Subaru Forester Manuals 2023 Forester Owner's Manual | Page 450

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Cleaning the interior
make sure it does not affect the fabric adversely . Use the cleaner according to its instructions .
CAUTION
When cleaning the seat , do not use benzine , paint thinner , or any similar materials . Doing so could damage the surface and cause the color to deteriorate .
& Leather seat materials
S10AC02
The leather used by SUBARU is a high quality natural product which will retain its distinctive appearance and feel for many years with proper care .
Allowing dust or road dirt to build up on the surface can cause the material to become brittle and to wear prematurely . Regular cleaning with a soft , moist , natural fiber cloth should be performed monthly , taking care not to soak the leather or allow water to penetrate the stitched seams .
A mild detergent suitable for cleaning woolen fabrics may be used to remove difficult dirt spots , rubbing with a soft , dry cloth afterwards to restore the luster . If your SUBARU is to be parked for a long time in bright sunlight , it is recommended that the seats and head restraints be
covered , or the windows shaded , to prevent fading or shrinkage .
Minor surface blemishes or bald patches may be treated with a commercial leather spray lacquer . You will discover that each leather seat section will develop soft folds or wrinkles , which is characteristic of genuine leather .
& Synthetic leather upholstery
S10AC03
The synthetic leather material used on the SUBARU may be cleaned using mild soap or detergent and water , after first vacuuming or brushing away loose dirt . Allow the soap to soak in for a few minutes and wipe off with a clean , damp cloth . Commercial foam-type cleaners suitable for synthetic leather materials may be used when necessary .
CAUTION
Strong cleaning agents such as solvents , paint thinners , window cleaner or fuel must never be used on leather or synthetic interior materials . Doing so could damage the surface and cause the color to deteriorate .
& Water repellent seat material ( if equipped )
S10AC10
The water repellency of the seat fabric will decrease over time . Do not apply additional water repellent coating .
& Seatbelt
S10AC09
For details about how to clean the seatbelt , refer to “ Seatbelt maintenance ” FP56 .
& Climate control panel , audio panel , instrument panel , console panel , and switches
S10AC04
Use a soft , damp cloth to clean the climate control panel , audio equipment , instrument panel , center console , combination meter panel , and switches .
CAUTION
. Do not use organic solvents such as paint thinners or fuel , or strong cleaning agents that contain those solvents . Doing so could damage the surface and cause the color to deteriorate .
. Do not use chemical solvents that contain silicone on the vehicle audio system , electrical components of the air-conditioner or any switches . If silicone adheres