Volkswagen Polo Owners Manual: Cleaning and caring for the deck stripes

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings

Deck stripes are a design feature and are made up of soft polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

In the areas of the vehicle where there are deck stripes, the underlying paint layer is protected from weather and environmental conditions.

If the deck stripes remain on the vehicle for a long time, the appearances of paint on the area protected by the deck stripes and the area not covered by the stripes may begin to show differences. This can usually be rectified by polishing.

Volkswagen recommends that you seek advice from a Volkswagen Partner or workshop as to a suitable care product.

Durability of the deck stripes

Environmental conditions such as sunlight, moisture, pollution, stone impact, etc. affect the durability and colour of the deck stripes. Signs of wear and use are normal and do not indicate a defect in quality.

After the deck stripes are fitted bubble formation may appear due to strong summer heat for example. These bubbles will usually reduce without intervention. This will not limit use of the vehicle in any way.

In warm or moderate climates slight bubble formation may appear after a period of two to three years. In warm or hot climates the deck stripes can show signs of wear and slight bubble formation may appear after just one year.

In very hot climates, damage in the form of bubbles may appear within one year, especially due to strong heat from direct sunlight.

Cleaning the deck stripes

A vehicle with deck stripes is suitable for automatic car washes provided you do not select a programme with hot wax.

Please pay attention to the information and notes on washing the vehicle and on washing using a high pressure cleaner .

When using presprays and vapour jets always maintain a distance of at least 20 cm between the spray nozzle and the deck stripes .

Insect residue, bird droppings, road dirt, industrial deposits, tar, soot, road salt and other aggressive deposits can cause damage to the deck stripes.

The longer the aggressive deposits remain on the deck stripes, the worse the negative impact will be. High temperatures (for instance in strong sunlight) further intensify the corrosive effect. Immediately wash the vehicle thoroughly using warm water and a soap solution .

Remove stubborn impurities with caution using white spirits and then rinse using warm water. Do not use any aggressive substances such as petrol, thinner or solvents.

Care of the deck stripes

Basically, the same care instructions for vehicle paint applies .

Treat the deck stripes regularly, every 3 months (no longer) with liquid hot wax. Hot wax smoothes the surface and has a dirt-repellent effect.

Only use soft microfibre clothes to apply it.

Volkswagen recommends that you seek advice from a Volkswagen Partner or workshop as to a suitable care product.

NOTICE

• Always direct the nozzle perpendicular to the deck stripe edges and surface.

• Depending on the condition of the brushes and car wash, fine scratches may appear in the deck stripes.

• Remove impurities on the deck stripes as soon as possible using suitable cleaning agents in order to avoid long-term damage to the stripes.

If the surface of the deck stripes is damaged, e.g. by the impact of gravel, the damage can only be rectified by replacing the whole deck stripe element. Volkswagen recommends having the work carried out by a qualified workshop.