Mazda B3000 2001 v2 Owner's Manual PDF

Table of Contents

Your Vehicle at a Glance

Essential Safety Equipment

Knowing Your Mazda

Protecting Your Mazda Including Information on Trailer Towing (page 4-18)

Driving Your Mazda

In Case of Emergency

Appearance Care

Maintenance

Customer Information Including Information on How to Report Safety Defects (page 9-11)

Specifications

Index

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10

11

A Word to Mazda Owners

Thank you for choosing a Mazda. We at Mazda provide and build vehicles with complete customer satisfaction in mind.

To help ensure enjoyable and trouble- free operation of your Mazda, read this manual carefully and follow its recommendations.

An Authorized Mazda Dealer knows your vehicle best. So when mainte- nance or service is necessary, thats the place to go.

Our nationwide network of Mazda professionals is dedicated to pro- viding you with the best possible service.

We assure you that all of us at Mazda have an ongoing interest in your motoring pleasure and in your full satisfaction with your Mazda product.

Mazda Motor Corporation HIROSHIMA, JAPAN

A Word to Mazda Owners

Important Notes About This Manual

Keep this manual in the glove box as a handy reference for the safe and enjoyable use of your Mazda. Should you resell the vehicle, leave this manual with it for the next owner.

Please be aware that this manual applies to all models, equipment and options. As a result, you may find some explanations for equipment not installed on your vehicle.

All specifications and descriptions are accurate at the time of printing. Because improvement is a constant goal at Mazda, we reserve the right to make changes in specifications at any time without notice and without obligation.

Air Conditioning and the Environment

Your Mazdas genuine air conditioner is filled with R134a, a refrigerant that has been found not to damage the earths ozone layer. If the air conditioner does not operate properly, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

How to Use This Manual

We want to help you get the most driving pleasure from your vehicle. Your owners manual, when read from cover to cover, can do that in many ways.

Illustrations complement the words of the manual to best explain how to enjoy your Mazda. By reading your manual, you can find out about the features, about important safety information, and about driving under various road conditions.

The above symbol in this manual means Do not let this happen.

Index: A good place to start is the Index, an alphabetical listing of all information in your manual.

Sections: This manual has eleven sections. Sections 1 through 10 begin with a brief list of contents so you can usually tell at a glance if that section has the information you want.

How to Use This Manual

Youll find several WARNINGs, CAUTIONs, and NOTEs in the manual.

WARNING A WARNING indicates a situation in which serious injury or death could result if the warning is ignored.

CAUTION A CAUTION indicates a situation in which injury or damage to your vehicle, or both, could result if the caution is ignored.

NOTE

A NOTE provides information and sometimes suggests how to make better use of your vehicle.

LIGHTS

TURN SIGNALS

ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE

HEADLIGHT HIGH BEAM

HAZARD WARNING FLASHER

ENGINE OIL

HEADLIGHT LOW BEAM PARKING LIGHTS ILLUMINATION CONTROL

TRUNK RELEASE FUEL

SEAT BELTS BRAKE SYSTEMBATTERY CHARGING SYSTEM

HOOD RELEASE

How to Use This Manual

Graphic symbols:

Some of the following symbols are used to identify controls and displays on your vehicle.

VENTILATION FAN

FLOOR

LIGHTER

AIR RECIRCULATION

FLOOR DEFROSTING

HORN

FRESH AIR VENT

WINDSHIELD WIPER & WASHER

VENT-FLOOR

WASHER FLUID

DEFROSTING REAR WINDOW DEFROSTING

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT

How to Use This Manual

1 Your Vehicle at a Glance Your Mazda is a complex vehicle, but the design throughout considers your safety and comfort paramount. This requires many controls, locks, graphic symbols, mechanisms, and amenities that need to be understood for proper operation.

Section 1 illustrates this information to familiarize you with what needs to be known to help make your motoring safer and easier, and lots more fun.

Interior Overview 1-2 Dashboard Overview 1-3

Doors 1-4 Rear Compartment 1-5

Cargo Area 1-6

1-1

*Some models.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

1-2

Interior Overview

*Some models.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

1-3

Dashboard Overview

*Some models.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

1-4

Doors

*Some models.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

1-5

Rear Compartment

*Some models.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

1-6

Cargo Area

2 Essential Safety Equipment Personal safety and comfort are what make driving your Mazda a pleasurable experience. Section 2 describes essential information for optimal safe driving including seats, seat belt systems, and the supplemental restraint system.

Front Seats 2- 2 Rear Seats 2- 4

Seat Belt System 2- 5 Child Restraint 2-21

Supplemental Air Bag Restraint System 2-29

2-1

Essential Safety Equipment

2-2

Front Seats

Seat Adjustment To move a front seat forward or back- ward, lift the handle up and slide the seat. Release the handle to latch the seat in its new position. Make sure the seat locks securely in place. *Some models.

WARNING Drivers Seat Adjustment: Adjusting the drivers seat while the vehicle is moving could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Adjust this seat only when the vehi- cle is stopped.

WARNING Luggage Behind Seatback: Luggage or other cargo should not be piled higher than the seatbacks. This will help keep items from being thrown about and injuring people in a collision or sudden stop.

Seat Recline*

To change the seatback angle, lean for- ward slightly and raise the seat recline lever. Then, lean back to the position you want and release the lever.

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2-3

Make sure the lever returns to its original position.

Lifting this lever (when a seat is unoccu- pied) allows the seatback to fold forward for access to the rear seat.

WARNING Reclining: Sitting in a reclined position in a moving vehicle can be dangerous because you dont get the full pro- tection from seat belts. In a collision or sudden stop, you can slide under the lap belt and suffer serious inter- nal injuries. For maximum protec- tion, sit well back and upright.

WARNING Upright Seatbacks: Rear seat passengers should not lean on the front seatback while the vehicle is in motion. A seatback which is folded forward even a small degree may not lock properly in the event of a sudden stop or collision. Do not allow packages or other objects to interfere with the normal positions of the seatback or the seat recline lever. This may prevent the seatback from locking in the event of a sudden stop or collision and could cause personal injury.

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Rear Seats Lumbar Support Adjustment*

Turn the lumbar support control knob counterclockwise to increase firmness.

Turn the lumbar support control knob clockwise to increase softness.

The control knob is located on the out- board side of the drivers seat.

*Some models.

WARNING Seatback Lock: If the drivers seatback is unlocked while the vehicle is moving, it could cause the driver to lose control. To prevent this, and to prevent injury to a passenger, unlock a seatback only when the vehicle is stopped.

Jump Seats* 2-Door Cab Plus

To open, pull inboard and down on the seat handle.

To stow the seat, pull seat bottom back to the fully upright position.

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2-5

Seat Belt System

4-Door Cab Plus

To open, pull seat assembly down, then raise seatback.

To stow the seat, fold seat back down and raise seat assembly to the fully upright position.

WARNING Installing a Child Seat in the Jump Seat: Do not install a child seat in a cen- ter facing jump seat. They are not intended for this purpose.

Seat belts help decrease the possibility or severity of injury during accidents and sudden stops. Mazda recommends that the driver and passengers wear seat belts at all times.

Energy Management Feature

This vehicle has a seat belt system with an energy management feature at the front outboard seating positions to help further reduce the risk of injury in the event of a head-on collision.

This seat belt system has a retractor assembly that is designed to pay out webbing in a controlled manner. This feature is designed to help reduce the belt force acting on the occupants chest.

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NOTE

After any vehicle collision, the seat belt system at all outboard seating positions (except driver, which has no automatic locking retractor feature) must be checked by a quali- fied technician to verify the no automatic locking retractor fea- ture for child seats is still functioning properly in addition to other checks for proper seat belt system function.

WARNING Belt and retractor assembly must be replaced if the seat belt system automatic locking retractor fea- ture or any other seat belt function is not operating properly when checked according to procedures in the workshop manual. Failure to replace the belt and retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in collisions.

Emergency Locking Mode

The emergency locking mode is the normal retractor mode, allowing free shoulder belt length adjustment to your movements and locking in response to vehicle movement. For example, if the driver brakes suddenly or turns a corner sharply, or the vehicle receives an impact of 5 mph (8 km/h) or more the combina- tion seat belts will lock to help reduce forward movement of the driver and passengers.

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2-7

Automatic Locking Mode

In this mode, the shoulder belt is auto- matically pre-locked. The belt will still retract to remove any slack in the shoulder belt.

The automatic locking mode is not available on the driver seat belt.

When to use the automatic locking mode

When a tight lap/shoulder fit is desired.

Any time a child safety seat is installed in a passenger front seating position. Children 12 years old and under should be properly restrained in the rear seat (if equipped) when- ever possible. Refer to Child Restraint in this section.

How to use the automatic locking mode

1. Buckle the combination lap and shoulder belt.

2. Grasp the shoulder portion and pull downward until the entire belt is extracted.

3. Allow the belt to retract. As the belt retracts, you will hear a clicking sound. This indicates the safety belt is now in the automatic locking mode.

How to disengage the automatic locking mode

Disconnect the combination lap/shoulder belt and allow it to retract completely to disengage the automatic locking mode and activate the emergency locking mode. This vehicle has a seat belt system

with an energy management feature at the front seating positions to help further reduce the risk of injury in the event of head-on collision.

This seat belt system has a retractor assembly that is designed to pay out webbing in a controlled manner. This feature is designed to help reduce the belt force acting on an occupants chest.

Essential Safety Equipment

2-8

WARNING Seat Belts: Make sure that you and your pas- sengers, including pregnant women, wear seat belts. Be sure that the lap belt portion of your seat belt fits snugly and as low as possible around the hips. If seat belts are not used properly, the risk of you or your passengers being injured in a collision greatly increases. In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.

(Continued)

WARNING Always drive and ride with your seatback upright and the lap belt portion of your seat belt snug and low across the hips. This will reduce the risk of serious injury to the abdomen or neck that could be caused by sliding under the seat belts in a collision.

WARNING Damaged Seat Belts: An accident can damage a seat belt in use. The belt webbing can be weakened and retractors and anchors can be bent or broken. Therefore, a damaged seat belt may not provide adequate protection in a collision. Have a professional inspect all seat belt systems in use during an acci- dent before they are used again.

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NOTE

When the lap/shoulder belt is un- buckled and allowed to retract com- pletely, the retractor will switch to the emergency locking mode.

WARNING No Passengers in Cargo Area: Do not allow any people to ride in the cargo area of your vehicle. People who are not riding in seats with their seat belts fastened are much more likely to be injured in a collision.

WARNING Twisted Seat Belts: Twisted seat belts can cause injury. In a collision, the full width of the belt isnt available to absorb the impact. This puts more force on the bones beneath the belt, which could break them or cause other serious injury. If you cannot untwist or unjam the seat belt, see your nearest qualified technician immediately. Never drive or ride with twisted seat belts.

NOTE

Refer to page 2-15 for more informa- tion on how to untwist a seat belt.

WARNING One Belt, One Passenger: Using one seat belt for more than one person at a time is dangerous. A seat belt used in this way cant spread the impact force properly and the two passengers could be crushed together and seriously injured. Never use one belt for more than one person at a time.

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2-10

Seat Belt Warning Light/Chime

The seat belt warning light/chime reminds you to fasten your seat belt. One of the following will take place:

If the seat belt is not buckled before the ignition is turned to ON, the light comes on for one to two minutes and the chime sounds for 4 to 8 seconds.

If the seat belt is buckled while the light is on and the chime is sounding, both the light and chime turn off.

If the seat belt is buckled before the igni- tion is turned to ON, both the light and chime will not turn on.

Front Seat Belts To fasten:

1. Grasp the buckle and tongue plate.

2. Slowly pull out the lap/shoulder belt.

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2-11

3. Insert the tongue into the buckle clos- est to the direction the tongue is com- ing from until you hear a click.

4. Pull slightly to ensure a proper con- nection.

WARNING Positioning the Shoulder Portion of the Seat Belt: Improper positioning of the shoulder portion of the seat belt is dangerous. An improperly positioned belt will provide little or no protection in a collision. Always make sure the shoulder portion of the seat belt is positioned across your shoulder and near your neck, but never under your arm, on your neck, or on your upper arm.

WARNING Positioning the Lap Portion of the Seat Belt: The lap portion of the seat belt worn too high can be dangerous. In a col- lision, this would concentrate the impact force directly on the abdom- inal area, causing serious injury. Wear the lap belt snugly and as low as possible.

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2-12

To unfasten:

Push the red release button and remove the tongue from the buckle.

Regular Cab

Shoulder Belt Adjuster

Your vehicle has seat belt height adjust- ments for the driver and front passenger. Adjust the height of the shoulder belt so the belt rests across the middle of your shoulder.

To lower the shoulder belt height, push the button and slide the height adjuster down. To raise the height of the shoulder belt, slide the height adjuster up. Pull down on the height adjuster assembly to make sure it is locked in place.

Essential Safety Equipment

2-13

Be sure the belt is properly positioned on your shoulder each time you use the belt.

WARNING Positioning the Shoulder Portion of the Seat Belt: Improper positioning of the shoulder portion of the seat belt is dangerous. An improperly positioned belt will provide little or no protection in a collision. Always make sure the shoulder portion of the seat belt is positioned across your shoulder and near your neck, but never under your arm, on your neck, or on your upper arm.

WARNING If the shoulder belt is off your shoulder, under your arm or against your neck, there is a greater risk of severe injury in a collision.

Essential Safety Equipment

2-14

Front Center Seat Belt (No Retractor)

The lap belt does not adjust automati- cally.

To fasten: 1. Grasp the tongue plate and pull it to

the desired length. To lengthen the belt, hold the tongue at a right angle to the webbing and pull; to shorten, pull the loose end of the webbing.

2. Insert the tongue into the correct buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from).

3. Pull slightly to ensure a proper con- nection.

4. Adjust belt so that it fits snugly and as low as possible around the hips.

To unfasten: Depress the button on the buckle. Shorten and fasten the belt when not in use.

Rear Lap Belts With Retractors

The lap belt will adjust automatically.

To fasten:

Grasp the tongue, and with a continuous motion, pull out enough webbing to buckle the tongue into the correct buckle. If you did not pull out enough webbing to reach the buckle, allow the

tongue to retract fully before trying to pull it out again. The lap belts should fit snugly and as low as possible around the hips, not around the waist.

If you need to lengthen the belt, unfasten it and repeat the procedure above.

To unfasten:

Push in the release button prior to open- ing the rear door.

NOTE

On 4-door cab plus vehicles, do not open the rear door when the rear seat belt is still buckled.

Essential Safety Equipment

2-15

WARNING Wearing the Lap Belt: A lap belt worn too high can be dan- gerous. In a collision, this would concentrate the impact force directly on the abdominal area, causing seri- ous injury. Wear the lap belt snugly and as low as possible.

How to Untwist or Unjam a Seat Belt Retractor

If you should jam the lap belt retractor by allowing the belt to retract when it is twisted, you can free the webbing with this procedure:

1. Pull on the belt with both hands to tighten it on the retractor spool.

2. Feed the belt back into the retractor until it is completely retracted. Repeat previous step if necessary.

3. Pull the belt out of its holder as far as it will go and untwist the belt or remove the object that is jamming the belt. Let the belt retract.

4. Then, pull the belt out and let it retract several times to make sure that the belt works properly.

Procedure to Correct a Twisted Seat Belt at the D-Ring

1. Grasp the belt webbing at the D-ring. (Wire type shownvehicles with other types of D-rings also affected.)

Essential Safety Equipment

2-16

2. Rotate and fold the belt webbing over itself as required to remove the twist.

3. Feed the folded portion of the belt through the D-ring.

4. When completed, the seat belt should look like the above figure.

Procedure to Correct a Rotated Tongue on the Seat Belt

1. Grasp the belt tongue and pull down on the belt webbing closest to you to form a loop through the upper (nar- row and longer) slot in the tongue.

Essential Safety Equipment

2-17

2. Working within the upper slot, rotate and fold the belt webbing over itself as required to remove the twist.

3. Pull the excess belt webbing back through the upper slot in the tongue.

4. Repeat the above steps to complete the removal of the twist at the lower (wider and larger) slot in the tongue.

5. When completed, the seat belt should look like the second figure on page 2-16.

Seat Belt Extender

If your seat belt is not long enough, even when fully extended, your Authorized Mazda Dealer can provide you with a seat belt extender. It is free. The extender will be only for you and for the particular vehicle and seat that you choose. When ordering an extender, only order one that provides the necessary additional length to fasten the seat belt properly. Please contact your Authorized Mazda Dealer for more information.

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2-18

WARNING Using an Improper Extender: Using a seat belt extender that is for another person or a different vehicle or seat is dangerous. The seat belt will not provide adequate protection and the user could be seriously injured in an accident. Only use the extender provided for you and for the particular vehicle and seat. NEVER use the extender in a different vehicle or seat.

WARNING Unnecessary Use of an Extender: Using a seat belt extender when not necessary is dangerous. The seat belt will be too long and not fit prop- erly. In an accident, the seat belt will not provide adequate protec- tion and you could be seriously injured. Only use the extender when it is required to fasten the seat belt properly.

WARNING Using an Extender That is Too Long: Using an extender that is too long is dangerous. The seat belt will not fit properly. In an accident, the seat belt will not provide adequate protection and you could be seri- ously injured. Dont use the extender or choose one shorter in length if the distance between the extenders buckle and the center of the users body is less than 6 inches.

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2-19

Pregnant Women

Pregnant women should wear seat belt assemblies as recommended by their doctors. The lap belt should be worn SNUGLY AND AS LOW AS POS- SIBLE.

Seat Belt Maintenance

Inspect the seat belt systems periodically to make sure they work properly and are not damaged. Inspect the seat belts to make sure there are no nicks, wears or cuts, replacing if necessary. All seat belt assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front seat belt buckle assem- blies (slide bar) (if equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), child safety seat tether bracket assemblies (if equipped), and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a collision. Mazda recommends that all seat belt assemblies used in vehicles involved in

a collision be replaced. However, if the collision was minor and a qualified tech- nician finds that the belts do not show damage and continue to operate prop- erly, they do not need to be replaced. Seat belt assemblies not in use during a colli- sion should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

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The short plastic boot on the front seat belt at the outboard anchor location (Regular Cab, driver; Cab Plus, driver and passenger) covers an energy absorb- ing sew pattern on the seat belt. In the event of an accident, the sew pattern may release and a colored label (REPLACE BELT) may become visible. If this occurs, the seat belt must be replaced.

WARNING Inspecting Seat Belts After a Collision: All seat belt assemblies, including retractors, buckles, front seat buckle support assemblies (slide bar, if so equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), child safety seat tether bracket assemblies (if equipped) and attaching hardware should be inspected after any colli- sion. Mazda recommends that all seat belt assemblies used in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced. However, if the collision was minor and a qualified technician finds

(Continued)

that the belts do not show damage and continue to operate properly, they do not need to be replaced. Seat belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted.

WARNING Replace Belt Label: If any part of the colored label is exposed, the belt must be replaced. Failure to do so could result in severe personal injuries in a colli- sion.

Essential Safety Equipment

2-21

Child Restraint You are required by law to use safety restraints for children in the U.S. and Canada. If small children ride in your vehicle (generally children who are four years old or younger and who weigh 40 lbs [18 kg] or less), you must put them in safety seats made especially for chil- dren. Check your local and state or pro- vincial laws for specific requirements regarding the safety of children in your vehicle.

Always follow the instructions and warnings that come with any infant or child restraint you might use.

When possible, always place children under age 12 in the rear seat of your vehicle. Accident statistics suggest that children are safer when properly

restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions.

WARNING Child Restraint Instructions: When using any infant or child restraint system, it is important that you follow the instructions and warnings provided by the manufac- turer concerning its installation and use. Failure to follow each of the restraint manufacturers instructions could increase the risk or severity of an injury in the event of a collision or sudden stop.

WARNING Installing Child Restraint Seats: When installing a child safety seat, be sure to use the correct seat belt buckle for that seating position, and make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle. All child restraint systems are designed to be secured in vehicle seats by the lap portion of a lap-shoulder belt. If you do not properly secure the safety seat to the vehicle, the risk is greater that a child, occupying the seat during a collision or sudden stop, will be injured. An un-secured safety seat could also injure other passengers in the vehicle.

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2-22

WARNING Unsecured Restraint System: A child-restraint system that is not securely fastened down can be dan- gerous. In a sudden stop or collision, it can become a projectile and hit someone, causing serious injury. When not in use, remove it from the vehicle or fasten it with a seat belt.

WARNING Holding a Child: A child should never be held on the lap or in the arms of a passenger in a moving vehicle. No matter how strong a person may be, he or she cannot hold a child during an acci- dent. The child may thus be injured by hitting parts of the vehicle, by being crushed by an unrestrained passenger or even being ejected from the vehicle.

WARNING Unattended Children: Leaving children unattended in a vehicle can be dangerous. In hot weather, temperatures inside a parked vehicle can become high enough to cause brain damage or even death. Never leave children or animals unattended in the vehicle.

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2-23

Installing a Child-Restraint System

The front passenger seat lap/shoulder belt retractor operates in two modes, emergency locking mode and automatic locking mode. Automatic locking mode must be used when installing a child safety seat on the passenger side seat. (Refer to Passenger Air Bag Warning on page 2-24.)

WARNING Improperly Secured System: Carefully follow all of the manufac- turers instructions that come with the safety seat that you put in your vehicle. Make sure that the shoulder belt (if provided at the seating posi- tion where the safety seat is being used) does not cross or rest in front of the childs face or neck. If you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision.

WARNING Keep Seatbacks Upright: Children should always ride with the seatback in the fully upright position. When the seatback is not fully upright, there is a greater risk that the child will slide under the seat belt and be seriously injured in a collision. Seatbacks should be upright for use with child safety seats.

WARNING Center Facing Jump Seats: Safety seats for children are not intended for use in center facing seats.

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2-24

WARNING Passenger Air Bag: REAR-FACING INFANT SEATS SHOULD NEVER BE USED IN THE FRONT SEAT UNLESS THE PASSENGER AIR BAG SWITCH IS TURNED TO OFF. When using forward-facing child seats in the front seat, always move the passen- ger seat as far back from the instru- ment panel as possible. Failure to follow these warnings could result in injury to the child.

When installing a child safety seat, be sure to use the correct belt buckle for that seating position. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle until you hear a snap and feel it latch. Make sure the tongue is securely fastened in the buckle.

WARNING Buckle Release Button: Always keep the buckle release button pointing upward and away from the child seat, with the tongue between the child seat and the release button. Failure to follow these instructions could result in accidental unbuckling of the seat belt if the child safety seat hits the release button. Release of the seat belt could result in serious injuries.

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2-25

Front seat passenger position

1. Slide the seat as far back as possible.

2. Secure the system with the lap por- tion of the lap/shoulder belt.

3. Pull down on the shoulder belt and then grasp the shoulder belt and lap belt together.

4. While holding the shoulder and lap belt portions together, route the tongue through the child seat according to the child seat manufacturers instruc- tions. Be sure the belt webbing is not twisted.

5. Insert the belt tongue into the proper buckle (the buckle closest to the direction the tongue is coming from) for that seating position until you hear and feel the latch engage. Make sure the tongue is latched securely by pulling on it.

6. To put the retractor in the automatic locking mode, grasp the shoulder portion of the belt and pull downward until all of the belt is retracted and a click is heard.

7. Allow the belt to retract. The belt will click as it retracts to indicate it is in the automatic locking mode.

8. Pull the lap belt portion across the child seat toward the buckle and pull up on the shoulder belt while pushing down on the seat.

9. Allow the seat belt to retract to remove any slack in the belt.

10. Before placing the child in the seat, forcibly tilt the seat forward and back to make sure the seat is securely held in place.

11. Try to pull the belt out of the retrac- tor to make sure the retractor is in the automatic locking mode. (You should not be able to pull more belt out.) If the retractor is not locked, unbuckle the belt and repeat steps 3 through 10.

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Attaching Safety Seats With Tether Straps

General instructions

Some manufacturers make safety seats that include a tether strap that goes over the back of the vehicle seat and attaches to an anchoring point. Contact the child seat manufacturer for information about ordering a tether strap.

You can attach a tether strap anchor bracket to the cab inner back panel by using a tether anchor kit available at no charge from any Authorized Mazda Dealer.

A tethered seat can be installed in the front seat. Put the tether strap over the seatback and attach it to an anchor bracket.

An anchor bracket can be installed on the rear edge of the front seat cushion. The attaching hole is provided in the rear edge of the front passenger seat cushion frame.

Read and carefully follow the instruc- tions provided with the kit for installa- tion of the child tether strap anchor.

Follow the child seat manufacturers instructions to attach the tether strap to the tether bracket.

WARNING Tether Attachment: Use only the tether attachment hole locations. The tether anchorage may not perform properly if the wrong mounting location is used.

WARNING Follow Precautions: Failure to follow these precautions could increase the chance and/or severity of injury in an accident.

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WARNING Center Facing Jump Seats: In Cab Plus vehicles equipped with center facing jump seats, the tether strap anchor bracket should be installed only at the center of the cabs back panel with the child seat in the front center seating position. Installing an anchor bracket at the right rear of the cab may increase risk of injury to an occupant of the right rear center facing jump seat in the event of a collision or sudden stop. If a tethered child seat is installed in the right front seating position, secure the tether strap to

(Continued)

the webbing of the buckled right rear lap belt. Do not install a child seat in a center facing jump seat. Safety seats for children are not intended for use in center facing seats.

WARNING Test Child Restraints: Once you have attached the safety seat, test the seat before you place the child in it. Tilt the seat from side to side. Also try to tug the seat for- ward. Check to see if the belt holds the seat firmly in place. If the safety seat is not anchored properly, the risk of a child being injured in a collision or sudden stop greatly increases. Reclining seat- backs should be in the most upright position for use with child safety seats.

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To improve the fit of lap and shoulder belts on children who have outgrown child safety seats, Mazda recommends use of a belt-positioning booster seat that is labeled as conforming to all Federal motor vehicle safety standards. Belt- positioning booster seats raise the child and provide a shorter, firmer seating cushion that encourages safer seating posture and better fit of lap and shoulder belts on the child. A belt-positioning booster should be used if the shoulder belt rests in front of the childs face or neck, or if the lap belt does not fit snugly on both thighs, or if the thighs are too short to let the child sit all the way back on the seat cushion when the lower legs hang over the edge of the seat cushion. You may wish to discuss the specific needs of your child with your pediatrician.

Older Children

A child who has outgrown child restraint systems should use seat belts, both lap and shoulder. If the shoulder belt crosses the neck or face, use the adjustable shoulder belt and/or move the child closer to the center of the vehicle.

WARNING Proper Belt Adjustment: If seat belts are not properly worn and adjusted as described, the risk of serious injury to the child in a collision will be much greater. Make sure the seat belt is worn properly as described in this section.

WARNING Shoulder Belt Positioning: The child should wear the lap and shoulder belt only if the shoulder belt portion can be positioned so that it does not cross or rest in front of the childs face or neck. Moving the child closer to the center of the vehicle may help provide proper shoulder belt fit. If the shoulder belt cannot be prop- erly positioned, the child should be protected by a child restraint system. If you do not have a child restraint system, obtain one immediately. In the meantime, move the child to a lap belt-only seat position if the vehicle is so equipped.

Restraint System

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2-29

Supplemental Air Bag

WARNING Lap Belt Position: Lap belts and the lap belt portion of lap and shoulder belts should always be worn snugly and below the hips, touching the childs thighs.

CAUTION A seat belt or child restraint can become very hot in a closed vehicle during warm weather. To avoid burning yourself or a child, inspect the seat belt or child restraint before using.

In a front-end accident, the supplemental restraint system is designed to provide protection in addition to the three-point seat belt system. Without seat belt usage, the air bags cannot provide adequate protection during an accident. Seat belt usage is necessary to:

Keep the passenger away from an inflating air bag.

Reduce the possibility of injuries dur- ing an accident that is not designed for air bag inflation, such as rollover, side or rear collisions.

Reduce the possibility of injuries in a frontal collision that is not severe enough to activate the air bag.

Reduce the possibility of being thrown from your vehicle.

Reduce the possibility of injuries to lower body and legs during an acci- dent because the air bag provides no protection to these parts.

Hold the driver in a position which allows better control of the vehicle.

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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends a minimum of at least 10 inches (25 cm) between an occupants chest and the air bag module.

To properly position yourself away from the air bag:

Move your seat to the rear as far as you can while still reaching the ped- als comfortably.

Recline the seat one or two notches from the upright position.

WARNING Air Bags without Seat Belts: Depending only on the air bags for protection during an accident is dangerous. Alone, air bags may not prevent serious injuries. The appropriate air bags can be expected to inflate only during a frontal or near-frontal collision of at least moderate force. Vehicle occupants should always wear seat belts.

Small children, those under 40 lbs (18 kg), should be protected by a child-re- straint system (page 2-21).

WARNING The driver and passenger air bags are not designed to restrain occu- pants in the center front seating position on bench seats. Please wear your seat belts.

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WARNING Rear-Facing Child Restraint: When a rear-facing child restraint is installed on the passenger seat and the passenger side air bag de- activation switch is not in the OFF position, it is extremely dangerous. In an accident, the air bag could inflate and cause serious injuries or even death to the child in the rear-facing child restraint. When first installing a rear-facing child restraint until it is removed, always set and leave the passenger side air bag deactivation switch in the OFF position.

System Description

The air bag system consists of:

Driver and passenger air bag modules (which include the inflators and air bags)

One or more impact and safing sen- sors, passenger air bag deactivation (PAD) switch and diagnostic monitor

Readiness light and tone

Electrical wiring which connects the components

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The driver air bag is mounted in the center of the steering wheel and remains out of sight until activated.

The passenger air bag is mounted in the upper right hand section of the instru- ment panel and remains out of sight until activated. It is not intended to pro- vide protection to the center occupants position.

Passenger Air Bag It is important for front seat passengers safety that they remain properly seated whenever the vehicle is moving. This means that small children should be secured in appropriate child safety seats. All other occupants should sit upright, with their backs against the seatback, and restrained by lap and shoulder belts. No passenger should sit toward the front edge of the seat, or stand or lean near the air bag cover (which is near the glove box).

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Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch

Your vehicle is equipped with a front pas- senger side air bag deactivation switch. The switch is located at the lower center of the instrument panel next to the ash- tray.

The passenger side air bag should always be ON (the air bag OFF light should NOT be illuminated) unless the passenger is a person who meets the requirements stated either in Category 1, 2 or 3 of the NHTSA deactivation crite- ria which follows.

WARNING Air Bags and Seat Belts The seat belts for the driver and right front passenger seating posi- tions have been specifically de- signed to function together with the air bags in certain types of crashes. When you turn OFF your air bag, you not only lose the protection of the air bag, you also may reduce the effectiveness of your seat belt sys- tem which was designed to work with your air bag. If you are not a person who meets the requirements stated in the NHTSA deactivation criteria turning OFF the air bag can increase the risk of serious injury or death in a collision.

WARNING Rear-Facing Child Restraint: When a rear-facing child restraint is installed on the passenger seat and the passenger side air bag de- activation switch is not in the OFF position, it is extremely dangerous. In an accident, the air bag could inflate and cause serious injuries or even death to the child in the rear-facing child restraint. When first installing a rear-facing child restraint until it is removed, always set and leave the passenger side air bag deactivation switch in the OFF position.

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The vast majority of drivers and passen- gers are much safer with an air bag than without. To do their job and reduce the risk of life threatening injuries, air bags must open with great force, and this force can pose a potentially deadly risk in some situations, particularly when a front seat occupant is not properly buckled up. The most effective way to reduce the risk of unnecessary air bag injuries without reducing the overall safety of the vehicle is to make sure all occupants are properly restrained in the vehicle, especially in the front seat. This provides the protection of seat belts and permits the air bags to provide the addi- tional protection they were designed to provide. If you choose to deactivate your air bag, you are losing the very signifi- cant risk reducing benefits of the air bag and you are also reducing the effective- ness of the seat belts, because seat belts

in modern vehicles are designed to work as a safety system with the air bags.

Read all air bag warning labels in the vehicle as well as the other important air bag instructions and warnings in this owners manual.

NHTSA deactivation criteria

1. Infant An infant (less than 1 year old) must ride in the front seat because:

the vehicle has no rear seat;

the vehicle has a rear seat too small to accommodate a rear-facing infant seat; or

the infant has a medical condition which, according to the infants phy- sician, makes it necessary for the infant to ride in the front so that the driver can constantly monitor the childs condition.

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2. Child age 1 to 12 A child age 1 to 12 must ride in the front seat because:

the vehicle has no rear seat;

although children ages 1 to 12 ride in the rear seat(s) whenever possible, children ages 1 to 12 sometimes must ride in the front because no space is available in the rear seat(s) of the vehicle; or

the child has a medical condition which, according to the childs physi- cian, makes it necessary for the child to ride in the front seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the childs condition.

3. Medical condition A passenger has a medical condition which, according to his or her physician:

causes the passenger air bag to pose a special risk for the passenger; and

makes the potential harm from the passenger air bag in a crash greater than the potential harm from turning OFF the air bag and allowing the pas- senger, even if belted, to hit the dash- board or windshield in a crash.

WARNING Energy Management Seat Belts This vehicle has special energy management seat belts for the driver and/or right front passenger. These particular belts are specifi- cally designed to work with air bags to help reduce the risk of injury in a collision. The energy manage- ment seat belt is designed to give or release additional belt webbing in some accidents to reduce con- centration of force on an occupant and reduce the risk of injuries to underlying organs.

(Continued)

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In a crash, if the air bag is turned OFF, this energy management seat belt might permit the person wear- ing the belt to move forward enough to incur a serious or fatal injury. The more severe the crash, and the heavier the occupant, the greater the risk is. Be sure the air bag is turned ON for any person who does not qualify under the NHTSA deac- tivation criteria.

NOTE

If the yellow peel-off label is still on the switch, pull the tab to remove it, and discard it.

To deactivate the passenger air bag

1. Insert the ignition key, turn the switch to OFF position and hold in OFF position while removing the key.

2. When the ignition is turned on, the OFF light illuminates briefly, momentarily shuts off and then turns back on. This indicates that the pas- senger air bag is deactivated.

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WARNING Light Malfunction: If the light fails to illuminate when the passenger air bag deactivation switch is in the OFF position and the ignition switch is in ON, have the passenger air bag switch serv- iced at your Mazda dealer immedi- ately.

WARNING In order to avoid inadvertent activation of the deactivation switch and the passenger air bag, always remove the ignition key from the passenger air bag deac- tivation switch.

The passenger air bag remains OFF until you turn it back ON.

To activate the passenger air bag 1. Insert the ignition key and turn the

switch to ON.

2. The OFF light will briefly illuminate when the ignition is turned to ON. This indicates the passenger air bag is operational.

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WARNING Light Malfunction: If the light is illuminated when the passenger air bag deactivation switch is in the ON position and the ignition switch is in ON, have the passenger air bag deactivation switch serviced at your Mazda dealer immediately.

The amber OFF light warns the driver and any passengers that the passenger air bag is turned off. The passenger air bag should be turned off ONLY when a rear- facing infant seat is installed at the right front passenger seat.

WARNING Keep Switch On: Keep the passenger air bag turned ON unless there is an infant seat installed in the front seat. When the passenger air bag switch is turned OFF, the passenger air bag will not inflate in a collision.

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WARNING Passenger Seated and Restrained: If a passenger is not properly seated and restrained, an inflating air bag could cause a serious injury or death.

WARNING Rear-Facing Child Restraint: When a rear-facing child restraint is installed on the passenger seat and the passenger side air bag de- activation switch is not in the OFF position, it is extremely dangerous. In an accident, the air bag could inflate and cause serious injuries or even death to the child in the rear-facing child restraint. When first installing a rear-facing child restraint until it is removed, always set and leave the passenger side air bag deactivation switch in the OFF position.

How the Air Bag Works

When air bag crash sensors detect a greater than moderate frontal impact (more severe than hitting a parked vehi- cle of similar size and weight head-on at about 28 mph [45 km/h]), an electrical current is sent to the inflator and nitrogen gas is produced to inflate the air bag. After the inflation, the bag quickly deflates.

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WARNING Seating Position: Sitting too close to an air bag stor- age compartment or placing hands on it is extremely dangerous. Air bags inflate with great force and speed. Serious injuries could occur if someone is sitting too close. The driver should always hold onto only the rim of the steering wheel. The front seat passenger should keep both feet on the floor. Front seat occupants should adjust their seats as far back as possible, always sit upright against the seat backs and wear their seat belts properly.

NOTE

When an air bag deploys, a loud inflation noise can be heard and some smoke will be released. Nei- ther is likely to cause injury.

WARNING Hot Air Bag Inflators: Hot air bag inflators are danger- ous. Immediately after inflation, the inflators in the steering wheel or the dashboard are very hot. You could get burned. Dont touch the internal components of the air bag storage areas after the bags have inflated.

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WARNING Modification of the Supplemental Restraint System: Modifying the components or wir- ing of the supplemental restraint system is dangerous. You could accidentally activate it or make it inoperable. Dont make any mod- ifications to the supplemental restraint system. This includes installing trim, badges or anything else over the air bag storage areas. It also includes installing extra electric equipment on or near sys- tem components or wiring.

WARNING Front Air Bag Storage Areas: Attaching an object to a front air bag storage area or placing some- thing in front of it is dangerous. In an accident, the object could inter- fere with front air bag inflation and injure the occupants. Always keep the front air bag storage areas free of objects.

WARNING Air Bag Inspection After a Collision: If your Mazda was in a collision not strong enough to inflate the air bag, parts on which the sensors are mounted may be distorted, and without repairs the system may not operate when necessary. Have an Authorized Mazda Dealer make a very careful inspection of the system.

Front Air Bag Activation A greater than moderate impact will cause the front air bags to inflate in the following cases:

1. Hitting a solid wall straight on at greater than about 14 mph (22 km/h).

2. Frontal impact within about a 30 degree range from head on to the vehicle.

3. Hitting a curb, pavement edge or hard material.

4. Driving into a big hole or hitting the far side of a hole.

5. Landing hard or vehicle falling.

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Limitations to Front Air Bag Activation

Depending on the severity of impact, the front air bags may not inflate in the following cases:

1. Impacts involving trees or poles cause severe cosmetic damage but may not have enough impact to acti- vate the air bag.

2. Rear-ending or running under a trucks tail gate may not provide the stopping force necessary for air bag deployment.

3. Frontal offset impact to the vehicle may not provide the stopping force necessary for air bag deployment.

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Non-Activation of Front Air Bags

Front air bags will not normally inflate in the following cases:

1. Collision from the rear.

2. Vehicle rollover.

3. Impact to the side.

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Constant Monitoring

These components are monitored by the air bag system warning light or beeper:

SRS units

Air bag modules

Related wiring

Warning lights

A diagnostic monitor continuously mon- itors the systems readiness. This begins when the ignition is turned on and con- tinues while the vehicle is being driven.

Warning light

If the air bag system is OK, the warning light comes on when the ignition is turned on or after the engine is cranked. After about 6 seconds it goes out.

WARNING System Problems: A problem with the system is indi- cated by one or more of the follow- ing: the readiness light will either flash or stay lit, or it will not light, or a group of five beeps will be heard. If any of these things happen, the system may not work in an accident and you will lose the enhanced bene- fits of your air bag. Have the air bag system serviced at your Authorized Mazda dealer immediately. Because hidden damage may dis- able an air bag system, always have your air bag system checked after an accident.

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Warning beeper

A warning light is the basic method of reporting the systems condition.

But if the light is out and a malfunction occurs, a series of five sets of five beeps will be heard.

This also signals need for servicing. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer at your first opportunity.

These beeps will continue periodically until the reason for the light being out is taken care of.

Again: If this happens, the system may not work in an accident.

WARNING Self-Servicing the Supplemental Restraint Systems: Self-servicing or tampering with the supplemental restraint systems is dangerous. An air bag could acci- dentally activate or become dis- abled. This could cause serious injuries. Never tamper with the sup- plemental restraint systems and always have an Authorized Mazda Dealer perform all servicing and repairs.

WARNING Removing Interior Parts: Removing the front dashboard, or the steering wheel or parts contain- ing air bag sensors is dangerous. These parts contain air bags. The air bag could accidently activate and cause injuries. Always have an Authorized Mazda Dealer remove these parts.

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WARNING Air Bag Disposal: Improper disposal of an air bag or a vehicle with live air bags in it can be extremely dangerous. Unless all safety procedures are followed, injury can result. Ask an Authorized Mazda Dealer how to safely dispose of an air bag or how to scrap an air bag equipped vehicle.

Maintenance

This air bag system is maintenance-free. But if any of the following occurs, take your vehicle to an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.

Warning light flashes

Warning light stays on

Warning light stays off when the igni- tion is turned on and warning beeps sound

Air bag inflates

NOTE

Should you sell your Mazda, we urge you to tell the new owner it has an air bag system and that he or she should become familiar with all instructions about it in the Owners Manual.

Memo

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3 Knowing Your Mazda Security takes many forms and is highly necessary to owner and occupants. Section 3 describes the safe way to use your Mazda: key, locks, windows, and interior lighting.

Key 3- 2 Door Locks 3- 3

Power Door Locks 3- 6 Keyless Entry System 3- 6

Illuminated Entry System 3-11 Battery Saver 3-11

SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System 3-12

Windows 3-16 Power Windows 3-16

Rear Quarter Windows 3-18 Tailgate 3-19

Hood Release 3-22

Fuel-Filler Lid 3-23 Fuel-Filler Cap 3-24

Service and Information Labels 3-26 Tilt Steering 3-30

Horn 3-30 Mirrors 3-31

Interior Light 3-33 Cargo Shade 3-34 Rope Holes 3-35

Tie-Down Hooks 3-35 Rear Storage Compartment

With Net 3-36

3-1

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Key

Your vehicle has one key that starts your vehicle, unlocks the doors, and opens the glove box.

A code number is stamped on the plate attached to the key set; detach this plate and store it in a safe placenot in the vehiclefor use if you need to make a replacement key.

Also write down the code number and keep it in another safe and handy place, but not in the vehicle.

If your key is lost, consult your Autho- rized Mazda Dealer.

NOTE

Your Authorized Mazda Dealer can use the code to make new keys if the originals are lost or stolen.

WARNING Keys and Children: Leaving small children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous. This could result in someone being badly injured or even killed. They could play with power windows or other controls, or even make the vehicle move. Dont leave the keys in your vehicle with small children.

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Door Locks

If you have an optional spare tire lock, use this key to remove the lock from the access hole in the rear bumper.

Outside Door Lock

Locking, unlocking, with key

Either door can be locked or un- locked with the key.

For the drivers door, turn the key counterclockwise to unlock, clock- wise to lock.

For the passengers door, turn the key clockwise to unlock, counterclock- wise to lock.

For optional rear doors, open the front drivers or passengers door and then pull the rear door handle toward you.

Lift the handle to open an unlocked door.

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Locking without key To lock a door without the key, push the inside lock button down and close the door.

NOTE

Always remove the ignition key, close all windows, and lock all doors when leaving your vehicle unattended. This discourages intruders and thieves.

Inside Door Lock

To lock any door, push down the lock button.

To unlock, pull on the inside door handle.

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To open, pull on the inside door handle.

WARNING Unlocked Doors: Unlocked doors in a moving vehicle can be dangerous. Passengers can fall out if a door is accidentally opened and can more easily be thrown out in an accident. So keep all doors locked when driving.

WARNING Unattended Children and Pets: Leaving a child or an animal un- attended in a parked vehicle can be dangerous. In hot weather, temper- atures inside a vehicle can become high enough to cause brain damage or even death. Always take all chil- dren and animals with you or leave a responsible person with them.

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Power Door Locks* Keyless Entry System* Power door locks

The power door lock switches are located on both doors.

*Some models.

NOTE

Always remove the ignition key, close all windows, and lock all doors when leaving your vehicle unattended. This discourages intruders and thieves.

To lock all doors, push the side of the switch button marked LOCK.

To unlock all doors, push the side of the switch button marked UN- LOCK.

This system locks and unlocks the vehicle doors without using a key. This system also has a personal alarm feature. The buttons for the system are located on the hand-held transmitter that came with your vehicle. The system can also help you signal for attention.

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NOTE

The keyless entry system is designed to operate up to 33 feet (10 meters) from the receiver, but this may vary because of local conditions.

This system operates only when the ignition switch is in the OFF position.

If there is any potential keyless entry problem with your vehicle, ensure ALL key fobs (keyless entry transmitters) are brought to the dealership, to aid in trouble- shooting.

CAUTION Pressing the transmitter buttons excessively beyond the range of the system will cause the keyless entry system to malfunction.

Unlocking the Doors with the Keyless Entry System

To unlock the drivers door, press . The interior lamps will illuminate.

To unlock the other door, press a second time within five seconds.

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Locking the Doors with the Keyless Entry System

To lock all the doors, press . This will also arm the factory-installed Anti-Theft system.

To confirm that all doors have been locked, press again within 5 seconds. If all doors are completely closed the doors will lock again, the horn will chirp and the parking lights will flash. If a door is open or ajar, the horn will give two short chirps warning you that a door is open.

Keyless Entry Personal Alarm

Press to activate the personal alarm. This will honk the horn and flash the lights for approximately 2 minutes and 45 seconds.

To deactivate the alarm press again or turn the ignition to ACC or ON.

When you press or , the illumi- nated entry system turns on the vehicles interior lights for 25 seconds. You can turn these lights off by pressing or by turning the ignition to the ON or ACC position.

NOTE

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and with RS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two condi- tions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

NOTE

Changes or modifications not expres- sively approved by the party respon- sible for compliance could void the users authority to operate the equip- ment.

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Arming and Disarming the Alarm System with Keyless Entry

Your keyless entry system will automati- cally arm the factory installed anti-theft system when the doors are locked, and automatically disarm it when the doors are unlocked. The remote will also reset the anti-theft alarm (when the drivers door is unlocked, or when is pressed) if it was triggered.

The keyless entry system may not arm and disarm non-factory installed anti- theft systems.

Replacing the Batteries

The keyless entry transmitter is powered by one coin type three-volt lithium battery CR2032 or equivalent. Typical operating range will allow you to be up to 33 feet (10 meters) away from your vehicle. A decrease in operating range can be caused by:

weather conditions

nearby radio towers

structures around the vehicle

other vehicles parked next to the vehicle.

If you notice a significant decrease in operating range, the battery should be replaced. Replacement batteries can be purchased at most pharmacies, watch stores or at your authorized Mazda dealer.

1. Twist a thin coin between the two halves of the transmitter near the key ring. DO NOT TAKE THE FRONT PART OF THE TRANSMITTER APART.

2. Remove the battery.

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3. Install the new battery with the posi- tive (+) side up as marked.

4. Snap the two halves back together.

Replacing Lost Transmitters

If a remote transmitter has been lost and you would like to remove it from the vehicles memory, or you would like to purchase additional remote transmitters and have them programmed to your vehicle:

take all your vehicles transmitters to your dealer for programming, or

perform the programming procedure yourself.

Programming Transmitters To reprogram the transmitters yourself, place the key in the ignition and turn from OFF to ON eight times in rapid succession (within 10 seconds) ending in ON. After doors lock/unlock, press any control on all transmitters (up to four possible) within 20 seconds. The doors will lock/unlock one last time to confirm completion of program mode. When completed, switch the ignition to OFF. Again the doors will lock/unlock one last time to confirm completion of program- ming.

All transmitters must be programmed at the same time.

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Illuminated Entry System Battery Saver This system will provide illumination of the vehicles interior courtesy lights when the keyless entry system is used to unlock the door or sound the personal alarm. The system automatically turns off after approximately 25 seconds or when the ignition is turned to the START or ACC positions. On some models, the light will turn immediately off when the passenger door is closed. The dome lamp control (if equipped) must not be set to the OFF position for the illumi- nated entry system to operate.

NOTE

The inside lights will not turn off if: they have been turned on with the

dimmer control or any door is open. The battery saver will shut off the interior lamps 40 minutes after the ignition has been turned to the OFF position.

When the ignition is turned off, the vehicle will turn off battery voltage to all courtesy and interior (including cargo) lights after 40 minutes.

This will prevent draining of the battery if these lights have been left on inadver- tently or if a door is not completely closed. Battery voltage to these lights will be restored when the keyless entry transmitter is used, any door is opened, or the ignition key is turned on again.

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SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System* The SecuriLock passive anti-theft system provides an advanced level of vehicle theft protection. Your vehicles engine can only be started with the two special SecuriLock electronically coded keys provided with your vehicle. Each time you start your vehicle, the SecuriLock key is read by the Securi- Lock passive anti-theft system. If the SecuriLock key identification code matches the code stored in the Securi- Lock passive anti-theft system, the vehicles engine is allowed to start. If the SecuriLock key identification code does not match the code stored in the system or if a SecuriLock key is not

*Some models.

detected (vehicle theft situation), the vehicles engine will not operate.

If there is any potential SecuriLock anti-theft problem with your vehicle, ensure for that vehicle are brought to the dealership, to aid in troubleshooting.

The SecuriLock passive anti-theft sys- tem is not compatible with aftermarket remote start systems. Use of these sys- tems may result in vehicle starting prob- lems and a loss of security protection. Large metallic objects or devices such as the Mobil Speedpass on the same key ring as your SecuriLock key may cause vehicle starting problems. These objects and devices cannot damage the SecuriLock key, but can cause a

momentary problem if they are too close to the key when starting the engine. If a problem occurs, turn ignition off and restart the engine with all other objects on the key ring held away from the Secu- riLock ignition key.

Spare SecuriLock keys can be pur- chased from your dealership and programmed to your SecuriLock passive anti-theft system. Refer to Pro- gramming spare SecuriLock keys for more information.

If one or both of your SecuriLock keys are lost or stolen and you want to ensure the lost or stolen key will not operate your vehicle, bring your vehicle and all available SecuriLock keys to your dealership for reinitialization.

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THEFT indicator

The THEFT indicator on the instrument cluster will operate as follows:

When the ignition is OFF, the theft indicator will flash briefly every 2 seconds to indicate the SecuriLock system is protecting your vehicle.

When the ignition is turned to ON or START, the THEFT indicator will light for 3 seconds and then go out. If the THEFT indicator stays on for an extended period of time or flashes rapidly, have the system serviced by your dealership or a qualified technician.

The THEFT indicator is controlled by the SecuriLock system. During the 30 second prearm state, it is normal to see the THEFT indicator pulse brighter behind the constant glow.

Programming spare SecuriLock keys

Spare SecuriLock keys can be pur- chased from your dealership and programmed to your SecuriLock pas- sive anti-theft system (up to a total of 8 keys). Your dealership can program your new SecuriLock key(s) to your vehicle or you can do it yourself using the fol- lowing simple procedure. To program a new SecuriLock key yourself, you will need two previously programmed SecuriLock keys (keys that already operate your vehicles engine). If two

previously programmed SecuriLock keys are not available (one or both of your original keys were lost or stolen), you must bring your vehicle to your dealership to have the spare Securi- Lock key(s) programmed.

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Procedure to program spare SecuriLock keys to your vehicle

New SecuriLock keys must have the correct mechanical key cut for your vehicle.

Conventional (non-SecuriLock) keys cannot be programmed to your vehicle.

You will need to have two previously programmed SecuriLock keys and the

new unprogrammed SecuriLock key readily accessible for the procedure. Please read and understand the entire procedure before you begin.

1. Insert the first previously pro- grammed SecuriLock key into the ignition and turn the ignition from OFF to ON (maintain ignition in ON for at least one second).

2. Turn ignition to OFF and remove the first SecuriLock key from the ignition.

3. Within five seconds of turning the ignition to OFF, insert the second previously programmed Securi- Lock key into the ignition and turn the ignition from OFF to ON (main- tain ignition in ON for at least one second but no more than 5 seconds).

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4. Turn the ignition to OFF and remove the second SecuriLock key from the ignition.

5. Within 10 seconds of turning the ignition to OFF, insert the unpro- grammed SecuriLock key (new key/valet key) into the ignition and turn the ignition from OFF to ON (maintain ignition in ON for at least one second). This step will program your new SecuriLock key.

6. To program additional SecuriLock key(s), repeat this procedure from step 1.

If the programming procedure was suc- cessful, the new SecuriLock key(s) will start the vehicles engine. The THEFT indicator (located on the instru- ment cluster) will light for three seconds and then go out.

If the programming procedure was not successful, the new SecuriLock key(s) will not operate the vehicles engine. The THEFT indicator will flash on and off. Wait at least one minute and then repeat the procedure from step 1. If failure repeats, bring your vehicle to your dealership to have the spare SecuriLock key(s) programmed.

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Windows Power Windows*

The door windows can be opened and closed by turning the handle crank.

*Some models.

Each door has a power control that opens and closes the window on that door. The control switch on the drivers door oper- ates both front door windows. The igni- tion switch must be in ON or ACC to use the power windows.

To open a window, press down on the lower portion of the switch.

To close a window, press down on the upper portion of the switch.

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One-Touch Power Window* When the lower part of the switch is pressed completely down and released quickly, the window will move to its fully open position (drivers side only). To stop the window before the fully open position, press the lower part of the switch again.

Accessory Delay* With accessory delay, the window switches may be used for up to 10 min- utes after the ignition switch is turned to OFF or until either door is opened.

WARNING Unintentional Window Operation: Unintentional window operation can be dangerous. A persons hands, head, or neck could be caught by the win- dow and result in serious injury. Un- less a passenger needs to operate a window, keep the power window main switch in the locked position.

WARNING Children Playing with Power Windows: Playing with power windows is dan- gerous. Someones hands, head, or neck could get caught in a closing window. They would be seriously injured or even killed. Dont let children play with power windows.

*Some models.

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Rear Quarter Windows*

Open or close the swing-out rear quarter windows by releasing the latch and moving the window.

*Some models.

To open a window, pull the latch inward and then push the window outward.

To close it, pull the latch inward and then push it backward until it snaps shut. Make sure the window is securely closed.

The sliding rear window has only one sliding portion.

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Tailgate To open the window, push the center portion of the latch handle toward the glass and slide the window to the right.

To close the window, slide the window to the left and push the latch handle back to the left. Check for proper latching by gently tugging the latch handle to the right without pressing the release portion of the latch.

To open the tailgate, pull the handle toward you. The connecting cables will hold the gate in a straight-open position. When closing the gate, make sure the lock is secure.

When the tailgate is open, the tailgate load should not exceed 500 lbs (227 kgs). If you want to load heavy items on your vehicle, you should load them one at a time, directly on the bed floor, to avoid damage to the tailgate or its supports.

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WARNING Riding in the Truck Bed: Riding in the truck bed, on the bum- per, or on the tailgate, whether its open or closed, is dangerous. Some- one doing this could be injured or killed during a sudden stop or acci- dent. Camper type covers of any kind offer no real protection from these dangers and may trap poison- ous exhaust fumes. They should only be occupied when the vehicle is parked without the engine running. Never allow anyone to ride outside the passenger compartment.

If there is no rear step-bumper and you want to let the tailgate hang freely, heres what to do:

1. Lower the tailgate partially.

2. Support it to allow slack in both cables.

3. Use a coin or similar object to pry the spring clip (on each upper cable con- nector) past the head of the support screw. This will allow you to discon- nect the loop of the connector cable from the support screw.

4. Do the same on the other side.

5. Lower the tailgate carefully.

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NOTE

Step-bumpers or hitches may damage the tailgate if it is lowered completely.

Reattach the cables in the reverse order of removal.

Tailgate Removal

First, release the tailgate as described previously. Be sure to support the left side to prevent it from falling. Then, raise the tailgate to a 45 degree angle (see

illustration) and lift the right side of the tailgate off its hinge. You can now pull the left side of the tailgate away from the left hinge.

Tailgate Installation

1. First, insert the left side of the tailgate into the left hinge and raise it to a 45 degree angle; next, insert the right side into the right hinge.

2. Support the tailgate to allow slack in the cables and reattach the cables one at a time.

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Hood Release

WARNING Tailgate Open While Driving: Do not drive your truck with the tailgate open unless there is a load holding it in place. Without a load, a bump in the road or rough terrain could make the tailgate bounce and disconnect from your truck. The loose tailgate could be damaged and could endanger other motorists.

1. Pull down the release handle located below the steering column.

2. Slide the safety catch to the left and lift the hood.

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3-23

Fuel-Filler Lid

3. Use the support rod to hold the hood open.

Before closing the hood, secure the rod in its clip.

To close the hood:

Check out the underhood area to make certain all filler caps are in place and that all loose items have been removed.

Close the hood so that it locks securely.

Attempt to lift the hood after closing it to be sure it is securely latched.

To open the fuel-filler lid, pull it open with your finger.

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Fuel-Filler Cap

WARNING Fuel Tank Pressure: Pressure sometimes builds up in the fuel tank. If this happens and the fuel cap is removed quickly, fuel can spray out. Fuel can burn skin and eyes and cause illness when ingested. The fuel system may be under pressure. If the fuel filler cap is venting vapor or if you hear a hissing sound, wait until it stops before completely removing the fuel filler cap.

WARNING Fuel Vapor: Fuel vapor can be hazardous. Before refueling, stop the engine. Always keep sparks and flames away from the filler neck.

Your fuel filler cap has an indexed design with a one-eighth turn on/off fea- ture.

When fueling your vehicle:

1. Turn the engine off.

2. Carefully turn the filler cap counter- clockwise 1/8 of a turn until it stops.

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3-25

3. Pull to remove the cap from the fuel filler pipe.

4. To install the cap, align the tabs on the cap with the notches on the filler pipe.

5. Turn the filler cap clockwise 1/8 of a turn until it stops.

If the CHECK ENGINE indicator comes on and stays on when you start the engine, the fuel filler cap may not be properly installed. Turn off the engine, remove the fuel filler cap and reinstall it being careful to align the cap properly.

CAUTION Use only a designated Mazda fuel cap or an approved equivalent, avail- able at Authorized Mazda Dealers. The wrong cap can result in a serious malfunction of the fuel system and the emission control system and may void the customer warranty for any damage to the fuel tank and/or fuel system.

Service and information labels are attached to the sunvisors, passenger seat belt and the radiator support in the engine compartment.

This label appears on the driver sun- visor in the stowed position.

Labels

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Service and Information

This label appears on the driver sun- visor in the stowed position. For the passenger air bag, this label appears on the passenger side sunvisor in the stowed position.

This label appears on the passenger side seat belt ends.

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3-27

This label will be on the drivers and passengers sunvisor.

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This label is located on the radiator sup- port shield in the engine compartment.

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Knowing Your Mazda

3-30

Tilt Steering* Horn

The tilt steering feature allows you to adjust the steering wheel up or down.

To change the position of your vehicles steering wheel:

1. Stop the vehicle.

2. Pull the release lever toward you.

*Some models.

3. Tilt the wheel up or down.

4. Release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

Be sure the steering wheel locks in a notch. It is not infinitely adjustable.

Do not adjust the steering wheel while the vehicle is in motion.

To sound the horn, firmly press the cen- ter of the horn pad in the center of the steering wheel.

Inspect the horns operation regularly.

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Mirrors

Outside Mirrors

Check the mirrors angles before driving.

Manual outside mirrors

Adjust the mirrors by hand.

Power outside mirrors*

This switch controls the adjustments for both right and left outside mirrors.

To adjust your mirrors:

1. Select to adjust the left mirror or to adjust the right mirror.

2. Move the control in the direction you wish to tilt the mirror.

3. Return to the center position to lock mirrors in place.

If you have a folding outside mirror, it will fold flat against the vehicle when pushed toward it. Mirrors should be folded rearward into the body posi- tion before entering automatic car wash systems.

*Some models.

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CAUTION Do not clean the plastic housing of any electric mirror with gasoline or other petroleum-based cleaning products.

CAUTION The mirrors stop moving when they reach the maximum adjusting angle. But the motor continues rotating while the switch is on. Do not leave the switch on. Do not leave the switch on unnecessarily.

WARNING Convex Mirror: What you see in the convex mirror (passengers side) will be closer than it appears. If you dont remember this when changing lanes, you could hit a vehicle. Be sure to look over your shoulder or to check your inside mirror before changing lanes.

Day/Night Mirror

Adjust the inside mirror to center on the scene through the rear window. Do this with the day/night lever in the day posi- tion.

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Interior Light Push the lever away from you for day driving. Pull it back to reduce glare from headlights at night.

WARNING Blocked View: Cargo stacked higher than the seatbacks can be dangerous. It can block your view in the rearview mirror, which might cause you to hit another car when changing lanes. Dont stack things higher than the seatbacks.

Without Map Light*

To turn on the interior light, turn the thumbwheel to the right of the head- light switch up until you hear a click.

To turn off the interior light, turn the thumbwheel down until you hear a click.

When the drivers or passengers door is open, the interior light also comes on.

The interior lights will shut off after 25 seconds with all the doors closed, or immediately when the ignition switch is turned to the START position, or if the vehicle speed is above five mph (8 km/h). The interior lights will turn off after 40 minutes if any of the doors are left open. Refer to the Battery Saver earlier in this section for more details.

*Some models.

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Cargo Shade*

With Map Light*

To turn on the right-hand side map light, slide the switch to the right.

To turn on the left-hand side map light, slide the switch to the left.

*Some models.

To turn on the interior light, turn the thumbwheel to the right of the head- lamp switch up until you hear a click.

To turn off the interior light, turn the thumbwheel down until you hear a click.

When the drivers or passengers door is open, the interior light also comes on.

The shade is for added securityhiding objects when the vehicle is parked. It will keep some things from flying around the cab when in an accident, but it is best to secure heavy items in the cargo bed rather than leaving them in the cab itself.

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Rope Holes Tie-Down Hooks* To extend the shade:

1. Grasp the end of the shade and pull it toward you.

2. Hook the sides of the outstretched shade to latch in the side trim panel notches behind the front seat.

WARNING Cargo Shade: The cargo shade will keep some light items from flying forward and strik- ing the occupants in some collisions, so it is better to attach it. The cargo net is an even better way to secure smaller items. Heavy items should be secured in the cargo box rather than in the cab at all while driving.

There are four holes inside the bed.

Use them to help secure a load with ropes.

Your vehicle may have tie-down hooks inside the bed. To prevent damage to your vehicle, secure a load with ropes and the tie-down hooks.

*Some models.

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Rear Storage Compartment With Net*

Your vehicle may have a small storage compartment which is located on the back panel. This compartment has a net which will secure small objects.

*Some models.

4 Protecting Your Mazda Most people like to save money. With a vehicle, that can be done in several ways from its first day of operation. Probably tops on the list of cost-efficiency is using the right kind of fuel and using that fuel conservatively.

Section 4 explains how to do this. Further, it discusses proper loading and how to respond to unusual driving conditions. It also illustrates where important vehicle information labels may be found.

Fuel Requirements 4- 2 Emission Control System 4- 7

Engine Exhaust 4- 8 Before Driving 4- 9

Break-In Period 4-10 Money-Saving Suggestions 4-11 Special Driving Conditions 4-12

Trailer Towing Loading 4-24 Trailer Towing Load Tables 4-28 Vehicle Information Labels 4-36

4-1

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4-2

Fuel Requirements Vehicles with catalytic converters must use ONLY UNLEADED FUEL, which will reduce exhaust emissions and keep spark plug fouling to a minimum.

If your vehicle is a flexible fuel vehicle (FFV), use only UNLEADED FUEL and ETHANOL (E-85). The use of leaded fuel and methanol is prohibited by law and could damage your vehicle.

Do not use fuel containing methanol. It can damage critical fuel systems com- ponents.

Your vehicle was not designed to use fuel or fuel additives with metallic com- pounds, including manganese-based compounds containing MMT.

Repairs to correct the effects of using a fuel for which your vehicle was not designed may not be covered by your warranty.

Your Mazda will perform best with regular unleaded fuel having an octane

rating (anti-knock index) of at least 87 [(R+M)/2 method].

Fuel with a lower rating could cause the emission control system to lose effective- ness. It could also cause engine knocking and serious engine damage.

U.S. federal law requires that octane ratings be posted on gasoline station pumps.

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WARNING Misusing Automotive Fuels: Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if misused or mis- handled. To minimize the risk that you will be injured please read the following information carefully and observe the recommended precau- tions.

WARNING Overfilling Tank: Do not overfill the fuel tank. If you do, the pressure may cause leakage which can lead to spray and fire.

CAUTION NEVER USE LEADED FUEL. It is harmful to the catalytic con- verter. The lead will accumulate on the oxygen sensor and the catalyst inside the converter. This will result in a malfunction of the emission control system, causing poor performance.

Gasoline blended with oxygenates such as alcohol or an ether compound are gen- erally referred to as oxygenated fuels. The common gasoline blend that can be used with your vehicle is ethanol or grain

alcohol blended at no more than 10% ethanol.

Gasoline containing alcohol, such as ethanol or methanol, may be marketed under the name Gasohol.

CAUTION Your vehicle can only use oxygen- ated fuels containing no more than 10% ethanol by volume. Damage to your vehicle may occur when ethanol exceeds this recommendation, or if the gasoline contains any methanol. Stop using any kind of gasohol at a sign of driving problems.

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4-4

CAUTION Add only fuel system cleaning agents that Mazda has specified, or the equivalent. Others may damage the system. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

Vehicle damage and driveability prob- lems resulting from using the following may not be covered by the manufac- turers warranty:

Gasohol containing more than 10% ethanol

Gasoline or gasohol containing meth- anol

Leaded fuel or leaded gasohol

*Some models.

Cleaner Air

Mazda approves the use of reformulated cleaner-burning gasolines to improve air quality. These gasolines may contain oxygenates up to 10% ethanol or 15% MTBE.

FFV engine*

Your vehicle is designed to use Fuel Ethanol (E85), Regular unleaded gas- oline or any percentage of the two fuels combined.

CAUTION U.S. government regulations require fuel ethanol dispensing pumps to have a small, square, orange and black label with the common abbreviation E85 or the appropriate percentage for that region. Use of other fuels such as Fuel Methanol may cause powertrain damage, a loss of vehicle performance, and your warranty may be invalidated.

FFV fuel tanks may contain zero to 85 percent or more of ethanol. Any fuel blends containing gasoline and ethanol should be treated the same as fuel etha- nol (E85).

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4-5

Your FFV will operate well on ordinary Regular unleaded gasoline, but only the highest quality fuel ethanol will pro- vide the same level of protection and performance.

If you are experiencing a rough or rolling idle after start-up with the outside tem- perature above 27C (80F), the idle should improve within 10 to 30 seconds. If the problems persist below this tem- perature, see your dealer or a qualified service technician.

WARNING Fuel ethanol may contain benzene, which is a cancer-causing agent.

CAUTION Flexible fuel components and stan- dard unleaded gasoline fuel compo- nents are not interchangeable. If your vehicle is not serviced in accor- dance with flexible fuel vehicles procedures, damage may occur and your warranty may be invalidated.

Running Out of Fuel

Avoid running out of fuel because this situation may have an adverse affect on modern powertrain components.

If you have run out of fuel:

You may need to crank the engine several times after refueling before the system starts to pump the fuel from the tank to the engine.

Your Check Engine light may come on. For more information on the Check Engine light, refer to Malfunction Indicator Light (page 5-62).

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WARNING Replacement Fuel Caps: If you lose the fuel cap, replace it with one that is an authorized Mazda service part or an equivalent part. If you do not use the proper fuel filler cap, excessive pressure or vacuum in the fuel tank may dam- age the fuel system or cause the fuel system to work improperly in a col- lision, which may result in possible personal injury.

CAUTION When refueling always shut the engine off and never allow sparks or open flames near the filler neck. Never smoke while refueling. Fuel vapor is extremely hazardous under certain conditions. Care should be taken to avoid inhaling excess fumes.

CAUTION The flow of fuel through a fuel pump nozzle can produce static electricity, which can cause a fire if fuel is pumped into an ungrounded fuel container.

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Emission Control System Use the following guidelines to avoid static build-up when filling an un- grounded fuel container:

Place approved fuel container on the ground.

DO NOT fill a fuel container while it is in the vehicle.

Keep the fuel pump nozzle in contact with the fuel container while filling.

DO NOT use a device that would hold the fuel pump handle in the fill position.

Your vehicle is equipped with an emis- sion control system (the catalytic con- verter is part of this system) that enables your vehicle to comply with the U.S. exhaust emissions requirements.

Under U.S. federal law, any modifica- tion to the original-equipment emission control system before the first sale and registration of a vehicle is subject to penalties. In some states, such modifi- cation made on a used vehicle is also subject to penalties.

WARNING Parking Over Things That Burn: Parking over or near anything in- flammable, such as dry grass, is dan- gerous. Even with the engine turned off, the exhaust system could ignite it because the exhaust system gets very hot in normal use. A resulting fire could cause serious injury or death. Dont park over or near anything inflammable.

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Engine Exhaust

CAUTION Ignoring the following precautions could cause lead to accumulate on the catalyst inside the converter or cause the converter to get very hot. Either condition will damage the converter and cause poor perfor- mance. USE ONLY UNLEADED FUEL. Dont drive your Mazda with any

sign of engine malfunction. Dont coast with the ignition

switch turned off. Dont descend steep grades in

gear with the ignition switch turned off.

(Continued)

Dont operate the engine at high idle for more than 5 minutes.

Dont tamper with the emission control system. All inspection and adjustments must be made by a qualified technician.

Dont try to push-start or pull- start your vehicle.

Lumination of the charging system warning light or CHECK ENGINE light, fluid leaks, strange odors, smoke or loss of oil pressure could indicate that the emission control system is not working properly.

WARNING Engine exhaust, some of its constit- uents, and certain vehicle compo- nents contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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Before Driving

WARNING Engine Exhaust: Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, which is dangerous to inhale. It can even kill. Carbon monoxide is colorless and

odorless. If you smell exhaust fumes of any kind inside your Mazda, immediately consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer. If you must drive even though you smell fumes, keep all win- dows fully open, no matter how cold the weather is.

(Continued)

If the engine is run in a closed area, such as a garage, exhaust gas can easily enter the passen- ger compartment. Dont run the engine in closed areas.

When the vehicle is stopped for long in an open area with the engine running, adjust the heat- ing or cooling system to draw air inside.

Snow under a vehicle that is stopped with the engine running can trap exhaust gas. This gas has fumes containing CO (car- bon monoxide) that can enter the passenger compartment and kill anyone in it. Be sure to clear away snow from beneath and around your vehicle.

Before Getting In Be sure the windows, outside mir-

ror(s) and outside lights are clean.

Inspect inflation pressures and con- dition of tires.

Look under the vehicle for any sign of a leak.

If you plan to back up, make sure nothing will be in your way.

NOTE

Engine oil, engine coolant, brake fluid, clutch fluid, washer fluid, and other fluid levels should be inspected daily, weekly, or at refueling, depend- ing on the fluid. See Maintenance, Section 8.

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Break-In Period After Getting In

Are all doors closed and locked?

Are the inside and outside mirrors adjusted?

Is everyones seat belt fastened?

Do all the lights work?

Check all gauges.

Check all warning lights when the ignition switch is in the ON position.

Release the parking brake and make sure the brake warning light goes off.

Always be thoroughly familiar with your Mazda.

No special break-in is necessary, but a few precautions in the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km) may add to the performance, economy, and life of your Mazda.

Dont race the engine.

Avoid unnecessary hard stops. The break-in period for new brake linings lasts for 100 miles (160 km) of city driv- ing or 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of highway driving.

Avoid full-throttle starts.

Dont tow a trailer during the vehicles first 500 miles (800 km) (page 4-19).

Wheel lug nuts must be retightened to proper torque specifications at 500 miles (800 km) of new vehicle operation.

Use only the type of engine oil recommended in this guide.

Do not use special break-in oils.

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Money-Saving Suggestions How you operate your Mazda deter- mines how far it will travel on a tank of fuel. Use these suggestions to help save money on fuel and repairs.

Avoid long warm-ups. Once the engine runs smoothly, begin driving.

Avoid fast starts.

Keep the engine tuned. Follow the maintenance schedule (page 8-4) and have an Authorized Mazda Dealer perform inspections and servicing.

Use the air conditioning only when necessary.

Slow down on rough roads.

Keeps the tires properly inflated.

Dont carry unnecessary weight.

Dont rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving.

Keep the wheels in correct align- ment.

Keep windows closed at high speeds.

Slow down when driving in cross- winds and headwinds.

(4x4) Four-wheel drive operation is not recommended on dry pavement. Driving in 4WD HIGH or 4WD LOW will cause:

Unnecessary noise;

Unnecessary tire and component wear;

Higher fuel consumption.

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4-12

Special Driving Conditions

WARNING Coasting: Turning off the engine to coast down a hill can be dangerous. This causes the loss of power steering and power brake control. Any loss of steering or braking control could cause an accident. Never turn off the engine and coast down a hill.

Hazardous Driving

When driving on ice or in water, snow, mud, sand, or similar hazards:

Be cautious and allow extra distance for braking.

Avoid sudden braking and quick steering.

Brake with the pedal by using a light up-down motion. Dont constantly hold the pedal down.

To stop on ice, shift to N (Neutral) when the vehicle is moving below 10 mph (16 km/h) and gently pump the brakes.

Consider using one of the lower gears.

If you get stuck, use 1 (First) or 2 (Second) gear and accelerate slowly. Dont spin the rear wheels.

For more traction when starting, use sand, rock salt, chains, carpeting, or other non-slip material under the rear wheels.

(4x4)

Besides these instructions, starting in 4-wheel drive may be best.

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WARNING Downshifting on Slippery Surfaces: Downshifting into 1 (First) gear with a manual transmission or into L (Low) with an automatic trans- mission while driving on slippery surfaces could be dangerous. The sudden change in tire speed could cause the tires to skid. This could lead to loss of vehicle control and an accident. If it is necessary to downshift on slippery surfaces, be very careful.

WARNING Rear Antilock Brake System: The rear antilock brake system may not prevent brake lock-up on extremely slippery surfaces. Rear brake lock-up may also occur while driving in 4-wheel drive because the transfer case couples the front and rear axles together.

Limited slip differential rear axle*

This axle provides added drive away traction on slippery surfaces, particu- larly when one or more wheels is on a surface with poor traction.

WARNING Limited Slip Differential Rear Axle: To avoid injury from vehicles equip- ped with a limited slip differential rear axle, never run the engine with one wheel off the ground, such as when changing a tire. The wheel still on the ground could cause the vehicle to move.

*Some models.

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Rocking the Vehicle

If you must rock the vehicle to free it from snow, sand, or mud, depress the accelerator slightly and . . .

With an automatic transmission, pull the shift lever toward you and gently move the selector back and forth from D (Drive) to R (Reverse) being careful

not to put it into P (Park).

With a manual transmission, shift back and forth from 1 (First) to R (Reverse) using the clutch.

(4x4)

Besides these instructions, starting in 4x4 may be best.

WARNING Spinning the Wheels: When the vehicle is stuck, spinning the wheels at high speed could be dangerous. The spinning tire could overheat and explode. This could cause serious injuries. Dont spin the wheels at more than 35 mph (56 km/h), and dont allow anyone to stand behind a wheel when push- ing the vehicle.

CAUTION Too much rocking may cause engine overheating, transmission failure, and tire damage.

Wheel Spin

Extreme acceleration can cause the rear wheels to spin, possibly result- ing in reduced steering control.

If the wheels spin, use 2 (Second) to gain traction. Move forward slowly and evenly. If this does not work, try rocking the vehicle.

For 4x4 vehicles, try engaging 4-wheel drive to drive away.

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High Speed Driving

WARNING High Speed Driving: Mazda recommends obeying posted speed limits. Driving too fast for conditions is dangerous and creates the possibility of loss of vehicle con- trol and resulting personal injury. Driving at very high speeds for extended periods of time, under some circumstances, may result in damage to vehicle components.

Your vehicle is equipped with an engine speed (RPM) limiting device. If you are experiencing an Engine Cut-Out condition at high speed, this may be a

result of this limiting device. This is a normal condition that can be avoided by reducing vehicle/engine speed.

Winter Driving Carry emergency gear, including tire

chains, a window scraper, flares, a small shovel, jumper cables, and a small bag of sand or salt.

Have the proper ratio of antifreeze in the radiator. (page 8-23)

Inspect the battery and its cables. Cold reduces battery capacity. (page 8-40)

Use only cold-weather engine oil. (page 8-16)

Inspect the ignition system for dam- age and loose connections.

Use washer fluid made with anti- freezebut dont use engine coolant antifreeze for washer fluid. (page 8-36)

Dont use the parking brake if it might freeze. Instead, shift to P (Park) with an automatic transmission and to 1 (First) or R (Reverse) with a manual transmission. Block the rear wheels.

Snow tires

Dont go faster than 75 mph (120 km/h) or the posted speed limit. Inflate snow tires 4 psi (27.5 kPa) more than rec- ommended on the tire pressure label (drivers door frame), but never more than the maximum cold-tire pressure shown on the tires.

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WARNING Snow Tires: Snow tires used with regular tires should be the same size and type as the regular tires. If radial tires are mixed with non-radials, or if tires of different sizes are installed, the safety and handling of your vehicle may be adversely affected. Make sure snow tires and regular tires are all the same size and type.

NOTE

Check out local regulations before using studded tires.

Tire chains

Check local regulations before using chains.

Use only SAE Class S chains, and make sure they fit.

Installing the chains

Follow the chain manufacturers instruc- tions.

Secure the chains on the rear tires as tightly as possible; retighten them after driving 1/4-1/2 mile (1/2-1 kilometer).

Dont use chains on the front tires.

CAUTION Chains may scratch or chip alu-

minum wheels. Install tire chains on steel wheels only.

Chains may affect handling. Dont go faster than 30 mph

(50 km/h) or the chain manu- facturers recommended limit, whichever is lower.

Drive carefully and avoid bumps, holes, and sharp turns.

Avoid locked-wheel braking. Dont use chains on the tempo-

rary tire; it may result in damage to the vehicle and to the tire.

(Continued)

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Avoid fully loading your light truck if possible.

Remove the chains at the first opportunity after using them on snow and ice. Dont use the chains on dry roads.

Snowplowing Do not use this vehicle for snowplowing.

Driving on Sand When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels of the vehicle on the most solid area of the trail. Do not reduce the tire pressures but shift to a lower gear and drive steadily through the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning the wheels.

Driving Through Water

CAUTION Make sure water does not enter the vehicle interior or the engine area. The vehicle interior could become wet or the engine could be damaged.

Do not drive quickly through standing water, especially if the depth is unknown. Traction or brake capability may be limited and if the ignition system gets wet, your engine may stall. Water may also enter your engines air intake and severely damage your engine. If driving through deep or standing water is unavoidable, proceed very slowly. Never drive through water that is higher than the bottom of the hubs.

Once through the water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Dry- ing can be improved by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pres- sure on the brake pedal. Driving through deep water where the transmission is submerged may allow water into the transmission and cause internal damage.

Replace rear axle lubricant any time the axle has been submerged in water. The rear axle does not normally require a lubricant change for the life of the vehicle. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed unless a leak is suspected or repair is required.

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4-18

Driving on Hills When driving on a hill, avoid driving crosswise or turning on steep slopes. You could lose traction and slip side- ways. Drive straight up, straight down or avoid the hill completely.

Know the conditions on the other side of a hill before driving over the crest.

When climbing a steep hill, start in a lower gear, rather than downshifting to a lower gear after the ascent has started. This reduces strain on the engine and the possibility of stalling.

When descending a steep hill avoid sudden braking. Rapid pumping of the brake pedal will help slow the vehicle and still maintain steering control.

If cruise control cancels after climbing the hill, reset speed by pressing and hold- ing the SET ACCEL button to resume speeds over 50 km/h (30 mph).

Automatic transmissions may shift fre- quently while driving up steep grades. Eliminate frequent shifting by shifting out of D (Overdrive) into D (Drive).

Trailer Towing

Your Mazda was designed and built pri- marily to carry passengers and cargo.

If you must tow a trailer, read the follow- ing instructions and any trailer manufac- turer instructions because driver and passenger safety depends on proper equipment and safe driving habits. Tow- ing a trailer will affect handling, braking, durability, performance, and economy.

Never overload vehicle or trailer. Con- sult an Authorized Mazda Dealer if you need further details.

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No Trailer Towing During Vehicle Break-in

CAUTION Dont tow a trailer during the first 500 miles (800 km) of driving your new Mazda. If you do, you may damage the engine, transmission, differential, wheel bearings, and other powertrain components.

Tires

When towing a trailer, make sure all tires are inflated to the recommended cold- tire pressure, as indicated on the tire pres- sure chart on the drivers door frame.

Trailer tire size, load rating, and inflation pressures should conform to tire manu- facturer specifications.

WARNING Using a Temporary Spare When Towing: Using a temporary spare tire on your vehicle when towing a trailer could result in tire failure, loss of control, and injury to vehicle occu- pants. Never use a temporary spare when towing.

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Safety chains

Safety chains must be used as a precau- tionary measure in case the trailer becomes unintentionally unhitched. They should cross under the trailer tongue and attach to the vehicle frame or hook retainers. Leave enough slack to allow full turns. Consult literature pub- lished by your trailer or hitch manufac- turer for more details.

CAUTION Never attach chains to the bumper.

Fuel consumption

Trailer towing causes higher fuel con- sumption.

Suspension Modifications

The suspension and steering systems on your vehicle have been designed and tested to provide predictable perfor- mance (whether loaded or empty) as well as durable load carrying capability.

Any modifications to the suspension or steering systems can reduce your vehicles performance capability and adversely affect driver and passenger safety.

Mazda recommends that you DO NOT make modifications such as adding or removing parts (like lowering or lifting kits, stabilizer bars or snowplowing equipment) or by using replacement parts non-equivalent to the original factory equipment.

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Exhaust System Modifications

WARNING Exhaust System Modifications: Modifying your vehicle exhaust system is dangerous. Exhaust gas entering the vehicle could kill you. When mounting the trailer hitch, make no modifications to the vehi- cle exhaust system. Regularly check the exhaust system for any leaks. Leaks under or near the cab or under a camper-covered bed are dangerous. Pay close attention to possible leaks around the mounting bolts.

Temperature Gauge

Constantly monitor the coolant tem- perature gauge. The extra weight of the trailer may strain the engine on hot days and on long or steep upgrades.

Overheated Engine

Your vehicles engine coolant protects the engine from overheating in the sum- mer and from freezing in the winter. Check the level of the engine coolant at least once a month. Look at the engine coolant recovery reservoir located in the engine compartment. If the coolant level is low, add a 50/50 mixture to the engine coolant recovery reservoir. Only add a mixture specified by Mazda.

For further information, refer to Over- heating on page 6-3.

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Maintenance

If you tow a trailer frequently, have your vehicle serviced as shown in Scheduled Maintenance (Schedule II/Special Operat- ing Conditions, page 8-8).

Trailer hitch

Use only a hitch ball recommended by the trailer manufacturer that conforms to the gross trailer weight requirement. Make sure the hitch is securely attached to prevent the danger of trailer sway from crosswinds, rough roads, or other causes.

Use a weight carrying hitch and ball for towing trailers up to 2,000 lbs. (907 kg). Use a frame-mounted weight distributing hitch for trailers over 2,000 lbs. (907 kg).

When not towing a trailer, remove the trailer hitch (if detachable).

The optional step bumper has a built-in hitch and only requires a ball with a 3/4 inch shank diameter. The step bumper has a Class I capability (2,000 lb/907 kg trailer weight and 200 lb/91 kg tongue weight).

CAUTION Examine all trailer hitch mount-

ing bolts regularly and tighten any that are loose. If the hitch is removed, seal any open mount- ing holes to prevent exhaust, dust, water, dirt, and other for- eign elements from filtering in and possibly endangering per- sonal safety and damaging your vehicle.

Dont install a trailer hitch that will nullify the function of the bumper. If it is necessary to relocate the trailer hitch ball, a frame-mounted trailer hitch must be installed.

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Trailer brakes

The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), not the gross combined weight rating (GCWR). For further information, refer to Trailer Towing Loading on page 4-24.

If the total trailer weight exceeds 1,500 lbs. (680 kg), trailer brakes are required.

If your trailer has brakes, check that they work and make sure they meet all fed- eral, state, and local regulations.

WARNING Hydraulic Trailer-Brake System: Connecting a hydraulic trailer-brake system directly to the vehicle brake system will result in inadequate braking and possible injury. Dont connect a hydraulic trailer-brake system to your vehicles brake system.

Trailer lights

Trailer lights must meet all federal, state, and local regulations.

CAUTION Dont connect a trailer lighting sys- tem directly into the lighting system of your Mazda. This may damage your vehicles electrical system and lighting systems. Have a recreational vehicle dealer or trailer rental agency connect the system, and inspect the brake lights and turn signals before driving each time this is done.

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4-24

Trailer Towing Loading

WARNING Loaded vehicles, with a higher cen- ter of gravity, may handle differ- ently than unloaded vehicles. Extra precautions, such as slower speeds and increased stopping distance, should be taken when driving a heavily loaded vehicle.

Your vehicle has the capability to haul more cargo and people than most pas- senger cars. Depending upon the type and placement of the load, hauling people and cargo may raise the center of gravity of the vehicle.

TTW and GCWR The total trailer weight (TTW), gross combined weight rating (GCWR), gross axle weight rating (GAWR), trailer load, and trailer tongue load must be within the prescribed limits.

The total trailer weight is the sum of the weights of the trailer load (trailer weight plus cargo), trailer

hitch, truck passengers, and vehicle load. Never allow the total trailer weight to exceed specifications in the Trailer Towing Load Table.

The maximum GCWR is the com- bined weight of the trailer and load plus the towing vehicle (including trailer hitch, truck passengers, and load). It must not exceed specifica- tions in the load table.

GAWR and GVWR Dont exceed front and rear GAWR (gross axle weight rating) and GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating). If you do, vehicle handling, braking, and perfor- mance will be affected.

These values are listed on your Mazdas Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard certification label posted on the drivers door pillar.

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Maximum permissible trailer load

The maximum permissible trailer load is determined by subtracting the towing vehicle weight (including trailer hitch, vehicle passengers, and load) from the maximum GCWR in the load table.

High-altitude operation

In a high-altitude operating environ- ment, a gasoline engine loses power at a rate of 3% to 4% per 1,000 ft; (304 m) of elevation. In these conditions, a reduc- tion in gross vehicle weight and gross combined weight is recommended.

NOTE

For high-altitude operation, reduce GCW by 2% per 1,000 ft (304 m) of elevation.

Tongue load

Trailer tongue load is part of the passen- ger and cargo load.

Weight limits

NOTE

The total trailer weight and tongue load can be determined by weighing the trailer on platform scales at a highway weigh station or a trucking company. Avoiding overloading will help to prevent the danger of trailer sway from crosswinds, rough roads, or other causes.

WARNING Trailer Loading: Loading the trailer with more weight in the rear than in the front is dangerous. Doing so could cause you to lose control. The trailer tongue load must be 10%-15% of the trailer load (sum of the weights of the trailer and cargo). Try to load the trailer with the weight about 60% toward the front and 40% toward the rear.

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WARNING Tow Loads: Attempting to tow loads greater than those specified may cause serious handling and performance problems that could result in per- sonal injury or vehicle damage, or both. Always keep tow loads within specified limits.

Overloading

If you dont overload your vehicle, youll get better service from it. Its been designed for loads not to exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or the maximum Front and Rear Axle Weight Ratings (GAWRs) specified on the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard label on the left door frame.

Always distribute cargo evenly over the floor of the cargo area. If you have a heavy load thats concentrated, center it in the cargo area.

Once you reach the weight capacity, dont load more, even if you have the room for it.

The Certification Label, found on the inside pillar of the drivers door, lists several important vehicle weight rating limitations. Before adding any addi- tional equipment, refer to these limita- tions. If you are adding weight to the front of your vehicle, (potentially including weight added to the cab), the weight added should not exceed the Front Axle Reserve Capacity (FARC). Additional frontal weight may be added to the front axle reserve capacity pro- vided you limit your payload in other ways (i.e. restrict the number of passen- gers or amount of cargo carried).

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4-27

You may add equipment throughout your vehicle if the total weight added is equal to or less than the Total Axle Reserve Capacity (TARC) weight. You should NEVER exceed the Total Axle Reserve Capacity.

Always ensure that the weight of passen- gers, cargo and equipment being carried is within the weight limitations that have been established for your vehicle includ- ing both Gross Vehicle Weight and Front

and Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating lim- its. Under no circumstance should these limitations be exceeded. Exceeding any vehicle weight rating limitation could result in serious damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury.

WARNING Vehicle Load Weight: The gross axle weight rating (GAWR) and the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of your vehicle are on the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Stan- dard Label on the drivers door frame. Exceeding these ratings can cause an accident or vehicle damage. You can estimate the weight of your load by weighing the items (or people) before putting them in the vehicle. Be careful not to overload your vehicle.

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Trailer Towing Load Tables 4x2 Manual Transmission Regular Cab

Model Rear Axle Ratio

Maximum GCWR

Maximum Trailer Weight

(0-Max.)

2.5L 3.73 4,800 lbs. (2,177 kg)

0-1,580 lbs. (0-717 kg)

2.5L 4.10 4,800 lbs. (2,177 kg)

0-1,580 lbs. (0-717 kg)

3.0L 3.73 6,000 lbs. (2,721 kg)

0-2,660 lbs. (0-1,207 kg)

4.0L 3.55 7,000 lbs. (3,175 kg)

0-3,620 lbs. (0-1,642 kg)

4x2 Manual Transmission Cab Plus

Model Rear Axle Ratio

Maximum GCWR

Maximum Trailer Weight

(0-Max.)

2.5L 3.73 4,800 lbs. (2,177 kg)

0-1,380 lbs. (0-626 kg)

2.5L 4.10 4,800 lbs. (2,177 kg)

0-1,380 lbs. (0-626 kg)

3.0L 3.73 6,000 lbs. (2,721 kg)

0-2,460 lbs. (0-1,116 kg)

3.0L (Troy Lee)

4.10 6,000 lbs. (2,721 kg)

0-2,400 lbs. (0-1,089 kg)

4.0L 3.55 7,000 lbs. (3,175 kg)

0-3,420 lbs. (0-1,551 kg)

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4x4 Manual Transmission Regular Cab

Model Rear Axle Ratio

Maximum GCWR

Maximum Trailer Weight

(0-Max.)

3.0L 3.73 6,000 lbs. (2,721 kg)

0-2,400 lbs. (0-1,089 kg)

3.0L 4.10 6,000 lbs. (2,721 kg)

0-2,400 lbs. (0-1,089 kg)

4.0L 3.73 7,000 lbs. (3,175 kg)

0-3,320 lbs. (0-1,506 kg)

4.0L 4.10 7,000 lbs. (3,175 kg)

0-3,320 lbs. (0-1,506 kg)

4x4 Manual Transmission Cab Plus

Model Rear Axle Ratio

Maximum GCWR

Maximum Trailer Weight

(0-Max.)

3.0L 3.73 6,000 lbs. (2,721 kg)

0-2,200 lbs. (0-998 kg)

3.0L 4.10 6,000 lbs. (2,721 kg)

0-2,200 lbs. (0-998 kg)

4.0L 3.73 7,000 lbs. (3,175 kg)

0-3,120 lbs. (0-1,415 kg)

4.0L 4.10 7,000 lbs. (3,175 kg)

0-3,120 lbs. (0-1,415 kg)

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4x2 Automatic Transmission Regular Cab

Model Rear Axle Ratio

Maximum GCWR

Maximum Trailer Weight

(0-Max.)

2.5L 4.10 5,500 lbs. (2,494 kg)

0-2,180 lbs. (0-989 kg)

3.0L 3.73 7,500 lbs. (3,401 kg)

0-4,120 lbs. (0-1,869 kg)

4.0L 3.55 9,500 lbs. (4,309 kg)

0-6,080 lbs. (0-2,758 kg)

4x2 Automatic Transmission Cab Plus

Model Rear Axle Ratio

Maximum GCWR

Maximum Trailer Weight

(0-Max.)

2.5L 4.10 5,500 lbs. (2,494 kg)

3.0L 3.73 7,500 lbs. (3,401 kg)

0-3,920 lbs. (0-1,778 kg)

3.0L (Troy Lee)

4.10 7,500 lbs. (3,401 kg)

0-3,860 lbs. (0-1,751 kg)

4.0L 3.55 9,500 lbs. (4,309 kg)

0-5,880 lbs. (0-2,667 kg)

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4x4 Automatic Transmission Regular Cab

Model Rear Axle Ratio

Maximum GCWR

Maximum Trailer Weight

(0-Max.)

3.0L 3.73 7,500 lbs. (3,401 kg)

0-3,860 lbs. (0-1,751 kg)

3.0L 4.10 8,000 lbs. (3,628 kg)

0-4,360 lbs. (0-1,978 kg)

4.0L 3.73 9,500 lbs. (4,309 kg)

0-5,780 lbs. (0-2,622 kg)

4.0L 4.10 9,500 lbs. (4,309 kg)

0-5,780 lbs. (0-2,622 kg)

4x4 Automatic Transmission Cab Plus

Model Rear Axle Ratio

Maximum GCWR

Maximum Trailer Weight

(0-Max.)

3.0L 3.73 7,500 lbs. (3,401 kg)

0-3,680 lbs. (0-1,669 kg)

3.0L 4.10 8,000 lbs. (3,628 kg)

0-4,180 lbs. (0-1,896 kg)

4.0L 3.73 9,500 lbs. (4,309 kg)

0-5,580 lbs. (0-2,531 kg)

4.0L 4.10 9,500 lbs. (4,309 kg)

0-5,580 lbs. (0-2,531 kg)

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Trailer-towing tips

The three main causes of vehicle-trailer accidents are driver error, excessive speed, and improper trailer loading.

Before driving

Verify that your Mazda maintain a near-normal attitude when a loaded or unloaded trailer is connected. Dont drive if it has an abnormal front-up or front-down position. Inspect for incorrect tongue load, worn suspen- sion parts, and trailer overloading. Have the vehicle inspected by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

Make sure the trailer cargo is secure to prevent it from shifting.

Make sure the mirrors meet all gov- ernment regulations. Inspect them regularly.

Before starting out, inspect the operation of all vehicle and trailer lights and all vehicle-to-trailer lights and all vehicle-to-trailer connections. Stop and reinspect all lights and con- nections after driving a short distance (about 50 miles [80 km]).

Servicing

If you tow a trailer for a long distance, your vehicle will need to be serviced more frequently.

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4-33

Driving

Your Mazda will handle differently with a trailer in tow, so practice turning, backing, and stopping in a traffic-free area.

Take time to get accustomed to the extra weight and length.

Never drive faster than 45 mph (72 km/h) when you tow in hilly country on hot days.

Allow more room between your vehicle and the one in front because braking distance increases with a trailer. For each 10 mph (16 km/h) of speed, allow at least one vehicle and trailer length behind the vehicle ahead.

Avoid sudden braking. It may cause loss of control and result in jack- knifing, especially on wet or slippery roads.

Avoid abrupt starts and fast accelera- tion. Start in 1 (First) gear and gradu- ally release the clutch pedal (manual transmission) at low engine speed to prevent clutch slippage.

With an automatic transmission, use the following positions when towing a trailer in hilly terrain or when heavily loaded.

4x2 models:

Selector in D (Drive)

4x4 models:

Selector in D position

4x4 indicator light off

These positions will allow operating the vehicle without frequent down-and-up- shifting.

With a 5-speed overdrive manual transmission dont use overdrive gear for trailer towing. Shift as though you were driving a vehicle with a 4-speed transmission.

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4-34

Lane changes and turning

Avoid quick lane changes, sudden turns, and tight turns. Avoid sudden braking.

A turning trailer will make a tighter arc than the tow vehicle. Compensate with turns that are larger than normal.

Passing

Plan well ahead to pass other vehi- cles, and provide plenty of room when changing lanes.

Crosswinds from passing vehicles, especially larger ones, and the effects of rough roads will affect handling.

If swaying occurs, firmly grip the steer- ing wheel and reduce speed immedi- ately, but gradually.

Steer straight ahead. If no extreme cor- rection of steering or braking is made, the combination of less speed and firm steering will result in stability.

Backing up

Backing a vehicle with a trailer requires practice and patience. Back slowly, and have a helper outside at the rear of the trailer.

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4-35

To turn the trailer, place your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel and turn it in the direction you want the trailer to go. Make only slight move- ments to prevent sharp turns of the trailer.

Ascending a hill

Shift into a lower gear to reduce the possibility of overloading or over- heating the engine, or both.

Descending a hill

Shift into a lower gear and use engine compression as a braking effect. Pay constant attention to speed and use the brakes only as needed. Holding the brake pedal down for a prolonged period may cause the brakes to over- heat and lose power.

Parking

Always make sure the tires of the trailer and the tow vehicle are blocked while parked.

Apply the parking brake and put the transmission in 1 (First) or R (Reverse) (manual) or in P (Park) (automatic).

Parking on an incline

Avoid parking on an incline, but if you must, follow these instructions.

Apply the brake pedal and hold it.

Have another person place wheel chocks under the trailer wheels.

With the chocks in place, release the brake pedal, making sure the chocks are holding.

For automatic transmissionsapply the parking brake by pressing the brake pedal down firmly with your right foot while applying the parking brake pedal with your left foot.

For manual transmissionapply the service brake and shift into N (Neu- tral) while still maintaining pressure on the brake pedal. Set the parking brake fully.

Shift an automatic transmission into P (Park). Put the gearshift of a manual transmission in R (Reverse).

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4-36

Vehicle Information Labels To restart after parking on an incline:

1. Apply the brake pedal and hold it.

2. With the transmission in P (Park) (automatic) or with the clutch de- pressed (manual), start the engine. (With an automatic transmission, be sure to depress and hold the brake pedal.)

3. Shift into gear.

4. Release the parking brake (also the foot brake on vehicles with automatic transmissions) and move the vehicle uphill to free the wheel chocks. Stop and apply the foot brake.

5. Have a helper retrieve the chocks.

Vehicle Identification Number

The vehicle identification number legally identifies your vehicle. Its on a plate attached to the left top side of the dashboard. This plate can easily be seen through the windshield.

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4-37

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard

NOTE

Tire inflation pressure information is included on the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Label.

*Includes Vacuum Hose Routing Diagram for California.

Vehicle Emission Control Information Label*

Memo

4-38

5 Driving Your Mazda Operating your vehicle requires a good understanding of the many controls you must know and use. Section 5 describes all this in step-by-step information from use of the ignition switch to cruise control and braking.

Also highlighted are the gearshift and shifting modes, use of 4-wheel drive, power steering, instruments and gauges, warnings and indicators, windshield wipers, and interior features. Youll find complete details about the advanced audio system too.

Ignition Switch Positions 5- 2 Preparing to Drive Your Vehicle 5- 6

Starting the Engine 5- 7 Using the Engine Block Heater 5-12

The Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch 5-13 Manual Transmission Operation 5-14

Automatic Transmission 5-18 4-Wheel Drive System

Electronic Shift Control 5-24 Brake System 5-36

Power Steering 5-46 Cruise Control 5-47

Instrument Clusters 5-52 Gauges 5-54

Dashboard Illumination 5-58 Warning Lights/Beeps 5-59

Lighting Control 5-65

Windshield Wipers and Washer 5-68 Lighter 5-70

Power Point 5-70 Ashtray 5-71

Glove Box 5-71 Center Console 5-72

Cupholders 5-72 Sunvisors 5-74

Vanity Mirror 5-74 Climate Control Systems 5-75

Radio Reception 5-86 AM/FM Radio 5-90

AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player 5-91 AM/FM Radio with Compact

Disc Player 5-92 AM/FM Radio with Cassette and

Compact Disc Player 5-93 5-1

Driving Your Mazda

5-2

Ignition Switch Positions

ON

The warning lights (except the brake warning light) can be inspected before the engine is started.

The key returns to the ON position once the engine is started and remains in this position while the engine runs.

START

The engine is started in this position. It will crank until you release the key; then it returns to ON. The brake warning light can be checked in the START position.

ACC (Accessory)

The steering wheel unlocks and some electrical accessories will operate.

LOCK

The steering wheel locks to protect against theft. Only in this position can the key be removed. If your key is stuck in the LOCK position, move your steer- ing wheel left or right.

OFF

In the OFF position you can shut off the engine and all accessories without lock- ing the steering wheel, or the automatic transmission selector lever.

Driving Your Mazda

5-3

Manual transmission

When turning the ignition switch to the LOCK position, push the key in at ACC. In order to turn the key from ON or OFF to the ACCESSORY position, you must push the key release button since your vehicles manual transmission selector lever is mounted on the floor.

Automatic transmission

When turning the ignition switch to the LOCK position, keep the selector lever at P (Park).

NOTE

If turning the key is difficult, jiggle the steering wheel from side to side.

WARNING Removing the Key: Its dangerous to remove the key from the ignition switch while the vehicle is moving. Removing the key allows the steering wheel to lock. You will lose steering control and a serious accident could occur. Remove the key only when the vehicle is parked.

Driving Your Mazda

5-4

WARNING Parking Brake: The anti-theft steering column lock is not a substitute for the parking brake. Before leaving the drivers seat, always make sure the gearshift selector lever is at P (Park) with an automatic transmission or in 1 (First) with a manual transmission; set the parking brake fully AND stop the engine. Unexpected and possibly sudden vehicle movement may occur if these precautions arent taken.

WARNING Locking the Gearshift Selector Lever: LOCK does not lock the gearshift selector lever on the steering column or floor-mounted gearshifts. If the parking brake is not set and the gearshift is moved out of P (Park) (automatic transmission) or out of gear (manual transmission), your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

NOTE

If a door is open and the key is in the ignition switch when the engine is off, a warning sounds.

Key Removal

Procedures for removing your key from the ignition will vary, depending on the type of ignition your vehicle has. Gear- shift selector levers may be mounted on the steering column or on the floor console.

If the vehicles gearshift selector lever is mounted on the column:

1. Put the gearshift selector lever in P (Park).

2. Set the parking brake fully before removing your foot from the service brake. (This will avoid binding or loading the park gear if you park on a grade.)

3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK.

4. Remove the key.

Driving Your Mazda

5-5

If the vehicles gearshift selector lever is mounted on the floor:

1. Put the gearshift selector lever in 1 (First).

2. Set the parking brake fully by press- ing down with your left foot before removing your right foot from the service brake.

3. Turn the ignition key to OFF.

4. Push in the key release button until it catches and stays in.

5. Turn the key to LOCK.

6. Remove the key.

WARNING Safety Procedures: Removing the key from the igni-

tion switch locks the steering. If removed while driving, loss of steering control will occur which could result in an acci- dent. Remove the key only when parked.

The anti-theft steering column lock is not a substitute for the parking brake. Before leaving the drivers seat, always make sure the gearshift selector lever is in P (Park) with an automatic trans- mission or 1 (First) with a man- ual transmission; set the parking

(Continued)

brake fully AND shut off the engine. Unexpected and possibly sudden vehicle movement may occur if these precautions are not taken.

Never reach for the ignition switch through the steering wheel; it could suddenly turn, causing serious injury.

Testing the Warning Lights Before you start your vehicle, you should test the warning lights on the dashboard to make sure that they work. Turn the key to the ON position. All the warning lights except the brake warning light should light up. If any of them do not, have the bulb and circuit checked.

Driving Your Mazda

5-6

Preparing to Drive If your brake warning light does light up with the key in the ON position, you may not have fully released the parking brake or the brake fluid may be low.

The key must be in the START position, which cranks the engine, to test the brake warning light. If the brake warning light does not light up, have the bulb and cir- cuit checked.

After starting the engine, check all the warning lights to make sure that they are off. When you release the parking brake, the brake warning light should go off.

Your Vehicle

WARNING Utility vehicles have a signifi-

cantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles.

In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wear- ing a seat belt.

Vehicles with a higher center of gravity such as utility and four- wheel drive vehicles handle dif- ferently than vehicles with a lower center of gravity. Utility and four-wheel drive vehicles are not designed for cornering

(Continued)

at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to per- form satisfactorily under off- road conditions. Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed and abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. Failure to drive cau- tiously could result in an increased risk of vehicle roll- over, personal injury and death.

Loaded vehicles, with a higher center of gravity, may handle differently than unloaded ve- hicles. Extra precautions, such as slower speeds and increased stopping distance, should be taken when driving a heavily loaded vehicle.

Driving Your Mazda

5-7

Starting the Engine Your vehicle has special design and equipment features to make it capable of performing in a wide variety of circum- stances. These special design features, such as larger tires and increased ground clearance, give the vehicle a higher cen- ter of gravity than a passenger car.

Your vehicle has the capability to haul more cargo and people than most pas- senger cars. Depending upon the type and placement of the load, hauling people and cargo may raise the center of gravity of the vehicle.

Use extra caution while becoming famil- iar with your vehicle. Know the capabili- ties and limitations of both you as a driver and your vehicle.

When starting a fuel-injected engine, avoid pressing the accelerator before or during starting. Only use the accelerator when you have difficulty starting the engine.

A computer system controls the engines idle revolutions per minute (RPM). When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs faster to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, have the vehicle checked. Do not allow the vehicle to idle for more than ten minutes at high engine RPM.

Driving Your Mazda

5-8

WARNING Exhaust Fumes: Do not start your vehicle in a closed garage or any other enclosed area. Exhaust fumes can be toxic. Always open the garage door before you start the engine.

Preparing Your Vehicle

1. Occupants should fasten their seat belts.

2. Make sure your headlights and other accessories are turned off when start- ing.

3. Make sure the parking brake is on.

4. Manual TransmissionPush the clutch pedal to the floor. Keep the pedal to the floor while starting the engine. Automatic TransmissionPlace the gearshift selector lever in P (Park).

5. Turn the key to ON without turning the key to START.

If there is difficulty in turning the key, firmly rotate the steering wheel left and right until the key turns freely. This condition may occur when:

front wheels are turned

front wheel is against the curb

steering wheel is turned when getting in or out of the vehicle.

Driving Your Mazda

5-9

Starting Your Vehicle 1. Turn the ignition switch to START

without pressing the accelerator pedal.

NOTE

The starter will not operate . . . If the gearshift selector lever is

not in P (Park) or N (Neutral) (automatic), or

If the clutch pedal is not pushed down all the way (manual).

2. Release the key as soon as the engine starts. Excessive cranking could dam- age the starter or flood the engine.

After starting the engine, let it idle for a few seconds.

Keep your foot on the pedal and put the gearshift lever in gear. Release the parking brake. Slowly release the brake pedal and drive away in the normal manner.

NOTE

Whether cold or warm, the engine should be started without use of the accelerator except when noted in this section.

Driving Your Mazda

5-10

If the engine doesnt start

If the temperature is above 10F (12C) and the engine does not start within five seconds on the first try, turn the key to OFF, wait ten seconds and try again.

If the temperature is below 10F (12C) and the engine does not start in fifteen seconds on the first try, turn the key OFF and wait ten seconds and try again. If the engine does not start in two attempts, press the accelerator pedal 1/3 to 1/2 of the way to the floor and hold. Turn the key to START.

3. When the engine starts, release the key, then release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up.

4. After idling for a few seconds, apply the brake and release the parking brake.

5. If the engine still does not start, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered and needs to be reset.

WARNING Engine Idling Speed: If the engine idling speed does not slow down automatically, do not allow your vehicle to idle for more than ten minutes. Have the vehicle checked. Extended idling at high engine speeds can produce very high temperatures in the engine and exhaust system, creating the risk of fire or other damage to the vehicle and possibly resulting in personal injury.

Driving Your Mazda

5-11

NOTE

Engine noise (from valve tappets) may occur if the engine has not been operated for an extended period. The noise should stop after the engine has reached normal operating temperature. If the noise does not stop, have the vehicle inspected by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

Cold weather starting (Flexible Fuel Vehicles Only)*

As the outside temperature approaches freezing, ethanol fuel distributors should supply winter grade (Ed 85) ethanol (same as with unleaded gasoline). If summer grade (Ed 85) ethanol is used in cold weather conditions, you may expe-

rience increased cranking times, rough idle or hesitation until the engine has warmed up. Consult your fuel distributor for the availability of winter grade (Ed 85) ethanol.

High-quality blends of winter grade (Ed 85) ethanol will produce satisfactory cold weather starting and driving results. However, fuel composition varies, and sub-optimal winter grade blends could produce increased cranking times, rough idle or hesitation at temperatures below 0F (18C). If you experience this condition you may find that a different brand of winter grade (Ed 85) (if avail- able in your area) improves the perfor- mance of your vehicle.

Cold starting performance can also be improved with the use of an engine block heater. The engine block heater is avail- able as a Mazda option and can also be obtained from your Mazda dealer. Con- sult the engine block heater section for proper use of the engine block heater.

If you should experience cold weather starting problems on (Ed 85) ethanol, and neither an alternative brand of (Ed 85) ethanol nor an engine block heater is available, the addition of unleaded gasoline to your tank will improve cold starting performance. Your vehicle is designed to operate on (Ed 85) ethanol alone, unleaded gasoline alone, or any mixture of the two.

*Some models.

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Using the Engine Block If the engine fails to start using the preceding instructions:

1. Press the accelerator pedal 1/3 to 1/2 of the way to floor and hold.

2. Turn the key to START position.

3. When the engine starts, release the key, then release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up.

4. If the engine still fails to start, repeat steps one through three.

5. After the engine starts, hold your foot on the brake pedal, put the gearshift lever in gear and release the parking brake. Slowly release the brake pedal and drive away in a normal manner.

*Some models.

Heater* Engine block heaters are strongly rec- ommended if you live in a region where temperatures reach 10F (23C) or below consistently during the winter months. An engine block heater warms the engine coolant, which improves starting, warms up the engine faster, and allows the heater-defrost system to respond quickly.

If you have this option, use it whenever the temperature is 10F (23C) or below.

WARNING Ungrounded Connections: Do not use your heater with un- grounded electrical systems or two- pronged (cheater) adapters. You can be injured by an electrical shock if you use an ungrounded connection.

For best results, plug the heater in at least three hours before you start your vehicle.

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The Fuel Pump Shut-Off Using the heater for longer than three hours will not damage the engine, so you can plug it in at night to start your vehicle the following morning.

NOTE

Be sure to disconnect the engine block heater before driving your vehicle.

Switch If the engine cranks but does not start or does not start after a collision, the fuel pump shut-off switch may have been triggered. The Fuel Reset indicator light will illuminate in the instrument cluster. The shut-off switch is a device intended to automatically stop the fuel pump when your vehicle has been involved in a substantial jolt.

Once the shut-off switch is triggered, you must reset the switch by hand before you can start your vehicle.

The shut-off switch is located behind the lower right trim panel under the instrument panel.

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Manual Transmission

WARNING Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch: If you see or smell fuel, do not reset the switch or try to start your vehicle. You could injure yourself or others. Have all the passengers get out of the vehicle and call the local fire department or a towing service.

If your engine cranks but does not start after a collision:

1. Turn the key in the ignition to OFF.

2. Check the fuel system for leaks.

3. If no fuel leak is apparent, reset the switch by pushing in the red button on the switch. If the button is already set, you may have a different mechanical problem.

4. Turn the ignition key ON for a few seconds, then turn it OFF.

5. Make a further check for leaks in the system. If you see or smell fuel, do not start your vehicle again. If you do not see or smell fuel, you can try to start your vehicle again.

6. Check all vehicle warning lights before driving your vehicle.

Operation

Manual Transmission Shift Pattern

The gearshift for a manual transmission is mounted on the floor. The gearshift pattern consists of seven positions: Neu- tral, five forward gears and reverse.

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Press the clutch pedal all the way down while shifting; then release it slowly.

NOTE

Make sure the vehicle is stopped before shifting to R (Reverse). Wait at least 3 seconds before shifting into R (Reverse) to prevent a grinding noise. Do not release the clutch.

CAUTION Keep your foot off the clutch pedal except when shifting gears. Also, dont use the clutch to hold the vehicle on an upgrade. This will avoid need- less clutch wear and damage.

With the 5-speed transmission you can engage R (Reverse) only by moving the gearshift from the left of 3 (Third) and 4 (Fourth) gears before you shift into R (Reverse). This is a special lockout feature that protects you from acciden- tally shifting into R (Reverse) when you downshift from Overdrive ( D) gear.

WARNING Do Not Abuse the Clutch: Do not abuse the clutch. Continued use of a damaged or worn clutch, prolonged clutch slippage or down- shifting at excessive speeds can result in an explosion of the engine, transmission or clutch components, resulting in potential serious per- sonal injury.

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Recommendations for Shifting

Upshifting

For normal acceleration, we recommend these shift points.

NOTE

Shifting during extremely low rpms can result in a momentary audible rattle which disappears as vehicle rpms are increased. Shifting at higher speeds will eliminate this sound.

Upshifts: Normal Accelerating (Recommended for Best Fuel Economy)

Upshift Transfer Case Position

from: 2H or 4H* 4L

First to Second

10 mph (16 km/h)

4 mph (6 km/h)

Second to Third

22 mph (35 km/h)

9 mph (14 km/h)

Third to Fourth

33 mph (53 km/h)

13 mph (21 km/h)

Fourth to Overdrive

41 mph (66 km/h)

17 mph (27 km/h)

*Use the following for 4x2 applications.

Upshifts: Cruising Conditions (Recommended for Best Fuel Economy)

Upshift Transfer Case Position

from: 2H or 4H* 4L

First to Second

10 mph (16 km/h)

4 mph (6 km/h)

Second to Third

19 mph (30 km/h)

8 mph (13 km/h)

Third to Fourth

28 mph (43 km/h)

12 mph (19 km/h)

Fourth to Overdrive

40 mph (64 km/h)

16 mph (26 km/h)

*Use the following for 4x2 applications.

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Downshifting

When you must slow down in heavy traffic or on a steep upgrade, downshift before the engine starts to overwork. This reduces the chance of stalling and gives better acceleration when you need more speed.

On a steep downgrade, downshifting helps maintain safe speed and prolongs brake life. When you come to a stop, do not downshift through each gear. Disengage the clutch and use as neces- sary. Downshifting through the gears decreases fuel economy.

Maximum Downshift Speeds (For Overdrive*)

Shift Transfer Case Position

from: 2H or 4H** 4L

Overdrive to Fourth

55 mph (88 km/h)

22 mph (35 km/h)

Fourth to Third

45 mph (72 km/h)

18 mph (29 km/h)

Third to Second

35 mph (56 km/h)

14 mph (22 km/h)

Second to First

20 mph (32 km/h)

8 mph (13 km/h)

*Downshift at lower speeds when driving on slippery surfaces.

**Use the following for 4x2 applications.

Parking

To park your vehicle, apply the service brake, shift into N (Neutral) while still maintaining pressure on the service brake pedal. Set the parking brake fully. Shift into 1 (First) and turn off the ignition.

WARNING Parking in Neutral: Do not park your vehicle in N (Neu- tral). Use 1 (First) gear and set the parking brake fully. If you do not take these precautions, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

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Automatic Transmission Your vehicle is equipped with either a four-speed overdrive transmission (4R44E) or a five-speed overdrive trans- mission (5R55E). All 2.5L and 3.0L engines use the 4R44E transmission, while all 4.0L engines use the 5R55E transmission. Both transmission types have a lock-up torque converter. Trans- mission operation is controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

The PCM will automatically adjust trans- mission operation to make up for varying conditions. Several sensors located on the engine and transmission such as throttle position, engine speed, vehicle speed and transmission temperature are used by the PCM to shift the transmission into a higher to lower gear when required for the best performance and fuel economy.

For example, you may notice that the transmission will upshift to a higher gear more quickly when the vehicle has not reached normal operating temperature.

The PCM also controls the transmissions torque converter clutch to further raise vehicle performance and fuel economy. The torque converter clutch will engage when the transmission operating tem- perature and other conditions determined by the PCM have been met. Engagement of the clutch may be noted as a decrease in engine speed.

To help in troubleshooting, the PCM con- tinually performs self-tests on the elec- tronic control system and if any faults are detected, will store them in memory. The Transmission Control Indicator Light (TCIL), which is located on the instru- ment cluster, may flash steadily if a mal-function has been detected. If the TCIL is flashing, contact your Autho- rized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible. If this condition persists, damage to your transmission could occur.

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Transmission Ranges

The gearshift selector lever must be at P (Park) or N (Neutral) to operate the starter.

Putting Your Vehicle in Gear

Your vehicles gearshift selector lever is on the steering column. The Transmis- sion Control Switch is located on the end of the gearshift selector lever. You can put the gearshift selector lever in any of the several positions.

Once you place the gearshift selector lever securely into position, gradually release the brake pedal and use the accel- erator as necessary.

P (Park)

P (Park) locks the transmission and pre- vents the rear wheels from rotating.

Always come to a complete stop before you shift into P (Park). This position locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from turning. To securely latch the gearshift in the P (Park) posi- tion, pull it toward you, push it com- pletely counterclockwise against the stop, and then push it toward the instrument panel.

The gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) if you cannot rotate it in a clock- wise direction without lifting it toward you.

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WARNING Moving Selector Lever: Hold the brake pedal down while you move the selector lever from position to position. If you do not hold the brake pedal down, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

WARNING The Parking Brake vs. P (Park): Using P (Park) instead of the park- ing brake to hold the vehicle is unsafe. If P (Park) fails to hold, the vehicle will move freely and possi- bly cause an accident. Dont use P (Park) in place of the parking brake. Always use both P (Park) and the parking brake.

CAUTION Shifting into P (Park) or R (Reverse) while the vehicle is moving can damage your transmission.

Your vehicle is equipped with a brake- shift interlock feature. This feature pre- vents you from shifting from P (Park) with the key in the ON position unless you have the brake pedal depressed. If you cannot shift from P (Park) with the brake pedal depressed:

1 Apply the parking brake.

2. Remove the key.

3. Insert the key and rotate one position clockwise to OFF.

4. Apply the brake pedal and shift to N (Neutral). If the vehicle is shifted to P (Park) you must repeat the pre- vious steps.

5. Start the vehicle.

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WARNING Shifting From P (Park) with Shift-Lock Override: If you need to shift out of P (Park) by using the alternate procedure described here, it is possible that a fuse has blown or the vehicles brake lamps may not be operating properly. Refer to the In Case of Emergency section for information on checking and replacing fuses. Do not drive your vehicle until you verify that the brake lights are working.

R (Reverse)

In the R (Reverse) position, the vehicle will move backward. You should always come to a complete stop before shift- ing into or out of R (Reverse), except as explained under Rocking the Vehicle (page 4-14).

N (Neutral)

In N (Neutral), the wheels and transmis- sion are not locked. The vehicle will roll freely even on the slightest incline unless the parking brake or brakes are engaged.

WARNING Shifting From N (Neutral) or P (Park): Its dangerous to shift from N (Neu- tral) or P (Park) into a driving gear when the engine is running faster than idle. If this is done, the vehicle could move suddenly, causing an accident or serious injury. If the engine is running faster than idle, dont shift from N (Neutral) or P (Park) into a driving gear.

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D (Overdrive)

D (Overdrive) is the normal drive position for the best fuel economy. As the vehicle picks up speed, the 4R44E transmission will automatically upshift to second, third and fourth gears when D (Overdrive) is chosen on the selector

and the transmission control switch has not been pressed.

The 5R55E transmission will automati- cally upshift to second, third, fourth and fifth gears, when D (Overdrive) is chosen on the selector and the transmis- sion control switch has not been pressed.

The transmission will shift into correct gear when the right speed is achieved for the accelerator pedal position you have chosen.

Drive

You will note that there is not a drive position on your gearshift indicator. However, you will find a transmission control switch labeled O/D ON/OFF located on the end of the gearshift lever. Press this switch and O/D OFF will illuminate on the instrument cluster.

With overdrive cancelled and the O/D OFF illuminated, the 4R44E transmis- sion will operate in gears one through three and the 5R55E transmission will operate in gears one through four. Oper- ating in OFF gives more engine braking than Overdrive and is useful for ascending or descending hills or when towing. Shift back to D (Overdrive) whenever practi- cal for optimum powertrain cooling.

To return the transmission to the nor- mal D (Overdrive) operation, press the transmission control switch again. When starting your vehicle, the overdrive sys- tem will automatically be in the normal overdrive mode.

2 (Second)

The 2 (Second) position is helpful when driving in heavy, slow-moving traffic and climbing hills; for braking assist when going down hills; or for starting on slick surfaces and other situations where gentle acceleration may be necessary.

1 (Low)

Use the 1 (Low) position in hard-pulling situations, or for climbing and descend- ing very steep grades.

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Shift patterns with overdrive: D= 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th (4R44E) D= 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th (5R55E) 2 = 2nd 1 = 1st

Shift patterns without overdrive: D = 1st, 2nd, 3rd (4R44E) D = 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th (5R55E) 2 = 2nd 1 = 1st

Driving Tips

Passing

For extra power when passing another vehicle or climbing steep grades, depress the accelerator fully. The 4R44E trans- mission will automatically downshift to the appropriate gear; third, second, or first. The 5R55E transmission will auto- matically downshift to the appropriate gear; fourth, third, second or first.

Climbing steep grades from a stop

To climb a steep grade from a stopped position:

1. Depress the brake pedal.

2. Shift to D or 1 (First) depending on load weight and grade steepness.

3. Release all brakes while gradually accelerating.

Power braking

Increasing the engine speed above idle without vehicle movement (such as hold- ing the brake) in a forward gear causes transmission stall.

NOTE

Continued operation in the stall con- dition can result in transmission over- heat, malfunction or fluid expulsion.

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4-Wheel Drive System Descending steep grades

When descending a steep grade, shift to 2 (Second) or 1 (First), depending on load weight and grade steepness. Descend slowly, using the brakes only occasion- ally to prevent them from overheating.

Overdrive

Overdrive operation

In D, the transmission automatically shifts to Overdrive, which improves fuel economy and reduces noise.

But to increase engine braking, dont use Overdrive when going down a steep grade.

And for a smoother ride with less shift- ing, dont use it when:

Going up a steep grade;

Driving in stop-and-go traffic;

Pulling heavy loads.

Electronic Shift Control The electronic shift control 4x4 system functions in three modes. In 2-wheel drive mode, power is delivered only to the rear axle at normal road speed.

The 4x4 HIGH position provides 4-wheel drive with power delivered to the front and rear axles for increased traction. The 4x4 LOW position provides 4-wheel drive with power delivered to the front and rear axles when above average power is required at reduced speeds.

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4-wheel drive operation (4x4 or 4x4 LOW) on dry pavement is not recom- mended. Operating the vehicle in 4-wheel drive on dry pavement will increase tire wear, decrease fuel economy, and make 4-wheel drive disengagement difficult for the transfer case.

Electronic Shift Control System Indicator Lights

A 4x4 indicator light and a 4x4 LOW indicator light are located on the instru- ment cluster. If either light flashes, take your vehicle in for service.

2-wheel drive modeNeither the 4x4 nor the 4x4 LOW lights are lit.

4x4 modeOnly the 4x4 light is lit.

4x4 LOW modeBoth the 4x4 and 4x4 LOW lights are lit.

Shifting From 2-Wheel Drive to 4x4 HIGH

To shift into 4x4, turn the knob located on the instrument panel to 4x4 HIGH.

At temperatures below 32F (0C), shifts from 2-wheel drive to 4x4 HIGH should not be performed above 45 mph (72 km/h).

Do not shift into 4x4 HIGH with the rear wheels slipping.

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Shifting From 4x4 HIGH to 2-Wheel Drive

Turn the knob from 4x4 HIGH to 2WD; the 4x4 light on the instrument cluster will go out indicating the vehicle is in 2-wheel drive. This can be done at any speed.

Shifting From 2-Wheel Drive to 4x4 LOW

1. Bring the vehicle to a stop.

2. Depress the brake.

3. Place the automatic transmission in N (Neutral) or depress the brake pedal and clutch pedal fully on vehicles with a manual transmission.

4. Move the four-wheel drive knob to 4x4 LOW.

Shifting From 4x4 LOW to 2-Wheel Drive

1. Bring the vehicle to a stop.

2. Depress the brake.

3. Place the automatic transmission in N (Neutral) or depress the brake pedal and clutch pedal fully on vehicles with a manual transmission.

4. Move the four-wheel drive knob to 2WD.

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Shifting Between 4x4 HIGH and 4x4 LOW

Stop the vehicle, depress the brake, and place the automatic transmission in N (Neutral) or depress the brake pedal and clutch pedal fully on vehicles with a manual transmission. Move the four- wheel drive knob to the 4x4 HIGH or 4x4 LOW position.

CAUTION If the four-wheel drive knob is

moved to 4x4 LOW while the vehicle is moving, the system will not engage and no damage will occur to the system.

Driving on dry, hard surfaces in 4H or 4L may cause unnecessary noise and tire wear. Drive in 2-wheel drive under these conditions.

It is not recommended to operate the vehicle in the 4WD modes with a tem- porary spare unless absolutely necessary. If you must use both 4WD and a tempo- rary spare, dont operate at speeds above 10 mph (16 km/h) or for distances over 50 miles (80 km).

Off-Road Driving

WARNING 4-Wheel Driving Precautions: All utility-type and 4-wheel drive vehicles have a special design and equipment features to make them capable of performing in a wide vari- ety of off-road applications. Specific design characteristics give them higher centers of gravity than ordi- nary passenger cars. These vehicles are not designed for cornering at speeds as high as passenger cars any more than low-slung sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily under off-road conditions. If at all

(Continued)

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possible, avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers in these vehicles. As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate your vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or vehicle rollover resulting in serious injury.

Most vehicles with 4-wheel drive are especially equipped for driving on sand, snow, mud, or rough terrain and have operating characteristics that are some- what different from conventional vehi- cles, both off and on the road. The driving tips below will help you learn to use 4-wheel drive.

Do not use 4-wheel drive on dry, hard- surfaced roads, especially with a tem- porary spare tire in use. This may damage the driveline and axles.

Drive slower in strong crosswinds which can affect the normal steering characteristics of your vehicle.

Be extremely careful when driving on pavement made slippery by loose sand, water, gravel, snow or ice.

When using 4-wheel drive, maintain steering wheel control at all times, espe- cially in rough terrain. Since sudden changes in terrain can result in abrupt steering wheel motion, make sure you grip the steering wheel rim from the outside. Do not grip the spokes.

Drive cautiously to avoid vehicle dam- age from concealed objects such as rocks and stumps. Know the terrain or exam- ine maps of the area in question before driving. Map out your route beforehand. To maintain steering and braking control of your vehicle, you must have all four tires on the ground, and they must be rolling, not sliding or spinning.

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If the vehicle is stuck it may be rocked out by shifting from forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accel- erator in each gear.

NOTE

Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes. The transmis- sion and tires may be damaged or the engine can overheat.

Transmission upshift in 4x4 with trans- fer case in 4L may be quite firm due to large total gear reduction. This condition is normal.

Sand

When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels of the vehicle on the most solid area of the trail. Avoid reducing the tire pressure. Instead, shift to a lower gear and drive steadily through the ter- rain. Apply accelerator slowly and avoid spinning the wheels.

If you must reduce the tire pressure for whatever reason in sand, make sure you re-inflate the tires as soon as possible.

Avoid excessive speed because vehicle momentum can work against you and cause the vehicle to become stuck to the point that assistance may be required from another vehicle. Remember, you may be able to back out the way you came if you proceed with caution.

Water

Before driving through water, determine the depth. Avoid water higher than the bottom of the hubs. Proceed slowly to avoid splashing, if the ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall.

Once through water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. You can dry the brakes faster by driving the vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal.

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Mud

Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction when you are driving in mud. Even 4x4 vehicles can lose trac- tion in slick mud. As when you are driv- ing over sand, apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle.

After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts and tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts causes an imbalance which could damage drive components.

NOTE

If the transmission, transfer case or front axle are submerged in water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary.

Replace rear axle lubricant any time the axle has been submerged in water. The rear axle does not normally require a lubricant change for the life of the vehicle. Rear axle lubricant quantities are not to be checked or changed unless a leak is suspected or repair is required.

Driving on hill or steep terrain

Although natural obstacles may make it necessary to travel diagonally up or down a hill or steep incline, you should always try to drive straight up or straight down. Avoid driving crosswise or turn- ing on steep slopes or hills. A danger lies in losing traction, slipping sideways and possibly rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill, determine beforehand the route you will use. Do not drive over the crest of a hill without seeing what conditions are on the other side. Do not drive in reverse over a hill without the aid of an observer.

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When climbing a steep slope or hill, start in a lower gear rather than downshifting to a lower gear once the ascent has started. This reduces strain on the engine and the possibility of stalling.

If you do stall out, do not try to turn around because you might roll over. It is better to back down to a safe location.

Apply just enough power to the wheels to climb the hill. Too much power will cause the tires to slip, spin or lose trac- tion, resulting in loss of vehicle control.

Descend a hill in the same gear you would use to climb up the hill to avoid excessive brake application and brake overheating. Do not descend in neutral, disengage overdrive or manually shift to a lower gear.

When descending a steep hill, avoid sud- den hard braking as you could lose con- trol. When you brake hard, the front wheels cant turn and if they arent turn- ing, you wont be able to steer. The front wheels have to be turning in order to steer the vehicle. Rapid pumping of the brake will help you slow the vehicle and still maintain steering control.

If your vehicle has antilock brakes, apply the brakes steadily. Do not pump the brakes.

When cruise control is on and you are driving uphill, your vehicle speed may drop considerably, especially if you are carrying a heavy load.

If vehicle speed drops more than 16 km/h (10 mph), the cruise control will cancel automatically. Resume speed with the accelerator pedal.

If cruise control cancels after climbing the hill, reset speed by pressing and hold- ing the SET ACCEL button to resume speeds over 30 mph (50 km/h).

The automatic transmission may shift frequently while driving up steep grades. Eliminate frequent shifting by shifting out of D(Overdrive) into D (Drive).

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Driving on snow or ice

A 4-wheel drive vehicle has advantages over 2-wheel drive vehicles in snow and ice but can skid like any other vehicle. If so equipped, keep the vehicle in 4-wheel drive if icy or slippery conditions exist.

4x4 vehicles are unique in that they can be driven in deep snow that would stop a conventional two-wheel drive vehicle. Shift to a low gear and maintain steady pressure on the accelerator. This will help prevent spinning the wheels while maintaining sufficient momentum to keep from bogging down. Using tire chains will also help.

Never drive with chains on the front tires of 4x4 vehicles without also putting them on the rear tires. This could cause the rear to slide and swing around during braking.

Tire Replacement Requirements

Your 4x4 vehicle is equipped with tires designed to provide for safe ride and handling capability.

Do not use a size and type of tire and wheel other than that originally provided by Mazda because it can affect the safety and performance of your vehicle, which could lead to loss of vehicle control or rollover and serious injury. Make sure all tires and wheels on the vehicle are of the same size, type, tread design, brand and load-carrying capacity. If you have ques- tions regarding tire replacement, see an authorized Mazda dealer.

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If you nevertheless decide to equip your 4x4 for off-road use with tires larger than what Mazda recommends, you should not use these tires for highway driving. If you use any tire/wheel combination not recommended by Mazda, it may adversely affect vehicle handling and could cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case failure.

Do not use aftermarket lift kits or other suspension modifications, whether or not they are used with larger tires and wheels.

These aftermarket lift kits could adversely affect the vehicles handling characteristics, which could lead to loss of vehicle control or rollover and serious injury.

Tires can be damaged during off-road use. For your safety, tires that are dam- aged should not be used for highway driving because they are more likely to blow out or fail.

You should carefully observe the recom- mended tire inflation pressure found on the safety compliance certification label attached to the left front door lock facing or door latch post pillar. Failure to follow tire pressure recommendations can adversely affect the way your vehicle handles. Do not exceed the Mazda recommended pressure even if it is less than the maximum pressure allowed for the tire.

Each day before you drive, check your tires. If one looks lower than the others, use a tire gauge to check pressure of all tires, and adjust if required. Check tire pressure with a tire gauge every few weeks (including spare). Safe operation requires tires that are neither underin- flated nor overloaded.

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Periodically inspect the tire treads and remove stones, nails, glass or other objects that may be wedged in the tread grooves. Check for holes or cuts that may permit air leakage from the tire and make necessary repairs.

Inspect the tire sidewalls for cuts, bruises and other damage. If internal damage to the tire is suspected, have the tire demounted and inspected in case it needs to be repaired or replaced.

If Your Vehicle Goes Off the Edge of the Pavement

If your vehicle goes off the edge of the pavement, slow down, but avoid severe brake application. Ease the vehicle back onto the pavement only after reducing your speed. Do not turn the steering wheel too sharply while returning to the road surface.

It may be safer to stay on the apron or shoulder of the road and slow down gradually before returning to the pave- ment. You may lose control if you do not slow down or if you turn the steering wheel too sharply or abruptly.

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If often may be less risky to strike small inanimate objects, such as highway reflectors, with minor damage to your vehicle rather than attempt a sudden return to the pavement which could cause the vehicle to slide sideways out of control or rollover. Remember, your safety and the safety of others should be your primary concern.

Emergency Maneuvers

In an unavoidable emergency situation where a sudden sharp turn must be made, remember to avoid over-driving your vehicle, i.e. turn the steering wheel only as rapidly and as far as required to avoid the emergency. Excessive steering will result in less vehicle control, not more. Additionally, smooth variations of the accelerator and/or brake pedal pressure should be utilized if changes in vehicle speed are called for. Avoid abrupt steer- ing, acceleration or braking. Use all available road surface to return the vehicle to a safe direction of travel.

In the event of an emergency stop, avoid skidding the tires and do not attempt any sharp steering wheel movements.

If the vehicle goes from one type of surface to another (i.e., from concrete to gravel) there will be a change in the way the vehicle responds to a maneu- ver (steering, acceleration or braking). Again, avoid these abrupt inputs.

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Brake System Foot Brake

Your Mazda has power-assisted brakes that adjust automatically through normal use.

Should power assist fail, you can stop by applying greater force than normal to the brake pedal. But the distance required to stop will be greater than usual.

When the engine is off, the reserve brake power is less each time the brake pedal is applied. Dont pump the pedal when the power assist has been interrupted, except when necessary to maintain steer- ing control when sliding on ice or other slippery surfaces.

If the brakes should fail to operate while the vehicle is in motion, you can make an emergency stop with the parking brake. The stopping distance, however, will be much greater than normal.

WARNING Driving with the Engine Off: Continuing to drive when the engine is stalled or turned off is dangerous. Braking will require more effort, and the brakes power assist could be depleted if you pump the brake. This will cause longer stopping distances or even an acci- dent. Dont continue driving when the engine is stalled or turned off, find a safe place to stop.

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WARNING Riding the Brakes: Driving with your foot continuously on the brake pedal or steadily apply- ing the brakes for long distances is dangerous. This causes overheated brakes, resulting in longer stopping distances or even total brake fail- ure. This could cause loss of vehicle control and a serious accident. Avoid continuous application of the brakes. Shift to a lower gear when going down steep hills.

WARNING Driving with Wet Brakes: Driving with wet brakes is danger- ous. Increased stopping distance or the vehicle pulling to one side when braking could result in a serious accident. Light braking will indi- cate whether the brakes have been affected. Dry the brakes by driving very slowly and applying the brakes lightly until brake performance is normal.

Front Disc Brakes

The front disc brakes are self-adjusting. They do not require service other than periodic inspection for pad wear.

Rear Drum Brakes

The rear drum brakes are self-adjusting. Automatic adjustment occurs when the brakes are applied while backing up.

If normal operation does not include much backing up, adjust the rear brakes when they seem low and do not grip well by using the following procedure.

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If Brakes Do Not Grip Well or Pedal is Low

If brakes do not grip well, it may indicate the rear drum brakes need adjustment.

Drive the vehicle in reverse at 5 mph (8 km/h) on level, dry pavement. Stop the vehicle by firmly applying the brakes. Repeat this procedure four or five times.

If the brakes seem low or do not grip well during normal operation, it may indicate the need for a brake system inspection and/or service. You should have your vehicle checked as soon as possible.

It is not an indication of brake problems to have an occasional brake squeal dur- ing light to moderate brake applications. However, if the squeal becomes louder or more frequent, have your brakes

inspected by your dealer or a qualified service technician.

If Brakes Pull

Check tire pressure.

Perform the self-adjustment proce- dure described under If Brakes Do Not Grip Well or Pedal is Low.

If pull occurs during the first 500 miles (800 km), make 10 moderately fast stops from 40 mph (64 km/h) and perform the self-adjustment procedure above. It may be necessary to repeat this operation to properly seat new brake linings and pads.

Stopping Distances

Stopping distances vary with different loads and driving conditions. Use cau- tion when encountering new conditions and acquaint yourself with vehicle per- formance. Take full advantage of engine braking power when slowing down.

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Applying the Brakes

Apply the brake pedal evenly. Use the squeeze technique. Push on the brake pedal with a steadily increasing force. This allows the wheels to continue to roll while you are slowing down, which lets you steer properly. If you lock the wheels, release the brake pedal and repeat the squeeze technique.

WARNING Suspension Modification: Modifications to the suspension spring rates and/or vehicle ride height may adversely affect vehicle stopping ability.

Hydraulic Power Brakes

The hydraulic brake system is made up of two independent hydraulic circuits. One hydraulic circuit supplies fluid to the front disc brakes and the other hydraulic circuit supplies fluid to the rear drum brakes. These two circuits are supplied by a common hydraulic brake fluid reservoir, with a fluid level sensor.

The brake light in the instrument panel will light for low brake fluid in the common brake fluid reservoir.

WARNING Reduced Braking Capability: A loss of pressure in one of the circuits, indicated by an increase in pedal travel, will result in reduced braking capability. The brake sys- tem should be checked immediately.

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Parking Brake

The parking brake should be used when- ever you park your vehicle.

The parking brake pedal is suspended just below the instrument panel to the left of the service brake and/or clutch pedals.

To set the parking brake, press the brake pedal with your right foot and hold it while you depress the parking brake pedal fully with your left foot.

CAUTION Driving with the parking brake on will cause excessive wear of the brake linings or pads.

WARNING Set Parking Brake Fully: When parking, do not use the gear- shift in place of the parking brake. Turn off the ignition whenever you leave your vehicle. Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transmis- sion) or in 1 (First) (manual trans- mission). Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running. If you do not take these precautions, your vehicle may move unexpectedly and injure someone.

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Brake System Warning Light

Note the brake warning light each time you start the engine. It should be on when the engine is running and the parking brake is set.

If the brake warning light stays on after the parking brake is fully released, the brake system has a malfunction. Refer to Warning Lights/Beeps (page 5-59).

4-Wheel Antilock Brake System (4-Wheel ABS)*

This system helps the driver to maintain vehicle control by preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking.

*Some models.

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The 4WABS operates with a computer that is able to optimize vehicle control during braking on varying tire and road conditions by modulating the brake pressure at each of the front wheels and the rear axle. This pumping action is similar to the driver pumping the brakes but happens at a much faster rate.

WARNING Antilock System: The antilock system will NOT allow the vehicle to stop as quickly on wet or icy surfaces as it would on a dry surface. Heavy braking on roads with loose surfaces such as snow or gravel, or severe pavement irregu- larities could cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

Using antilock brakes

The operation of a vehicle with 4WABS is very similar to the operation of normal brakes. However, some differences exist and are listed below:

Apply the brake steadily. In the event of a panic stop, do NOT pump the brakes. Pumping the brakes dur- ing an antilock stop will diminish braking effectiveness.

During an antilock stop, the driver will notice a brake pedal pulsation and hear some noise from the engine compartment. This is an indication that the 4WABS system is working correctly and is normal. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking,

the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service technician.

WARNING Antilock System: The antilock system does not decrease the time necessary to apply the brakes or always reduce stopping distance. Always leave enough room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to stop.

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4WABS warning light

The 4WABS computer continuously monitors the system while driving for any electrical or system malfunctions.

In addition, the 4WABS computer per- forms an initial system check called bulb proveout when the vehicle ignition is switched on. During bulb proveout, the amber ABS light on the instru- ment cluster will momentarily illumi- nate and then go out.

NOTE

After staring the vehicle and upon ini- tial drive-off, the driver may notice a single pulse of the brake pedal and a noise from the engine compartment. This is part of the initial system check and is normal.

The ABS warning light in the instrument cluster momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned on and the engine is off. If the light does not illuminate momentarily at start up, remains on or continues to flash, the ABS needs to be serviced. With the ABS light on, the anti- lock brake system is disabled and normal braking is still effective unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated with parking brake released. (If your

brake warning light illuminates, have your vehicle serviced immediately.)

NOTE

Mobile phones or radio transmitters not installed by Mazda Motor Corpo- ration may interfere with the antilock brake system. Should the antilock sys- tem activate unexpectedly or the ABS light illuminate after installation of such a unit, have the installation of the unit checked.

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WARNING Antilock Brake System Warning Light: If there is a malfunction in the system, the antilock brake system warning light will light as the sys- tem becomes disabled. The system should receive immediate service.

WARNING Suspension Modification: Modifications to the suspension spring rates and/or vehicle ride height may adversely affect vehicle stopping ability.

*Some models.

Rear-Wheel Antilock Brake System (Rear-Wheel ABS)*

This system reduces the possibility of sustained rear-wheel brake lockup by immediately sensing any lockup and modulating the rear brake pressure.

Even so, you must always be careful in all hazardous driving situations, espe- cially on unusual surfaces, such as ice and water.

Even with ABS, you may lose control of the vehicle through heavy braking on loose surfaces such as snow and gravel, on broken pavement, and on alternate patches of slippery and dry surfaces.

Youll notice some pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS system is operating normally. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified service tech- nician.

NOTE

If the antilock warning light stays on while youre driving, the ABS con- trol unit has detected a system mal- function. If this occurs, your brakes will function normally as if they had no ABS. Should this happen, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.

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NOTE

Braking distances may be longer on loose surfaces (snow or gravel, for example), which usually have a hard foundation. A vehicle with a normal braking system may require less dis- tance to stop under these conditions because the tires will build up a wedge of surface layer when the wheels skid.

WARNING ABS: The ABS cannot compensate for unsafe and reckless driving, exces- sive speed, tailgating (following another vehicle too closely), and hydroplaning (reduced tire friction and road contact because of water on the road surface). You can still have an accident. So dont rely on ABS as a substitute for safe driving.

WARNING Antilock Brake System Light: If the amber antilock brake system warning light remains on or comes on while driving, a fault has been detected in the antilock brake sys- tem, and the antilock system has been disabled. Have the braking system checked by a qualified ser- vice technician as soon as possible.

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Power Steering

NOTE

If a fault occurs in the antilock sys- tem, and the brake warning light is not lit, the antilock system is disabled but normal brake function remains operational. If the light does not illu- minate momentarily at start up, remains on or continues to flash, the ABS needs to be serviced.

WARNING Suspension Modification: Modifications to the suspension spring rates and/or vehicle ride height may adversely affect vehicle stopping ability.

Your vehicle is equipped with power steering.

Power steering uses energy from the engine to help steer the vehicle.

To prevent damage to the power steering pump:

Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or the extreme left for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.

Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level.

If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort.

If the steering wanders or pulls, the condition could be caused by any of the following:

underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s)

high crown in center of road

high crosswinds

wheels out of alignment

loose or worn components in steering linkage

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Cruise Control* NOTE

After any severe impact such as striking potholes, sliding into curbs on icy roads, or a collision involving the front end, observe the steering wheel alignment. If the spokes of the steering wheel seem to be in a dif- ferent position while going straight down the road, have the front sus- pension and steering checked for possible damage.

With cruise control, you can set and automatically maintain any speed of more than about 30 mph (48 km/h).

WARNING Cruise Control Use: Using cruise control in the follow- ing conditions could cause you to lose control of the vehicle: Heavy or unsteady traffic Slippery or winding roads Similar restrictions that require

inconsistent speed Dont use cruise control in these situations.

To activate the system, press the ON switch.

To deactivate the system:

Press the OFF switch.

Turn off the vehicle ignition.

*Some models.

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Once cruise control is switched OFF, the previously programmed set speed will be released.

Touch the brakes.

WARNING Cruise ON Switch: If the ON switch is left on, cruise control may be switched on acci- dentally. This could result in loss of vehicle control. Keep the cruise control OFF when cruise control is not in use.

To Set Speed:

1. Press and release the ON switch.

2. Accelerate to the desired speed, which must be more than 30 mph (48 km/h).

3. Press SET ACCEL and release it immediately. This will set your speed and the cruise control indicator light will illuminate (refer to page 4-57). If you keep this button pressed, your speed will continue to increase and will not be set until the switch is released.

NOTE

On a steep grade, the vehicle may momentarily slow down going up or speed up while going down.

You may have to temporarily can- cel cruise control while driving on steep grades.

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NOTE

Cruise control cannot reduce the vehicle speed if it increases above the set speed on a downhill grade. If your vehicle speed is faster than the set speed while driving downhill, you may want to shift to the next lower gear to reduce vehicle speed.

In mountainous areas, at higher eleva- tions, or when pulling a trailer, the cruise control may not be able to maintain the preset speed with the transmission in overdrive.

If your vehicle comes with a 5-speed manual transmission, you may prefer to drive in 4 (Fourth) gear, in mountainous areas or at high altitudes, to improve cruise control performance.

To maintain a preset speed with an auto- matic transmission, under these condi- tions, push the Overdrive Off button on the end of the gearshift lever. The O/D OFF light will illuminate on the instru- ment cluster. You can select this position at any speed. For the best fuel economy during normal driving conditions, leave the shift selector in Overdrive.

In order to downshift (with a manual transmission) with the cruise control operating, you must press either the brake or clutch pedal long enough to disengage the cruise control. Wait a second before depressing the clutch again and making the shift so that the cruise control can fully return to the idle position.

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To Cancel:

To turn off the system, use one of these methods:

Press the OFF switch. The cruise control is cancelled.

Press the brake or clutch pedal (if equipped) slightly. The cruise control is turned off, but can be reset by pressing SET ACCEL or RSM.

WARNING Avoiding High Engine RPM: Do not shift the transmission into N (Neutral) with the cruise control on, as high engine RPM run up will occur until the cruise control is turned off.

The system is off when the ignition is off.

NOTE

Cruise control will cancel at about 8 to 14 mph (13-23 km/h) below the preset speed.

To Increase Cruising Speed: Follow either of these procedures.

Press and hold SET ACCEL. Release the control when the desired speed is reached.

Accelerate with your accelerator pedal. When the desired vehicle speed is reached, press and release SET ACCEL.

Your vehicle has a tap-up feature that allows you to increase your current speed in increments of 1 mph (1.6 km/h) by a momentary tap of the SET ACCEL button. Multiple taps of the SET ACCEL button will increase your vehicle speed 1 mph (1.6 km/h) for each tap. For exam- ple, if you are currently set at 60 mph (96 km/h) and tap the SET ACCEL button 5 times, your vehicle speed will increase and set at 65 mph (104 km/h).

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Accelerating With Cruise Control On

Accelerate if you want to speed up tem- porarily when the cruise control is on. Greater speed will not interfere with it or change the set speed.

Take your foot off the accelerator to return to the set speed.

To Decrease Cruising Speed:

1. Press and hold the COAST button.

2. The vehicle will gradually slow. Release the button at the speed you want.

Your vehicle has a tap-down feature that allows you to decrease your current speed in increments of 1 mph (1.6 km/h) by a momentary tap of the COAST but- ton. Multiple taps of the COAST button will decrease your vehicle speed 1 mph (1.6 km/h) for each tap. For example, if you are currently set at 65 mph (104 km/h) and tap the COAST button 5 times, your vehicle speed will decrease and set at 60 mph (96 km/h).

To Resume Cruising Speed at More Than 30 mph (48 km/h):

If something besides the OFF button was used to cancel cruising speed and the system is still activated, the most recent set speed will automatically resume when the RSM button is pressed. It will not resume though, if vehicle speed has dropped below 30 mph (48 km/h).

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Instrument Clusters

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Gauges Speedometer

The speedometer shows forward speed in miles and kilometers per hour.

Odometer

The odometer records in miles (kilo- meters) the total distance the vehicle has been driven.

Trip Odometer

Push in the reset button to reset the trip odometer at zero. It will then reduce in miles (kilometers) the total distance the vehicle is driven until the meter is again reset. Use the trip odometer to measure trip distances and in computing fuel consumption.

Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge

This gauge shows the temperature of the engine coolant.

At normal operating temperature, the needle remains within the normal area (the area between the H and C). If it enters the red section, the engine is over- heating. Stop the vehicle as soon as pos- sible, switch off the engine immediately and let the engine cool.

CAUTION Driving with an overheated engine can cause serious engine damage (see page 6-3).

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Engine Oil Pressure Gauge

This gauge indicates whether or not there is adequate oil pressure. If the engine is running, the pointer will be in the center band of the gauge, indicating

adequate oil pressure. If the pointer remains or drops below the center band while the engine is running, you have inadequate oil pressure. If this happens, stop the vehicle as soon as safely pos- sible, switch off the engine immediately and refer to page 8-18 for instructions on checking oil level.

Fuel Gauge

The fuel gauge shows how much fuel is in the tank when the ignition is in the ON or START position.

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For a proper fuel gauge reading, the igni- tion switch must be in the OFF position before you add fuel to the fuel tank.

The fuel gauge indicator may vary slightly while the vehicle is in motion. This is the result of fuel movement within the tank. An accurate reading may be obtained with the vehicle on smooth, level ground.

Battery Voltage Gauge This gauge shows you the battery volt- age when the ignition key is in the ON position. Normally the pointer will stay in the center band.

If the pointer stays outside the center band when you are running electrical accesso- ries with the engine off or idling, have the system checked as soon as possible.

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Tachometer*

The tachometer shows engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute (RPM). Use it while selecting shift points and to prevent lugging and over- revving.

Some vehicles are equipped with an engine speed (RPM) limiting device contained within the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The purpose of this device is to maintain peak engine speed (RPM) below a specified limit. This feature is only evident on automatic trans- mission vehicles when shifting manually (1, 2, D) and on all manual transmission units. (Engine speed limits may vary based on engine displacement).

If you are experiencing an engine cut- out condition at high speeds, it may be the result of this limiting device. It is a normal condition and can be avoided by reducing engine/vehicle speed.

NOTE

The needle may move slightly when the ignition switch is at ACC or ON with the engine off. This is normal and will not affect accuracy once the engine is running.

NOTE

If the 4.0L engine exceeds 5200 RPM, the powertrain control module will restrict fuel flow to maintain engine speed at or below 5200 RPM. This function protects the engine and should be considered normal operation.

*Some models.

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Dashboard Illumination

CAUTION Dont run the engine with the tachom- eter in the RED ZONE. Driving with your tachometer pointer continuously in the RED ZONE may damage the engine.

Use to adjust the brightness of the dashboard lights during headlight and parking light operation.

Rotate up to brighten.

Rotate down to dim.

Rotate to full up position (past det- ent) to turn on interior lights.

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Warning Lights/Beeps Warning Lights Inspection

Inspect the warning lights by turning on the ignition switch with the engine off and the parking brake on. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer about any light that doesnt come on.

If the brake system warning light is off when the ignition switch is at START, have the system inspected by an Autho- rized Mazda Dealer.

After starting the engine, make sure all warning lights are off. If one stays on, its signaling for attention.

The brake system warning light should go off when the parking brake is released.

Brake System Warning Light

This warning has two functions.

Parking brake warning

The light comes on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition in the START or ON position. It goes off when the brake is fully released.

Low brake fluid level warning

If the light stays on after the parking brake is fully released, you may have a brake problem.

If it stays on:

1. Be sure the parking brake is fully released.

2. If this light is still on, drive to the side of the road and park off the right-of- way.

You may notice that the pedal is harder to push or that it may go closer to the floor. In either case, it will take longer to stop the vehicle.

3. With the engine stopped, check the brake fluid level immediately and add fluid as required (page 8-28).

4. After adding fluid, if the light remains on, or if the brakes do not operate properly, do not drive the vehicle. Have it towed to an Autho- rized Mazda Dealer.

Even if the light goes off, have your brake system inspected as soon as possible.

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WARNING Brake Warning Light: Driving with the brake system warn- ing light on is dangerous. It indi- cates that your brakes may not work at all or that they could completely fail at any time. If this light remains on, have the brakes inspected imme- diately. Dont drive with this light on.

*Some models.

Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light*

The ABS warning light illuminates momentarily when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. If the ABS control unit determines that all compo- nents are OK, it turns off the light (page 5-43).

If the ABS brake warning light remains on, continues to flash or fails to illumi- nate, have the system serviced immedi- ately. With the ABS light on, the anti- lock brake system is disabled and normal braking is still effective unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated with the parking brake released.

CAUTION If the amber antilock brake system warning light remains on or comes on while driving, a fault has been detected in the antilock brake system and the antilock system has been disabled. Have the braking system checked by a qualified service tech- nician as soon as possible. (Note: If a fault occurs in the antilock system, the normal brake function remains operational.)

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Seat Belt Warning Light/Chime

For further information refer to Sec- tion 2.

Fuel Reset Light*

The fuel reset light will come on when the ignition is turned to ON and the fuel pump shut off switch has been triggered. Refer to The Fuel Pump Shut-Off Switch in this section.

Charging System Warning Light

This light comes on when you turn the ignition switch to the ON or START posi- tion. The light should go off when the engine starts and the generator begins to charge.

This warning shows a malfunction of the generator or of the electrical wiring system.

If the light comes on while the vehicle is moving:

1. Drive to the side of the road and park off the right-of-way.

2. Turn off the engine. Inspect the alter- nator drive belt for looseness and breakage.

3. If its OK, the charging system has a problem. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.

CAUTION Dont drive with a loose or broken generator or fan belt. The engine could overheat because the water pump or the fan would not work.

*Some models.

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Check Gauge Light

This light comes on when the key is in the ON position and:

1. The engine coolant temperature is high.

2. The engine oil pressure is low. 3. The fuel level is near empty.

This light will also illuminate for several seconds after the ignition is turned to the ON position and serves as a notice that the system needs your attention and to check the engine coolant temperature gauge, the engine oil pressure gauge, and the fuel level gauge. Please see the Engine Temperature Gauge, Engine Oil Pressure Gauge, or Fuel Gauge in this section for more information.

Malfunction Indicator Light

Your vehicle is equipped with a compu- ter that monitors the engines emission control system. This system is commonly known as the On Board Diagnostics System (OBD II). This OBD II system protects the environment by ensuring that your vehicle continues to meet govern- ment emission standards. The OBD II system also assists the service technician in properly servicing your vehicle.

The malfunction indicator light illumi- nates when the ignition is first turned to the ON position to check the bulb. If it

comes on after the engine is started, one of the engines emission control systems may be malfunctioning. The light may illuminate without a driveability concern being noted. The vehicle will usually be drivable and will not require towing.

If the check engine light turns on solid:

Temporary malfunctions may cause your malfunction indicator light to illumi- nate. Examples are:

1. The vehicle has run out of fuel. (The engine may misfire or run poorly.)

2. Poor fuel quality or water in the fuel.

3. The fuel cap may not have been securely tightened.

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These temporary malfunctions can be corrected by filling the fuel tank with good quality fuel and/or properly tight- ening the gas cap. After three driving cycles without these or any other tempo- rary malfunctions present, the malfunc- tion indicator light should turn off. (A driving cycle consists of a cold engine startup followed by mixed city/highway driving.) No additional vehicle service is required.

If the malfunction indicator light remains on, have your vehicle serviced at the first available opportunity.

If the check engine light is blinking:

Engine misfire is occurring which could damage your catalytic converter. You should drive in a moderate fashion (avoid heavy acceleration and deceleration) and have your vehicle serviced at the first available opportunity.

Headlight High-Beam Indicator Light

This light indicates one of two things:

The high-beam headlights are on;

The turn-signal lever is in the flash- to-pass position.

4x4 Indicator Light*

The 4x4 indicator light comes on when 4x4 HIGH is activated.

If this light flashes, it indicates that there is a malfunction in the 4x4 system and you should take your vehicle in for service.

4x4 LOW Indicator Light*

The 4x4 LOW indicator light comes on when 4x4 LOW is activated.

If this light flashes, it indicates that there is a malfunction in the 4x4 system and you should take your vehicle in for service.

*Some models.

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Anti-Theft Alarm Light*

For further information, refer to Sec- tion 3.

Overdrive On/Off*

Illuminates when the transmission con- trol switch has been pushed turning the transmission overdrive function OFF. When the light is on, the transmission does not operate in the overdrive.

*Some models.

The light may also flash steadily if a transmission malfunction is detected. If the light does not come on when the transmission control switch is depressed or if the light flashes steadily, have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible, damage to the transmission could occur.

Door Ajar Warning Light*

If the ignition switch is in the ON position and any door is not completely closed, the DOOR AJAR light illumi- nates. If the light illuminates, close the doors securely.

Air Bag Warning Light

For further information, refer to Sec- tion 2.

Cruise Control Light*

The cruise control light will illuminate in the instrument cluster when the cruise control system is engaged. The light will turn off when the brake pedal is pressed, the ignition is in the OFF position, or the cruise control OFF button is pressed.

This display does not indicate any prob- lems with the cruise control, but is simply a convenient way of knowing when cruise control is activated.

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Lighting Control Warning Beeps

Headlights on beep

This warning sounds if you open the door while the parking lights or headlights are on and the ignition key is removed from the ignition.

The warning sounds again after 20 sec- onds if the headlights are on and the doors are closed.

Key-in-ignition beep

This warning sounds if you open the drivers door while the key is in the ignition.

Seat belt beep

This warning sounds if you turn on the ignition before you fasten the seat belt.

Headlights

First stop

Taillights and dashboard, parking, and license lights are on.

Second stop

Head- and taillights, dashboard, parking, and license lights are on.

NOTE

To prevent discharging the battery, dont leave the lights on while the engine is off.

If you stop the engine and leave the lights on, a chime will sound when the drivers door is opened.

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Headlight high-low beam Push the lever forward to activate high beams. Pull the lever toward you to deac- tivate high beams. The high-beam indicator light on the dashboard is blue. It will remain illumi- nated until the headlights are returned to low beam.

*Some models.

Flashing the headlights To flash the headlights, pull the lever toward you and release it. The headlight switch need not be on, and the lever will return to the normal position when released. The high-beam indicator light on the dash- board is blue. It will illuminate briefly when the headlights are flashed.

Fog Lamps* Press the fog lamp control button to acti- vate the fog lamps. The fog lamp control button will illuminate when the fog lamps are on. Press the fog lamps a second time to deactivate the fog lamps. The fog lamp switch is located to the right of the audio system on the instru- ment panel.

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Turn and Lane-Change Signals

Turn signals

Move the signal lever down (for a left turn) or up (for a right turn) to the stop position. The signal will self-cancel after the turn is completed.

Green indicators on the dashboard show which signal is working.

If the indicator light continues to flash after a turn, manually return the lever to its original position.

Lane-change signals

Move the lever slightly toward the direc- tion of the changeuntil the indicator flashesand hold it there. It will return to the off position when released.

NOTE

If an indicator light stays on without flashing or if it flashes abnormally, the turn signal bulb may be burned out.

Combination Cargo and High-Mount Brake Light*

Use the thumbwheel to the right of the headlight knob to turn the cargo light on and off.

*Some models.

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Windshield Wipers and Washer

WARNING Driving With Interior Lights On: Do not drive your vehicle with the cargo or interior light on. Showing a white light to the rear while driv- ing on public roads is illegal in some places.

Windshield Wipers

The ignition switch must be in ON or ACC.

Variable interval wipers

To set the interval wipers, rotate the knob at the end of the turn signal lever toward the front of the vehicle to the wiping speed you prefer. The shorter lines indi- cate a slow interval wiper speed and the longer lines indicate a fast interval wiper speed.

Low or high speed wipers

Turn the wipers on by turning the knob on the end of the turn signal lever toward the front of the vehicle. Turn it to either the (Low) or (High) speed position.

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Windshield Washer

The ignition must be in ON or ACC.

Push the end of the lever and hold it to spray washer fluid. In the OFF position, they will automatically make a few wipes after you release the lever.

If the washer doesnt work, inspect the fluid level (page 8-36). If its OK, con- sult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

Do not try to clean the windshield when the washer fluid container is empty or activate the washers at any time for more than 15 seconds continuously. This could damage the washer pump system.

NOTE

The addition of shields to the front of the vehicle, as used to deflect bugs, may also adversely affect the washer system from delivering fluid to the windshield. Devices such as bug shields are not recommended for your Mazda vehicle.

WARNING Freezing Washer Fluid: In freezing temperatures, windshield washer fluid could freeze on the windshield and block your vision, which could easily cause an acci- dent. Dont use the washer without first warming the windshield.

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Lighter Power Point

The lighter is located to the left of the audio system on the instrument panel.

To operate the lighter, press it in and release it. When ready for use, it auto- matically pops out.

CAUTION Dont hold the lighter in because

it will overheat. Dont use the lighter socket

for plug-in accessories such as shavers and coffee pots. They may damage it or cause electri- cal failure. Use only a genuine Mazda lighter or the equivalent.

If the lighter doesnt pop out within 30 seconds, remove it to prevent overheating.

The power point outlet should be used in place of the cigarette lighter for optional electrical accessories.

The power point outlet is located to the right of the audio system on the instru- ment panel.

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Ashtray Glove Box

WARNING Optional Electrical Accessories: Do not use more than 12 volt acces- sories in the 12 volt power point. Do not plug optional electrical acces- sories into the cigarette lighter. Elec- trical system damage could occur. Use the power point outlet.

To remove an ashtray, lift it up and out. Push the ashtray into the tray holder until it locks.

WARNING Ashtrays: Dont use ashtrays for trash. You might start a fire.

To open the glove box, lift up the handle and pull the door downward.

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Center Console* Cupholders*

Lift the lid to open the center console.

The full console has all of the features shown in the illustration above as well as a removable utility bag.

*Some models.

The storage armrest that is equipped with the 60/40 split bench seat also has a coin tray, utility compartment with cassette/ compact disc storage and a map storage pocket.

If your Mazda has a bench seat or split- bench seat, you may have cupholders in the floor-mounted consolette.

The inside of the cupholders can be adjusted to various heights to accommo- date different size cups. They can also be removed to allow access and cleaning of the cupholder.

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On a manual transmission, the cupholders are located on the floor on either side of the gearshift lever.

On an automatic transmission, a remov- able consolette may be removed when the center seat position is occupied.

To remove the automatic consolette:

1. Pull the adjustable portion of each cupholder from the consolette.

2. Remove the rubber pad at the bottom of each cupholder.

3. Using a quarter, turn the slotted head at the bottom of each cupholder 90 (one quarter turn).

4. Lift the consolette from the floor and secure it in a safe place.

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Sunvisors Vanity Mirror*

When you need a sunvisor, lower it for use in front or swing it to the side.

*Some models.

To use the vanity mirror, lower the sun- visor on the passengers side.

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Climate Control Systems

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Fan Blower Control Knob

This knob allows variable fan speeds.

There are four fan settings, plus an OFF position. The larger the dot, the higher the fan setting.

Temperature Control Knob

This controls air temperature. Adjust the knob to Cool air in the blue range or to Warm air in the red range.

Function Selector Control Knob

Use this knob to direct airflow from the vents.

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Off position

The flow of outside air is shut off; how- ever, a small amount of air is directed toward the face.

A/C position*

Select A/C to get refrigerated outside air through the instrument panel registers.

This position is used for cooling except when it is extremely hot or fast cooling of the vehicle is needed. In this case, select MAX A/C for fast cooling and return to A/C when you are comfortable.

MAX A/C position*

The MAX A/C position produces cool air more rapidly to provide faster cooling of your vehicle. Select MAX A/C to get recirculated refrigerated air through the instrument panel registers.

WARNING Fog Build-Up on Interior Glass: Operating with the function selec- tor in Off or MAX A/C for extended periods of time in cold weather can result in fog build-up on interior glass surfaces. This fogging can make it difficult to see the road for safe driving. To help prevent fog- ging, simply draw in outside air by placing the function selector control knob in , , or position and adjust the temperature as necessary.

*Some models.

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(VENT) position

Use to bring outside air through the instrument panel registers.

You can heat the air in this position by rotating the temperature control knob into the red (WARM) area. The air cannot be cooled below the outside temperature regardless of the temperature control knob setting. Select A/C or MAX A/C to get cool air through the instrument panel registers.

(PANEL and FLOOR) position

Select for airflow to the floor and through the instrument panel registers at the same time.

The air conditioner will operate to cool the air if the outside temperature is about 50F (10C) or warmer.

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(FLOOR) position

Air is delivered to the floor vents.

The air cannot be cooled in this position but can be heated by rotating the temper- ature control knob into the red (WARM) area.

(FLOOR and DEFROST) position

The air is delivered to the floor and the windshield. The A/C will operate to cool the air if the outside temperature is about 50F (10C) or warmer. The air will also be dehumidified to remove moisture.

(DEFROST) position

The air is delivered to the windshield. The compressor is engaged to dehumidify the air if the ambient temperature is above approximately 50F (10C).

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Ventilation Set the function selector knob at the

position. Set the temperature control knob at a

desirable position. Set the fan blower control knob at a

desirable position. Airflow may be controlled by adjust-

ing the side vents.

Heating Set the function selector control knob

at the position. Set the temperature control knob to

the desired position near the red (WARM) area.

Set the fan blower control knob.

For dehumidified heating, turn the function selector control knob to the

position and turn on the air condi- tioner. (If the outside temperature is about 50F {10C} or warmer, the air will automatically be dehumidified.)

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NOTE

For maximum heating, turn the func- tion selector control knob to , the temperature control knob to the red (WARM) area and turn the fan blower control knob to the highest setting.

NOTE

If the windshield fogs up easily, set the selector at (DEFROST).

Windshield Defrosting and Defogging

Set the function selector control knob at (DEFROST).

Set the temperature control knob to the desired position.

Set the fan blower control knob.

NOTE

For maximum defrosting, turn the function selector control knob to the

(DEFROST) position, the tem- perature control knob to the red (WARM) range and the fan blower control knob to the highest setting.

NOTE

For maximum defogging, set the function selector control knob at MAX A/C, the temperature control knob to the red (WARM) range and the fan blower control knob to the highest setting.

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NOTE

If warm air is desired on the floor, set the function selector control knob at or .

If dehumidified heating is desired, turn the function selector control knob to A/C or MAX A/C.

Clear all snow and ice from the hood and the air inlets in the cowl- ing grille to improve heater and defroster efficiency and to reduce the chance of fogging on the inside of the windshield.

Dehumidifying (With Air Conditioning)

Operate the air conditioner in cool or cold weather to help defog the windshield and side windows.

Set the temperature control knob at a comfortable position.

Start the engine. Turn the function selector control knob to A/C or MAX A/C.

Select the desired airflow and fan speed position.

NOTE

Since the air conditioner removes considerable moisture from the air during operation, it is normal if water drips on the pavement under the air conditioner drain after you have stopped the vehicle.

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Heater Controls (Heater-only Vehicles)

The fan speed, temperature, and func- tion controls are essentially the same as the A/C controls with the exception that the heater-only control assembly has no function control settings for A/C or MAX A/C.

Operating Tips

Air-conditioning controls

If the vehicle has been parked in direct sunlight during hot weather, run the air conditioner at its coolest setting with the windows open. This will let warm air escape.

Use the air conditioner to clean foggy windows on rainy days.

If the engine overheats, turn the func- tion control knob to or to turn the air conditioning OFF and stop the compressor for a short time.

NOTE

The optional air conditioner is filled with R-134a, a refrigerant that will not damage the ozone. If the air conditioner is low on refrig- erant or has some other problem, con- sult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

NOTE

Whenever service to the air condi- tioning system is required, make sure the service facility uses a refrigerant recycling system. These systems will capture the refrigerant for reuse. Releasing the refrigerant into the atmosphere can damage our environ- ment.

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Cooling* (Air Conditioning)

1. Start the engine.

2. Turn the function selector control knob to A/C or MAX A/C.

*Some models.

3. Set the temperature control knob in the blue (COOL) range.

4. Set the fan blower control knob.

For maximum comfort, adjust the fan blower control knob and temperature control knob.

NOTE

For maximum cooling, set the tem- perature control knob at the extreme left and set the function selector knob at the MAX A/C position. Then turn the fan blower control knob to the far right for the highest speed.

CAUTION When using the air conditioner on long hills or in heavy traffic, watch the temperature gauge closely. If it indicates overheating, turn the air conditioner off (page 4-47).

CAUTION When stopped in traffic for long periods of time in hot weather, place the automatic transmission gearshift selector in P (Park), or in N (Neutral) for manual transmissions, to increase the engine idle speed.

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NOTE

Slight increases and decreases in engine rpm may be noticed. This should be considered normal because of A/C compressor cycling. The reduc- tion in compressor operation helps improve fuel economy.

WARNING Foggy Windshield: Dont use the position during cool operation in very humid out- side weather. The difference between outside air and windshield temper- atures could fog up the inside of the windshield. Choose one of the other positions.

NOTE

When your vehicles engine is oper- ated at full throttle, the air conditioner compressor will automatically be turned off to allow maximum engine power. This may occur during pass- ing or when climbing steep grades. The compressor will return to normal operation within a few seconds after full throttle is no longer needed.

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Radio Reception

AM Characteristics Station Mixing AM signals bend around such things as buildings and mountains and bounce off the ionosphere. Therefore, they can reach longer distances than FM signals. But because of this, two stations may sometimes be picked up at once on the same frequency.

FM Characteristics An FM broadcast range usually extends up to about 25 to 30 miles (40 to 50 km) from the source. Because of extra coding needed to break the sound into two chan- nels, stereo FM has even less range than monaural (nonstereo) FM.

FM transmitter signals are similar to beams of light because they dont bend around corners, but they do reflect.

Unlike AM signals, they cannot travel beyond the horizon. Thats why FM sta- tions cant reach the great distances AM stations can.

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Atmospheric conditions can also affect FM reception. High humidity will cause poor reception, but cloudy days may pro- vide better reception than clear days.

Multipath noise

Because FM signals can be reflected by obstructions, the direct signal and the reflected signal may be received at once. This slightly delays reception and may be heard as a broken sound or a distortion. This problem may also arise when recep- tion is close to the station transmitter.

To minimize these conditions, a stereo/ mono blend circuit has been incorporated into this system. This feature automati- cally switches a weak stereo signal to a clear monaural signal, which improves the quality of reception.

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Flutter/skip noise

FM signals move in straight lines and weaken in valleys between tall buildings, mountains, and other obstacles. Recep- tion in these areas may fade out and result in annoying noise.

Weak signal noise

In some areas, broadcast signals become weak, because of distance from the trans- mitter. Reception in such fringe areas is characterized by sound breakup

Strong signal noise

This occurs very close to a transmission tower. The broadcast signals are extremely strong, so the result is noise and sound breakup at the radio receiver.

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Station drift noise

When a vehicle reaches the area of two strong stations broadcasting at similar frequencies, the original station may be temporarily lost and the second station picked up. At this time there will be some noise from the disturbance.

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AM/FM Radio

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AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player*

*Some models.

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AM/FM Radio with Compact Disc Player*

*Some models.

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AM/FM Radio with Cassette and Compact Disc Player*

*Some models.

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How to Turn the Radio On and Off

Press the VOL/PUSH ON knob to turn the audio system on or off.

If you have an AM/FM radio with cas- sette and CD player, audio power can also be turned on by pressing the AM/FM select control or the Tape/CD select control. Audio power is turned off by using the VOL/PUSH ON knob.

How to Adjust the Volume

Turn the VOL/PUSH ON knob to the right to increase the volume and to the left to decrease the volume.

NOTE

If the volume level is set above a certain level and the ignition switch is turned off, the volume will come back on at a nominal listening level when the ignition switch is turned back on.

AM/FM Select

The AM/FM select control works in radio, tape and CD modes (if equipped).

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AM/FM select in radio mode

This control allows you to select AM or FM frequency bands. Press the control to switch between AM, FM1 or FM2 memory preset stations.

AM/FM select in tape mode*

Press AM/FM to stop tape play and begin radio play.

AM/FM select in CD mode*

Press AM/FM to stop CD play and begin radio play. Tone Balance and Speaker

Output

Bass adjust

The bass adjust control allows you to increase or decrease the audio systems bass output.

If you have an AM/FM radio, press the TONE control once, then use the volume knob to adjust the level.

*Some models.

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If you have an AM/FM radio with cas- sette or CD player, press to increase or to decrease the bass output.

If you have an AM/FM radio with cassette and CD player, press the BASS control then press:

to decrease bass output to increase bass output

Treble adjust

The treble adjust control allows you to increase or decrease the audio systems treble output.

If you have an AM/FM radio, press the TONE control twice, then use the vol- ume knob to adjust the level.

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If you have an AM/FM radio with cas- sette or CD player, press to increase or to decrease the treble output.

If you have an AM/FM radio with cassette and CD player, press the TREB control then press:

to decrease treble output to increase treble output

Speaker balance adjust

Speaker sound distribution can be adjusted between the right and left speakers.

If you have and AM/FM radio, press the TONE control three times, then use the volume knob to adjust the level.

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If you have an AM/FM radio with cassette or CD player, speaker sound distribution can be adjusted between the right () and left () speakers.

If you have an AM/FM radio with cassette and CD player, press the BAL control then press:

to shift sound to the left to shift sound to the right

Speaker fade adjust

Speaker sound can be adjusted between the front and rear speakers.

If you have an AM/FM radio, press the TONE control four times, then use the volume knob to adjust the level.

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If you have an AM/FM radio with cas- sette or CD player, speaker sound can be adjusted between the front () and rear () speakers.

If you have an AM/FM radio with cassette and CD player, press the FADE control then press:

to shift sound to the front to shift sound to the rear

Clock Operation Press the CLK control button to display the time. The time will continue to be displayed until a radio, tape or CD func- tion is chosen.

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After 10 seconds, the time will again appear in the display. To display radio or tape information only, press the CLK control button a second time.

NOTE

The clock can be displayed whether the ignition is on or off.

Setting the clock

Press CLK to toggle between listening frequencies and clock mode while in radio mode.

To set the hour, press and hold the CLK control button and press:

SEEK to decrease hours SEEK to increase hours

To set the minute, press and hold the CLK control button and press:

TUNE to decrease minutes TUNE to increase minutes

TUNE Adjust

The TUNE control works in the radio mode.

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TUNE adjust in radio mode

Press to move to the next frequency down the band (whether or not a listen- able station is located there). Hold the control to move through the frequencies quickly.

Press to move to the next frequency up the band (whether or not a listenable sta- tion is located there). Hold for quick movement.

SEEK Function

The SEEK control function works in the radio mode.

If you have an AM/FM radio with cas- sette and CD player, the SEEK control function works in the radio, tape and CD mode.

SEEK function in radio mode

Press to find the next listenable sta- tion down the frequency band.

Press to find the next listenable sta- tion up the frequency band.

SEEK function in tape mode*

Press to listen to the previous selec- tion on the tape.

Press to listen to the next selection on the tape.

*Some models.

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SEEK function in CD mode*

Press to seek to the previous track on the disc.

Press to seek to the next track on the disc. After the last track has been com- pleted, the first track of the disc will automatically replay.

*Some models.

SCAN function in radio mode*

The SCAN control function is available on all audio systems except the AM/FM radio.

Press the SCAN control to hear a brief sampling of all listenable stations on the frequency band. Press the control again to stop the scan mode.

SCAN function in tape mode*

If you have an AM/FM radio with cas- sette and CD player, press the SCAN control to hear a short sampling of all selections on the tape. (The tape scans in a forward direction. At the end of the tapes first side, direction automatically reverses to the opposite side of the tape.) To stop on a particular selection, press the control again.

SCAN function in CD mode*

Press the SCAN control to hear a short sampling of all selections on the CD. (The CD scans in a forward direction, wrapping back to the first track at the end of the CD.) To stop on a particular selection, press the control again.

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Radio station memory preset

The radio is equipped with four or six station memory preset buttons. These buttons can be used to select up to four or six preset AM stations and eight or twelve FM stations (four or six in FM1 and four or six in FM2).

Setting memory preset stations

1. Select a frequency band with the AM/FM select control.

2. Select a station.

3. Press and hold a memory preset but- ton until the sound returns, indicating the station is held in memory on the control you selected.

Autoset Memory Preset* Autoset allows you to set strong radio stations without losing your original manually set preset stations. This fea- ture is helpful on trips when you travel between cities with different radio stations.

Starting autoset memory preset

1. Select a frequency using the AM/FM select controls.

2. Press the AUTO control.

3. When the first six strong stations are filled, the station stored in memory preset control 1 will start playing.

If there are less than six strong stations available on the frequency band, the remaining memory preset controls will all store the last strong station available.

To deactivate autoset and return to your audio systems manually set memory stations, press the AUTO control again.

*Some models

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Automatic Music Search*

The Automatic Music Search feature allows you to quickly locate the begin- ning of the tape selection being played or to skip to the next selection.

*Some models.

To activate the feature, momentarily depress the TAPE AMS button. Then, press either REW (for the beginning of the current selection) or FF (to advance to the next selection). The tape deck stops and returns to play mode when the AMS circuit senses a blank section on the tape. In order to ensure proper operation of the AMS feature, the tape MUST have a blank section of at least 4 seconds dura- tion between programs.

How to Insert a Tape* Your cassette tape player is equipped with power loading. Once you insert a tape and push slightly (with the open edge to the right), the loading mechanism draws the tape the rest of the way in and play will begin after a momentary (one second) tape tightening process. Display indicates TAPE while tape is playing.

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How to Insert a Compact Disc and Begin Playing*

Insert a disc, label side up, into the disc opening. When inserted, the disc auto- matically loads into the unit and play starts at the beginning of the first track (selection).

NOTE

Once a disc is inserted, the disc opening is secured to prevent the accidental insertion of another disc.

NOTE

The CD player has heat protection circuitry to protect the laser diode. If the temperature of the player reaches 167F (76C), the heat detection circuit will shut off the player and (CD HOT) will scroll in the dis play for approximately five seconds (radio will resume playing). When the temperature returns to normal operating range, the CD player will again be operational.

*Some models.

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Tape/CD Select* To begin tape play (with a tape loaded in the audio system) while in the radio or CD mode, press the TAPE control.

Press the button during rewind or fast forward to stop the rewind or fast for- ward function.

To begin CD play (if CDs are loaded), press the CD control. The first track of the disc will begin playing. After that, CD play will begin where it stopped last.

*Some models.

Rewind*

The rewind control works in tape and CD modes.

In tape mode, radio play will continue until rewind is stopped (with the TAPE control) or the beginning of the tape is reached.

If you have an AM/FM radio with cas- sette and CD player, pressing the REW control rewinds the CD within the cur- rent track.

Fast forward*

The fast forward control works in tape and CD modes.

In tape mode, tape direction will auto- matically reverse when the end of the tape is reached.

If you have an AM/FM radio with cas- sette and CD player, pressing the FF control in the CD mode fast forwards the CD within the current track.

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Tape Direction Select* Press SIDE 1-2 to play the alternate side of a tape.

Eject Function* Press the control to stop and eject a tape and/or CD.

Dolby Noise Reduction*

Dolby noise reduction operates only in tape mode.

Dolby reduces the amount of hiss and static during tape playback. Press the control to activate (and deactivate) the noise reduction.

Dolby noise reduction is manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corpora- tion.

*Some models.

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Compression Adjust*

Compression adjust brings soft and loud CD passages together for a more consis- tent listening level.

Press the COMP control to activate and deactivate compression adjust.

*Some models.

Shuffle Feature* The shuffle feature operates in CD mode and plays all tracks on the current disc in random order.

Press the SHUFFLE control to start this feature. Random order play will continue until the SHUFFLE control is pressed again.

Mute*

Press this button to mute the sound with- out turning off the radio. Audio Mute will appear on the display. Press again to return to normal operation.

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Tips on Caring for the Cassette Player and Tapes*

In order to keep your cassette tape player performing the way it was meant to, read and follow these simple precautions:

Using a Mazda Cassette Cleaning Cartridge to clean the tape player head after 10-12 hours of play will help maintain the best playback sound and proper tape operation.

Only cassettes that are 90 minutes long or less should be used. Tapes longer than 90 minutes are thinner and subject to breakage or may jam the tape players mechanism.

Protect cassettes from exposure to direct sunlight, high humidity and extreme hot or cold. If they are exposed to extreme conditions, allow them to reach a moderate tempera- ture before playing.

If a tape is loose inside the cassette, tighten it before playing by putting your finger or a pencil into one of the holes and turning the hub until the tape is tight.

Loose labels on cassette tapes can become lodged in the mechanism. Remove any loose label material before inserting the cassette.

Do not leave a tape in the cassette tape player. High heat in the vehicle can cause the cassette to warp.

* Some models.

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How to Take Care of and Clean Your System and Discs*

Your system is designed to give years of listening enjoyment. To ensure this continued performance, carefully read the following precaution:

Always handle the disc by its edge. Never touch the playing surface.

Before playing, inspect the disc for any contamination. If needed, clean the disc with an approved disc cleaner, such as the Discwasher Compact Disc Cleaner or the Allsop 3 Compact Disc Cleaner, by wiping from the center out to the edges. Do not use a circular motion to clean.

*Some models.

Do not clean discs with solvents such as benzine, thinner, commercially available cleaners or antistatic spray intended for analog records.

Do not expose the disc to direct sun- light or heat sources such as defroster and floor heating ducts. Do not leave any discs in a parked car in direct sunlight where there may be a consid- erable rise in temperature or damage may result.

After playing, store the disc in its case.

If a disc has already been inserted, do not try to insert another disc. Doing so may damage the disc player.

Do not insert anything other than a disc into the disc player.

WARNING Disassembling the Compact Disc Changer System: The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard as the laser beam used in this com- pact disc changer system is harmful to the eyes. Do not attempt to dis- assemble the case. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.

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Common Operating Conditions*

The following information is designed to help recognize typical situations that could be mistakenly interpreted as mechanical malfunctions of the compact disc player:

A disc is already loaded.

The disc is inserted with the label surface downward.

The disc is dusty or defective.

The player temperature is above 167F (76C). Allow the player to cool off before operating.

Different manufacturers of compact discs may produce discs with differ- ent dimensions or tolerances, some of which may not be within industry standards or in accordance with the CD format. Because of this, a new disc that is free of dust and scratches could be defective and may not play on your disc player.

If play does not begin once the disc has been inserted:

The unit may be in the stop mode.

Moisture may have condensed on the lenses within the unit. If this occurs, remove the disc and wait approxi- mately an hour until the moisture evaporates.

If the sound skips:

Badly scratched discs or extremely rough roads will cause the sound to skip. Skipping will not damage the disc player or scratch the disc.

*Some models.

Memo

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6 In Case of Emergency Because an emergency can occur any time, we strongly urge you to become familiar with this section of your manual. It provides helpful information on what to do if the engine overheats, if you have a flat tire, and if the battery is discharged.

You will also find out what to do if you confront a problem in the electrical system, and theres some guidance on the correct way to tow your Mazda.

Hazard Warning Flasher 6- 2 Overheating 6- 3

Emergency Starting 6- 4 Fuses and Circuit Breakers 6- 8

Towing 6-18 Flat Tire 6-26

6-1

In Case of Emergency

6-2

Hazard Warning Flasher

The hazard warning lights warn other drivers that your vehicle is a traffic hazard and that they must take extreme caution when near it.

The hazard warning lights should always be used when you stop on or near a road- way.

Depress the hazard warning button and all four turn signals will flash at once. To stop the hazard flashers, press the button again.

The flashers will flash and the high mount brake light will stay on steadily (not flash) with the brake pedal depressed.

The flashers work whether your vehicle is running or not. The flashers work for up to two hours when the battery is fully

charged and in good condition. They will not drain the battery excessively. If the flashers run for longer than two hours or if your battery is not fully charged, your battery can be drained.

NOTE

The turn signals dont work when the hazard lights are on.

Check local regulations about the use of hazard warning lights while the vehicle is being towed. They may forbid it.

In Case of Emergency

6-3

Overheating If the temperature gauge indicates over- heating, if you experience power loss, or if you hear a loud knocking or pinging noise, the engine is probably too hot.

If this happens:

1. Drive safely to the side of the road and park off the right-of-way. Set an automatic transmission in P (Park), a manual transmission in N (Neutral). Apply the parking brake. Turn the engine off and let it cool.

2. The air conditioner must be off.

WARNING Overheated Engine: Overheated engines are dangerous. The escaping steam could seriously burn you. If steam is coming from the engine compartment, dont go near the front of the vehicle. Stop the engine. Open the hood ONLY after steam is no longer escaping from the engine.

3. If neither coolant nor steam is escaping, open the hood.

4. Visually inspect the alternator/water pump drive belt for looseness and breakage and all cooling hose connec- tions for leaks. If the belt is broken or coolant is leaking, call an Authorized Mazda Dealer for assistance.

5. If the drive belt is OK, if the engine is cool, and if no coolant leaks are obvious, inspect the coolant level. Carefully add coolant as required (page 8-22).

In Case of Emergency

6-4

Emergency Starting

WARNING Radiator Cap: When the engine and radiator are hot, scalding coolant and steam may shoot out under pressure and cause serious injury. Dont remove the radiator cap when the engine and radiator are hot.

CAUTION If the engine continues to overheat or frequently overheats, have the cool- ing system inspected. The engine could be seriously damaged unless repairs are made.

Jump-Starting

Jump-starting is dangerous if done in- correctly. So follow procedures carefully. If you feel unsure about jump-starting, we strongly recommend that you have a competent service technician do the work.

CAUTION Use only a 12-volt booster system. You can damage a 12-volt starter motor, ignition system, and other electrical parts beyond repair with a 24-volt power supply (two 12-volt batteries in series or a 24-volt motor generator set).

CAUTION Do not disconnect the battery of the vehicle that needs a jump-start. You could damage the vehicles electrical system.

WARNING Battery-Related Explosion: Hydrogen gas is produced during normal battery operation. A battery- related explosion can cause serious injury. Keep all flames (including cigarettes), heat, and sparks away from the top and surrounding area of open battery cells.