2021-2025 Toyota Paint Protection Washing Schedule TSB

Acid rain, a condition caused by airborne chemicals and particles, can significantly damage a vehicle's paint finish. These contaminants mix with rainwater, dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. When these compounds settle on painted surfaces, especially horizontal areas like the hood, roof, and trunk lid, they can cause etching, pitting, and water spots.

As acid rain droplets evaporate on the vehicle surface, the acid concentration increases, leading to deeper and more rapid damage. This effect is particularly pronounced on dark-colored cars due to increased heat absorption from direct sunlight. Implementing the recommended Toyota paint protection washing schedule is crucial for maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of your vehicle's exterior.

Why This Matters

The damage from acid rain is not merely cosmetic; it involves actual etching of the paint. This can lead to permanent pitting and water spots that degrade the vehicle's appearance and can potentially compromise the paint's protective qualities over time. Protecting the paint finish is essential for preserving the vehicle's value and longevity.

Dealer Responsibilities

Toyota emphasizes that it is the dealer's responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of a new vehicle's paint finish from the moment it arrives at the dealership until its first sale. In regions known for frequent or concentrated acid rain, frequent washing during periods of high heat or humidity is recommended to minimize potential paint damage. The use of reverse osmosis or deionized water is also advised to prevent water spotting.

Important Warnings

Toyota has issued specific warnings regarding paint protection:

NOTICE 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.

NOTE Review local weather on an app or website to check rain acidity levels after precipitation.

Recommended Washing Schedule

This Toyota paint protection washing schedule is recommended for new vehicles stored outdoors in areas prone to high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain. The frequency varies based on ambient temperature and weather conditions:

General Weather Conditions Ambient Temperature Washing Frequency

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

TSB Information

This Technical Service Bulletin, T-SB-0039-24 Rev1, was issued on April 19, 2024, with a revision date of July 12, 2024. The revision updated the applicability to include 2025 model year 4Runner Hybrid and Crown Signia vehicles. Any previous printed versions of this bulletin should be discarded.

This bulletin supersedes Service Bulletin No. B092-005. The entire previous bulletin has been updated, and Service Bulletin No. B092-005 is now obsolete.

Owner Action

While this bulletin is primarily directed at dealers, owners of 2021-2025 Toyota vehicles can adopt these washing practices to protect their vehicle's paint. If you live in an area with frequent acid rain, consider following this Toyota paint protection washing schedule to prevent potential damage. Consult your local Toyota dealership for any concerns regarding your vehicle's paint finish.

---

Source: NHTSA ID: 11007445