Hand washing
The vehicle should be washed as soon as it becomes dirty. This makes the vehicle easier to clean because dirt does not attach as strongly. It also reduces the risk of scratches and keeps the vehicle looking new. Wash the vehicle in a car wash or garage with an oil separator and use car washing detergent. Use cleaning agents and car care products recommended by Volvo.
Important to keep in mind when handwashing your vehicle
- Avoid washing the vehicle in direct sunlight. This could cause the detergent or wax to dry out and become abrasive.
- Remove bird droppings from paintwork as soon as possible. It contains chemicals that affect and discolor paintwork very quickly. Use e.g. soft paper or a sponge soaked in lots of water. Consult an authorized Volvo workshop for assistance removing discoloration.
- Hose down the underbody, including the wheel housings and bumper.
- Hose down the entire vehicle and remove any loose dirt, droppings etc. to reduce the risk of scratches from washing. Do not spray directly onto locks.
- If necessary, use cold degreaser on heavily soiled surfaces. Note that in such cases the surfaces must not be hot from the sun.
- Wash using a sponge, car washing detergent and plenty of lukewarm water. Make sure that the sponge is clean. A dirty sponge can scratch the paint.
- Clean the wiper blades with lukewarm soap solution or car washing detergent.
- Dry the vehicle using a clean, soft chamois or a squeegee. Try not to let drops of water dry in strong sunlight. This could cause water drying stains that may need to be polished out.
- In areas with heavy industrial emissions, more frequent washing of the vehicle's exterior is recommended.
- Tar spots from asphalt may remain even after washing. Use a Volvo-recommended tar remover to remove these spots after washing the vehicle.
Warning
Always entrust engine washing to a workshop. If the engine is hot, there is a risk of fire.
Important
Dirty headlights do not work as well. Clean them regularly, e.g. when refueling.
Do not use corrosive cleaners. Use water and a non-abrasive sponge. See separate section for more information.
Note
Exterior lighting such as headlights and taillights may develop temporary condensation on the inside of the lens. This is normal. All exterior lighting is designed to resist this. Condensation is normally vented out of the lamp housing once the light has been lit for some period of time.
Important
- Make sure that the panoramic roof* and sun shade are closed before washing the vehicle.
- Never use abrasive polishing agents on the panoramic roof.
- Never use wax on the rubber seals around the panoramic roof.
Important
Remember to remove dirt from the drain holes in the doors and sills after washing the vehicle.