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Starting and Driving
WARNING
Do not use sudden engine braking on slippery road surfaces or at high speeds: Shifting down while driving on wet, snowy, or frozen roads, or while driving at high speeds causes sudden engine braking, which is dangerous. The sudden change in tire speed could cause the tires to skid. This could lead to loss of vehicle control and an accident.
Be sure to leave the shift lever in 1 or R position and set the parking brake when leaving the vehicle unattended: Otherwise the vehicle could move and cause an accident.
CAUTION
l Keep your foot off the clutch pedal
except when shifting gears. Also, don't use the clutch to hold the vehicle on an upgrade. Riding the clutch will cause needless clutch wear and damage.
l Make sure the vehicle comes to a
complete stop before shifting to R. Shifting to R while the vehicle is still moving may damage the transmission.
NOTE
If shifting to R is difficult, shift back into neutral, release the clutch pedal, and try again.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Automatic Transmission Controls
Various Lockouts:
Indicates that you must depress the brake pedal to shift (The ignition switch must be in the ACC or ON position).
Indicates the shift lever can be shifted freely into any position.
NOTE
This Sport AT has an option that is not included in traditional automatic transmission - giving the driver the option of selecting each gear instead of leaving it to the transmission to shift gears. Even if you intend to use the automatic transmission functions as a traditional automatic, you should also be aware that you can inadvertently shift into manual shift mode and an inappropriate gear may be retained as you change speeds. If you notice the engine speed going higher or hear the engine racing, confirm you have not accidentally slipped into manual shift mode (page 5-13).
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WARNING
If the engine is running faster than idle, do not shift from N or P into a driving gear: It's dangerous to shift from N or P 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.
Do not shift into N when driving the vehicle: Shifting into N while driving is dangerous. Engine braking cannot be applied when decelerating which could lead to an accident or serious injury.
CAUTION
Do not shift into N when driving the vehicle. Doing so can cause transmission damage.
NOTE
Apply the parking brake or depress the brake pedal before moving the shift lever from N to prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly.
D (Drive) D is the normal driving position. From a stop, the transmission will automatically shift through a 6-gear sequence.
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
qTransmission Ranges The shift lever must be in P or N to operate the starter.
P (Park) P locks the transmission and prevents the rear wheels from rotating.
WARNING
Always set the shift lever to P AND set the parking brake: Only setting the shift lever to the P position without using the parking brake to hold the vehicle is dangerous. If P fails to hold, the vehicle could move and cause an accident.
CAUTION
l Shifting into P, N or R while the
vehicle is moving can damage your transmission.
l Shifting into a driving gear or
reverse when the engine is running faster than idle can damage the transmission.
R (Reverse) In position R, the vehicle moves only backward. You must be at a complete stop before shifting to or from R, except under rare circumstances as explained in Rocking the Vehicle (page 4-9).
N (Neutral) In N, the wheels and transmission are not locked. The vehicle will roll freely even on the slightest incline unless the parking brake or brakes are on.
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMM (Manual) M is the manual shift mode position. Gears can be shifted up or down by operating the shift lever or steering shift switches. Refer to Manual Shift Mode (page 5-13).
qActive Adaptive Shift (AAS) Active Adaptive Shift (AAS) automatically controls the transmission shift point best suited to road conditions and driver input to optimize engine performance and improve drive comfort. When cornering the vehicle, AAS mode will hold the transmission in the gear the vehicle was in before entering the curve, allowing the vehicle to be accelerated from the same gear after exiting the curve. If the driver accelerates rapidly, or accelerates and decelerates rapidly by operating the accelerator and brake pedal for a certain period of time while the selector lever is in the D position, AAS mode could activate. When this occurs, AAS mode will maintain the transmission in the optimum gear and the driver may sense that the transmission is not shifting, however this does not indicate an abnormality.
qShift-Lock System The shift-lock system prevents shifting out of P unless the brake pedal is depressed.
To shift from P:
1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.
2. Start the engine.
3. Move the shift lever.
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
Black plate (147,1)
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
NOTE
l When the ignition switch is in the
LOCK position, the shift lever cannot be shifted from P.
l To be sure the vehicle is in park, the
ignition key cannot be removed unless the shift lever is in P.
l (With Advanced Key)
The ignition switch cannot be turned from the ACC position to the LOCK position when the shift lever is not in P.
qManual Shift Mode This mode gives you the feel of driving a manual transmission vehicle by operating the shift lever and allows you to control engine rpm and torque to the rear wheels much like a manual transmission when more control is desired.
To change to manual shift mode, shift the lever from D to M.
To return to automatic shift mode, shift the lever from M to D.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
NOTE
NOTE
l If the gears cannot be shifted down when driving at higher speeds, the gear position indicator will flash twice to signal that the gears cannot be shifted down.
l If the automatic transmission fluid
(ATF) temperature becomes too high, there is the possibility that the transmission will switch to automatic shift mode, canceling manual shift mode and turning off the gear position indicator illumination. This is a normal function to protect the AT. After the ATF temperature has decreased, the gear position indicator illumination turns back on and driving in manual shift mode is restored.
Shifting You can shift gears up and down by operating the shift lever or the steering shift switches.
NOTE
l If the steering shift switches on both
sides (left and right) are operated simultaneously, the gear will shift once.
l The gear will not shift if:
l The steering shift switch and the
shift lever are operated simultaneously.
l The UP switch and DOWN
switch are operated simultaneously.
If you change to manual shift mode when the vehicle is stopped, the gear will shift to M1.
Indicators
Shift position indicator In manual shift mode, the “M” of the shift position indicator in the instrument panel illuminates.
Gear position indicator The numeral for the selected gear illuminates.
Shift position indicator
Gear position indicator
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMManually Shifting up (M1→M2→M3→M4→M5→M6) To shift up to a higher gear, tap the shift lever back (
) once.
To shift up to a higher gear with the steering shift switches, tap either of the UP switches toward you once with your fingers.
UP switches
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
WARNING
Keep your hands on the steering wheel rim when using fingers or thumbs on the steering shift switches: Putting your hands inside the rim of the steering wheel when using the steering shift switches is dangerous. If the driver air bag were to deploy in a collision, your hands could be impacted causing injury.
NOTE
l When driving slowly, the gears may
not shift up depending on vehicle speed.
l In manual shift mode, gears do not shift up automatically. Don't run the engine with the tachometer needle in the RED ZONE. If the tachometer needle enters the RED ZONE, you may feel engine-braking because the fuel delivery will be stopped to protect the engine. However, this does not indicate an abnormality. l When depressing the accelerator
fully, the transmission will shift to a lower gear, depending on vehicle speed.
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WARNING
Do not use engine braking on slippery road surfaces or at high speeds: Shifting down while driving on wet, snowy, or frozen roads, or while driving at high speeds causes sudden engine braking, which is dangerous. The sudden change in tire speed could cause the tires to skid. This could lead to loss of vehicle control and an accident.
Keep your hands on the steering wheel rim when using fingers or thumbs on the steering shift switches: Putting your hands inside the rim of the steering wheel when using the steering shift switches is dangerous. If the driver air bag were to deploy in a collision, your hands could be impacted causing injury.
NOTE
l When driving at high speeds, the
gear may not shift down depending on vehicle speed.
l During deceleration, the gear may
automatically shift down depending on vehicle speed.
l When depressing the accelerator
fully, the transmission will shift to a lower gear, depending on vehicle speed.
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Manually Shifting down (M6→M5→M4→M3→M2→M1) To shift down to a lower gear, tap the shift lever forward (
) once.
To shift down to a lower gear with the steering shift switches, press either of the DOWN switches away from you once with your thumb.
DOWN switches
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMSecond gear fixed mode When the shift lever is tapped back ( while the vehicle is stopped, the transmission is set in the second gear fixed mode. The gear is fixed in second while in this mode for easier starting and driving on slippery roads. If the shift lever is tapped back ( ) while in the second gear fixed mode, the mode will be canceled.
) or forward (
Shifting specification
Shifting up If the vehicle speed is lower than the speed specified for each gear, the gear cannot be shifted up to a higher gear.
Gear
Vehicle speed
M1→M2
M2→M3
M3→M4M4→M5
M5→M6Between 0 and 18 km/h (0 and 11 mph), depending on how much the accelerator pedal is depressed. Between 20 and 33 km/h (13 and 21 mph), depending on how much the accelerator pedal is depressed. 43 km/h (27 mph) 65 km/h (41 mph)
Shifting down If the vehicle speed is higher than the speed specified for each gear, the gear cannot be shifted down to a lower gear.
Gear M6→M5
M5→M4M4→M3
M3→M2
M2→M1
Vehicle speed
210 km/h (130 mph) 175 km/h (108 mph) Between 122 and 135 km/h (75 and 83 mph), depending on how much the accelerator pedal is depressed. Between 77 and 90 km/h (47 and 59 mph), depending on how much the accelerator pedal is depressed. 30 km/h (18 mph)
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
During deceleration, the gears shift down automatically when speed is reduced to the following:
Gear
Vehicle speed
60 km/h (37 mph) 40 km/h (24 mph) 26 km/h (16 mph) 18 km/h (11 mph) 12 km/h (7 mph)
M6→M5
M5→M4
M4→M3
M3→M2
M2→M1NOTE
The gear does not shift down to M1
automatically while in the second gear fixed mode.If the vehicle is kicked down at the following speeds or lower, the gears shift down automatically:
Gear
Vehicle speed
M6→M5
M6→M4
M5→M4210 km/h (130 mph) 175 km/h (108 mph) 175 km/h (108 mph)
Recommendations for shifting
Upshifting For normal acceleration, we recommend these shift points.
Gear
Vehicle speed
M1 to M2
M2 to M3
M3 to M4
M4 to M5
M5 to M6For cruising
Gear
M1 to M2
M2 to M3
M3 to M4
M4 to M5
M5 to M619 km/h (12 mph) 35 km/h (22 mph) 47 km/h (29 mph) 58 km/h (36 mph) 78 km/h (49 mph)
Vehicle speed
5 km/h (3 mph) 30 km/h (19 mph) 40 km/h (25 mph) 50 km/h (31 mph) 67 km/h (42 mph)
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Downshifting When you must slow down in heavy traffic or on a steep upgrade, downshift before the engine starts to overwork. This gives better acceleration when you need more speed.
On a steep downgrade, downshifting helps maintain safe speed and prolongs brake life.
qDriving Tips Passing For extra power when passing another vehicle or climbing steep grades, depress the accelerator fully. The transmission will shift to a lower gear, depending on vehicle speed.
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 M1, depending on the
load weight and grade steepness.
3. Release the brake pedal while
gradually accelerating.
Descending steep grades When descending a steep grade, shift to lower gears, depending on load weight and grade steepness. Descend slowly, using the brakes only occasionally to prevent them from overheating.
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Power Steering
Power steering is only operable when the engine is running. If the engine is off or if the power steering system is inoperable, you can still steer, but it requires more physical effort.
If the steering feels stiffer than usual during normal driving, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
NOTE
The steering may feel rigid if you continuously attempt to steer when the vehicle is stopped or moving extremely slowly. This has been designed to protect the system and doesn't indicate a malfunction. If you don't attempt to steer for a minute, power steering will be restored.
qPower Steering Malfunction
Indicator Light
This indicator light illuminates when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position and goes off when the engine is started.
If this light illuminates while driving, it indicates a malfunction of the power steering system. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMNOTE
The power steering system is inoperable when the power steering malfunction indicator light illuminates. Steering is possible, but requires more physical effort.
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
Black plate (153,1)
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Cruise Control
With cruise control, you can set and automatically maintain any speed of more than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
WARNING
Do not use the cruise control under the following conditions: Using the cruise control under the following conditions is dangerous and could result in loss of vehicle control. l Hilly terrain l Steep inclines l Heavy or unsteady traffic l Slippery or winding roads l Similar restrictions that require
inconsistent speed
qCruise Main Indicator Light (Amber)/Cruise Set Indicator Light (Green)
The indicator light has two colors.
Cruise Main Indicator Light (Amber) The indicator light illuminates amber when the ON/OFF switch is pressed and the cruise control system is activated.
Cruise Set Indicator Light (Green) The indicator light illuminates green when a cruising speed has been set.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
qActivation/Deactivation To activate the system, press the ON/OFF switch. The cruise main indicator light illuminates.
To deactivate the system, press the switch again. The cruise main indicator light turns off.
3. Press the SET/COAST button and
release it at the speed you want. Release the accelerator at the same time.
Don't continue to hold in the button. Until you release it, speed will continue to drop (unless you continue to accelerate) and you'll miss the desired speed.
NOTE
l The SET function can't be activated until about 2 seconds after the ON/ OFF switch has been engaged.
l On a steep grade, the vehicle may
momentarily slow down going up or speed up while going down.
WARNING
Keep the ON/OFF switch off when cruise control is not in use: Leaving the ON/OFF switch on when not using the cruise control is dangerous as you may hit one of the other buttons and put the vehicle in cruise control unexpectedly. This could result in loss of vehicle control.
qTo Set Speed 1. Activate the cruise control system by
pressing the ON/OFF switch.
2. Accelerate to the desired speed, which must be more than 30 km/h (19 mph).
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMqTo Increase Cruising Speed Follow either of these procedures. l Press the RES/ACCEL button and hold
it. Your vehicle will accelerate. Release the button at the speed you want.
Your vehicle has a tap-up feature that allows you to increase your current speed in increments of 1.6 km/h (1 mph) by a momentary tap of the RES/ACCEL button. Multiple taps will increase your vehicle speed 1.6 km/h (1 mph) for each tap. l Accelerate to the desired speed.
Press the SET/COAST button and release it immediately.
Black plate (155,1)
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
NOTE
Accelerate if you want to speed up temporarily 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.
qTo Decrease Cruising Speed Press the SET/COAST button and hold it. 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 decrements of 1.6 km/h (1 mph) by a momentary tap of the SET/COAST button. Multiple taps will decrease your vehicle speed 1.6 km/h (1 mph) for each tap.
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l Press the CANCEL button.
The system is off when the ignition is off.
NOTE
Cruise control will cancel at about 15
km/h (9 mph) below the preset speed or below 30 km/h (19 mph).Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
qTo Resume Cruising Speed at More Than 30 km/h (19 mph)
If some other method besides the ON/ OFF switch was used to cancel cruising speed and the system is still activated, the most recent set speed will automatically resume when the RES/ACCEL button is pressed. If vehicle speed is below 30 km/h (19
mph), increase the vehicle speed up to 30
km/h (19 mph) and press the RES/ ACCEL button.qTo Cancel To turn off the system, use one of these methods: l Press the ON/OFF switch. l Slightly depress the brake pedal. l Depress the clutch pedal (Manual
transmission only).
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMTraction Control System (TCS)í
The Traction Control System (TCS) enhances traction and safety by controlling engine torque and braking. When the TCS detects driving wheel slippage, it lowers engine torque and operates the brakes to prevent loss of traction.
This means that on a slick surface, the engine adjusts automatically to provide optimum power to the drive wheels without causing them to spin and lose traction.
WARNING
Do not rely on the traction control system as a substitute for safe driving: The traction control system (TCS) cannot compensate for unsafe and reckless driving, excessive 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.
Use snow tires or tire chains and drive at reduced speeds when roads are covered with ice and/or snow: Driving without proper traction devices on snow and/or ice-covered roads is dangerous. The traction control system (TCS) alone cannot provide adequate traction and you could still have an accident.
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
Black plate (157,1)
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
NOTE
To turn off the TCS, press the DSC OFF switch (page 5-26).
qTCS/DSC Indicator Light
This indicator light stays on for a few seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. If the TCS or DSC is operating, the indicator light flashes.
If the light stays on, the TCS or DSC may have a malfunction and they may not operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
NOTE
l In addition to the indicator light
flashing, a slight lugging sound will come from the engine. This indicates that the TCS is operating properly. l On slippery surfaces, such as fresh
snow, it will be impossible to achieve high rpm when the TCS is on.
íSome models.
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CAUTION
l The DSC may not operate correctly unless the following are observed: l Use tires of the correct size
specified for your Mazda on all four wheels.
l Use tires of the same
manufacturer, brand and tread pattern on all four wheels.
l Do not mix worn tires.
l The DSC may not operate correctly
when tire chains are used or a temporary spare tire is installed because the tire diameter changes.
l If repair or replacement of the steering or other surrounding equipment is necessary, have it done at an Authorized Mazda Dealer. If the center position of the steering deviates, the DSC may not operate correctly because there is a sensor in the steering which detects driving conditions.
qTCS/DSC Indicator Light
This indicator light stays on for a few seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. If the TCS or DSC is operating, the indicator light flashes.
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)í
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) automatically controls braking and engine torque in conjunction with systems such as ABS and TCS to help control side slip when driving on slippery surfaces, or during sudden or evasive maneuvering, enhancing vehicle safety.
Refer to ABS (page 5-7) and TCS (page 5-23).
WARNING
Do not rely on the dynamic stability control as a substitute for safe driving: The dynamic stability control (DSC) cannot compensate for unsafe and reckless driving, excessive 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.
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íSome models.
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMIf the light stays on, the TCS or DSC may have a malfunction and they may not operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
qDSC OFF Indicator Light
This indicator light stays on for a few seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. It also comes on when the DSC OFF switch is pressed and TCS/DSC is switched off (page 5-26).
If the light stays on when the TCS/DSC is not switched off, take your vehicle to an Authorized Mazda Dealer. The dynamic stability control may have a malfunction.
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NOTE
If the battery is disconnected or a fuse is replaced, the DSC will be inoperable. In this case, the DSC OFF indicator light flashes and the TCS/DSC indicator light illuminates. To make the DSC operable, do the following procedure with the battery connected.
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON
position.
2. Turn the steering clockwise fully,
then turn it counterclockwise fully.
3. Make sure the DSC OFF indicator
goes off.
4. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF
position, then turn it to the ON position again.
5. Make sure the TCS/DSC indicator
light goes off.
If the TCS/DSC indicator light and the DSC OFF indicator light remain illuminated even after turning the ignition switch to the ON position, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
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NOTE
l If the DSC OFF switch is pressed and held for a second or more, the TCS/DSC system may become inoperative due to the system detecting switch trouble. If the TCS/ DSC system becomes inoperative, the TCS/DSC and the DSC OFF indicator lights illuminate simultaneously. In this case, turn off the engine and restart it to restore the TCS/DSC.
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
qDSC OFF Switch Press the DSC OFF switch to turn off the TCS/DSC. The DSC OFF indicator light will illuminate.
Press the switch again to turn the TCS/ DSC back on. The DSC OFF indicator light will go out.
NOTE
l When DSC is on and you attempt to free the vehicle when it is stuck, or drive it out of freshly fallen snow, the TCS (part of the DSC system) will activate. Depressing the accelerator will not increase engine power and freeing the vehicle may be difficult. When this happens, turn off the TCS/ DSC.
l If the TCS/DSC is off when the
engine is turned off, it automatically activates when the ignition switch is turned on.
l Leaving the TCS/DSC on will
provide the best stability. When the TCS/DSC is off, the TCS/DSC does not activate but the brake LSD (Limited Slip Differentials) function remains.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systemí
TPMS does not alleviate your need to check the pressure and condition of all four tires before you drive each day.
The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) monitors the pressure for each tire. If tire pressure is too low in one or more tires, the system will inform the driver via the warning light in the instrument panel and by the warning beep sound.
The tire pressure sensors installed on each wheel send tire pressure data by radio signal to the receiver unit in the vehicle.
Tire pressure sensors
NOTE
When the ambient temperature is low due to seasonal changes, tire temperatures are also lower. If the tire temperature lowers, the air pressure lowers as well, and the TPMS warning light illuminates more frequently. Inspect the tire pressure daily before driving, and check the tire pressures monthly with a tire pressure gauge. When checking the tire pressures, use of a digital tire pressure gauge is recommended.
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
CAUTION
l Each tire, including the spare (if
provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.) As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.
íSome models.
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CAUTION
l To avoid false readings, the system
samples for a little while before indicating a problem. As a result it will not instantaneously register a rapid tire deflation or blow out.
NOTE
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
qTire Pressure Monitoring System
Warning Light
This warning light illuminates for a few seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position.
Thereafter, the warning light illuminates when tire pressure is too low in one or more tires, and flashes when there is a system malfunction.
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WARNING
If the tire pressure monitoring system warning light illuminates or flashes, or the tire pressure warning beep sound is heard, decrease vehicle speed immediately and avoid sudden maneuvering and braking: If the tire pressure monitoring system warning light illuminates or flashes, or the tire pressure warning beep sound is heard, it is dangerous to drive the vehicle at high speeds, or perform sudden maneuvering or braking. Vehicle drivability could worsen and result in an accident. To determine if you have a slow leak or a flat, pull over to a safe position where you can check the visual condition of the tire and determine if you have enough air to proceed to a place where air may be added and the system monitored again, an Authorized Mazda Dealer or a tire repair station.
Do not ignore the TPMS Warning Light: Ignoring the TPMS warning light is dangerous, even if you know why it is illuminated. Have the problem taken care of as soon as possible before it develops into a more serious situation that could lead to tire failure and a dangerous accident.
Warning light illuminates/Warning beep sounds When the warning light illuminates, and the warning beep sound is heard (about 3
seconds), tire pressure is too low in one or more tires.RX-8_8V89-EA-06F_Edition2 Page163
Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMAdjust the tire pressure to the correct tire pressure. Refer to the specification charts (page 10-6).
CAUTION
When replacing/repairing the tires or wheels or both, have the work done by an Authorized Mazda Dealer, or the tire pressure sensors may be damaged.
NOTE
l Perform tire pressure adjustment
when the tires are cold. Tire pressure will vary according to the tire temperature, therefore let the vehicle stand for 1 hour or only drive it 1.6 km (1 mile) or less before adjusting the tire pressures. When pressure is adjusted on hot tires to the cold inflation pressure, the TPMS warning light/beep may turn on after the tires cool and pressure drops below specification. Also, an illuminated TPMS warning light, resulting from the tire air pressure dropping due to cold ambient temperature, may go out if the ambient temperature rises. In this case, it will also be necessary to adjust the tire air pressures. If the TPMS warning light illuminates due to a drop in tire air pressure, make sure to check and adjust the tire air pressures.
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
Black plate (163,1)
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
NOTE
l After adjusting the tire air pressures,
it may require some time for the TPMS warning light to go out. If the TPMS warning light remains illuminated, drive the vehicle at a speed of at least 25 km/h (16 mph) for 10 minutes, and then verify that it goes out.
l Tires can loose a little air quite
naturally over time and the TPMS cannot tell if the tires are getting too soft over time or you have a flat. However, when you find one low tire in a set of four - that is an indication of trouble; you should have someone drive the vehicle slowly forward so you can inspect any low tire for cuts and any metal sticking through tread or sidewall. Put a few drops of water in the valve stem to see if it bubbles indicating a bad valve. Leaks need to be addressed by more than simply refilling the trouble tire as leaks are dangerous - take it to an Authorized Mazda Dealer which has all the equipment to fix tires, TPMS systems and order the best replacement tire for your vehicle.
If the warning light illuminates again even after the tire pressures are adjusted, there may be a tire puncture.
Vehicles with Instant Mobility System (IMS) emergency flat tire repair kit If an emergency tire repair is needed, repair the punctured tire with the emergency flat tire repair kit (page 7-5).
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l When using the following devices in
the vehicle that may cause radio interference with the receiver unit. l A digital device such as a personal
computer.
l A current converter device such as a
DC-AC converter.
l When excess snow or ice adheres to
the vehicle, especially around the wheels.
l When the tire pressure sensor batteries
are exhausted.
l When using a wheel with no tire
pressure sensor installed.
l When using tires with steel wire reinforcement in the side walls.
l When using tire chains.
qTires and Wheels
CAUTION
When inspecting or adjusting the tire air pressures, do not apply excessive force to the stem part of the wheel unit. The stem part could be damaged.
Changing tires and wheels The following procedure allows the TPMS to recognize a tire pressure sensor's unique ID signal code whenever tires or wheels are changed, such as changing to and from winter tires.
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
CAUTION
Do not use non-genuine tire sealant. It may damage the tire pressure sensor.
Vehicles with optional temporary spare tire If you have bought the optional temporary spare tire, replace the punctured tire with the temporary spare tire . Refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
NOTE
A tire pressure sensor is not installed to the temporary spare tire. The warning light will flash continuously while the temporary spare tire is being used.
Warning light flashes When the warning light flashes, there may be a system malfunction. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
qSystem Error Activation When the warning light flashes, there may be a system malfunction. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer. A system error activation may occur in the following cases: l When there is equipment or a device near the vehicle using the same radio frequency as that of the tire pressure sensors.
l When a metallic device such as a non- genuine navigation system is equipped near the center of the dashboard, which may block radio signals from the tire pressure sensor to the receiver unit.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
NOTE
NOTE
Each tire pressure sensor has a unique ID signal code. The signal code must be registered with the TPMS before it can work. The easiest way to do it is to have an Authorized Mazda Dealer change your tire and complete ID signal code registration.
When having tires changed at an Authorized Mazda Dealer Tire pressure sensor ID signal code registration is completed when an Authorized Mazda Dealer changes your vehicle's tires.
When changing tires yourself If you or someone else changes tires, you or someone else can also undertake the steps for the TPMS to complete the ID signal code registration.
1. After tires have been changed, turn the ignition switch to the ON position, then turn it back to the ACC or LOCK position.
2. Wait for about 15 minutes.
3. After about 15 minutes, drive the
vehicle at a speed of at least 25 km/h (16 mph) for 10 minutes and the tire pressure sensor ID signal code will be registered automatically.
If the vehicle is driven within about 15
minutes of changing tires, the tire pressure monitoring system warning light will flash because the sensor ID signal code would not have been registered. If this happens, park the vehicle for about 15 minutes, after which the sensor ID signal code will register upon driving the vehicle for 10
minutes.Replacing tires and wheels
CAUTION
l When replacing/repairing the tires or wheels or both, have the work done by an Authorized Mazda Dealer, or the tire pressure sensors may be damaged.
l The wheels equipped on your Mazda are specially designed for installation of the tire pressure sensors. Do not use non-genuine wheels, otherwise it may not be possible to install the tire pressure sensors.
Be sure to have the tire pressure sensors installed whenever tires or wheels are replaced. When having a tire or wheel or both replaced, the following types of tire pressure sensor installations are possible. l The tire pressure sensor is removed
from the old wheel and installed to the new one.
l The same tire pressure sensor is used with the same wheel. Only the tire is replaced.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
l A new tire pressure sensor is installed
to a new wheel.
NOTE
l The tire pressure sensor ID signal
code must be registered when a new tire pressure sensor is purchased. For purchase of a tire pressure sensor and registration of the tire pressure sensor ID signal code, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
l When reinstalling a previously
removed tire pressure sensor to a wheel, replace the grommet When reinstalling a previously removed tire pressure sensor to a wheel, replace the grommet (seal between valve body/sensor and wheel) for the tire pressure sensor. for the tire pressure sensor.
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Driving Your Mazda Instrument Cluster and Indicators
When the ignition switch is in the ON position, the dashboard gauges illuminate.
Meters and Gauges
Speedometer ...................................................................................................... page 5-34
Speed Unit Selector ........................................................................................... page 5-34
Odometer, Trip Meter and Trip Meter Selector .................................................. page 5-34
Tachometer ........................................................................................................ page 5-35
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge .................................................................. page 5-36
Fuel Gauge ........................................................................................................ page 5-37
Engine Oil Pressure Gauge ................................................................................ page 5-37Form No.8V89-EA-06F
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Driving Your Mazda Instrument Cluster and Indicators
qSpeedometer The speedometer indicates the speed of the vehicle.
qSpeed Unit Selector In some countries, you may have to change the speed units between km/h and mph. Press the speed unit selector for 2 second or more. The speed units for the speedometer will change between km/h and mph.
Speed unit selector
qOdometer, Trip Meter and Trip
Meter Selector
The display mode can be changed between trip meter A and trip meter B by pressing the selector while one of them is displayed. The selected mode will be displayed.
Trip meter selector
Trip meter
Odometer
Speedometer
Trip meter A
NOTE
Odometer and trip meter distance units will change between kilometers and miles in accordance with the speed unit.
Odometer
Trip meter B
Odometer
Press the selector
Press the selector
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Driving Your Mazda Instrument Cluster and Indicators
The trip meter records the total distance the vehicle is driven until the meter is again reset. Return it to “0.0” by holding the selector depressed for more than 1
second. Use this meter to measure trip distances and to compute fuel consumption.NOTE
l Only the trip meters record tenths of
kilometers (miles).
l The trip record will be erased when: l The power supply is interrupted
(blown fuse or the battery is disconnected).
l The vehicle is driven over
999.9 km (mile).
qTachometer The tachometer shows engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute (rpm). Automatic transmission
Striped zone
Red zone
NOTE
When the ignition switch is in the ACC or LOCK position, the odometer or trip meters cannot be displayed, however, pressing the selector button can inadvertently switch the trip meters or reset them during an approximate ten- minute period in the following cases: l After the ignition switch is turned to the ACC or LOCK position from the ON position.
l After any door is opened.
Odometer The odometer records the total distance the vehicle has been driven.
Trip meter The trip meter can record the total distance of two trips. One is recorded in trip meter A, and the other is recorded in trip meter B.
For instance, trip meter A can record the distance from the point of origin, and trip meter B can record the distance from where the fuel tank is filled.
When trip meter A is selected, pressing the selector again within one second will change to trip meter B mode.
When trip meter A is selected, TRIP A will be displayed. When trip meter B is selected, TRIP B will be displayed.
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Driving Your Mazda Instrument Cluster and Indicators
Manual transmission
qEngine Coolant Temperature Gauge The engine coolant temperature gauge shows the temperature of the engine coolant.
Striped zone
Red zone
CAUTION Don't run the engine with the tachometer needle in the RED ZONE. This may cause severe engine damage.
NOTE
l The beep sounds to indicate engine overrev when the tachometer needle enters the striped zone.
l To protect the engine, when the
engine coolant temperature is low, the engine does not run at high speeds. The fuel supply will be cut at an rpm lower than the red zone.
If the needle is near H, it indicates overheating.
CAUTION
Driving with an overheated engine can cause serious engine damage (page 7-18).
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Driving Your Mazda Instrument Cluster and Indicators
qEngine Oil Pressure Gauge
qFuel Gauge The fuel gauge shows approximately how much fuel is in the tank. We recommend keeping the tank over 1/4 full. When the low fuel warning light illuminates or when the needle is near E, refuel as soon as possible.
Engine oil pressure is normal when the engine oil pressure gauge needle points halfway between L and H with the engine running.
If the needle on the gauge doesn't move after starting the engine, follow steps 1
through 3.If the engine oil pressure gauge moves to L (low) while you are driving, drive to the side of the road and park off the right-of- way. Set the parking brake. Then follow steps 1 through 3.
1. Turn off the engine and inspect the
engine oil level (page 8-13). If it's low, add oil.
2. Start the engine.
3. If the needle still doesn't move, have
your vehicle checked at an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
CAUTION
Don't run the engine if the oil pressure is low. It could result in extensive engine damage.
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Low fuel warning light
NOTE
) shown The direction of the arrow ( that the fuel-filler lid is on the left side of the vehicle.
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Driving Your Mazda Instrument Cluster and Indicators
Bright
Dim
Canceling the illumination dimmer When the headlight switch is in the
position, the illumination of the
instrument cluster and the information display dims (the instrument cluster illumination color turns to red).
or
When driving on snowy or foggy roads, or in other situations when the instrument cluster or information display's visibility is reduced due to glare from surrounding brightness, cancel the illumination dimmer and increase the illumination intensity.
To cancel the illumination dimmer, rotate the thumb wheel upward fully. You may hear a click sound and the illumination dimmer will be canceled (instrument cluster illumination color turns to white).
NOTE
If the dashboard illumination switch is kept at the illumination dimmer cancel position, the instrument cluster and the information display will not dim when the headlight switch is turned to the or
position again.
NOTE
The Mazda RX-8 requires regular checking of the engine oil level. The compact, high performance RENESIS rotary engine in your vehicle consumes a small amount of engine oil due to its structural design. An oil pump optimizes the amount of oil injected to lubricate the rotor seals in the combustion cycle. Although your vehicle is equipped with an engine oil level warning light and an engine oil pressure gauge, it is best to keep the engine oil level in the range between full and low by checking the oil dipstick regularly. Mazda recommends checking the oil level at every second fuel filling. The oil consumption of the engine depends on engine speed and engine load. Under extreme driving conditions, oil consumption can be higher.
qDashboard Illumination Rotate the thumb wheel to adjust the brightness of the instrument cluster and other illuminations in the dashboard.
NOTE
l The brightness of dashboard
illuminations (except instrument cluster) can be adjusted when the headlight switch is in the position.
or
l The brightness of the instrument
cluster illumination can be adjusted when the headlight switch is in any position.
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Driving Your Mazda Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
Warning/Indicator Lights
Warning/Indicator lights will appear in any of the highlighted areas
Signal
Warning/Indicator Lights
Brake System Warning Light
Charging System Warning Light
Engine Oil Level Warning Light
Engine Coolant Level Warning Light
Check Engine Light
ABS Warning Light
Air Bag/Front Seat Belt Pretensioner System Warning Light
Low Fuel Warning Light
Seat Belt Warning Light/Beep
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
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Driving Your Mazda Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
Signal
Warning/Indicator Lights
Door-Ajar Warning Light
Low Washer Fluid Level Warning Light
Automatic Transmission Warning Light
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light
KEY Warning Light (Red)/KEY Indicator Light (Green)
Security Indicator Light
Headlight High-Beam Indicator Light
Shift Position Indicator Light
TCS/DSC Indicator Light
DSC OFF Indicator Light
Cruise Main Indicator Light (Amber)/Cruise Set Indicator Light (Green)
Light-On Indicator Light
Power Steering Malfunction Indicator Light
Headlight Auto-Leveling Malfunction Indicator Light
Turn Signal/Hazard Warning Indicator Lights
Page
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Driving Your Mazda Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
qBrake System Warning Light
NOTE
Having to add brake fluid is sometimes an indicator of leakage. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible even if the brake light is no longer illuminated.
WARNING
Do not drive with the brake system warning light illuminated. Contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the brakes inspected as soon as possible: Driving with the brake system warning light illuminated is dangerous. It indicates that your brakes may not work at all or that they could completely fail at any time. If this light remains illuminated, after checking that the parking brake is fully released, have the brakes inspected immediately.
qABS Warning Light
The warning light stays on for a few seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position.
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This warning has the following functions:
Parking brake warning The light comes on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch in the START or ON position. It goes off when the parking 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.
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.
1. With the engine stopped, check the
brake fluid level immediately and add fluid as required (page 8-16).
2. After adding fluid, check the light
again.
If the warning light remains on, or if the brakes do not operate properly, do not drive the vehicle. Have it towed to an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
Even if the light goes out have your brake system inspected as soon as possible by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
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Driving Your Mazda Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
If the ABS warning light stays on while you're driving, the ABS control unit has detected a system malfunction. If this occurs, your brakes will function normally as if the vehicle had no ABS. Should this happen, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.
NOTE
When the engine is jump-started to charge the battery, uneven rpm occurs and the ABS warning light comes on. This is due to a weak battery, not a malfunction. Recharge the battery.
qElectronic Brake Force
Distribution System Warning
WARNING
Do not drive with both the ABS warning light and brake warning light illuminated, have the vehicle towed to an Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the brakes inspected as soon as possible: Driving when the brake system warning light and ABS warning light are illuminated at the same time is dangerous. When both lights are illuminated, the rear wheels could lock more quickly in an emergency stop than under normal circumstances.
qCharging System Warning Light
If the electronic brake force distribution control unit determines that some components are operating incorrectly, the control unit may turn the brake system warning light and the ABS warning light on at the same time. The problem is likely to be an electronic brake force distribution system.
This warning light illuminates when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position and turns off when the engine is started.
If the warning light illuminates while driving, it indicates a malfunction of the alternator or of the charging system. Drive to the side of the road and park off the right-of-way. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
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Driving Your Mazda Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
CAUTION Don't continue driving when the charging system warning light is illuminated because the engine could stop unexpectedly.
qEngine Oil Level Warning Light
This warning light indicates low engine oil level.
If the light illuminates while driving:
1. Drive to the side of the road and park
off the right-of-way.
2. Turn off the engine and inspect the
engine oil level (page 8-13). If it's low, add oil.
3. Check the light.
If the engine oil level warning light is illuminated and you are unable to immediately add engine oil, do not drive at high speed, keep the engine speed low and get to a location where oil can be added as soon as possible. We recommend an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
If the light remains illuminated even after you add oil, have your vehicle checked at an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
CAUTION
Don't run the engine if the oil level is low. It could result in extensive engine damage.
NOTE
The Mazda RX-8 requires regular checking of the engine oil level. The compact, high performance RENESIS rotary engine in your vehicle consumes a small amount of engine oil due to its structural design. An oil pump optimizes the amount of oil injected to lubricate the rotor seals in the combustion cycle. Although your vehicle is equipped with an engine oil level warning light and an engine oil pressure gauge, it is best to keep the engine oil level in the range between full and low by checking the oil dipstick regularly. Mazda recommends checking the oil level at every second fuel filling. The oil consumption of the engine depends on engine speed and engine load. Under extreme driving conditions, oil consumption can be higher.
qEngine Coolant Level Warning Light
This warning light indicates low engine coolant level.
