2004-2009 Mazda 3 4 Door Driving Your Mazda User Manual
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Driving Your Mazda for Your Mazda 3 4 Door First Generation (2004-2009)

Driving Your Mazda  
5
Explanation of instruments and controls.  
Starting and Driving ..................................................................... 5-2  
Ignition Switch .......................................................................... 5-2  
Starting the Engine .................................................................... 5-3  
Brake System ............................................................................ 5-4  
Manual Transaxle Operation ..................................................... 5-9  
Automatic Transaxle Controls ................................................. 5-11  
Power Steering ........................................................................ 5-17  
Cruise Controlí ...................................................................... 5-18  
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systemí ......................................... 5-22  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators ............................................ 5-27  
Meters and Gauges .................................................................. 5-27  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds ............................ 5-32  
Warning/Indicator Lights ........................................................ 5-32  
Beep Sounds ........................................................................... 5-43  
Switches and Controls ................................................................ 5-45  
Lighting Control ..................................................................... 5-45  
Turn and Lane-Change Signals ............................................... 5-48  
Fog Lightsí ............................................................................ 5-49  
Windshield Wipers and Washer .............................................. 5-49  
Rear Window Wiper and Washer (5 Door) ............................. 5-53  
Rear Window Defroster ........................................................... 5-53  
Horn ........................................................................................ 5-54  
Hazard Warning Flasher .......................................................... 5-55  
íSome models.  
5-1  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Automatic transaxle  
Ignition Switch  
To turn the key from the ACC to the  
LOCK position, the shift lever must be in  
the P position.  
qIgnition Switch Positions  
Shift lever  
engaged in P  
(park)  
LOCK  
The steering wheel locks to protect  
against theft. Only in this position can the  
key be removed.  
WARNING  
Removing the Key:  
Manual transaxle  
It's dangerous to remove the key from  
the ignition switch while the vehicle is  
moving. Removing the key allows the  
steering wheel to lock. You will lose  
steering control and a serious accident  
could occur.  
To turn the key from the ACC to the  
LOCK position, push the button when the  
key is at the ACC position, then turn the  
key to the LOCK position.  
Remove the key only when the vehicle  
is parked.  
Not Setting the Parking Brake:  
Leaving the driver's seat without  
setting the parking brake is  
dangerous. Unexpected vehicle  
movement could occur if the parking  
brake is not set. This could cause an  
accident. Before leaving the driver's  
seat, always set the parking brake and  
make sure the shift lever is in P with  
an automatic transaxle or in 1 or R  
with a manual transaxle.  
Button  
Push the  
button  
5-2  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
Starting the Engine  
If turning the key is difficult, jiggle the  
steering wheel from side to side.  
NOTE  
Engine-starting is controlled by the  
spark ignition system.  
ACC (Accessory)  
This system meets all Canadian  
Interference-Causing Equipment  
Standard requirements regulating the  
impulse electrical field strength of radio  
noise.  
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 5-32).  
1. Occupants should fasten their seat  
belts.  
2. Make sure the parking brake is on.  
3. Depress the brake pedal.  
NOTE  
When the ignition switch is turned to  
the ON position, the sound of the fuel  
pump motor operating near the fuel  
tank can be heard. This does not  
indicate an abnormality.  
4. (Manual transaxle)  
Depress the clutch pedal all the way  
and shift into neutral.  
Keep the clutch pedal depressed while  
cranking the engine.  
(Automatic transaxle)  
START  
Put the vehicle in park (P). If you must  
restart the engine while the vehicle is  
moving, shift into neutral (N).  
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 5-32).  
NOTE  
(Manual transaxle)  
The starter will not operate if the clutch  
pedal is not depressed all the way.  
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.  
(Automatic transaxle)  
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.  
5-3  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Brake System  
CAUTION  
qFoot Brake  
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  
Your Mazda has power-assisted brakes  
that adjust automatically through normal  
use.  
damage the starter and drain the battery.  
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.  
6. After starting the engine, let it idle for  
about 10 seconds.  
NOTE  
l
In extremely cold weather, below  
_
WARNING  
18 °C (0 °F), or after the vehicle  
has not been driven in several days,  
let the engine warm up without  
operating the accelerator.  
Coasting with the Engine Off:  
Continuing to coast when the engine  
is 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. Don't continue  
coasting when the engine is stalled or  
turned off, find a safe place to stop.  
l
Whether the engine is cold or warm,  
it should be started without use of  
the accelerator.  
Riding the Brakes:  
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.  
Shift to a lower gear when going down  
steep hills.  
5-4  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Setting the parking brake  
WARNING  
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.  
Driving with Wet Brakes:  
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.  
Dry the brakes by driving very slowly  
and applying the brakes lightly until  
brake performance is normal.  
qParking Brake  
WARNING  
Releasing the parking brake  
Not Setting the Parking Brake:  
Leaving the driver's seat without  
setting the parking brake is  
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.  
dangerous. Unexpected vehicle  
movement could occur if the parking  
brake is not set. This could cause an  
accident. Before leaving the driver's  
seat, always set the parking brake and  
make sure the shift lever is in P with  
an automatic transaxle or in 1 or R  
with a manual transaxle.  
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.  
5-5  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
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.  
This warning has the following functions:  
WARNING  
Parking brake warning  
Brake Warning Light:  
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.  
Driving with the brake system warning  
light on 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 on, after  
checking that the parking brake is  
fully released, have the brakes  
inspected immediately. Don't drive  
with this light on, have the vehicle  
towed to an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
to have the brakes inspected as soon  
as possible.  
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.  
qAnti-Lock Brake System (ABS)í  
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.  
1. With the engine stopped, check the  
brake fluid level immediately and add  
fluid as required (page 8-20).  
2. After adding fluid, check the light  
again.  
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.  
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.  
5-6  
íSome models.  
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.  
WARNING  
ABS:  
The ABS cannot compensate for  
Should this happen, consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.  
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. So don't rely on  
ABS as a substitute for safe driving.  
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.  
NOTE  
Recharge the battery.  
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  
qElectronic Brake Force  
Distribution System Warningí  
distance to stop under these conditions  
because the tires will build up a wedge  
of surface layer when the wheels skid.  
qABS Warning Lightí  
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.  
The warning light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
íSome models.  
5-7  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
WARNING  
l
When the brake pedal is depressed  
ABS Warning Light and Brake  
Warning Light on at the Same Time:  
Driving when the brake system  
warning light and ABS warning light  
are on at the same time is dangerous.  
When both lights are on, the rear  
wheels could lock more quickly in an  
emergency stop than under normal  
circumstances.  
Don't drive with both lights on, have  
the vehicle towed to an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer to have the brakes  
inspected as soon as possible.  
hard or depressed more quickly, the  
pedal will feel softer but the brakes  
will apply more firmly. This is a  
normal effect of the brake assist  
operation and does not indicate an  
abnormality.  
l
When the brake pedal is depressed  
hard or depressed more quickly, a  
clicking noise from the brake booster  
may be heard. This is a normal effect  
of the brake assist and does not  
indicate an abnormality.  
l
The brake assist equipment does not  
supersede the functionality of the  
vehicle's main braking system.  
qBrake Assistí  
During emergency braking situations  
when it is necessary to depress the brake  
pedal with greater force, the brake assist  
system provides braking assistance, thus  
enhancing braking performance.  
When the brake pedal is depressed hard or  
depressed more quickly, the brakes apply  
more firmly.  
5-8  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Manual Transaxle  
Operation  
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.  
qManual Transaxle Shift Pattern  
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 transaxle.  
Neutral position  
NOTE  
If shifting to R is difficult, shift back  
into neutral, release the clutch pedal,  
and try again.  
The shift pattern of the transaxle is  
conventional, as shown.  
Depress the clutch pedal all the way down  
while shifting; then release it slowly.  
qRecommendations for Shifting  
Upshifting  
A safety feature prevents accidental  
shifting from 5 to R (reverse). The shift  
lever must be put in neutral before being  
shifted to R.  
For normal acceleration, we recommend  
these shift points.  
Gear  
Vehicle speed  
21 km/h (13 mph)  
1 to 2  
2 to 3  
3 to 4  
4 to 5  
39 km/h (24 mph)  
55 km/h (34 mph)  
78 km/h (49 mph)  
WARNING  
Sudden Engine-Braking:  
For cruising  
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. Do not use sudden engine  
braking on slippery road surfaces or at  
high speeds.  
Gear  
1 to 2  
Vehicle speed  
18 km/h (11 mph)  
29 km/h (18 mph)  
47 km/h (29 mph)  
68 km/h (42 mph)  
2 to 3  
3 to 4  
4 to 5  
5-9  
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  
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.  
5-10  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Automatic Transaxle Controls  
Various Lockouts:  
Indicates that you must depress the brake pedal to shift (The ignition  
switch must be in the ON position).  
Indicates the shift lever can be shifted freely into any position.  
qTransaxle Ranges  
CAUTION  
The shift lever must be in P or N to  
operate the starter.  
l
Shifting into P, N or R while the  
vehicle is moving can damage your  
transaxle.  
P (Park)  
P locks the transaxle and prevents the  
front wheels from rotating.  
l
Shifting into a driving gear or  
reverse when the engine is running  
faster than idle can damage the  
transaxle.  
WARNING  
R (Reverse)  
Holding the Vehicle with P:  
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. To hold  
the vehicle, set the shift lever to P AND  
set the parking brake.  
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 4-8).  
5-11  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
N (Neutral)  
M (Manual)  
In N, the wheels and transaxle are not  
locked. The vehicle will roll freely even  
on the slightest incline unless the parking  
brake or brakes are on.  
M is the manual shift mode position.  
Gears can be shifted up or down by  
operating the shift lever.  
Refer to Manual Shift Mode (page 5-13).  
qShift-Lock System  
WARNING  
The shift-lock system prevents shifting  
out of P unless the brake pedal is  
depressed.  
Shifting from N or P:  
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.  
If the engine is running faster than  
idle, don't shift from N or P into a  
driving gear.  
To shift from P:  
1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.  
2. Start the engine.  
3. Move the shift lever.  
NOTE  
Shifting into N while Driving:  
Shifting into N while driving is  
dangerous. Engine braking cannot be  
applied when decelerating which  
could lead to an accident or serious  
injury. Do not shift into N when  
driving the vehicle.  
l
When the ignition switch is in the  
ACC or 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.  
CAUTION  
qShift-Lock Override  
Do not shift into N when driving the  
vehicle. Doing so can cause transaxle  
damage.  
If the shift lever won't move from P using  
the proper shift procedure, continue to  
hold down the pedal.  
1. Remove the shift-lock override cover  
with a screwdriver.  
D (Drive)  
D is the normal driving position. From a  
stop, the transaxle will automatically shift  
through a 4-gear sequence.  
5-12  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
2. Insert a screwdriver and push it down.  
NOTE  
l
If you change to manual shift mode  
when the vehicle is stopped, the gear  
will shift to M1.  
l
If you shift up once when the vehicle  
is stopped and the gear is at M1, the  
gear will shift to M2. M2 is helpful  
for starting on slippery surfaces.  
Indicators  
Shift position indicator  
3. Move the shift lever.  
In manual shift mode, the “M” of the shift  
position indicator in the instrument panel  
illuminates.  
4. Take the vehicle to an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer to have the system  
checked.  
Gear position indicator  
qManual Shift Mode  
The numeral for the selected gear  
illuminates.  
This mode gives you the feel of driving a  
manual transaxle vehicle by operating the  
shift lever and allows you to control  
engine rpm and torque to the front wheels  
much like a manual transaxle when more  
control is desired.  
Shift position  
indicator  
Gear position indicator  
To change to manual shift mode, shift the  
lever from D to M.  
NOTE  
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.  
To return to automatic shift mode, shift  
the lever from M to D.  
5-13  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Shifting  
Manually Shifting down  
(M4→M3→M2→M1)  
To shift down to a lower gear, tap the shift  
lever forward ( ) once.  
Manually Shifting up  
(M1→M2→M3→M4)  
To shift up to a higher gear, tap the shift  
lever back ( ) once.  
WARNING  
NOTE  
Sudden Engine-Braking:  
l
When driving slowly, the gears may  
not shift up depending on vehicle  
speed.  
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. Do not use sudden engine  
braking on slippery road surfaces or at  
high speeds.  
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 transaxle will shift to a  
lower gear, depending on vehicle  
speed.  
5-14  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
NOTE  
l
When driving at high speeds, the  
gear may not shift down depending  
on vehicle speed.  
If the vehicle is driven at a low speed  
from a standing start while in M2, the  
gear may not shift down to M1  
automatically.  
l
During deceleration, the gear may  
automatically shift down depending  
on vehicle speed.  
If the vehicle is kicked down at the  
following speeds or lower, the gears shift  
down automatically:  
l
When depressing the accelerator  
fully, the transaxle will shift to a  
lower gear, depending on vehicle  
speed.  
Gear  
M4→M3  
M3→M2  
Vehicle speed  
170 km/h (105 mph)  
72 km/h (44 mph)  
Shifting specification (2.0-liter engine  
model)  
Shifting specification (2.3-liter engine  
model)  
Shifting up  
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.  
If the vehicle speed is lower than the  
speed specified for each gear, the gear  
cannot be shifted up to a higher gear.  
Gear  
M1→M2  
Vehicle speed  
Gear  
M1→M2  
Vehicle speed  
You can shift up to M2 whether  
the vehicle is stopped or moving.  
You can shift up to M2 whether  
the vehicle is stopped or moving.  
M2→M3  
M3→M4  
20 km/h (12 mph)  
40 km/h (24 mph)  
M2→M3  
M3→M4  
20 km/h (12 mph)  
35 km/h (21 mph)  
Shifting down  
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.  
If the vehicle speed is higher than the  
speed specified for each gear, the gear  
cannot be shifted down to a lower gear.  
Gear  
M4→M3  
Vehicle speed  
180 km/h (112 mph)  
119 km/h (74 mph)  
47 km/h (30 mph)  
Gear  
M4→M3  
Vehicle speed  
142 km/h (89 mph)  
M3→M2  
M2→M1  
M3→M2  
M2→M1  
100 km/h (63 mph)  
40 km/h (25 mph)  
During deceleration, the gears shift down  
automatically when speed is reduced to  
the following:  
During deceleration, the gears shift down  
automatically when speed is reduced to  
the following:  
Gear  
M4→M3  
M3 or M2→M1 12 km/h (7 mph)  
Vehicle speed  
Gear  
M4→M3  
M3 or M2→M1 12 km/h (7 mph)  
Vehicle speed  
31 km/h (19 mph)  
31 km/h (19 mph)  
5-15  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Climbing steep grades from a stop  
NOTE  
To climb a steep grade from a stopped  
position:  
If the vehicle is driven at a low speed  
from a standing start while in M2, the  
gear may not shift down to M1  
automatically.  
1. Depress the brake pedal.  
2. Shift to D or M1, depending on the  
load weight and grade steepness.  
If the vehicle is kicked down at the  
following speeds or lower, the gears shift  
down automatically:  
3. Release the brake pedal while  
gradually accelerating.  
Descending steep grades  
Gear  
M4→M3  
M3→M2  
Vehicle speed  
135 km/h (83 mph)  
64 km/h (39 mph)  
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.  
Recommendations for shifting  
Upshifting  
For normal acceleration and cruising, we  
recommend these shift points.  
Gear  
M1 to M2  
Vehicle speed  
24 km/h (15 mph)  
M2 to M3  
M3 to M4  
40 km/h (25 mph)  
65 km/h (40 mph)  
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 transaxle will  
shift to a lower gear, depending on vehicle  
speed.  
5-16  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
The light illuminates to indicate that the  
power steering is inoperable. If the light  
illuminates, turn off the engine and restart  
it.  
If the light does not illuminate after  
restarting the engine, this indicates that  
the power steering is restored and normal  
steering is possible.  
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 light remains illuminated, the power  
steering is still inoperable. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
If the steering feels rigid during normal  
driving, consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
NOTE  
CAUTION  
The power steering system is inoperable  
when the power steering malfunction  
indicator light illuminates. Steering is  
possible, but requires more physical  
effort.  
Never hold the steering wheel to the  
extreme left or right for more than 5  
seconds with the engine running.  
This could damage the power steering  
system.  
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.  
5-17  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qCruise Set Indicator Light  
í
Cruise Control  
With cruise control, you can set and  
automatically maintain any speed of more  
than about 30 km/h (19 mph).  
WARNING  
This light comes on when a cruising speed  
is set.  
Cruise Control Use:  
Using cruise control in the following  
conditions could cause you to lose  
control of the vehicle:  
qActivation/Deactivation  
l
Hilly terrain  
Steep inclines  
To activate the system, press the ON/OFF  
switch.  
The cruise main indicator light  
illuminates.  
l
l
Heavy or unsteady traffic  
Slippery or winding roads  
Similar restrictions that require  
l
l
inconsistent speed  
Don't use cruise control in these  
situations.  
To deactivate the system, press the switch  
again.  
The cruise main indicator light turns off.  
qCruise Main Indicator Light  
This light comes on when the ON/OFF  
switch is pressed and the cruise control  
system is activated.  
5-18  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
WARNING  
l
The SET function can't be activated  
until about 2 seconds after the ON/  
OFF switch has been engaged.  
Cruise Main Switch:  
Leaving the ON/OFF switch on when  
not using the cruise control is  
dangerous as it may be switched on  
accidentally. This could result in loss  
of vehicle control. Keep the ON/OFF  
switch off when cruise control is not in  
use.  
l
On a steep grade, the vehicle may  
momentarily slow down going up or  
speed up while going down.  
qTo Increase Cruising Speed  
Follow either of these procedures.  
qTo Set Speed  
l
Press the RES/ACCEL button and hold  
it. Your vehicle will accelerate.  
Release the button at the speed you  
want.  
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).  
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.  
5-19  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
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.  
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.  
l
Accelerate to the desired speed.  
Press the SET/COAST button and  
release it immediately.  
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.  
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.  
5-20  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
l
Press the CANCEL button.  
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.  
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).  
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  
transaxle only)  
5-21  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
TPMS does not alleviate your need to  
check the pressure and condition of all  
four tires before you drive each day.  
Tire Pressure Monitoring  
Systemí  
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.  
CAUTION  
l
When the tire pressure monitoring  
system warning light is lit, one or  
more of your tires is significantly  
under-inflated. You should stop and  
check your tires as soon as possible,  
and inflate them to the proper  
pressure as indicated on the vehicle's  
tire information placard. 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  
The tire pressure sensors installed on each  
wheel send tire pressure data by radio  
signal to the receiver unit in the vehicle.  
vehicle's handling and stopping  
ability. Each tire, including the spare,  
should be checked monthly when  
cold and set to the recommended  
inflation pressure as specified in the  
vehicle placard and owner's manual.  
Tire pressure sensors  
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  
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.  
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.  
5-22  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qTire Pressure Monitoring System  
Warning Light  
WARNING  
Ignoring the Warning Light:  
Ignoring the 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.  
This warning light illuminates for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
Warning light illuminates/Warning  
beep sounds  
Thereafter, the warning light illuminates  
when tire pressure is too low in one or  
more tires, and flashes when there is a  
system malfunction.  
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.  
WARNING  
Adjust the tire pressure to the correct tire  
pressure at an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
or the nearest service station. Refer to the  
specification charts (page 10-7).  
Vehicle Handling When Tire Pressure  
Monitoring System Warning Light  
Illuminates/Flashes:  
When 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.  
When 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. Have the  
system and tires checked or perform  
the appropriate repair as soon as  
possible by an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
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.  
5-23  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
NOTE  
l
Perform tire pressure adjustment  
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.  
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 flashes  
When the warning light flashes, there may  
be a system malfunction. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
warning light/beep may turn on after  
the tires cool and pressure drops  
below specification.  
qSystem Error Activation  
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.  
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 large metallic object (e.g. a  
large electric household appliance or a  
desk-top computer) is placed on the  
right side of the rear seat, which may  
block radio signals from the tire  
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.  
pressure sensor to the receiver unit.  
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.  
If the warning light illuminates again even  
after the tire pressures are adjusted, there  
may be a tire puncture. Replace the  
punctured tire with the temporary spare  
tire (page 7-6).  
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.  
5-24  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
l
l
l
When using a wheel with no tire  
pressure sensor installed.  
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.  
When using tires with steel wire  
reinforcement in the side walls.  
When using tire chains.  
1. After tires have been changed, turn the  
ignition switch to the ON position, then  
turn it back to the ACC or LOCK  
position.  
qTires and Wheels  
CAUTION  
2. Wait for about 15 minutes.  
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.  
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.  
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.  
NOTE  
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.  
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.  
5-25  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Replacing tires and wheels  
NOTE  
l
The tire pressure sensor ID signal  
CAUTION  
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 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
When reinstalling a previously  
removed tire pressure sensor to a  
wheel, replace the grommet for the  
tire pressure sensor.  
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 installation 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.  
l
A new tire pressure sensor is installed  
to a new wheel.  
5-26  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
Meters and Gauges  
(Black-out meter)  
When the ignition switch is in the ON position, the dashboard gauges illuminate.  
Speedometer ...................................................................................................... page 5-28  
Odometer, Trip Meter and Trip Meter Selector .................................................. page 5-28  
Tachometer ........................................................................................................ page 5-30  
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge .................................................................. page 5-30  
Fuel Gauge ........................................................................................................ page 5-30  
Instrument Cluster Dimmer Select Button (Black-out meter) ............................ page 5-31  
5-27  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
qSpeedometer  
The speedometer indicates the speed of  
the vehicle.  
qOdometer, Trip Meter and Trip  
Meter Selector  
Trip meter A  
Odometer  
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.  
Press the selector  
Selector  
Trip meter B  
Odometer  
Press the selector  
Trip meter  
Odometer  
5-28  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
When trip meter A is selected, pressing  
the selector again within one second will  
change to trip meter B mode.  
NOTE  
l
(Standard meter)  
The odometer and trip meter can be  
displayed as follows even when the  
ignition switch is in the ACC or  
LOCK position.  
When trip meter A is selected, TRIP A  
will be displayed. When trip meter B is  
selected, TRIP B will be displayed.  
l
Displays for 10 minutes after the  
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  
ignition switch is turned to the  
ACC or LOCK position from the  
ON position.  
Displays for 10 minutes after the  
driver's door is opened.  
l
l
consumption.  
(Black-out meter)  
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:  
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).  
The vehicle is driven over 999.9  
l
After the ignition switch is turned  
to the ACC or LOCK position  
from the ON position.  
After the driver's door is opened.  
l
km (mile).  
l
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.  
5-29  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
If the needle is near H, it indicates  
overheating.  
qTachometer  
The tachometer shows engine speed in  
thousands of revolutions per minute  
(rpm).  
CAUTION  
Driving with an overheated engine can  
cause serious engine damage (page  
7-12).  
Red zone  
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.  
CAUTION  
Don't run the engine with the  
tachometer needle in the RED ZONE.  
This may cause severe engine damage.  
Low fuel  
warning light  
qEngine Coolant Temperature  
Gauge  
The engine coolant temperature gauge  
shows the temperature of the engine  
coolant.  
NOTE  
The direction of the arrow ( ) shown  
next to the low fuel warning light  
indicates that the fuel-filler lid is on the  
right side of the vehicle.  
5-30  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
Adjusting the instrument cluster  
illumination intensity (With exterior  
lights off)  
qDashboard Illumination  
When the exterior lights are on, rotate the  
thumb-wheel to adjust the brightness of  
the dashboard lights.  
When the exterior lights are off, the  
instrument cluster illumination can be  
adjusted to one of five levels by  
successively pressing the instrument  
cluster dimmer select button.  
Bright  
Canceling the instrument cluster  
illumination dimmer (With exterior  
lights on)  
Dim  
When the exterior lights are on, the  
instrument cluster illumination dims.  
When driving on snowy or foggy roads,  
or in other situations when the instrument  
cluster's visibility is reduced due to glare  
from surrounding brightness, the  
instrument cluster dimmer select button  
increases the illumination intensity.  
Press the button to increase the intensity  
of the instrument cluster illumination.  
Press the button again to return to the  
previous illumination intensity.  
NOTE  
Black-out meter  
When the instrument cluster dimmer is  
canceled, the instrument cluster  
illumination intensity will not change  
by rotating the thumb-wheel.  
qInstrument Cluster Dimmer  
Select Button (Black-out meter)  
The instrument cluster dimmer select  
button is operable when the ignition  
switch is in the ON position.  
Instrument cluster dimmer select button  
5-31  
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  
Page  
5-34  
Charging System Warning Light  
Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light  
Check Engine Light  
5-35  
5-36  
5-36  
5-34  
5-37  
5-37  
ABS Warning Light  
Air Bag/Front Seat Belt Pretensioner System Warning Light  
Low Fuel Warning Light  
5-32  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Signal  
Warning/Indicator Lights  
Seat Belt Warning Light/Beep  
Page  
5-37  
Door-Ajar Warning Light  
5-38  
5-39  
5-39  
Low Washer Fluid Level Warning Light  
Automatic Transaxle Warning Light  
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light  
5-39  
Security Indicator Light  
5-41  
5-41  
5-41  
5-42  
5-42  
5-42  
5-42  
5-43  
Headlight High-Beam Indicator Light  
Shift Position Indicator Light  
Cruise Main Indicator Light  
Cruise Set Indicator Light  
Light-On Indicator Light  
Power Steering Malfunction Indicator Light  
Turn Signal/Hazard Warning Indicator Lights  
5-33  
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.  
This warning has the following functions:  
WARNING  
Parking brake warning  
Brake Warning Light:  
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.  
Driving with the brake system warning  
light on 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 on, after  
checking that the parking brake is  
fully released, have the brakes  
inspected immediately. Don't drive  
with this light on, have the vehicle  
towed to an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
to have the brakes inspected as soon  
as possible.  
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.  
qABS Warning Lightí  
1. With the engine stopped, check the  
brake fluid level immediately and add  
fluid as required (page 8-20).  
2. After adding fluid, check the light  
again.  
The warning light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
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.  
5-34  
íSome models.  
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.  
WARNING  
ABS Warning Light and Brake  
Warning Light on at the Same Time:  
Driving when the brake system  
warning light and ABS warning light  
are on at the same time is dangerous.  
When both lights are on, the rear  
wheels could lock more quickly in an  
emergency stop than under normal  
circumstances.  
Don't drive with both lights on, have  
the vehicle towed to an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer to have the brakes  
inspected 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  
qCharging System Warning Light  
This warning light illuminates when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position and turns off when the engine is  
started.  
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.  
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.  
5-35  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qCheck Engine Light  
CAUTION  
Don't continue driving when the  
charging system warning light is  
illuminated because the engine could  
stop unexpectedly.  
qEngine Oil Pressure Warning  
Light  
If this light comes on while driving, the  
vehicle may have a problem. It is  
important to note the driving conditions  
when the light came on and consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
The check engine light may come on in  
the following cases:  
l
The fuel tank level being very low or  
approaching empty.  
This warning light illuminates when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position and turns off when the engine is  
started.  
l
The engine's electrical system has a  
problem.  
l
The emission control system has a  
problem.  
This warning light indicates low engine  
oil pressure.  
l
The fuel-filler cap is missing or not  
tightened securely.  
If the light illuminates while driving:  
1. Drive to the side of the road and park  
off the right-of-way on level ground.  
If the check engine light remains on or  
flashes continuously, do not drive at high  
speeds and consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer as soon as possible.  
2. Turn off the engine and inspect the  
engine oil level (page 8-15). If it's low,  
add oil.  
3. Check the light.  
If the light remains illuminated even after  
you add oil, have your vehicle towed to  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
CAUTION  
Don't run the engine if oil pressure is  
low. It could result in extensive engine  
damage.  
5-36  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qAir Bag/Front Seat Belt  
Pretensioner System Warning  
Light  
qLow Fuel Warning Light  
Low fuel  
warning light  
This warning light in the fuel gauge  
signals that the fuel tank will soon be  
empty.  
If the air bag/front seat belt pretensioner  
system is normal, the warning light  
illuminates when the ignition switch is  
turned to the ON position or after the  
engine is cranked. After about 6 seconds  
it goes out.  
Refuel as soon as possible.  
qSeat Belt Warning Light/Beep  
A system malfunction is indicated when  
the warning light constantly illuminates or  
doesn't illuminate at all when the ignition  
switch is turned to the ON position. If any  
of these occur, consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible. The  
system may not work in an accident.  
The seat belt warning light illuminates  
and a beep sound will be heard if the  
driver's seat belt is not fastened when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position.  
WARNING  
Conditions of operation  
Self-Servicing the Air Bag/  
Pretensioner Systems:  
Condition  
Result  
Self-servicing or tampering with the  
systems is dangerous. An air bag/  
pretensioner could accidentally  
activate or become disabled. This  
could cause serious injuries. Never  
tamper with the systems and always  
have an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
perform all servicing and repairs.  
The warning light  
The driver's seat belt is not  
fastened when the ignition  
switch is turned to the ON  
position.  
illuminates for about 1  
minute and a beep  
sound will be heard  
for about 6 seconds.  
The driver's seat belt is  
fastened while the warning  
light and the beep sound are  
activated.  
The warning light  
turns off and the beep  
sound stops.  
The driver's seat belt is  
The warning light will  
fastened before the ignition not illuminate and the  
switch is turned to the ON beep sound will not be  
position.  
heard.  
5-37  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Belt minder  
NOTE  
The belt minder is a supplemental  
The belt minder can be deactivated by  
the following methods.  
warning to the seat belt warning function.  
This feature provides additional reminders  
to the driver that the driver's seat belt is  
not fastened by intermittently sounding a  
beep sound and flashing the seat belt  
warning light in the instrument cluster.  
l
(Temporary deactivation)  
To temporarily deactivate the belt  
minder, turn the ignition switch to  
the ON position, fasten the driver's  
seat belt for about 2 seconds or  
longer, and then unfasten it within 20  
seconds. The belt minder will be  
deactivated until the ignition switch  
is turned to the ON position again.  
Condition  
Result  
The driver's seat belt is not The warning light  
flashes and the beep  
sound will be heard  
fastened when the vehicle  
speed reaches 8 km/h  
(5 mph) and about 1 minute for about 6 seconds  
has elapsed since the every 30 seconds, for  
ignition switch was turned a period of about 5  
l
(Long-term deactivation)  
To deactivate the belt minder over  
the long term, consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer. If the belt minder is  
long-term deactivated, the belt  
minder will not activate until it is  
restored at the Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
to the ON position.  
minutes.  
The driver's seat belt is  
fastened while the warning  
light and the beep sound are  
activated.  
The warning light  
turns off and the beep  
sound stops.  
The driver's seat belt is  
fastened before the ignition not illuminate and the  
switch is turned to the ON beep sound will not be  
The warning light will  
position.  
heard.  
qDoor-Ajar Warning Light  
This warning light comes on when any  
door isn't securely closed.  
5-38  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qLow Washer Fluid Level  
Warning Lightí  
qTire Pressure Monitoring System  
Warning Lightí  
This warning light indicates that little  
washer fluid remains. Add fluid (page  
8-23).  
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.  
qAutomatic Transaxle Warning  
Light  
WARNING  
Vehicle Handling When Tire Pressure  
Monitoring System Warning Light  
Illuminates/Flashes:  
This warning light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
The light illuminates when the transaxle  
has a problem.  
When 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.  
When 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. Have the  
system and tires checked or perform  
the appropriate repair as soon as  
possible by an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
CAUTION  
If the automatic transaxle warning light  
illuminates, the transaxle has an  
electrical problem. Continuing to drive  
your Mazda in this condition could  
cause damage to your transaxle.  
Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as  
soon as possible.  
íSome models.  
5-39  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
NOTE  
WARNING  
l
Perform tire pressure adjustment  
Ignoring the Warning Light:  
Ignoring the warning light is  
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  
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/beep may turn on after  
the tires cool and pressure drops  
below specification.  
Warning light illuminates/Warning  
beep sounds  
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.  
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.  
Adjust the tire pressure to the correct tire  
pressure at an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
or the nearest service station. Refer to the  
specification charts (page 10-7).  
l
CAUTION  
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.  
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.  
If the warning light illuminates again even  
after the tire pressures are adjusted, there  
may be a tire puncture. Replace the  
punctured tire with the temporary spare  
tire (page 7-6).  
5-40  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qHeadlight High-Beam Indicator  
Light  
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.  
This light indicates one of two things:  
l
The high-beam headlights are on.  
l
The turn signal lever is in the flash-to-  
pass position.  
qSecurity Indicator Light  
qShift Position Indicator Light  
(Automatic Transaxle)  
This indicates the selected shift position  
when the ignition switch is in the ON  
position.  
This indicator light starts flashing every 2  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
from the ON to the ACC position and the  
immobilizer system is armed.  
The light stops flashing when the ignition  
switch is turned to the ON position with  
the correct ignition key.  
At this time, the immobilizer system is  
disarmed and the light illuminates for  
about 3 seconds and then goes out.  
If the engine doesn't start with the correct  
ignition key, and the security indicator  
light keeps illuminating or flashing, the  
system may have a malfunction. Consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Gear position indicator  
5-41  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Gear position indicator  
qPower Steering Malfunction  
Indicator Light  
When the shift lever is in the D or M  
position, the numeral for the selected gear  
displays.  
qCruise Main Indicator Lightí  
This indicator light illuminates when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position and goes off when the engine is  
started.  
This light comes on when the ON/OFF  
switch is pressed and the cruise control  
system is activated.  
The light illuminates to indicate that the  
power steering is inoperable. If the light  
illuminates, turn off the engine and restart  
it.  
If the light does not illuminate after  
restarting the engine, this indicates that  
the power steering is restored and normal  
steering is possible.  
qCruise Set Indicator Lightí  
If the light remains illuminated, the power  
steering is still inoperable. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
This light comes on when a cruising speed  
is set.  
NOTE  
The power steering system is inoperable  
when the power steering malfunction  
indicator light illuminates. Steering is  
possible, but requires more physical  
effort.  
qLight-On Indicator Light (Black-  
out meter)  
This indicator light comes on when the  
exterior lights and dashboard illumination  
are on.  
5-42  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qTurn-Signal/Hazard Warning  
Indicator Lights  
Beep Sounds  
qAir Bag/Front Seat Belt  
Pretensioner System Warning  
Beep  
If a malfunction is detected in the air bag/  
front seat belt pretensioner systems and  
the warning light, a warning beep sound  
will be heard for about 5 seconds every  
minute.  
When operating the turn signal lights, the  
left or right turn signal indicator light  
flashes to indicate which turn signal light  
is operating (page 5-48).  
The air bag and seat belt pretensioner  
system warning beep sound will continue  
to be heard for approximately 35 minutes.  
Have your vehicle inspected at an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible.  
When operating the hazard warning  
lights, both turn signal indicator lights  
flash (page 5-55).  
NOTE  
WARNING  
If an indicator light remains illuminated  
(does not flash) or if it flashes  
abnormally, one of the turn signal bulbs  
may be burned out.  
Air Bag/Front Seat Belt Pretensioner  
System Warning Beep:  
Driving the vehicle with the air bag/  
front seat belt pretensioner system  
warning beep sounding is dangerous.  
In a collision, the air bags and the  
front seat belt pretensioner system will  
not deploy and this could result in  
death or serious injury.  
Do not drive the vehicle with the air  
bag/front seat belt pretensioner system  
warning beep sounding. Contact an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the  
vehicle inspected as soon as possible.  
5-43  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qSeat Belt Warning Beep  
If the driver's seat belt is not fastened  
when the ignition switch is turned to the  
ON position, a beep sound will be heard  
for about 6 seconds.  
The beep sound will be heard again for  
about 6 seconds every 30 seconds, for a  
period of about 5 minutes if the driver's  
seat belt is not fastened afterwards.  
Refer to Seat Belt Warning Light/Beep  
(page 5-37).  
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.  
qLights-On Reminder  
If lights are on and the key is removed  
from the ignition switch, a continuous  
beep sound will be heard when the  
driver's door is opened.  
qTire Inflation Pressure Warning  
Beepí  
The warning beep sound will be heard for  
about 3 seconds when there is any  
abnormality in tire inflation pressures  
(page 5-22).  
5-44  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Type B (With AUTO position)  
Lighting Control  
qHeadlights  
Type A (Without AUTO position)  
Turn the headlight switch to turn the  
headlights, other exterior lights and  
dashboard illumination on or off.  
Switch Position  
Turn the headlight switch to turn the  
headlights, other exterior lights and  
dashboard illumination on or off.  
Headlights  
Off  
Off  
Off  
On  
On  
On  
Taillights  
Parking lights  
License lights  
Side-marker  
lights  
Dashboard  
illumination  
Switch Position  
Auto  
Headlights  
Off  
Off  
Off  
On  
On  
On  
Taillights  
Parking lights  
License lights  
Side-marker lights  
Dashboard illumination  
NOTE  
To prevent discharging the battery, don't  
leave the lights on while the engine is  
off unless safety requires them.  
NOTE  
To prevent discharging the battery, don't  
leave the lights on while the engine is  
off unless safety requires them.  
AUTO(Auto-light control)  
When the headlight switch is in the  
AUTO position and the ignition switch is  
in the ON position, the light sensor senses  
the surrounding lightness or darkness and  
automatically turns on or off the  
headlights, other exterior lights and  
dashboard illumination (see chart above).  
5-45  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
NOTE  
CAUTION  
l
When the headlight switch is in the  
l
Do not shade the light sensor by  
AUTO position and the ignition  
switch is turned to the ACC or  
LOCK position, the headlights, other  
exterior lights and dashboard  
illumination will turn off.  
adhering a sticker or a label on the  
windshield. Otherwise the light  
sensor will not operate correctly.  
l
The timing for turning on the  
headlights, other exterior lights and  
dashboard illumination can be  
delayed by adjusting the sensitivity  
of the light sensor. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer regarding  
sensor adjustment.  
Light sensor  
Xenon fusion headlight bulbsí  
The low-beam bulbs of the headlights  
have xenon fusion bulbs that produce a  
bright white beam over a wide area.  
l
The light sensor also works as a rain  
sensor for the auto-wiper control.  
When the wiper lever is in the  
AUTO position and the ignition  
switch is in the ON position, the  
wipers may move automatically. Be  
careful not to pinch hands or fingers  
as it may cause injury, or damage the  
wipers (page 5-50).  
WARNING  
Xenon Fusion Bulb Replacement:  
Replacing the xenon fusion bulbs by  
yourself is dangerous. Because the  
xenon fusion bulbs require high  
voltage, you could receive an electric  
shock if the bulbs are handled  
incorrectly. Do not replace the xenon  
fusion bulbs by yourself. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer when the  
replacement is necessary.  
NOTE  
If the headlights flash, or the brightness  
weakens, the bulb-life may be depleted  
and a replacement is necessary. Consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-46  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
qLights-On Reminder  
qHeadlight Levelingí  
If lights are on and the key is removed  
from the ignition switch, a continuous  
beep sound will be heard when the  
driver's door is opened.  
The number of riders and weight of cargo  
in the luggage compartment change the  
angle of the headlights.  
The headlight leveling switch adjusts this  
angle.  
qHeadlight High-Low Beam  
Push the lever forward for high beam.  
Pull it back for low.  
High beam  
Low beam  
Select the proper setting from the following chart.  
Front seat  
Rear  
seat  
Switch  
Position  
Load  
Driver Passenger  
×
×
×
×
×
―
×
―
―
×
―
―
―
×
0
0
1
2
3
qFlashing the Headlights  
×
To flash the headlights, pull the lever fully  
toward you. The headlight switch need  
not be on, and the lever will return to the  
normal position when released.  
×
×
―
―
×
×: Yes  
―: No  
qDaytime Running Lights  
(Canada)  
In Canada, vehicles must be driven with  
the headlights on during daytime  
operation.  
For that reason, the daytime running lights  
automatically turn on when the ignition  
switch is turned to the ON position.  
íSome models.  
5-47  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
NOTE  
Turn and Lane-Change  
Signals  
The Daytime Running Lights turn off  
when the parking brake is applied.  
qTurn Signal  
Move the signal lever down (for a left  
turn) or up (for a right turn) to the stop  
position. The signal will self-cancel after  
the turn is completed.  
If the indicator light continues to flash  
after a turn, manually return the lever to  
its original position.  
Right turn  
Right lane  
change  
OFF  
Left lane  
change  
Left turn  
Green indicators on the dashboard show  
which signal is working.  
Lane-change signals  
Move the lever slightly toward the  
direction of the change ―until the  
indicator flashes― and hold it there. It  
will return to the off position when  
released.  
NOTE  
If an indicator light stays on without  
flashing or if it flashes abnormally, one  
of the turn signal bulbs may be burned  
out.  
5-48  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
í
Fog Lights  
Windshield Wipers and  
Washer  
The fog lights help you to see as well as  
to be seen.  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position.  
The headlights must be turned on to turn  
on the front fog lights.  
WARNING  
To turn the front fog lights on, rotate the  
fog light switch to the  
position.  
Substitute Washer Fluid:  
Using radiator antifreeze as washer  
fluid is dangerous. If sprayed on the  
windshield, it will dirty the windshield,  
affect your visibility, and could result  
in an accident. Use only windshield  
washer fluid or plain water in the  
reservoir.  
Frozen Washer Fluid:  
Fog light switch  
Using windshield washer fluid without  
anti-freeze protection in freezing  
temperatures is dangerous. The  
washer fluid could freeze on the  
windshield and block your vision. You  
could have an accident. Don't use the  
washer without first warming the  
windshield and never use plain tap  
water.  
To turn the front fog lights off, rotate the  
fog light switch to the OFF position or  
turn the headlights off.  
NOTE  
l
The fog lights will turn off when the  
headlights are set at high beam.  
l
(With auto-light control)  
If the headlight switch is in the  
AUTO position, the front fog lights  
can be turned on when the  
headlights, the exterior lights and  
dashboard illumination are on.  
íSome models.  
5-49  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
For a single wiping cycle, push the lever  
up to  
NOTE  
.
Because heavy ice and snow can jam  
the wiper blades, the wiper motor is  
protected from motor breakdown,  
overheating and possible fire by a  
circuit breaker. This mechanism will  
automatically stop operation of the  
blades, but only for about 5 minutes.  
If this happens, turn off the wiper  
switch and park off the right-of-way,  
and remove the snow and ice.  
Type B (With AUTO position)  
After 5 minutes, turn on the switch and  
the blades should operate normally. If  
they don't resume functioning, consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible. Drive to the side of the road  
and park off the right-of-way. Wait until  
the weather clears before trying to drive  
with the wipers inoperative.  
Turn the wipers on by pulling the lever  
down.  
― Mist  
AUTO ― Auto control  
1 ― Low speed  
2 ― High speed  
qWindshield Wipers  
For a single wiping cycle, push the lever  
up to  
Type A (With INT position)  
.
AUTO (Auto-wiper control)  
When the wiper lever is in the AUTO  
position, the rain sensor senses the  
amount of rainfall on the windshield and  
turns the wiper on or off automatically  
(off―intermittent―low speed―high  
speed).  
Turn the wipers on by pulling the lever  
down.  
― Mist  
INT ― Intermittent  
1 ― Low speed  
2 ― High speed  
5-50  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
The sensitivity of the rain sensor can be  
adjusted by turning the switch on the  
wiper lever.  
CAUTION  
l
When the wiper lever is in the  
AUTO position and the ignition  
switch is in the ON position, the  
wipers may move automatically in  
the following cases:  
From the center position (normal), turn  
the switch towards (+) for higher  
sensitivity (faster response) or turn the  
_
switch towards ( ) for less sensitivity  
(slower response).  
l
If the windshield above the rain  
sensor is touched.  
Less sensitivity  
Switch  
l
If the windshield above the rain  
sensor is wiped with a cloth.  
l
If the windshield is struck with a  
hand or other object.  
Center  
position  
l
If the rain sensor is struck with a  
hand or other object from inside  
the vehicle.  
Be careful not to pinch hands or  
fingers as it may cause injury, or  
damage the wipers. When washing  
or servicing your Mazda, make sure  
the wiper lever is in the OFF  
position.  
Higher sensitivity  
CAUTION  
l
Do not shade the rain sensor by  
adhering a sticker or a label on the  
windshield. Otherwise the rain  
sensor will not operate correctly.  
Rain sensor  
5-51  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
NOTE  
NOTE  
l
The auto-wiper control may not  
operate when the rain sensor  
temperature is about 10 °C (14 °F)  
or lower, or about 85 °C (185 °F) or  
higher.  
With the wiper lever in the OFF or INT  
(Type A)/AUTO (Type B) position, the  
wipers will operate continuously until  
the lever is released.  
_
If the washer doesn't work, inspect the  
fluid level (page 8-23). If it's OK, consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
l
If the windshield is coated with  
water repellent, the rain sensor may  
not be able to sense the amount of  
rainfall correctly and auto-wiper  
control may not operate properly.  
l
If dirt or foreign matter (e.g. ice or  
matter containing salt water) adheres  
to the windshield above the rain  
sensor or if the windshield is iced, it  
could cause the wipers to move  
automatically. However, if the wipers  
cannot remove this ice, dirt or  
foreign matter, the auto-wiper  
control will stop operation. In this  
case, pull the wiper lever to the 1 or  
2 position for manual operation, or  
remove the ice, dirt or foreign matter  
by hand to restore the auto-wiper  
operation.  
qWindshield Washer  
Pull the lever toward you and hold it to  
spray washer fluid.  
OFF  
Washer  
5-52  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Rear Window Defroster  
Rear Window Wiper and  
Washer (5 Door)  
The rear window defroster clears frost,  
fog, and thin ice from the rear window.  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position.  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position.  
qRear Window Wiper  
Press the switch to turn on the rear  
window defroster. The rear window  
defroster operates for about 10―15  
minutes and turns off automatically.  
The indicator light illuminates during  
operation.  
To turn off the rear window defroster  
before the 10―15 minutes has elapsed,  
press the switch again.  
Indicator light  
Turn the wiper on by turning the rear  
wiper/washer switch.  
ON ― Normal  
INT ― Intermittent  
qRear Window Washer  
To spray washer fluid, turn the rear wiper/  
washer switch to the  
position.  
After the switch is released, the washer  
will stop.  
CAUTION  
NOTE  
Don't use sharp instruments or window  
cleaners with abrasives to clean the  
inside of the rear window surface. They  
may damage the defroster grid inside  
the window.  
There are two washer positions: up and  
down. In the down washer position, the  
wiper will not be activated.  
If the washer doesn't work, inspect the  
fluid level (page 8-23). If it's OK and the  
washer still doesn't work, consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-53  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
NOTE  
Horn  
This defroster is not designed for  
melting snow. If there is an  
accumulation of snow on the rear  
window, remove it before using the  
defroster.  
To sound the horn, press around the  
mark on the steering wheel.  
5-54  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Hazard Warning Flasher  
The hazard warning lights should always  
be used when you stop on or near a  
roadway.  
The hazard warning lights warn other  
drivers that your vehicle is a traffic hazard  
and that they must take extreme caution  
when near it.  
Hazard warning flasher  
Depress the hazard warning flasher and all  
four turn signals will flash.  
NOTE  
l
The turn signals don't work when the  
hazard warning lights are on.  
l
Check local regulations about the use  
of hazard warning lights while the  
vehicle is being towed. They may  
forbid it.  
5-55  
5-56  

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