Subaru Solterra 2023-2026 Owner's Manual: Cleaning and protecting the vehicle exterior

To preserve the appearance and long-term durability of the Subaru Solterra, follow these recommended care procedures to keep the exterior in optimal condition:

Cleaning instructions

• Start from the upper sections of the Subaru Solterra and gradually work downward, thoroughly rinsing the body, wheel housings, and undercarriage with plenty of water to effectively remove dirt, dust, and road contaminants.
• Clean the exterior surfaces using a soft sponge or cloth, such as a chamois, to prevent scratching the paint finish of the Subaru Solterra.
• For stubborn stains or residues, use a dedicated automotive shampoo, ensuring that all cleaning agents are completely rinsed away afterward.
• Dry the vehicle carefully using a soft cloth to eliminate water spots and streaks.
• Apply a protective wax coating when the water-repellent layer begins to deteriorate, maintaining the shine and protection of the Subaru Solterra paintwork.

If water no longer beads on the surface after cleaning, apply wax while the body of the Subaru Solterra is cool to the touch for best results.

■ Self-restoring coat

The Subaru Solterra features an advanced self-restoring paint coating designed to minimize the appearance of minor scratches caused during washing or daily use, enhancing long-term aesthetics.

• This specialized coating typically maintains its restorative properties for approximately 5 to 8 years from the vehicle’s original delivery date.
• The time required for surface restoration varies depending on scratch depth and ambient temperature.

  Exposure to warm water can accelerate the self-healing process, improving results on the Subaru Solterra finish.

• Deep scratches caused by sharp objects such as keys or coins cannot be repaired by this coating.
• Avoid using abrasive wax products, as they may damage the protective layer of the Subaru Solterra.

■ Automatic car washes

• Before placing the Subaru Solterra into an automatic car wash:
  • Fold the side mirrors inward to prevent damage.
  • Disable the power back door if equipped.

Always enter the car wash facing forward, and ensure mirrors are fully extended before driving afterward.

• Rotating brushes in automatic car washes may cause fine scratches on the paint, wheels, and exterior components of the Subaru Solterra.
• Some automatic systems may not accommodate rear spoilers, increasing the risk of potential damage.

  Carefully check compatibility before use to avoid harming your Subaru Solterra.

• If required, shift the transmission into N position when instructed by the car wash system.

■ High pressure car washes

To prevent water intrusion into the cabin of the Subaru Solterra, avoid directing high-pressure water jets at door seals, window edges, or other gaps, and do not spray these areas continuously.

■ Note for a smart key system

If the door handle of the Subaru Solterra becomes wet while the electronic key is nearby, repeated locking and unlocking may occur. To prevent this during washing:

• Keep the electronic key at least 6 ft. (2 m) away from the vehicle during cleaning to avoid unintended system activation.
• Activate battery-saving mode on the key to temporarily disable the smart key system.

■ Wheels and wheel ornaments

• Clean wheels promptly using a mild, neutral detergent to remove contaminants.
• Rinse thoroughly with water after applying any cleaning agent.
• To maintain the finish of Subaru Solterra wheels, observe the following precautions:
  • Avoid acidic, alkaline, or abrasive cleaning products.
  • Do not use stiff or hard brushes that may scratch the surface.
  • Avoid cleaning wheels while they are hot, such as immediately after driving.

■ Brake pads and calipers

If the Subaru Solterra is parked with wet brake components, light corrosion may develop, potentially causing sticking. After washing, drive slowly and apply the brakes several times to dry them properly.

■ Bumpers

Do not use abrasive cleaning agents on Subaru Solterra bumpers, as they may damage the surface finish.

■ Plated portions

If contaminants remain on plated components, clean them using the following method:

• Use a soft cloth with a diluted neutral detergent solution (approximately 5%) to gently remove dirt.
• Dry the surface with a clean, soft cloth to eliminate moisture.
• For oily residues, use alcohol-based wipes or similar products suitable for automotive finishes.

WARNING

■ When washing the vehicle

Never spray water directly into the motor compartment of the Subaru Solterra, as this may damage electrical components and create a risk of fire.

■ When cleaning the windshield

Always turn the wiper switch off before cleaning the windshield.

If the switch remains in "AUTO", the wipers may activate unexpectedly, potentially causing injury or damage.

1. Off
2. "AUTO"

• Touching the area near the rain sensor
• Placing a wet cloth near the sensor
• Impacts or pressure applied to the windshield
• Direct contact with the rain sensor housing

■ Precaution regarding the front and rear bumpers

If the bumper paint on the Subaru Solterra is damaged, certain driver assistance systems may not function correctly. In such cases, consult an authorized SUBARU dealer.

• SUBARU Safety Sense
• BSM
• RCTA
• SEA
• Rear Vehicle Approaching Indication
• Secondary Collision Brake (Rear Impacts while Stopped)
• PKSB
• SUBARU Parking Assist

NOTICE

■ To prevent paint deterioration and corrosion on the body and components (aluminum wheels, etc.)

• Wash the Subaru Solterra immediately under the following conditions:
  • After driving near coastal areas
  • After exposure to salted roads
  • If tar or tree sap is present
  • If insects or bird droppings are on the surface
  • After exposure to industrial pollutants or chemical substances
  • When heavily soiled with mud or dust
  • If fuel or solvents contact the paint surface
• Repair paint chips or scratches promptly to prevent corrosion.
• Store wheels in a dry environment after cleaning to prevent rust formation.

■ Cleaning the exterior lights

• Clean gently without using harsh chemicals or stiff brushes.

  This helps preserve the clarity and durability of the Subaru Solterra lighting components.

• Avoid applying wax to light lenses.

  Wax residues may damage the lens material or reduce light output.

■ When using an automatic car wash

Ensure the wiper switch is set to OFF before entering the wash.

If left in AUTO mode, the wipers may activate and become damaged during the process.

■ When using a high pressure car wash

• Do not spray high-pressure water directly onto cameras or surrounding sensors, as this may affect system performance in the Subaru Solterra.
• Avoid directing water at radar units located behind protective covers.

  Improper handling may result in sensor damage.

• Keep the nozzle away from rubber boots, connectors, and critical components such as:

  High-pressure water may damage these parts.

  • Traction system components
  • Steering mechanisms
  • Suspension elements
  • Brake assemblies
• Maintain a minimum distance of 11.9 in. (30 cm) between the nozzle and the vehicle body to prevent deformation of plastic parts.
• Do not spray continuously at the lower windshield area, as water may enter the HVAC intake and disrupt operation.
• Avoid washing the underside of the Subaru Solterra with high pressure, as water intrusion may affect the traction battery system.
• Do not spray directly around the charging port lid to prevent water ingress into the charging system.

■ Cleaning aluminum parts

When cleaning aluminum panels such as the hood, avoid applying excessive force or leaning on the surface.

The aluminum structure of the Subaru Solterra may deform under heavy pressure.