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Washing A Prius "Immediately" After Driving Along The Coast??

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by Grocked, Apr 24, 2008.

  1. Grocked

    Grocked Green Patriot

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    The manual is very specific about washing the Prius "immediately" after driving along the coast etc... I live in Los Angeles and I frequently drive the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway). The manual also says to "immediately" repair any chips, scratches etc... I received my first little chip today. A minuscule pebble hit the passenger side door on the highway. It's barely noticeable and did not even penetrate the clear coat. So, how seriously must one take this manual. It's enough to drive one crazy! I don't want my Prius turning into a Gremlin.
     
    #1 Grocked, Apr 24, 2008
  2. drees

    drees Senior Member

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    Don't worry about it...
     
    #2 drees, Apr 24, 2008
  3. xsmatt81

    xsmatt81 non-AARP Member

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    no you dont need to wash everytime you drive by the PCH, you will drive you self mad. Just keep up a regular wash and wax/sealent schedule and you will be good
     
    #3 xsmatt81, Apr 24, 2008
  4. patsparks

    patsparks An Aussie perspective

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    I agree with Matt above but also don't leave the paint chips for years, it's easier to attack them a few at a time. Remove wax before touch up of chips.

    All hand books recommend washing the car when you drive in a salty environment
     
    #4 patsparks, Apr 24, 2008
  5. qbee42

    qbee42 My other car is a boat

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    I like waiting until the rust bubbles up from underneath, lifting off otherwise good paint. :D

    In a touch of irony, we live around massive bodies of fresh water, so we don't have the salt problem with cars, but we do have a wooden boat. Wood rots in fresh water, but not in salt water. :mad:

    Tom
     
    #5 qbee42, Apr 24, 2008
  6. Patrick Wong

    Patrick Wong DIY Enthusiast

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    I suggest that you wash your car weekly.

    I also suggest that you touch up any chips or scratches that are deep enough to expose bare metal. Any other touch up is at your option, based upon whether the touch up will leave a better or worse cosmetic result compared to leaving the damaged spot alone.
     
    #6 Patrick Wong, Apr 24, 2008
  7. Tideland Prius

    Tideland Prius Moderator of the North
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    It's just preventative maintenance to reduce corrosion from salt from the sea spray.
     
    #7 Tideland Prius, Apr 25, 2008
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