle is operated in severely air-polluted cities or on dusty rough roads for a long period, it sh ...