Body - Exterior Chrome/Aluminum Damage Information
66 11 01August 11, 2011
2027119
Vehicle Information
Condition
Damage on External Chrome or Aluminum Surfaces
Customer statement:
Complaints on external chrome/aluminum surfaces (for example trim/protective strips, batches and so on):
^ bubbles
^ flaking-off
^ cracks
The surfaces of chrome parts can get damaged in the production process or by external influences.
Production solution
Not applicable
Service
Conditions Covered by Warranty
Illustrations of components with complaints on the chrome coating:
Conditions Not Covered by Warranty
Complaints on external chrome/aluminum surfaces (for example trim/protective strips, batches and so on):
^ marks (brown)
^ stone chips
^ rust film
^ oxidation
^ matt/cloudy/milky marks
^ hairline cracks in the surface
The surfaces of chrome and anodized aluminum parts can get damaged by:
^ external influences
^ improper cleaning
improper cleaning products.
Illustrations of components with complaints on the anodized aluminum:
Warranty
Information only
Required Parts and Tools
Not applicable
Additional Information
Cleaning/polishing recommendation:
^ Do not use any alkaline, acidic or chafing cleaners, as they can damage the surfaces of the components (particularly the anodized coat with aluminum).
^ Before the treatment the components must be clean and dry.
^ Commercially available wax-containing chrome/aluminum polish can be used.
^ Observe the instructions of the cleaners.
When washing the car alkaline cleaners are often used.
As they are sometimes highly concentrated, they must be completely rinsed off with water. Dry the surfaces with a soft cloth. This is particularly important on hot days, as the water quickly evaporates, leaving cleaner residues.
Avoid direct sunlight when cleaning the car.
Particularly in winter dirt and salt must be quickly removed.
Observe the following instruction from the owner's manual:
^ Dampen a clean, soft cloth with water and clean the surfaces with it.
^ If the surfaces are very dirty, use solvent-free care products.
^ Dry cleaned chrome and aluminum parts and polish them with a soft, dry cloth.
To prevent the chrome and aluminum parts from future damage:
^ Do not clean or polish chrome and aluminum parts in direct sunlight.
^ Do not clean or polish chrome and aluminum parts in a dusty or sandy environment.
^ Do not use any care product which chafes.
^ Do not use insect or kitchen sponges or similar.
^ Do not polish dirty surfaces.
^ Do not use solvent-containing cleaners.
^ Do not use hard wax.
All part and service references provided in this Technical Bulletin are subject to change and/or removal. Always check with your Parts Dept. and Repair Manuals for the latest information.