1998-2004 Mazda Mx-5 SUV Driving Your Mazda User Manual
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Driving Your Mazda for Your Mazda Mx-5 SUV Second Generation (1998-2004)

5
Driving Your Mazda
Explanation of instruments and controls.
Starting and Driving .................................................... ................. 5-2
Ignition Switch .......................................................................... 5-2
Starting the Engine .................................................................. .. 5-3
Brake System ............................................................................ 5-4
Manual Transmission Operation ............................................... 5-8
Automatic Transmission Controls ............................ ............... 5-10
Power Steering ........................................................................ 5-14
Cruise Control
í
...................................................................... 5-14
Instrument Cluster and Indicators ............................................ 5-18
Meters and Gauges .................................................................. 5-18
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds ............................ 5-22
Warning/Indicator Lights ........................................................ 5-22
Beep Sounds ........................................................................... 5-28
Switches and Controls ................................................................ 5-29
Lighting Control ..................................................................... 5-29
Turn and Lane-Change Signals ............................................... 5-30
Fog Lights
í
............................................................................ 5-30
Daytime Running Lights (Canada) ......................................... 5-31
Windshield Wipers and Washer .............................................. 5-31
Rear Window Defroster ........................................................... 5-33
Horn ........................................................................................ 5-33
Hazard Warning Flasher .......................................................... 5-34
5-1
í
Some models.
Ignition Switch
qIgnition Switch Positions
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.
Push the key
Automatic 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
Removing the Key:
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.
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 transmission or in 1 or R
with a manual transmission.
5-2
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 5-22).
NOTE
When the ignition switch is turned to
the ON position, the sound of the fuel
pump motor operat ing near the fuel
tank 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 retur ns to the ON position. The brake
warning light can be checked after the
engine is started (page 5-22).
qIgnition Key Reminder
If the ignition switch is in the LOCK or
ACC position, a beep sound will be heard
when any door is opened.
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 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 pushed down 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.
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
5-3
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. Ot herwise, 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.
Brake System
qFoot Brake
Your Mazda has power-assisted brakes
that adjus t automatically throu gh 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
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.
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
WARNING
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
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 4-10) regarding parking
brake use.
Setting the parking brake
Depress the brake pedal, then pull the
brake handle fully upward.
Releasing the parking brake
Depress the brake pedal, then pull the
handle up and press the button. Lower the
handle all the way down while holding in
the button.
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
5-5
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/
Electronic brak e force distribution
system 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.
Low brake fluid level warning
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 8-20).
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 off, have your brake
system inspected as soon as possible.
Electronic brak e 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 on.
In this case, the ABS warning light comes
on at the same time (page 5-25).
WARNING
Brake Warning Light:
Driving with the brake system warning
light on is dangerous. It indic ates 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, and contact an
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the
brakes inspected as soon as possible.
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, and
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer
to have the brakes inspected as soon
as possible.
5-6
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
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 whee l'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.
WARNING
ABS:
The ABS 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 sti ll have an accident. So
don't rely on ABS as a substitute for
safe driving.
NOTE
Braking distances may be longer on
loose surfaces (snow or gravel, for
example) which usually have a hard
foundation. A vehicle with a normal
braking system may require less
distance to stop under these conditions
because the tires will build up a wedge
of surface layer when the wheels skid.
qABS Warning Light
í
The warning light stays on for a few
seconds when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON position.
If the ABS warning light stays on while
you're driving, the ABS control unit has
detected a system malfunct ion. 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, and
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer
to have the brakes inspected as soon
as possible.
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
5-7
í
Some models.
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.
qBrake Pad Wear Indicator
When the disc brake pads become worn,
the built-in wear indicator s contact the
disc plates. This causes a screeching noise
to warn that the pads shoul d be replaced.
When you hear this noise, consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as
possible.
WARNING
Driving 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.
Manual Transmission
Operation
qManual Transmission Shift
Pattern
5-speed transmission
6-speed transmission
Neutral position
Neutral position
The shift pattern of the transmission is
conventional, as shown.
Press the clutch pedal all the way down
while shifting; then release it slowly.
(5-speed transmission)
A safety feature prevents accidental
shifting from 5 to R (reverse). The shift
lever must be put in neutral before being
shifted to R.
(6-speed transmission)
Vehicles with 6-speed transmission are
equipped with a device to prevent shifting
to R (reverse) by mistake. Apply greater
than normal force when shifting to R.
5-8
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
WARNING
Sudden Engine-Braking:
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.
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.
qRecommendations for Shifting
Upshifting
For normal acceleration, we recommend
these shift points.
Gear
5-speed
transmission
6-speed
transmission
1 to 2 24 km/h (15 mph) 23 km/h (14 mph)
2 to 3 42 km/h (26 mph) 37 km/h (23 mph)
3 to 4 55 km/h (34 mph) 50 km/h (31 mph)
4 to 5 66 km/h (41 mph) 56 km/h (35 mph)
5 to 6 ― 66 km/h (41 mph)
For cruising
Gear
5-speed
transmission
6-speed
transmission
1 to 2 15 km/h (9 mph) 18 km/h (11 mph)
2 to 3 29 km/h (18 mph) 32 km/h (20 mph)
3 to 4 47 km/h (29 mph) 44 km/h (27 mph)
4 to 5 61 km/h (38 mph) 56 km/h (35 mph)
5 to 6 ― 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
5-9
Automatic Transmission Controls
Indicates the shift lever can be shifted freely into any position.
Indicates that you must hold in the lock-release button to shift.
Indicates that you must depress the brake pedal and hold in the lock-
release button to shift (The ignition switch must be in the ON position).
Various Lockouts:
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
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.
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).
5-10
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
N (Neutral)
In N, the wheels and trans mission are not
locked. The vehicle will roll freely even
on the slightest incline unless the parking
brake or brakes are on.
WARNING
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.
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.
CAUTION
Do not shift into N when driving the
vehicle. Doing so can cause
transmission damage.
D (Drive)
D is the normal driving position. From a
stop, the transmission will automatically
shift through a 4-gear sequence.
2 (Second)
The 2 position is helpful when driving in
heavy, slow-moving traffic and climbing
hills, for engine braking assist when going
down hills, or for starting on slick
surfaces and other situations where gentle
acceleration may be necessary.
Do not exceed 104 km/h (64 mph) in the
2 position.
1 (Low)
Use the 1 position for maximum power in
hard-pulling situations, or for climbi ng
and descend ing very steep grades.
Do not exceed 59 km/h (36 mph) in the 1
position.
WARNING
Sudden Engine-Braking:
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.
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. Push and hold the lock-release button.
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
5-11
4. Move the shift lever.
NOTE
l
When the ignition switch is in the
ACC or LOCK position, the shift
lever cannot be shifted from P.
l
If the brake is pumped with the shift
lever in P, a chattering near the shift
lever may be heard. This does not
indicate an abnormality.
l
To be sure the vehicle is in park, the
ignition key cannot be removed
unless the shift lever is in P.
qShift-Lock Override
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.
2. Insert a screwdriver and push it down.
3. Push and hold the lock-release button.
4. Move the shift lever.
5. Take the vehicle to an Authorized
Mazda Dealer to have the system
checked.
qOverdrive
Overdrive operation
In D, the transmission automatically shifts
to overdrive, which improves fuel
economy and reduces noise.
To allow engine braking when going
down a steep grade, make sure the
overdrive button is in the off position.
Shift lever
Overdrive button
And for a smoother ride with less shifting,
don't use it when:
l
Going up a steep grade.
l
Driving in stop-and-go traffic.
l
Pulling heavy loads.
To turn off the overdrive, push the
button.
The trans mission will then shift through a
3-gear sequence in D.
Shift patterns without overdrive:
D = 1st, 2nd, 3rd
2 = 2nd
1 = 1st
To turn it on, push the button again.
Shift patterns with overdrive:
D = 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th
2 = 2nd
1 = 1st
5-12
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
O/D OFF indicator light
This light comes on when the overdrive
has been turned off.
CAUTION
If the overdrive-off indicator light
flashes, the transmission has an
electrical problem. Continuing to drive
your Mazda in this condition could
cause damage to your transmission.
Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as
soon as possible.
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 1, depending on the load
weight and grade steepness.
3. Release all brakes while gradually
accelerating.
Descending steep grades
When descending a steep grade, shift to 2
or 1, depending on load weight and grade
steepness. Descend slowly, using the
brakes only occasionally to prevent them
from overheating.
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
5-13
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 rigid during normal
driving, consult an Authorized Mazda
Dealer.
CAUTION
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.
Cruise Control
í
With cruise control, you can set and
automatically maintain any speed of more
than about 40 km/h (25 mph).
WARNING
Cruise Control Use:
Using cruise control in the following
conditions could cause you to lose
control of the vehicle:
l
Hilly terrain
l
Steep inclines
l
Heavy or unsteady traffic
l
Slippery or winding roads
l
Similar restrictions that require
inconsistent speed
Don't use cruise control in these
situations.
qCruise Set Indicator Light
This light comes on when a cruising speed
is set.
5-14
Driving Your Mazda
í
Some models.
Starting and Driving
qActivation/Deactivation
To activate the system, press the CRUISE
MAIN switch.
To deactivate the system, press the switch
again.
Indicator light
WARNING
Cruise Main Switch:
Leaving the CRUISE MAIN 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 CRUISE
MAIN switch off when cruise control
is not in use.
qTo Set Speed
1. Activate the cruise control system.
2. Accelerate to the desired speed, which
must be more than 40 km/h (25 mph).
3. Turn the control knob to SET/COAST
and release it at the speed you want.
Release the accelerator at the same
time.
Control knob
Don't continue to hold the knob. 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
CRUISE MAIN switch has been
engaged.
l
On a steep grade, the vehicle may
momentarily slow down going up or
speed up while going down.
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
5-15
qTo Increase Cruising Speed
Follow either of these procedures.
l
Turn the control knob to RESU ME/
ACCEL and hold it. Your vehicle will
accelerate.
Release the knob at the speed you
want.
Control knob
l
Accelerate to the desired speed.
Turn the control knob to SET/COAST
and release it immediately.
Control knob
NOTE
Accelerate if you want to speed up
temporarily when the cruise control is
on. Gre ater speed will not interfere with
it or change the set speed.
Take your foot off the acc elerator to
return to the set speed.
qTo Decrease Cruising Speed
Turn the control knob to SET/COAST and
hold it. The vehicle will gradually slow.
Release the knob at the speed you want.
Control knob
qTo Resume Cruising Speed at
More Than 40 km/h (25 mph)
If some other method besides the
CRUISE MAIN switch was used to
cancel cruising speed and the system is
still activated, the most recent set speed
will automatically resume when the
control knob is turned to RESUME/
ACCEL.
If vehicle speed is below 40 km/h (25
mph), increase the vehicle speed up to 40
km/h (25 mph) and turn the control knob
to RESUME/ACCEL.
Control knob
5-16
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
qTo Cancel
To turn off the system, use one of these
methods:
l
Press the CRUISE MAIN switch.
l
Slightly depress the brake pedal.
l
Depress the clutch pedal. (Manual
transmission only)
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 40 km/h (25 mph).
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
5-17
Meters and Gauges
Speedometer ..................................................................................... ................. page 5-19
Odometer, Trip Meter and Selector .................................................................... page 5-19
Tachometer ........................................................................................................ page 5-20
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge .................................................................. page 5-20
Fuel Gauge ........................................................................................................ page 5-20
Engine Oil Pressure Gauge ................................................................................ page 5-21
5-18
Driving Your Mazda
Instrument Cluster and Indicators
qSpeedometer
The speedometer indicates the speed of
the vehicle.
qOdometer, Trip Meter and
Selector
The ignition switch must be in the ON
position.
The display mode can be changed from
odometer to trip meter A to trip meter B
and then back to odometer by pressing the
selector while one of them is displayed.
The selected mode will be displayed.
Selector
Odometer
Trip meter A
Press the selector
Press the selector
Press the selector
Trip meter B
Odometer
When this mode is selected, ODO will be
displayed.
The odometer records the total distance
the vehicle has been driven.
Trip meter
The trip meter can record the total
distance of two trips. One is recorded in
trip meter A, and the other is recorded in
trip meter B.
For instance, trip meter A can record the
distance from the point of origin, and trip
meter B can record the distance from
where the fuel tank is filled.
When trip meter A is selec ted, pressing
the selector again within one second will
change to trip meter B mode.
When trip meter A is selec ted, TRIP A
will be displayed. When trip meter B is
selected, TRIP B will be displayed.
The trip meter records the total distance
the vehicle is driven until the meter is
again reset. Return it to “0.0 ” by holding
the selector depressed for more than 1
second. Use this meter to measure trip
distances and to compute fuel
consumption.
NOTE
l
Only the trip meters record tenths of
kilometers (miles).
l
The trip record will be erased when;
l
The power supply is interrupted
(blown fuse or the battery is
disconnected).
l
The vehicle is driven over 999.9
km (mile).
Driving Your Mazda
Instrument Cluster and Indicators
5-19
qTachometer
The tachometer shows engine speed in
thousands of revolutions per minute
(rpm).
Red zone
CAUTION
Don't run the engine with the
tachometer needle in the RED ZONE.
This may cause severe engine damage.
qEngine Coolant Temperature
Gauge
The engine coolant temperature gauge
shows the temperat ure of the engine
coolant.
If the needle exceeds normal range toward
H, it indicates overheating.
CAUTION
Driving with an overheated engine can
cause serious engine damage (page
7-11).
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.
5-20
Driving Your Mazda
Instrument Cluster and Indicators
qEngine Oil Pressure Gauge
Engine oil pressure is normal when the
engine oil pressure gauge needle points
halfway between L and H with the engine
running.
If the needle on the gauge doesn't move
after starting the engine, follow steps 1
through 3.
If the engine oil pressure gauge moves to
L (low) while you are driving, drive to the
side of the road and park off the right-of-
way. Set the parking brake. Then follow
steps 1 through 3.
1. Turn off the engine and inspect the
engine oil level (page 8-16). If it's low,
add oil.
2. Start the engine.
3. If the needle still doesn't move, have
your vehicle check ed at an Authorized
Mazda Dealer.
CAUTION
Don't run the engine if the oil pressure
is low. It could result in extensive
engine damage.
qDashboard Illumination
When the headlight switch is in the
or position, rotate the thumb-w heel
to adjust the brightness of the dashboard
lights.
Dim Bright
Driving Your Mazda
Instrument Cluster and Indicators
5-21
Warning/Indicator Lights
Warning/Indicator lights will appear in any of the highlighted areas
Signal Warning/Indicator Lights Page
Brake System Warning Light 5-23
Charging System Warning Light 5-24
Check Engine Light 5-24
ABS Warning Light 5-25
Air Bag/Seat Belt Pretensioner System Warning Light 5-25
Low Fuel Warning Light 5-26
Seat Belt Warning Light 5-26
5-22
Driving Your Mazda
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
Signal Warning/Indicator Lights Page
Immobilizer System Warning Light 5-26
Headlight High-Beam Indicator Light 5-27
O/D OFF Indicator Light 5-27
Cruise Set Indicator Light 5-27
Turn-Signal/Hazard Warning Indicator Lights 5-27
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/
Electronic brak e force distribution
system 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.
Low brake fluid level warning
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 8-20).
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 off, have your brake
system inspected as soon as possible.
Electronic brak e 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 on.
Driving Your Mazda
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
5-23
In this case, the ABS warning light comes
on at the same time (page 5-25).
WARNING
Brake Warning Light:
Driving with the brake system warning
light on is dangerous. It indic ates 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, and contact an
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the
brakes inspected as soon as possible.
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, and
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer
to have the brakes inspected as soon
as possible.
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 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.
CAUTION
Don't continue driving when the
charging system warning light is
illuminated.
qCheck Engine Light
If this light comes on whi le 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.
5-24
Driving Your Mazda
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
The check engine light may come on in
the following cases:
l
The fuel tank level being very low or
approaching empty.
l
The engine's electrical system has a
problem.
l
The emission contr ol system has a
problem.
l
The fuel-filler cap is missing or not
tightened securely.
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.
qABS Warning Light
í
The warning light stays on for a few
seconds when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON position.
If the ABS warning light stays on while
you're driving, the ABS control unit has
detected a system malfunct ion. 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, and
contact 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.
qAir Bag/Seat Belt Pretensioner
System Warning Light
If the air bag/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.
Driving Your Mazda
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
5-25
í
Some models.
A system malfunction is indicated when
the warning light constantly flashes,
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.
WARNING
Self-Servicing the Air Bag/
Pretensioner Systems:
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.
qLow Fuel Warning Light
This warning light signals that the fuel
tank will soon be empty.
Refuel as soon as possible.
qSeat Belt Warning Light
If the driver's seat belt is not fastened
when the ignition switch is turned to the
ON position, the seat belt warning light
will remain on until the belt is fastened.
If the system does not operate correctly,
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
qImmobilizer System Warning
Light
í
If the immobilizer system is working
properly, the light will come on when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON or
START position. The light will go out
when confirmation by the immobilizer
system is completed.
If the light flashes rapidly, fails to come
on, or comes on and stays on, it indicates
a system malfunction. If any of these
occur, co ntact an Authorized Mazda
Dealer as soon as possible.
5-26
Driving Your Mazda
í
Some models.
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
qHeadlight High-Beam Indicator
Light
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.
qO/D OFF Indicator Light
(Automatic transmission)
This light comes on when the overdrive
has been turned off.
CAUTION
If the overdrive-off indicator light
flashes, the transmission has an
electrical problem. Continuing to drive
your Mazda in this condition could
cause damage to your transmission.
Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as
soon as possible.
qCruise Set Indicator Light
í
This light comes on when a cruising speed
is set.
qTurn-Signal/Hazard Warning
Indicator Lights
When operating the turn-signal lights, the
left or right turn-signal indicator light
flashes to indicate which turn-signal light
is operating (page 5-30).
When operating the hazard warning
lights, both turn-signal indicator lights
flash (page 5-34).
NOTE
If an indicator light remains illuminated
(does not flash) or if it flashes
abnormally, the turn signal bulb may be
burned out.
Driving Your Mazda
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
5-27
í
Some models.
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.
qIgnition Key Reminder
If the ignition switch is in the LOCK or
ACC position, a beep sound will be heard
when any door is opened.
qLights-On Reminder
If lights are on and the key is removed
from the ignition switch, a beep sound
will be heard when any door is opened.
5-28
Driving Your Mazda
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds
Lighting Control
qHeadlights
To turn on the lights, turn the headlight
switch on the end of the control lever.
Switch Position
Headlights Off Off On
Taillights
Parking lights
License lights
Side-marker lights
Off On On
NOTE
To prevent discharging the battery, don't
leave the lights on while the engine is
off.
qLights-On Reminder
If lights are on and the key is removed
from the ignition switch, a beep sound
will be heard when any door is opened.
qHeadlight High-Low Beam
Push the lever forward for high beam.
Pull it back for low.
High beam
Low beam
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.
Driving Your Mazda
Switches and Controls
5-29
Turn and Lane-Change
Signals
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.
OFF
Right lane
change
Left lane
change
Right turn
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, the
turn signal bulb may be burned out.
Fog Lights
í
Use this switch to turn on the fog lights.
They help you to see as well as to be seen.
Type A
Type B
To turn on the fog lights, first turn the
headlight switch to the
position.
Then press the fog light switch.
To turn the fog lights off:
(Type A)
Press the fog light switch again or turn the
headlight switch to the
or OFF
position.
(Type B)
Press the left part of the fog light switch
or turn the headlight switch to the
or
OFF position.
NOTE
The fog lights will turn off when the
headlights are set at high beam.
5-30
Driving Your Mazda
í
Some models.
Switches and Controls
Daytime 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.
NOTE
The running lights go off when the
parking brake is applied.
Windshield Wipers and
Washer
The ignition switch must be in the ON
position.
WARNING
Frozen Washer Fluid:
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.
NOTE
Because heavy ice and snow can jam
the wiper blades , the wiper motor is
protected from motor breakdo wn,
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.
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.
Driving Your Mazda
Switches and Controls
5-31
qWindshield Wipers
Turn the wipers on by pulling the lever
down.
INT ― Intermittent
I ― Normal
II ― Fast
One-touch wipers
For a single wiping cycle, push the lever
forward and relea se it.
One-touch wiper
OFF
qWindshield Washer
Pull the lever toward you and hold it to
spray washer fluid.
OFF
Washer
NOTE
With the wiper lever in the OFF or INT
position, the wipers will operate
continuously until the lever is released.
If the washer doesn't work, inspect the
fluid level (page 8-25). If it's OK, consult
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
5-32
Driving Your Mazda
Switches and Controls
Rear Window Defroster
The rear window defroster clears frost,
fog, and thin ice from the rear window.
The ignition switch must be in the ON
position.
Press the switch to turn on the rear
window defroster, the indicator light will
illuminate.
Press the switch again to turn it off.
CAUTION
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.
NOTE
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.
Horn
To sound the horn, press around the
mark on the steering wheel.
Driving Your Mazda
Switches and Controls
5-33
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 regul ations about the use
of hazard warning lights while the
vehicle is being towed. They may
forbid it.
5-34
Driving Your Mazda
Switches and Controls

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