2022-2024 Toyota New Vehicle Washing for Paint Protection

Understanding Toyota T-SB-0039-24: New Vehicle Washing Schedule for Paint Protection

Toyota has issued Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0039-24, detailing a crucial new vehicle washing schedule designed to protect the paint finish of 2022-2024 Toyota models from environmental damage. This bulletin specifically addresses the impact of acid rain, which can significantly degrade a vehicle's exterior over time. Adhering to this Toyota paint protection schedule is vital for maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of your vehicle's paint.

Why Acid Rain Damages Your Vehicle's Paint

Acid rain is a phenomenon caused by airborne chemicals and particles that mix with atmospheric moisture, such as rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity. These acidic compounds, when they settle on a vehicle's painted surface, can cause considerable damage. Horizontal surfaces like the hood, roof, and decklid are particularly vulnerable.

The damage manifests as etching, pitting, or water spots on the paint. As acid rain droplets evaporate, the concentration of acid intensifies, leading to deeper and more rapid damage. This corrosive action is accelerated on dark-colored cars due to increased direct sun heat. While Toyota continuously improves its paint quality, proactive measures like a consistent Toyota paint protection schedule are necessary.

Important Warnings for Vehicle Owners and Dealerships

Toyota emphasizes the urgency of addressing acid rain exposure. The bulletin includes a critical warning:

"Wash vehicles as soon as possible following an acid rain or industrial fallout occurrence. Damage to paint can start within minutes AFTER contact under these conditions."

It is also recommended to review local weather apps or websites to check rain acidity levels after precipitation, allowing for timely washing. This proactive approach is key to preventing irreversible paint damage.

Superseded Information

This current bulletin, T-SB-0039-24, supersedes Service Bulletin No. BO92-005. The previous bulletin is now considered obsolete, and any printed versions of it should be discarded. This update reflects the latest recommendations for vehicle paint protection.

Recommended Toyota Paint Protection Schedule

This recommended washing schedule is specifically for new 2022-2024 Toyota vehicles stored outdoors in regions with a high frequency or concentration of acid rain. Following this Toyota paint protection schedule helps minimize the potential for paint damage.

General Weather Conditions Ambient Temperature Washing Frequency

• For temperatures between 60°F – 85°F (15.5°C – 29°C), a minimum of once per week is recommended.
• For temperatures above 86°F (30°C), a minimum of twice per week is recommended.

Rain, Heavy Dew, or Fog Conditions Ambient Temperature Washing Frequency

• For temperatures between 60°F – 85°F (15.5°C – 29°C), washing every other day is recommended.
• For temperatures above 86°F (30°C), washing every day is recommended.

To further prevent water spotting, it is recommended to use either reverse osmosis or deionized water for washing.

Warranty Information

Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0039-24 states that this information is "Not Applicable to Warranty." This means that the recommendations provided are for preventative maintenance and are not covered under standard warranty claims.

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NHTSA ID: 11003649