Body — maintenance and repair (Honda CR-V 1)

1. The condition of your car's body is very important because its resale value largely depends on it. It is much more difficult to repair a neglected or damaged body than mechanical parts. Hidden body cavities such as wheel wells, frame and engine compartment are also no less important, despite the fact that they do not require as much attention as other parts of the body.

2. Once a year, or every 20,000 km, it is very useful to clean the underbody with steam. All traces of dirt and oil will be removed and the area can then be inspected for rust, damaged brake lines, worn electrical wires, damaged cables, etc. At the end of this work, the front suspension components should be lubricated.

3. Clean the engine and engine compartment at the same time using a steam cleaner or grease remover.

4. Particular attention should be paid to the wheel wells, as the backing may come off and stones and dirt thrown up by the wheels may damage the paint and allow rust to appear. If you find rust, clean the damaged surface down to the metal and apply anti-corrosion paint to it.

5. The body must be washed at least once a week. Wet the car thoroughly to soften the dirt, then rinse it off with a soft sponge and plenty of soapy water. If you don't rinse the dirt off thoroughly, it can rub off the paint.

6. Tar or bitumen stains must be cleaned with a cloth soaked in solvent.

7. Polish the body and chrome parts at least every six months. If you use chrome cleaner to remove rust from plated parts, remember that the cleaner will also remove the chrome, so use it with caution.