Care & Maintenance Tips

Bugs, bird droppings and other sticky gunk should be removed as soon as possible. If you aren’t able to get to the spot before it dries and don’t have Motorcraft® Bug and Tar Remover on hand, try removing it with a soft cotton cloth and a bit of cooking oil or grease. Then be sure to clean the area with soap and water afterward to remove the oil.

Hose off any accumulated grime, especially in the wheel wells and under the bumpers. Scrub your vehicle with a clean sponge and Motorcraft® Detail Wash. Rinse, then dry it with a terry-cloth towel. Wax your car with Motorcraft® Premium Liquid Wax.

To fix chips or scratches in your paint, you’ll need to find the correct color of touch-up paint. This information is usually located on a sticker in your driver’s-side door or in your Owner Guide. If you can't immediately apply (or get) the paint, dab the chip or scratch with some clear nail polish. The polish will prevent corrosion under the paint and resultant rust.

Traditional ammonia-based glass cleaners can leave streaks that become blinding in bright sunlight. Instead, use a non-ammonia-based automotive glass cleaner, such as Motorcraft® Ultra-Clear Spray Glass Cleaner or a mild mixture of water and vinegar.

Vacuum the inside of your vehicle, using the crevice attachment to reach the tight spots where dirt and crumbs can accumulate. Clean vinyl, plastic and rubber surfaces with Motorcraft® Dash and Vinyl Cleaner to prevent drying and cracking.

If your vehicle features leather upholstery, maintaining its beauty and protecting it from damage requires regular cleaning and conditioning. We recommend using Lexol-ph Leather Cleaner and Lexol Leather Conditioner at least once every six months.

Cleaning displays
If your vehicle features SYNC® or an available Navigation System, clean the display using a clean, soft cloth (such as one used for cleaning eyeglasses). If dirt or fingerprints are still visible, apply a small amount of alcohol to the cloth. You may also use LCD screen or laptop wipes, available at any electronics store. Never use regular glass cleaner, alcohol spray, detergent or any type of solvent as it could damage your screen.

Wearing safety goggles and rubber gloves, scrub off any battery corrosion with a wire brush and a solution of baking soda and water. Then warm up the engine a little to loosen the grunge. Turn it off and cover the air filter and electrical connections with plastic bags, then spray the entire engine compartment using Motorcraft® Engine Shampoo and Degreaser. Rinse clean.

• How To Clean Your Vehicle
• How To Preserve Your Vehicle’s Value
• How To Keep Your Battery Well Maintained
• How To Keep Your Tires In Shape
• Getting Maintenance At The Dealership
• 2011 Super Duty® Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor™ and Diesel Exhaust Fluid
• How to Spot Battery Wear
• How To Spot Brake Wear
• How To Spot Shock And Strut Wear
• When To Change Your Oil
• When To Change Your Air Filter
• When To Change Your Fuel Filter
• When To Change Your Cabin Air Filter
• Keeping Your Engine In Top Shape