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covered roads, Mazda recommends that you replace the tires originally equipped on your vehicle with snow tires during the winter months.
WARNING
Use only the same size and type tires (snow, radial, or non-radial) on all four wheels: Using tires different in size or type is dangerous. Your vehicle's handling could be greatly affected and result in an accident.
qTire Chains Check local regulations before using tire chains.
CAUTION l Chains may affect handling. l Do not go faster than 50 km/h (30
mph) or the chain manufacturer's recommended limit, whichever is lower.l Drive carefully and avoid bumps,
holes, and sharp turns.
l Avoid locked-wheel braking. l Do not use chains on a temporary
spare tire; it may result in damage to the vehicle and to the tire. Your vehicle is not equipped with a factory installed temporary spare tire.
l Do not use chains on roads that are
free of snow or ice. The tires and chains could be damaged. l Chains may scratch or chip
aluminum wheels.
CAUTION
NOTE
If your vehicle is equipped with the tire pressure monitoring system, the system may not function correctly when using tire chains.
Install the chains on the rear tires. Do not use chains on the front tires. Use only SAE Class “S” chains, and make sure they fit.
Check local regulations before using studded tires.
NOTE
If your vehicle is equipped with the tire pressure monitoring system, the system may not function correctly when using tires with steel wire reinforcement in the sidewalls (page 5-30).
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:49 AMInstalling the chains
1. Secure the chains on the rear tires as
tightly as possible. Always follow the chain manufacturer's instructions.
2. Retighten the chains after driving 1/2
―1 km (1/4―1/2 mile).
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Before Driving Your Mazda Driving Tips
Driving In Flooded Area
WARNING
Dry wet brakes by driving very slowly and applying the brakes lightly until brake performance returns to normal: Driving with wet brakes is dangerous. Increased stopping distance or the vehicle pulling to one side when braking could result in a serious accident. Light braking will indicate whether the brakes have been affected.
CAUTION
Do not drive the vehicle on flooded roads as it could cause short circuiting of electrical/electronic parts, or engine damage or stalling from water absorption. If the vehicle has been immersed in water, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
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Before Driving Your Mazda Driving Tips
Overloading
WARNING
Be careful not to overload your vehicle: The gross axle weight rating (GAWR) and the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of your vehicle are on the Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Label on the driver's 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.
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMTrailer Towing
The Mazda RX-8 is not designed for towing. Never tow a trailer with your Mazda RX-8.
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Before Driving Your Mazda Towing
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5 Driving Your Mazda
Explanation of instruments and controls.
Starting and Driving ..................................................................... 5-2
Ignition Switch .......................................................................... 5-2
Starting the Engine .................................................................... 5-4
Brake System ............................................................................ 5-5
Manual Transmission Operation ............................................... 5-9
Automatic Transmission Controls ........................................... 5-11
Power Steering ........................................................................ 5-18
Cruise Control ......................................................................... 5-19
Traction Control System (TCS)í ........................................... 5-23
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)í ........................................ 5-24
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systemí ......................................... 5-27Instrument Cluster and Indicators ............................................ 5-33
Meters and Gauges .................................................................. 5-33Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds ............................ 5-39
Warning/Indicator Lights ........................................................ 5-39
Beep Sounds ........................................................................... 5-53Switches and Controls ................................................................ 5-55
Lighting Control ..................................................................... 5-55
Turn and Lane-Change Signals ............................................... 5-57
Fog Lightsí ............................................................................ 5-57
Windshield Wipers and Washer .............................................. 5-58
Headlight Washerí ................................................................. 5-60
Rear Window Defroster ........................................................... 5-60
Horn ........................................................................................ 5-61
Hazard Warning Flasher .......................................................... 5-62
HomeLink Wireless Control Systemí .................................... 5-62íSome models.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Ignition Switch
(With advanced key)
NOTE
When starting the engine using the advanced key, refer to Starting the Engine (page 3-10).
When starting the engine with the auxiliary key, perform the following procedure.
1. Remove the auxiliary key from the
advanced key (page 3-16).
2. Make sure the start knob is in LOCK
position.
3. Remove the start knob by pulling it
outward while pressing the buttons on both the left and right sides.
qIgnition Switch Positions
With advanced key
Without advanced key
LOCK The steering wheel locks to protect against theft. Only in this position can the key be removed.
Manual transmission To turn the key from the ACC to the LOCK position, push the key in at the ACC position, then turn it to the LOCK position.
4. Insert the auxiliary key in the ignition
switch.
Push the key
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMAutomatic transmission To turn the key from the ACC to the LOCK position, the shift lever must be in the P position.
Shift lever engaged in P (park)
WARNING
Remove the key only when the vehicle is parked: Removing the key from the ignition switch while the vehicle is moving is dangerous. Removing the key allows the steering wheel to lock. You will lose steering control and a serious accident could occur.
Before leaving the driver's seat, always set the parking brake and make sure the shift lever is in P with an automatic transmission or in 1 or R with a manual transmission: Leaving the driver's seat without setting the parking brake and the shift lever is dangerous. Unexpected vehicle movement could occur. This could cause an accident.
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
NOTE
If turning the key is difficult, jiggle the steering wheel from side to side.
ACC (Accessory) The steering wheel unlocks and some electrical accessories will operate.
ON This is the normal running position after the engine is started. The warning lights (except brakes) should be inspected before the engine is started (page 5-39).
NOTE
(With headlight auto-leveling) When the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the sound of the headlight leveling motors operating at the front of the engine compartment can be heard. This does not indicate an abnormality.
START The engine is started in this position. It will crank until you release the key; then it returns to the ON position. The brake warning light can be checked after the engine is started (page 5-39).
qIgnition Key Reminder If the ignition switch is in the LOCK or ACC position with the key inserted, a continuous beep sound will be heard when the driver's door is opened.
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CAUTION
Don't try the starter for more than 10
seconds at a time. If the engine stalls or fails to start, wait 10 seconds before trying again. Otherwise, you may damage the starter and drain the battery.6. After starting the engine, let it idle for
about 10 seconds.
NOTE
l In extremely cold weather, below _18 °C (0 °F), or after the vehicle has not been driven in several days, let the engine warm up without operating the accelerator.
l Whether the engine is cold or warm,
it should be started without use of the accelerator.
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.
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Starting the Engine
NOTE
Engine-starting is controlled by the spark ignition system. This system meets all Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Standard requirements regulating the impulse electrical field strength of radio noise.
1. Occupants should fasten their seat
belts.
2. Make sure the parking brake is on.
3. Depress the brake pedal.
4. (Manual transmission)
Depress the clutch pedal all the way and shift into neutral. Keep the clutch pedal depressed while cranking the engine.
(Automatic transmission) Put the vehicle in park (P). If you must restart the engine while the vehicle is moving, shift into neutral (N).
NOTE
(Manual transmission) The starter will not operate if the clutch pedal is not depressed all the way.
(Automatic transmission) The starter will not operate if the shift lever is not in P or N.
5. Turn the ignition switch to the START position and hold (up to 10 seconds at a time) until the engine starts.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Brake System
qFoot 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.
WARNING
Dry brakes that have become wet by driving very slowly and applying the brakes lightly until brake performance is normal: Driving with wet brakes is dangerous. Increased stopping distance or the vehicle pulling to one side when braking could result in a serious accident. Light braking will indicate whether the brakes have been affected.
WARNING
qParking Brake
Do not coast with the engine stalled or turned off, find a safe place to stop: Coasting with the engine stalled or turned off is dangerous. Braking will require more effort, and the brake's power-assist could be depleted if you pump the brake. This will cause longer stopping distances or even an accident.
Shift to a lower gear when going down steep hills: Driving with your foot continuously on the brake pedal or steadily applying the brakes for long distances is dangerous. This causes overheated brakes, resulting in longer stopping distances or even total brake failure. This could cause loss of vehicle control and a serious accident. Avoid continuous application of the brakes.
WARNING
Before leaving the driver's seat, always set the parking brake and make sure the shift lever is in P with an automatic transmission or in 1 or R with a manual transmission: Leaving the driver's seat without setting the parking brake and the shift lever is dangerous. Unexpected vehicle movement could occur. This could cause an accident.
CAUTION
Driving with the parking brake on will cause excessive wear of the brake linings or pads.
NOTE
For parking in snow, refer to Winter Driving (page 4-9) regarding parking brake use.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Setting the parking brake Depress the brake pedal and then firmly pull the parking brake lever fully upwards with a greater amount of force than is required so that the vehicle holds in the stationary position.
Releasing the parking brake Depress the brake pedal and pull the parking brake lever upwards, then press the release button. While holding the button, lower the parking brake lever all the way down to the released position.
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qBrake System Warning Light
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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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMNOTE
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.
qAnti-Lock Brake System (ABS) The ABS control unit continuously monitors the speed of each wheel. If one is about to lock up, the ABS responds by automatically releasing and reapplying that wheel's brake.
The driver will feel a slight vibration in the brake pedal and may hear a chattering noise from the brake system. This is normal when the ABS operates. Don't pump the brakes, continue to press down on the brake pedal.
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
WARNING
Do not rely on ABS as a substitute for safe driving: The ABS cannot compensate for unsafe and reckless driving, excessive speed, tailgating (following another vehicle too closely), driving on ice and snow, and hydroplaning (reduced tire friction and road contact because of water on the road surface). You can still have an accident.
NOTE
l 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 distance to stop under these conditions because the tires will build up a wedge of surface layer when the wheels skid.
l The sound of the ABS operating may be heard when starting the engine or immediately after starting the vehicle. However, it does not indicate a malfunction.
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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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.
qBrake Pad Wear Indicator When the disc brake pads become worn, the built-in wear indicators contact the disc plates. This causes a screeching noise to warn that the pads should be replaced.
When you hear this noise, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
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
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.
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Friday, December 8 2006 10:50 AMWARNING
Do not drive with worn disc pads: Driving with worn disc pads is dangerous. The brakes could fail and cause a serious accident. As soon as you hear a screeching noise consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
Manual Transmission Operation qManual Transmission Shift Pattern
Neutral position
The shift pattern of the transmission is conventional, as shown.
Depress the clutch pedal all the way down while shifting; then release it slowly.
Your vehicle is equipped with a device to prevent shifting to R (reverse) by mistake. Push the shift lever downward and shift to R.
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qRecommendations for Shifting Upshifting For normal acceleration, we recommend these shift points.
Gear
Vehicle speed
1 to 2
2 to 3
3 to 4
4 to 5
5 to 6For cruising
23 km/h (14 mph) 35 km/h (22 mph) 47 km/h (29 mph) 58 km/h (36 mph) 74 km/h (46 mph)
Gear
Vehicle speed
1 to 2
2 to 3
3 to 4
4 to 5
5 to 623 km/h (14 mph) 34 km/h (21 mph) 45 km/h (28 mph) 56 km/h (35 mph) 68 km/h (42 mph)
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.
Driving Your Mazda 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
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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.
Black plate (159,1)
Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
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.
Form No.8V89-EA-06F
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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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Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving
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.
