Vehicle care 175Appearance careExterior careLocksThe locks are lubricated at the factoryusing a high quality lock cylindergrease. Use de-icing agent only whenabsolutely necessary, as this has adegreasing effect and impairs lockfunction. After using de-icing agent,have the locks regreased by aworkshop.WashingThe paintwork of your vehicle isexposed to environmental influences.Wash and wax your vehicle regularly.When using automatic vehiclewashes, select a programme thatincludes waxing.Do not apply waxes or polishes touncoated plastic, vinyl, rubber,decals, simulated wood, or flat paintas damage can occur.Bird droppings, dead insects, resin,pollen and the like should be cleanedoff immediately, as they containaggressive constituents which cancause paint damage.If using a vehicle wash, comply withthe vehicle wash manufacturer'sinstructions. The windscreen wiperand rear window wiper must beswitched off. Remove antenna andexternal accessories such as roofracks etc.If you wash your vehicle by hand,make sure that the insides of thewheel housings are also thoroughlyrinsed out.Clean edges and folds on openeddoors and the bonnet as well as theareas they cover.CautionAlways use a cleaning agent witha pH value of 4 to 9.Do not use cleaning agents on hotsurfaces.Have the door hinges of all doorsgreased by a workshop.Do not clean the engine compartmentwith a steam-jet or high-pressure jetcleaner.Thoroughly rinse and leather-off thevehicle. Rinse leather frequently. Useseparate leathers for painted andglass surfaces: remnants of wax onthe windows will impair vision.Exterior lightsHeadlight and other light covers aremade of plastic. Do not use anyabrasive or caustic agents, do not usean ice scraper, and do not clean themdry.Polishing and waxingWax the vehicle regularly (at thelatest when water no longer beads).Otherwise, the paintwork will dry out.Polishing is necessary only if the painthas become dull or if solid depositshave become attached to it.Paintwork polish with silicone forms aprotective film, making waxingunnecessary.
