2023 Land Rover Defender Vehicle Cleaning
THE EXTERIOR
Following cleaning of the vehicle’s exterior, particularly with a pressure washer, it is recommended that the vehicle is taken for a short drive to dry out the brakes. Wet brakes may impair the vehicle’s ability to safely slow down which may result in accidents causing serious injury or death.
Make sure the tailpipe is cool before polishing the tailpipe finishers. Failure to do so may result in personal injury.
- To prevent damage to the vehicle when using a valeting service, make sure to advise of the cleaning instructions contained within the Owner’s Handbook.
- Remove any heavy deposits of mud and dirt with a hose, before washing the vehicle. Failure to do so may cause damage to the vehicle.
- Some high-pressure cleaning systems are sufficiently powerful enough to penetrate suspension joints and door or window seals, and damage trim and door locks. Never aim the water jet directly at any camera, the engine air intake, heater air intake, body seals, doors, the sliding canvas roof, the panoramic roof, windows, etc. Do not aim the water jet at any components which may be damaged such as lights, mirrors, exterior trim, suspension seals and gaiters, etc. Make sure that the pressure washer nozzle is always at a distance of more than 300 mm from any vehicle component. Failure to do so may cause damage to the vehicle.
- Do not use an automated car wash. Using unapproved cleaning equipment can cause damage to the vehicle’s sliding canvas roof.
- Do not use a power wash system in the engine bay area, as it may damage the vehicle’s electrical components.
- Substances that are corrosive, such as bird droppings, can damage the vehicle’s paintwork. Remove any such substances immediately.
- Use only cleaning products approved for use on vehicles. Using unapproved cleaning products may damage the vehicle.
- Do not apply polish to any unpainted areas of bumper moldings. Such areas can become ingrained in the textured finish.
- After washing the vehicle, it is recommended to use a suitable metal polish on stainless steel or chrome finishers to restore the surface appearance.
- Make sure that the canvas roof channels or panoramic roof channels are kept clean to allow the continued smooth operation of the mechanism.
Do not aim the water jet directly at any rubber gaiters or seals on the suspension joints.
Make sure that the water jet nozzle is more than 300 mm away from vehicle components.
Do not leave the canvas roof in the open position for longer than is necessary, as in certain circumstances, permanent soiling along the folds may occur.
Cleaning: Every 1 600 km, vacuum clean and wash the canvas roof. A retailer/authorized repairer is able to recommend suitable products.
Reproofing: Every 8 000 km, reproof the canvas roof material. A retailer/authorized repairer is able to recommend suitable products.
SENSORS AND CAMERAS
When washing the vehicle, do not aim high-pressure water jets directly at any of the sensors and cameras. Do not use abrasive materials, or hard or sharp objects, to clean the sensors and cameras. Only use approved vehicle shampoo. Using unapproved cleaning products may damage the vehicle.
Keep the park assist and parking aid sensors clean to maintain accuracy and performance.
Operate the rear screen wash to clean the rear camera lens. See WIPER OPERATION.
If required, clean the cameras using a cloth moistened with a small amount of glass-cleaning product.
USING AN AUTOMATIC WASH
Commercially operated, automatic car washes, jet washes, and power-operated mops are not recommended.
UNDERBODY MAINTENANCE
Regularly flush the vehicle’s underbody with plain, clean water. Pay particular attention to areas where mud and debris collect.
If damage or corrosion are detected, have the vehicle checked by a retailer/authorized repairer as soon as possible.
ENGINE COMPARTMENT
The high voltage system has no serviceable parts. Never disassemble, remove or replace high voltage components, cables, or connectors. Tampering with the high voltage system can cause severe burns or electric shock, which may result in serious injury or death. High voltage cables and connectors are colored orange for identification purposes. If maintenance or repair is required, always consult a retailer/authorized repairer.
Do not use a high-pressure washer or steam cleaner in the engine compartment. Pressure washing has the potential to cause damage to certain engine components.
Make sure that the brake fluid reservoir is kept dry at all times. Only use a clean, dry cloth to clean the brake fluid cap and reservoir. Not doing so can cause damage to the vehicle.
Pressure washing has the potential to damage high voltage electrical components and cables.
AFTER OFF-ROAD DRIVING
Make sure the areas around air intakes and the front grille are clean and clear of debris. Pay particular attention to the lower grille and radiator. Failure to do so may cause the engine to overheat, potentially leading to severe engine damage.
Make sure the vehicle’s underbody is cleaned as soon as possible after driving off-road.
For vehicles fitted with air suspension, raise the suspension to Off-Road 2 to improve cleaning access. See OFF-ROAD HEIGHT.
Make sure all mud and debris is removed from the rear air spring. Failure to do so may lead to permanent damage to the air spring sleeve.
ALLOY WHEELS
Only use appropriate wheel cleaning products for alloy wheels. Using inappropriate cleaning products or failure to follow the manufacturer’s application guidelines may cause damage to the component or the vehicle.
THE INTERIOR
Some cleaning products contain substances that are harmful and can cause health problems if used incorrectly.
- Some cleaning products may cause damage to the vehicle’s interior. Make sure to read the cleaning product’s instructions carefully. If in any doubt as to which products to use, consult a retailer/authorized repairer.
- Do not use chemical agents, solvents, or domestic cleaning products. Using unapproved cleaning products may damage the vehicle.
- To prevent damage to the vehicle when using a valeting service, make sure to advise of the cleaning instructions contained within the Owner’s Handbook.
- Unless spillages, such as tea, coffee, or ink, are washed away immediately, permanent staining may have to be accepted.
- When cleaning, do not allow sharp or abrasive objects to make contact with the components. Sharp or abrasive objects may damage the components.
- Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth when cleaning switches or controls. Do not apply excessive pressure when doing so. Excessive pressure can damage vehicle components.
- Do not spray liquids directly onto the surface of switches and controls. Fluids leaking into the gaps around switches and controls can damage the electronics of the vehicle.
- Take care when cleaning high gloss surfaces as they are prone to scratching. It is recommended to use a clean micro-fiber cloth in small circular motions, making sure a fresh section of clean cloth is used regularly.
- To prevent ingrained dirt and staining, inspect the interior regularly and clean every 1 to 2 months.
- It is recommended to vacuum interior surfaces with a soft brush head attachment before using cleaning products.
CLEANING SWITCHES AND CONTROLS
- Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth when cleaning switches or controls. Do not apply excessive pressure when doing so. Excessive pressure could cause a component malfunction or even lead to a complete failure.
- Do not spray liquids directly onto the surface of switches and controls. Fluids leaking into the gaps around switches and controls can damage the electronics of the vehicle.
- Do not use chemical agents, solvents, or domestic cleaning products. Using unapproved cleaning products may damage the vehicle.
- When cleaning, do not allow sharp or abrasive objects to make contact with the components. Sharp or abrasive objects may damage the components.
FABRIC UPHOLSTERY
Never use soap, ammonia, bleach, or other cleaners intended for use on hard surfaces. Using unapproved cleaning products may damage the upholstery fabrics.
Some materials and fabrics are prone to dye transfer from colored clothing e.g., jeans, which can cause unsightly discoloration of lighter colored materials and fabrics. Affected areas should be cleaned as soon as possible.
Most stains on fabrics can be removed if treatment is carried out immediately before the stain has a chance to dry in. Specific products for use on interior fabrics are recommended for cleaning fabric upholstery, however, dry cleaning fluid or clean water can also be used.
To clean fabric upholstery:
- Wipe with a clean, soft, lint-free cloth or vacuum up the majority of the debris.
- Follow the instructions for the chosen upholstery cleaning product. Avoid over-wetting.
- If staining persists, agitate the surface with a firm sponge or soft brush containing the chosen cleaning product. Dry the surface by wiping it with a clean micro-fiber cloth.
To avoid watermarks clean the entire section of fabric containing the stain.
LEATHER UPHOLSTERY
- Only use cleaning products specifically designed for use on leather. Do not use chemical, alcohol, or abrasive materials, as doing so will cause rapid deterioration of the leather. The use of non-approved products will invalidate the warranty.
- If in any doubt as to which products to use, consult a retailer/authorized repairer. Using the wrong product can cause damage to the leather surfaces.
- Dark clothing may stain leather seats, just like other upholstery products.
- Sharp objects, such as belts, zippers, rivets, etc., can leave permanent scratches and scratch marks on the leather surface.
- To prevent ingrained dirt and staining clean the seat upholstery every 1 to 2 months, dealing with stains immediately.
To clean leather upholstery:
- Wipe off fine dust from the seat surfaces using a clean, damp, non-colored cloth or vacuum with a soft brush head attachment. Avoid over-wetting the leather.
- If this is not sufficient, use a cloth that has been dampened with warm, soapy water and then wrung out. Use only mild, non-caustic soap. Alternatively, use an interior upholstery wipe.
- Use the vehicle manufacturer’s leather cleaner for heavily soiled areas. Dry off and rub with a clean, soft cloth. Make sure to change the cloth surface regularly.
Use the vehicle manufacturer’s leather cleaner several times a year to maintain the leather’s suppleness and appearance. The cleaner nourishes and moisturizes the leather, and helps to improve the surface’s protective film against dust and substances.
SEAT BELTS
Do not allow any water, cleaning products, or fabric from cloths to enter the seat belt mechanism. Any substance which enters the mechanism may affect the performance of the seat belt in an impact. Damage to the seat belt can greatly reduce its effectiveness in reducing the risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident.
Extend the seat belts fully. Specific products for use on interior fabrics are recommended, follow the product instructions. Alternatively, use warm water and a non-detergent soap to clean. Allow the seat belts to dry naturally while fully extended. Do not allow the belts to retract until fully dry.
While cleaning the seat belt, take the opportunity to examine the webbing for damage and wear. Any wear or damage should be reported to, and be rectified by, a retailer/authorized repairer.
AIRBAG MODULE COVERS
Airbag covers should only be cleaned using a slightly dampened cloth and a small amount of upholstery cleaner. Some cleaning products may cause damage to airbag covers.
Any substance which enters the mechanism can prevent the correct deployment of an airbag during an impact. An airbag system not operating correctly could result in serious injury or death in the event of an accident.
CARPET AND MATS
Correctly secure the floor mats before driving. Never placemats on top of each other. Unsecured or incorrectly positioned mats can obstruct the brake and/or accelerator pedal and can lead to serious injury or death.
Marks or stains can be removed by gentle scrubbing with a weak solution of soap and warm water.
For more stubborn stains, a commercially available carpet cleaner should be used.
STEERING WHEEL
Only use cleaning products that are suitable for use on steering wheels and do not produce a slippery surface. A slippery surface could cause a loss of control of the vehicle, potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
CLEANING SCREENS AND DISPLAYS
Do not polish the instrument panel. Polished surfaces are reflective, and may interfere with the driver’s view.
Do not use upholstery cleaner on electrical equipment such as fascia switches. Certain products may damage the vehicle’s electrical equipment.
Do not use fluids on electrical equipment such as switches and screens. Fluids can leak into any gaps around the components or between panels or trim and cause damage to components.
Clean the vehicle’s screens and displays as follows:
- Do not use chemical agents or domestic cleaning products.
- Do not allow sharp, hard, or abrasive objects to make contact with the screens.
- Avoid exposing screens to direct sunlight for long periods.
- To prevent errors from occurring, make sure only one finger at a time is in contact with the touchscreen.
- Do not use excessive pressure.
WIPER BLADES
Always lift the wiper by the wiper arm. To avoid damage to the wiper blade, do not lift the wiper by the wiper blade.
Do not use excessive pressure. Excessive pressure on the wiper blades can damage the blades. Heavy contamination on the wiper blades should be removed using a soft, damp sponge or cloth.
BLOCKED WASHER JETS
If a washer jet becomes blocked, insert a thin strand of wire into the washer jet to unblock it. Make sure the wire is completely removed after unblocking.
REPAIRING MINOR PAINT DAMAGE
Any repairs should be carried out by suitably qualified personnel.
Regularly inspect the paintwork for damage. Any stone chips, fractures, or deep scratches in the paint or bodywork should be repaired promptly. Bare metal corrodes quickly and, if left untreated, can result in expensive repairs.