2005-2015 Mazda Mx-5 SUV Driving Your Mazda User Manual
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Driving Your Mazda for Your Mazda Mx-5 SUV Third Generation (2005-2015)

Driving Your Mazda  
5
Explanation of instruments and controls.  
Starting and Driving ..................................................................... 5-2  
Ignition Switch .......................................................................... 5-2  
Starting the Engine .................................................................... 5-4  
Turning Off the Engine ............................................................. 5-5  
Brake System ............................................................................ 5-6  
Manual Transmission Operation ............................................. 5-11  
Automatic Transmission Controls ........................................... 5-13  
Power Steering ........................................................................ 5-21  
Cruise Controlí ...................................................................... 5-21  
Traction Control System (TCS)í ........................................... 5-25  
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)í ........................................ 5-26  
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systemí ......................................... 5-29  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators ............................................ 5-36  
Meters and Gauges .................................................................. 5-36  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds ............................ 5-41  
Warning/Indicator Lights ........................................................ 5-41  
Beep Sounds ........................................................................... 5-54  
Switches and Controls ................................................................ 5-56  
Lighting Control ..................................................................... 5-56  
Turn and Lane-Change Signals ............................................... 5-58  
Fog Lightsí ............................................................................ 5-58  
Windshield Wipers and Washer .............................................. 5-59  
Rear Window Defroster ........................................................... 5-60  
Horn ........................................................................................ 5-61  
Hazard Warning Flasher .......................................................... 5-61  
HomeLink Wireless Control Systemí .................................... 5-62  
íSome models.  
5-1  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qIgnition Switch Positions  
Ignition Switch  
With advanced  
key  
Auxiliary key (with advanced key)  
NOTE  
When starting the engine using the advanced  
key, refer to Starting the Engine (page 3-11).  
When starting the engine with the  
auxiliary key, perform the following  
procedure.  
Without advanced  
key  
1. Remove the auxiliary key from the  
advanced key (page 3-18).  
LOCKí  
2. Make sure the start knob is in LOCK  
position.  
The steering wheel locks to protect  
against theft. Only in this position can the  
key be removed.  
3. Remove the start knob by pulling it  
outward while pressing the buttons on  
both the left and right sides.  
Manual Transmission Vehicle  
Push the key  
4. Insert the auxiliary key in the ignition  
switch.  
5-2  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Automatic Transmission Vehicle  
WARNING  
Remove the key only when the vehicle  
is parked:  
Removing the key from the ignition  
switch while the vehicle is moving is  
dangerous. Removing the key allows  
the steering wheel to lock. You will  
lose steering control and a serious  
accident could occur. (For vehicles  
equipped with the advanced key, the  
steering wheel locks when the starter  
knob is turned to the LOCK position.)  
Before leaving the driver's seat, always  
put the key or start knob to LOCK  
position, 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:  
It is important to place the key or  
start knob in the LOCK position even  
if you are not removing the key from  
the ignition or leaving the vehicle.  
Leaving the key in other positions  
will disable some of the vehicle  
security systems and run the battery  
down.  
Leaving the driver's seat without  
putting the ignition switch in LOCK  
position, setting the parking brake  
and shifting the shift lever to P with  
an automatic transmission, or to 1 or  
R with a manual transmission is  
dangerous. Unexpected vehicle  
movement could occur. This could  
cause an accident.  
NOTE  
If turning the key is difficult, jiggle the steering  
wheel from side to side.  
Leaving the key or start knob in any position  
but LOCK position also disables some of the  
security features and may run the battery  
down.  
5-3  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
ACC (Accessory)  
Starting the Engine  
The steering wheel unlocks and some  
electrical accessories will operate.  
NOTE  
Engine-starting is controlled by the spark  
ignition system.  
ON  
This system meets all Canadian Interference-  
Causing Equipment Standard requirements  
regulating the impulse electrical field strength  
of radio noise.  
This is the normal running position after  
the engine is started. Some indicator  
lights/warning lights should be inspected  
before the engine is started (page 5-41).  
NOTE  
1. Occupants should fasten their seat  
belts.  
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.  
2. Make sure the parking brake is on.  
3. Depress the brake pedal.  
START  
4. (Manual transmission)  
Depress the clutch pedal all the way  
and shift into neutral.  
Keep the clutch pedal depressed while  
cranking the engine.  
The engine is started in this position. It  
will crank until you release the key. It  
then returns to the ON position.  
(Automatic transmission)  
qIgnition Key Reminder  
Put the vehicle in park (P). If you must  
restart the engine while the vehicle is  
moving, shift into neutral (N).  
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.  
NOTE  
(Manual transmission)  
The starter will not operate unless the clutch is  
depressed sufficiently.  
(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.  
CAUTION  
Do not try the starter for more than  
10 seconds at a time. If the engine  
stalls or fails to start, wait 10 seconds  
before trying again. Otherwise, you  
may damage the starter and drain  
the battery.  
5-4  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
6. After starting the engine, let it idle for  
about 10 seconds.  
Turning Off the Engine  
1. Stop the vehicle completely.  
NOTE  
l
In extremely cold weather or after the  
2. (Manual transmission)  
Shift into neutral.  
vehicle has not been driven in several days,  
let the engine warm up without operating  
the accelerator.  
(Automatic transmission)  
Shift the shift lever to the P position.  
l
Whether the engine is cold or warm, it  
3. Turn the ignition switch from the ON  
position to the LOCK position.  
should be started without use of the  
accelerator.  
l
If the engine does not start the first time,  
CAUTION  
When leaving the vehicle, make sure  
the ignition switch is turned to the  
LOCK position.  
refer to Starting a Flooded Engine under  
Emergency Starting. If the engine still does  
not start, have your vehicle inspected by an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer (page 7-20).  
NOTE  
The electrical fan in the engine compartment  
could turn on for a few minutes after the  
ignition switch is turned from the ON to the  
LOCK position, whether or not the A/C is on  
or off, to cool the engine compartment quickly.  
5-5  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Brake System  
WARNING  
Do not coast with the engine stalled or  
turned off, find a safe place to stop:  
Coasting with the engine stalled or  
turned off is dangerous. Braking will  
require more effort, and the brake's  
power-assist could be depleted if you  
pump the brake. This will cause  
longer stopping distances or even an  
accident.  
qFoot Brake  
Your Mazda has power-assisted brakes  
that adjust automatically through normal  
use.  
Should power-assist fail, you can stop by  
applying greater force than normal to the  
brake pedal. But the distance required to  
stop will be greater than usual.  
Shift to a lower gear when going down  
steep hills:  
Driving with your foot continuously  
on the brake pedal or steadily  
applying the brakes for long  
distances is dangerous. This causes  
overheated brakes, resulting in  
longer stopping distances or even  
total brake failure. This could cause  
loss of vehicle control and a serious  
accident. Avoid continuous  
application of the brakes.  
Dry brakes that have become wet by  
driving very slowly and applying the  
brakes lightly until brake performance  
is normal:  
Driving with wet brakes is  
dangerous. Increased stopping  
distance or the vehicle pulling to one  
side when braking could result in a  
serious accident. Light braking will  
indicate whether the brakes have  
been affected.  
5-6  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Setting the parking brake  
qParking Brake  
Depress the brake pedal and then firmly  
pull the parking brake lever fully upwards  
with sufficient force to hold the vehicle in  
a stationary position.  
WARNING  
Before leaving the driver's seat, always  
put the key or start knob to LOCK  
position, 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:  
It is important to place the key or  
start knob in the LOCK position even  
if you are not removing the key from  
the ignition or leaving the vehicle.  
Leaving the key in other positions  
will disable some of the vehicle  
security systems and run the battery  
down.  
Leaving the driver's seat without  
putting the ignition switch in LOCK  
position, setting the parking brake  
and shifting the shift lever to P with  
an automatic transmission, or to 1 or  
R with a manual transmission is  
dangerous. Unexpected vehicle  
movement could occur. This could  
cause an accident.  
Releasing the parking brake  
Depress the brake pedal and pull the  
parking brake lever upwards, then press  
the release button. While holding the  
button, lower the parking brake lever all  
the way down to the released position.  
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.  
5-7  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
qBrake System Warning Light  
Having to add brake fluid is sometimes an  
indicator of leakage. Consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible even if the  
brake light is no longer illuminated.  
WARNING  
Do not drive with the brake system  
warning light illuminated. Contact an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the  
brakes inspected as soon as possible:  
Driving with the brake system  
This warning has the following functions:  
Parking brake warning  
The light illuminates when the parking  
brake is applied with the ignition switch  
in the START or ON position. It turns off  
when the parking brake is fully released.  
warning light illuminated is  
dangerous. It indicates that your  
brakes may not work at all or that  
they could completely fail at any  
time. If this light remains  
Low brake fluid level warning  
If the light stays on after the parking brake  
is fully released, you may have a brake  
problem.  
illuminated, after checking that the  
parking brake is fully released, have  
the brakes inspected immediately.  
Drive to the side of the road and park off  
the right-of-way.  
qAnti-Lock Brake System (ABS)  
The ABS control unit continuously  
monitors the speed of each wheel. If one  
is about to lock up, the ABS responds by  
automatically releasing and reapplying  
that wheel's brake.  
You may notice that the pedal is harder to  
depress or that it may go closer to the  
floor. In either case, it will take longer to  
stop the vehicle.  
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. Continue  
to depress the brake pedal without  
pumping the brakes.  
1. With the engine stopped, open the  
hood and check the brake fluid level  
immediately, and then add fluid if  
required (page 8-22).  
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 turns off have your brake  
system inspected as soon as possible by  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-8  
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  
Do not rely on ABS as a substitute for  
safe driving:  
The ABS cannot compensate for  
unsafe and reckless driving, excessive  
speed, tailgating (following another  
vehicle too closely), driving on ice and  
snow, and hydroplaning (reduced tire  
friction and road contact because of  
water on the road surface). You can  
still have an accident.  
Should this happen, consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.  
NOTE  
l
When the engine is jump-started to charge  
the battery, uneven rpm occurs and the ABS  
warning light may illuminate. If this occurs,  
it is the result of the weak battery and does  
not indicate an ABS malfunction.  
NOTE  
Recharge the battery.  
l
Braking distances may be longer on loose  
l
(With DSC vehicles)  
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.  
The brake assist system does not operate  
while the ABS warning light is illuminated.  
qElectronic Brake Force  
Distribution System Warning  
l
The sound of the ABS operating may be  
heard when starting the engine or  
immediately after starting the vehicle.  
However, it does not indicate a malfunction.  
qABS Warning Light  
If the electronic brake force distribution  
control unit determines that some  
components are operating incorrectly, the  
control unit may illuminate the brake  
system warning light and the ABS  
warning light on simultaneously. The  
problem is likely to be the electronic  
brake force distribution system.  
The warning light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
5-9  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qBrake Pad Wear Indicator  
WARNING  
When the disc brake pads become worn,  
the built-in wear indicators contact the  
disc plates. This causes a screeching noise  
to warn that the pads should be replaced.  
Do not drive with both the ABS warning  
light and brake warning light  
illuminated. Have the vehicle towed to  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer to have  
the brakes inspected as soon as  
possible:  
Driving when the brake system  
warning light and ABS warning light  
are illuminated simultaneously is  
dangerous.  
When both lights are illuminated, the  
rear wheels could lock more quickly  
in an emergency stop than under  
normal circumstances.  
qBrake Assist (with DSC vehicles)  
When you hear this noise, consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible.  
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.  
WARNING  
Do not drive with worn disc pads:  
Driving with worn disc pads is  
When the brake pedal is depressed hard or  
depressed more quickly, the brakes apply  
more firmly.  
dangerous. The brakes could fail and  
cause a serious accident. As soon as  
you hear a screeching noise consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
NOTE  
l
When the brake pedal is depressed 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 motor/pump  
operation noise 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.  
5-10  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
(6-speed transmission)  
Manual Transmission  
Operation  
Vehicles with 6-speed transmission are  
equipped with a device to prevent shifting  
to R (reverse) by mistake. Push the shift  
lever downward and shift to R.  
q
Manual Transmission Shift Pattern  
5-speed transmission  
Neutral position  
6-speed transmission  
Neutral position  
The vehicle is equipped with either a 5-  
speed or 6-speed manual transmission.  
The shift pattern for each is shown above.  
WARNING  
Do not use sudden engine braking on  
slippery road surfaces or at high  
speeds:  
Depress the clutch pedal all the way down  
while shifting; then release it slowly.  
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.  
(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.  
Be sure to leave the shift lever in 1 or R  
position and set the parking brake  
when leaving the vehicle unattended:  
Otherwise the vehicle could move  
and cause an accident.  
5-11  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
For cruising  
CAUTION  
5-speed  
6-speed  
Gear  
Ø Keep your foot off the clutch pedal  
except when shifting gears. Also,  
do not use the clutch to hold the  
vehicle on an upgrade. Riding the  
clutch will cause needless clutch  
wear and damage.  
transmission  
transmission  
1 to 2  
2 to 3  
3 to 4  
4 to 5  
5 to 6  
15 km/h (9 mph) 18 km/h (11 mph)  
29 km/h (18 mph) 32 km/h (20 mph)  
47 km/h (29 mph) 44 km/h (27 mph)  
61 km/h (38 mph) 56 km/h (35 mph)  
―
68 km/h (42 mph)  
Ø Do not apply any excessive lateral  
force to the gear lever when  
changing from 5th to 4th gear.  
This could lead to the accidental  
selection of 2nd gear, which can  
result in damage to the  
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.  
transmission.  
Ø 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.  
5-speed  
transmission  
6-speed  
transmission  
Gear  
1 to 2  
24 km/h (15 mph) 23 km/h (14 mph)  
42 km/h (26 mph) 37 km/h (23 mph)  
55 km/h (34 mph) 50 km/h (31 mph)  
66 km/h (41 mph) 56 km/h (35 mph)  
2 to 3  
3 to 4  
4 to 5  
5 to 6  
―
66 km/h (41 mph)  
5-12  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Automatic Transmission Controls  
Various Lockouts:  
Indicates that you must depress the brake pedal to shift (The ignition  
switch must be in the ACC or ON position).  
Indicates the shift lever can be shifted freely into any position.  
NOTE  
The Sport AT has an option that is not included in the traditional automatic transmission giving the  
driver the option of selecting each gear instead of leaving it to the transmission to shift gears. Even if  
you intend to use the automatic transmission functions as a traditional automatic, you should also be  
aware that you can inadvertently shift into manual shift mode and an inappropriate gear may be  
retained as the vehicle speed increases. If you notice the engine speed going higher or hear the  
engine racing, confirm you have not accidentally slipped into manual shift mode (page 5-15).  
5-13  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qTransmission Ranges  
WARNING  
If the engine is running faster than idle,  
do not shift from N or P into a driving  
gear:  
The shift lever must be in P or N to  
operate the starter.  
P (Park)  
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.  
P locks the transmission and prevents the  
rear wheels from rotating.  
WARNING  
Always set the shift lever to P and set  
the parking brake:  
Do not shift into N when driving the  
vehicle:  
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.  
Shifting into N while driving is  
dangerous. Engine braking cannot be  
applied when decelerating which  
could lead to an accident or serious  
injury.  
CAUTION  
Ø Shifting into P, N or R while the  
vehicle is moving can damage  
your transmission.  
Ø Shifting into a driving gear or  
reverse when the engine is running  
faster than idle can damage the  
transmission.  
CAUTION  
Do not shift into N when driving the  
vehicle. Doing so can cause  
transmission damage.  
NOTE  
Apply the parking brake or depress the brake  
pedal before moving the shift lever from N to  
prevent the vehicle from moving unexpectedly.  
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 4-8).  
D (Drive)  
D is the normal driving position. From a  
stop, the transmission will automatically  
shift through a 6-gear sequence.  
Temporary use of the direct mode is  
possible.  
N (Neutral)  
Refer to Direct Mode on page 5-19.  
In N, the wheels and transmission are not  
locked. The vehicle will roll freely even  
on the slightest incline unless the parking  
brake or brakes are on.  
M (Manual)  
M is the manual shift mode position.  
Gears can be shifted up or down by  
operating the shift lever or steering shift  
switches.  
Refer to Manual Shift Mode (page 5-15).  
5-14  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
l
qActive Adaptive Shift (AAS)  
When the ignition switch is in the LOCK  
position, the shift lever cannot be shifted  
from P.  
To be sure the vehicle is in park, the  
ignition key cannot be removed unless the  
shift lever is in P.  
Active Adaptive Shift (AAS)  
automatically controls the transmission  
shift points to best suit the road conditions  
and driver input. This optimizes engine  
performance and improves driving  
comfort. When cornering the vehicle,  
AAS mode will hold the transmission in  
the gear the vehicle was in before entering  
the curve, allowing the vehicle to be  
accelerated from the same gear after  
exiting the curve.  
If the driver accelerates rapidly, or  
accelerates and decelerates rapidly by  
operating the accelerator and brake pedal  
for a certain period of time while the  
selector lever is in the D position, AAS  
mode could activate. When this occurs,  
AAS mode will maintain the transmission  
in the optimum gear and the driver may  
sense that the transmission is not shifting,  
however this does not indicate an  
abnormality.  
l
l
(With Advanced Key)  
The ignition switch cannot be turned from  
the ACC to the LOCK position when the  
shift lever is not in P.  
qManual Shift Mode  
This mode gives you the feel of driving a  
manual transmission vehicle by operating  
the shift lever and allows you to control  
engine rpm and torque to the rear wheels  
much like a manual transmission when  
more control is desired.  
To change to manual shift mode, shift the  
lever from D to M.  
NOTE  
Changing to manual shift mode while driving  
will not damage the transmission.  
qShift-Lock System  
The shift-lock system prevents shifting  
out of P unless the brake pedal is  
depressed.  
To shift from P:  
1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.  
2. Start the engine.  
3. Move the shift lever.  
To return to automatic shift mode, shift  
the lever from M to D.  
5-15  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
Shifting  
l
If you change to manual shift mode when  
You can shift gears up and down by  
operating the shift lever or the steering  
shift switches.  
the vehicle is stopped, the gear will shift to  
M1.  
If you change to manual shift mode without  
l
NOTE  
depressing the accelerator pedal when  
driving in D range, 5th gear, the gear will  
shift to M4.  
l
If the steering shift switches on both sides  
(left and right) are operated simultaneously,  
the gear will shift once.  
l
If you change to manual shift mode without  
l
The gear will not shift if:  
depressing the accelerator pedal when  
driving in D range, 6th gear, the gear will  
shift to M5.  
l
The steering shift switch and the shift  
lever are operated simultaneously.  
The UP switch and DOWN switch are  
l
Indicators  
operated simultaneously.  
Shift position indicator  
Manually Shifting up  
In manual shift mode, the “M” of the shift  
position indicator in the instrument panel  
illuminates.  
(M1 → M2 → M3 → M4 → M5 → M6)  
To shift up to a higher gear, tap the shift  
lever back ( ) once.  
Gear position indicator  
The numeral for the selected gear  
illuminates.  
Shift position  
indicator  
Gear position  
indicator  
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 protect the  
transmission).  
5-16  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
To shift up to a higher gear with the  
steering shift switches, tap either of the  
UP switches toward you once with your  
fingers.  
Manually Shifting down  
( M6 → M5 → M4 → M3 → M2 →  
M1)  
To shift down to a lower gear, tap the shift  
lever forward ( ) once.  
UP switches  
WARNING  
Keep your hands on the steering wheel  
rim when using fingers or thumbs on  
the steering shift switches:  
To shift down to a lower gear with the  
steering shift switches, press either of the  
DOWN switches away from you once  
with your thumb.  
Putting your hands inside the rim of  
the steering wheel when using the  
steering shift switches is dangerous.  
If the driver's air bag were to deploy  
in a collision, your hands could be  
impacted causing injury.  
DOWN switches  
NOTE  
l
When driving slowly, the gears may not  
shift up depending on vehicle speed.  
l
In manual shift mode, gears do not shift up  
automatically. Do not run the engine with  
the tachometer needle in the RED ZONE. If  
the tachometer needle enters the RED  
ZONE, you may feel engine-braking  
because the fuel delivery will be stopped to  
protect the engine. However, this does not  
indicate an abnormality.  
l
When depressing the accelerator fully, the  
transmission will shift to a lower gear,  
depending on vehicle speed (Except M2 →  
M1).  
5-17  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Shifting specification  
Shifting up  
WARNING  
Do not use engine braking on slippery  
road surfaces or at high speeds:  
Shifting down while driving on wet,  
snowy, or frozen roads, or while  
driving at high speeds causes sudden  
engine braking, which is dangerous.  
The sudden change in tire speed  
could cause the tires to skid. This  
could lead to loss of vehicle control  
and an accident.  
If the vehicle speed is lower than the  
speed specified for each gear, the gear  
cannot be shifted up to a higher gear.  
Gear  
Vehicle speed  
Between 0 and 18 km/h  
(0 and 11 mph), depending on how  
much the accelerator pedal is  
depressed.  
M1 → M2  
Between 22 and 32 km/h  
(13 and 19 mph), depending on how  
much the accelerator pedal is  
depressed.  
M2 → M3  
M3 → M4  
Keep your hands on the steering wheel  
rim when using fingers or thumbs on  
the steering shift switches:  
Between 40 and 48 km/h  
(25 and 29 mph), depending on how  
much the accelerator pedal is  
depressed.  
Putting your hands inside the rim of  
the steering wheel when using the  
steering shift switches is dangerous.  
If the driver's air bag were to deploy  
in a collision, your hands could be  
impacted causing injury.  
M4 → M5  
M5 → M6  
Between 50 and 68 km/h  
(31 and 42 mph), depending on how  
much the accelerator pedal is  
depressed.  
Shifting down  
NOTE  
l
If the vehicle speed is higher than the  
speed specified for each gear, the gear  
cannot be shifted to a lower gear so as to  
protect the transmission.  
When driving at high speeds, the gear may  
not shift down depending on vehicle speed.  
l
During deceleration, the gear may  
automatically shift down depending on  
vehicle speed.  
Gear  
M5 → M4  
Vehicle speed  
164 km/h (102 mph)  
117 km/h (72 mph)  
80 km/h (49 mph)  
35 km/h (21 mph)  
l
When depressing the accelerator fully, the  
transmission will shift to a lower gear,  
depending on vehicle speed (Except M2 →  
M1).  
M4 → M3  
M3 → M2  
M2 → M1  
Second gear fixed mode  
NOTE  
Regarding the vehicle speed at the highest  
gear indicated above, achieving this speed  
may not actually be possible depending on  
various driving conditions such as the wind,  
upslope, and road surface.  
When the shift lever is tapped back (  
while the vehicle is stopped, the  
transmission is set in the second gear  
fixed mode. The gear is fixed in second  
while in this mode for easier starting and  
driving on slippery roads. If the shift lever  
is tapped back ( ) or forward ( ) while  
in the second gear fixed mode, the mode  
will be canceled.  
)
5-18  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
For cruising  
During deceleration, the gears shift down  
automatically when speed is reduced to  
the following:  
Gear  
M1 to M2  
M2 to M3  
M3 to M4  
M4 to M5  
M5 to M6  
Vehicle speed  
22 km/h (14 mph)  
27 km/h (17 mph)  
41 km/h (26 mph)  
56 km/h (35 mph)  
64 km/h (40 mph)  
Gear  
M6 → M5  
Vehicle speed  
47 km/h (29 mph)  
M5 → M4  
M4 → M3  
M3 → M2  
M2 → M1  
38 km/h (23 mph)  
20 km/h (12 mph)  
15 km/h (9 mph)  
12 km/h (7 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.  
NOTE  
The gear does not shift down to M1  
automatically while in the second gear fixed  
mode.  
If the vehicle is kicked down at the  
following speeds or lower, the gears shift  
down automatically:  
On a steep downgrade, downshifting  
helps maintain safe speed and prolongs  
brake life.  
Gear  
M6 → M5  
Vehicle speed  
190 km/h (118 mph)  
125 km/h (77 mph)  
125 km/h (77 mph)  
78 km/h (48 mph)  
78 km/h (48 mph)  
50 km/h (31 mph)  
50 km/h (31 mph)  
qDirect Modeí  
M6 → M4  
M5 → M4  
M5 → M3  
M4 → M3  
M4 → M2  
M3 → M2  
Direct mode can be used for temporarily  
switching gears by operating the steering  
shift switch while the vehicle is being  
driven with the selector lever in the D  
range.  
While in direct mode, the D and M  
indicator lights illuminate and the gear  
position in use is illuminated.  
Recommendations for shifting  
Upshifting  
Direct mode is canceled (released) under  
the following conditions.  
For normal acceleration and cruising, we  
recommend these shift points.  
l
The vehicle is driven at a constant  
speed.  
Gear  
M1 to M2  
Vehicle speed  
24 km/h (15 mph)  
l
The needle in the tachometer  
approaches the red zone.  
The vehicle is driven at a constant  
speed and the accelerator pedal is  
heavily depressed.  
M2 to M3  
M3 to M4  
M4 to M5  
M5 to M6  
40 km/h (25 mph)  
53 km/h (33 mph)  
59 km/h (37 mph)  
78 km/h (49 mph)  
l
íSome models.  
5-19  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
l
The vehicle is stopped or moving at a  
slow speed.  
qDriving Tips  
WARNING  
Do not allow the vehicle to move in  
reverse on an up-slope while the  
selector lever is in a forward gear  
position, or move forward on a down-  
slope while the selector lever is in the  
reverse position.  
Otherwise, the engine will stop,  
causing the loss of the power brake  
and power steering functions, and  
make it difficult to control the vehicle  
which could result in an accident.  
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.  
Direct mode indicator  
Gear position indicator  
Climbing steep grades from a stop  
To climb a steep grade from a stopped  
position:  
NOTE  
Shifting up and down while in direct mode may  
not be possible depending on the vehicle  
speed. In addition, because direct mode is  
canceled (released) depending on the rate of  
acceleration or if the accelerator is fully  
depressed, use of the manual shift mode is  
recommended if you need to drive the vehicle  
in a particular gear for long periods.  
1. Depress the brake pedal.  
2. Shift to D or M1, depending on the  
load weight and grade steepness.  
3. Release the brake pedal while  
gradually accelerating.  
Descending steep grades  
When descending a steep grade, shift to  
lower gears, depending on load weight  
and grade steepness. Descend slowly,  
using the brakes only occasionally to  
prevent them from overheating.  
5-20  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Power Steering  
Cruise Controlí  
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.  
With cruise control, you can set and  
automatically maintain any speed of more  
than about 30 km/h (19 mph).  
WARNING  
Do not use the cruise control under the  
following conditions:  
If the steering feels stiffer than usual  
during normal driving, consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Using the cruise control under the  
following conditions is dangerous  
and could result in loss of vehicle  
control.  
Ø Hilly terrain  
Ø Steep inclines  
Ø Heavy or unsteady traffic  
Ø Slippery or winding roads  
Ø Similar restrictions that require  
inconsistent speed  
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.  
qCruise Main Indicator Light  
(Amber)/Cruise Set Indicator  
Light (Green)  
The indicator light has two colors.  
Cruise Main Indicator Light (Amber)  
The indicator light illuminates amber  
when the ON/OFF switch is pressed and  
the cruise control system is activated.  
Cruise Set Indicator Light (Green)  
The indicator light illuminates green when  
a cruising speed has been set.  
íSome models.  
5-21  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
3. Press down the cruise control SET/-  
switch and release it at the speed you  
want. Release the accelerator  
simultaneously.  
qActivation/Deactivation  
To activate the system, press the ON/OFF  
switch.  
The cruise main indicator light  
illuminates.  
To deactivate the system, press the switch  
again.  
The cruise main indicator light turns off.  
Cruise  
control  
switch  
Do not continue to hold the switch. Until  
you release it, speed will continue to drop  
(unless you continue to accelerate) and  
you'll miss the desired speed.  
NOTE  
l
On a steep grade, the vehicle may  
WARNING  
Keep the ON/OFF switch off when  
cruise control is not in use:  
momentarily slow down while ascending,  
or speed up while descending.  
Cruise control will turn off if vehicle speed  
l
Leaving the ON/OFF switch on when  
not using the cruise control is  
dangerous as you may hit one of the  
other buttons and put the vehicle in  
cruise control unexpectedly. This  
could result in loss of vehicle control.  
drops below 30 km/h (19 mph) when cruise  
is activated, such as when climbing a steep  
grade.  
qTo Set Speed  
1. Activate the cruise control system by  
pressing the ON/OFF switch.  
2. Accelerate to the desired speed, which  
must be more than 30 km/h (19 mph).  
5-22  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
To increase speed using accelerator  
pedal  
qTo Increase Cruising Speed  
Follow either of these procedures.  
Depress the accelerator pedal to accelerate  
to the desired speed.  
Press down the cruise control SET/-  
switch and release it immediately.  
To increase speed using cruise control  
switch  
Press up the cruise control RES/+ switch  
and hold it. Your vehicle will accelerate.  
Release the switch at the speed you want.  
Cruise  
control  
switch  
Cruise  
control  
switch  
NOTE  
Accelerate if you want to speed up temporarily  
when the cruise control is on. Greater speed  
will not interfere with or change the set speed.  
Take your foot off the accelerator to return to  
the set speed.  
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 cruise control RES/  
+ switch. Multiple taps will increase your  
vehicle speed 1.6 km/h (1 mph) for each  
tap.  
qTo Decrease Cruising Speed  
Press down the cruise control SET/-  
switch and hold it. The vehicle will  
gradually slow.  
Release the switch at the speed you want.  
Cruise  
control  
switch  
5-23  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
l
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 cruise control SET/-  
switch. Multiple taps will decrease your  
vehicle speed 1.6 km/h (1 mph) for each  
tap.  
Press the CANCEL switch.  
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 (such as applying the brake pedal)  
and the system is still activated, the most  
recent set speed will automatically resume  
when the cruise control RES/+ switch is  
pressed up.  
If vehicle speed is below 30 km/h (19  
mph), increase the vehicle speed up to 30  
km/h (19 mph) or more and press up the  
cruise control RES/+ switch.  
The system turns off when the ignition is  
switched off.  
NOTE  
Cruise control will cancel at about 15 km/h (9  
mph) below the preset speed (such as may  
happen when climbing a long, steep grade).  
Cruise  
control  
switch  
qTo Cancel  
To cancel the system, use one of these  
methods:  
l
Press the ON/OFF switch.  
Slightly depress the brake pedal.  
Depress the clutch pedal (Manual  
l
l
transmission only).  
5-24  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qTCS/DSC Indicator Light  
Traction Control System  
(TCS)í  
The Traction Control System (TCS)  
enhances traction and safety by  
controlling engine torque and braking.  
When the TCS detects driving wheel  
slippage, it lowers engine torque and  
operates the brakes to prevent loss of  
traction.  
This indicator light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position. If the TCS or DSC is  
operating, the indicator light flashes.  
This means that on a slick surface, the  
engine adjusts automatically to provide  
optimum power to the drive wheels  
without causing them to spin and lose  
traction.  
If the light stays on, the TCS or DSC may  
have a malfunction and they may not  
operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
WARNING  
NOTE  
l
Do not rely on the traction control  
system as a substitute for safe driving:  
The traction control system (TCS)  
cannot compensate for unsafe and  
reckless driving, excessive speed,  
tailgating (following another vehicle  
too closely), and hydroplaning  
(reduced tire friction and road  
contact because of water on the road  
surface). You can still have an  
accident.  
In addition to the indicator light flashing, a  
slight lugging sound will come from the  
engine. This indicates that the TCS is  
operating properly.  
On slippery surfaces, such as fresh snow, it  
will be impossible to achieve high rpm  
when the TCS is on.  
l
Use snow tires or tire chains and drive  
at reduced speeds when roads are  
covered with ice and/or snow:  
Driving without proper traction  
devices on snow and/or ice-covered  
roads is dangerous. The traction  
control system (TCS) alone cannot  
provide adequate traction and you  
could still have an accident.  
NOTE  
To turn off the TCS, press the DSC OFF switch  
(page 5-27).  
íSome models.  
5-25  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Dynamic Stability Control  
(DSC)í  
CAUTION  
Ø The DSC may not operate correctly  
unless the following are observed:  
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)  
automatically controls braking and engine  
torque in conjunction with systems such  
as ABS and TCS to help control side slip  
when driving on slippery surfaces, or  
during sudden or evasive maneuvering,  
enhancing vehicle safety.  
Ø
Ø
Ø
Use tires of the correct size  
specified for your Mazda on all  
four wheels.  
Use tires of the same  
manufacturer, brand and tread  
pattern on all four wheels.  
Do not mix worn tires.  
Ø The DSC may not operate correctly  
when tire chains are used or a  
temporary spare tire is installed  
because the tire diameter changes.  
Ø If repair or replacement of the  
steering or other surrounding  
equipment is necessary, have it  
done at an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer. If the center position of the  
steering deviates, the DSC may not  
operate correctly because there is  
a sensor in the steering which  
detects driving conditions.  
Refer to ABS (page 5-8) and TCS (page  
5-25).  
WARNING  
Do not rely on the dynamic stability  
control as a substitute for safe driving:  
The dynamic stability control (DSC)  
cannot compensate for unsafe and  
reckless driving, excessive speed,  
tailgating (following another vehicle  
too closely), and hydroplaning  
(reduced tire friction and road  
contact because of water on the road  
surface). You can still have an  
accident.  
qTCS/DSC Indicator Light  
This indicator light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position. If the TCS or DSC is  
operating, the indicator light flashes.  
If the light stays on, the TCS or DSC may  
have a malfunction and they may not  
operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-26  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qDSC OFF Indicator Light  
qDSC OFF Switch  
Press the DSC OFF switch to turn off the  
TCS/DSC. The DSC OFF indicator light  
will illuminate.  
This indicator light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
It also illuminates when the DSC OFF  
switch is pressed and TCS/DSC is  
switched off (page 5-27).  
If the light stays on when the TCS/DSC is  
not switched off, take your vehicle to an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer. The dynamic  
stability control may have a malfunction.  
Press the switch again to turn the TCS/  
DSC back on. The DSC OFF indicator  
light will go out.  
NOTE  
If the battery is disconnected or a fuse is  
replaced, the DSC will be inoperable. In this  
case, the DSC OFF indicator light flashes and  
the TCS/DSC indicator light illuminates.  
To make the DSC operable, do the following  
procedure with the battery connected.  
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.  
2. Turn the steering clockwise fully, then turn  
it counterclockwise fully.  
3. Make sure the DSC OFF indicator turn off.  
4. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF  
position, then turn it to the ON position  
again.  
5. Make sure the TCS/DSC indicator light  
turns off.  
If the TCS/DSC indicator light and the DSC  
OFF indicator light remain illuminated even  
after turning the ignition switch to the ON  
position, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-27  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
l
When DSC is on and you attempt to free the  
vehicle when it is stuck, or drive it out of  
freshly fallen snow, the TCS (part of the  
DSC system) will activate. Depressing the  
accelerator will not increase engine power  
and freeing the vehicle may be difficult.  
When this happens, turn off the TCS/DSC.  
l
If the TCS/DSC is off when the engine is  
turned off, it automatically activates when  
the ignition switch is turned on.  
l
Leaving the TCS/DSC on will provide the  
best stability. When the TCS/DSC is off, the  
TCS/DSC does not activate but the brake  
LSD (Limited Slip Differentials) function  
remains.  
l
If the DSC OFF switch is pressed and held  
for a second or more, the TCS/DSC system  
may become inoperative due to the system  
detecting switch trouble. If the TCS/DSC  
system becomes inoperative, the TCS/DSC  
and the DSC OFF indicator lights  
illuminate simultaneously. In this case, turn  
off the engine and restart it to restore the  
TCS/DSC.  
5-28  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
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.  
The tire pressure sensors installed on each wheel send tire pressure data by radio signal to  
the receiver unit in the vehicle.  
Tire pressure sensors  
NOTE  
When the ambient temperature is low due to seasonal changes, tire temperatures are also lower.  
When the tire temperature decreases, the air pressure decreases as well. The TPMS warning light  
may illuminate more frequently. Visually inspect the tires daily before driving, and check tire  
pressures monthly with a tire pressure gauge. When checking tire pressures, use of a digital tire  
pressure gauge is recommended.  
TPMS does not alleviate your need to check the pressure and condition of all four tires  
regularly.  
íSome models.  
5-29  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
CAUTION  
Ø Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold  
and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer  
on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a  
different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation  
pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those  
tires.)  
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure  
monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one  
or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire  
pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as  
possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-  
inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation  
also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's  
handling and stopping ability.  
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it  
is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-  
inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire  
pressure telltale.  
Ø Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to  
indicate when the system is not operating properly.  
The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale.  
When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately  
one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will  
continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists.  
When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to  
detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a  
variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or  
wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always  
check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on  
your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow  
the TPMS to continue to function properly.  
Ø To avoid false readings, the system samples for a little while before indicating a  
problem. As a result it will not instantaneously register a rapid tire deflation or  
blow out.  
NOTE  
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two  
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any  
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.  
5-30  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qTire Pressure Monitoring System  
WARNING  
Warning Light  
If the tire pressure monitoring system  
warning light illuminates or flashes, or  
the tire pressure warning beep sound is  
heard, decrease vehicle speed  
immediately and avoid sudden  
maneuvering and braking:  
If the tire pressure monitoring system  
warning light illuminates or flashes,  
or the tire pressure warning beep  
sound is heard, it is dangerous to  
drive the vehicle at high speeds, or  
perform sudden maneuvering or  
braking. Vehicle drivability could  
worsen and result in an accident.  
To determine if you have a slow leak  
or a flat, pull over to a safe position  
where you can check the visual  
condition of the tire and determine if  
you have enough air to proceed to a  
place where air may be added and  
the system monitored again by an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer or a tire  
repair station.  
This warning light illuminates for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
Thereafter, the warning light illuminates  
and a beep is heard when tire pressure is  
too low in one or more tires, and flashes  
when there is a system malfunction.  
Do not ignore the TPMS Warning Light:  
Ignoring the TPMS warning light is  
dangerous, even if you know why it is  
illuminated. Have the problem taken  
care of as soon as possible before it  
develops into a more serious  
situation that could lead to tire  
failure and a dangerous accident.  
Warning light illuminates/Warning  
beep sounds  
When the warning light illuminates, and  
the warning beep sound is heard (about 3  
seconds), tire pressure is too low in one or  
more tires.  
5-31  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Adjust the tire pressure to the correct tire  
pressure. Refer to the specification charts  
(page 10-7).  
NOTE  
l
Perform tire pressure adjustment when the  
tires are cold. Tire pressure will vary  
according to the tire temperature, therefore  
let the vehicle stand for 1 hour or only drive  
it 1.6 km (1 mile) or less before adjusting  
the tire pressures. When pressure is  
adjusted on hot tires to the cold inflation  
pressure, the TPMS warning light/beep may  
turn on after the tires cool and pressure  
drops below specification.  
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.  
Also, an illuminated TPMS warning light,  
resulting from the tire air pressure dropping  
due to cold ambient temperature, may turn  
off 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.  
l
After adjusting the tire air pressures, it may  
require some time for the TPMS warning  
light to turn off. 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 turns off.  
Tires lose air naturally over time and the  
TPMS cannot tell if the tires are getting too  
soft over time or you have a flat. However,  
when you find one low tire in a set of four-  
that is an indication of trouble; you should  
have someone drive the vehicle slowly  
forward so you can inspect any low tire for  
cuts and any metal objects sticking through  
tread or sidewall. Put a few drops of water  
in the valve stem to see if it bubbles  
l
indicating a bad valve. Leaks need to be  
addressed by more than simply refilling the  
trouble tire as leaks are dangerous - take it  
to an Authorized Mazda Dealer which has  
all the equipment to fix tires, TPMS systems  
and order the best replacement tire for your  
vehicle.  
5-32  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
If the warning light illuminates again even  
after the tire pressures are adjusted, there  
may be a tire puncture.  
Refer to Vehicle with run-flat tires on  
page 7-3.  
Warning light illuminates/Warning  
beep sounds  
If the tire pressures decrease extremely  
after the TPMS warning light has  
illuminated, or if a tire is punctured, the  
flat tire warning light also illuminates, and  
a beep sound will be heard for  
approximately 30 seconds.  
Vehicles with Instant Mobility System  
(IMS) emergency flat tire repair kit  
If an emergency tire repair is needed,  
repair the punctured tire with the  
Refer to Vehicle with run-flat tires on  
page 7-3.  
emergency flat tire repair kit (page 7-7).  
qSystem Error Activation  
CAUTION  
Do not use non-genuine tire sealant.  
It may damage the tire pressure  
sensor.  
When the TPMS warning light flashes,  
there may be a system malfunction.  
Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
A system error activation may occur in  
the following cases:  
Vehicles with optional temporary spare  
tire  
l
When there is equipment or a device  
near the vehicle using the same radio  
frequency as that of the tire pressure  
sensors.  
If you have bought the optional temporary  
spare tire, replace the punctured tire with  
the temporary spare tire. Refer to the  
manufacturer's instructions.  
l
When a metallic device such as a non-  
genuine navigation system is equipped  
near the center of the dashboard, which  
may block radio signals from the tire  
pressure sensor to the receiver unit.  
Warning light flashes  
When the warning light flashes, there may  
be a system malfunction. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
l
When using the following devices in  
the vehicle that may cause radio  
interference with the receiver unit.  
l
qFlat Tire Warning Light  
A digital device such as a personal  
computer.  
A current converter device such as a  
l
DC-AC converter.  
When excess snow or ice adheres to  
l
the vehicle, especially around the  
wheels.  
When the tire pressure sensor batteries  
l
are exhausted.  
When using a wheel with no tire  
pressure sensor installed.  
When using tires with steel wire  
This warning light illuminates for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
l
l
reinforcement in the side walls.  
When using tire chains.  
l
5-33  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
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.  
qTires and Wheels  
CAUTION  
When inspecting or adjusting the tire  
air pressures, do not apply excessive  
force to the stem part of the wheel  
unit. The stem part could be  
damaged.  
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.  
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.  
Replacing tires and wheels  
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.  
CAUTION  
Ø 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.  
Ø 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.  
When having tires changed at an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer  
Tire pressure sensor ID signal code  
registration is completed when an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer changes your  
vehicle's tires.  
When changing tires yourself  
Be sure to have the tire pressure sensors  
installed whenever tires or wheels are  
replaced.  
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 having a tire or wheel or both  
replaced, the following types of tire  
pressure sensor installations are possible.  
1. After tires have been changed, turn the  
ignition switch to the ON position, then  
turn it back to the ACC or LOCK  
position.  
l
The tire pressure sensor is removed  
from the old wheel and installed to the  
new one.  
The same tire pressure sensor is used  
l
with the same wheel. Only the tire is  
replaced.  
2. Wait for about 15 minutes.  
5-34  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
l
A new tire pressure sensor is installed  
to a new wheel.  
NOTE  
l
The tire pressure sensor ID signal code  
must be registered when a new tire pressure  
sensor is purchased. For purchase of a tire  
pressure sensor and registration of the tire  
pressure sensor ID signal code, consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
l
When reinstalling a previously removed tire  
pressure sensor to a wheel, replace the  
grommet (seal between valve body/sensor  
and wheel) for the tire pressure sensor.  
5-35  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
Meters and Gauges  
Speedometer ...................................................................................................... page 5-37  
Odometer, Trip Meter, Average Fuel Economy Display, Outside Temperature Display  
and Selector ....................................................................................................... page 5-37  
Tachometer ........................................................................................................ page 5-38  
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge .................................................................. page 5-39  
Fuel Gauge ........................................................................................................ page 5-39  
Dashboard Illumination ..................................................................................... page 5-40  
Engine Oil Pressure Gauge ................................................................................ page 5-40  
5-36  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
qSpeedometer  
The speedometer indicates the speed of  
the vehicle.  
Odometer  
q
Odometer, Trip Meter, Average  
Fuel Economy Display, Outside  
Temperature Display and Selector  
Trip meter A  
Odometer  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position.  
Trip meter B  
Odometer  
Each time the selector is pressed the  
display switches in the order of trip meter  
A, trip meter B, the average fuel economy  
display and the outside temperature  
display.  
Average fuel  
economy  
Odometer  
Selector  
Outside  
temperature  
Odometer  
Odometer  
The odometer records the total distance  
the vehicle has been driven.  
Trip Meter  
Average Fuel Economy Display  
Outside Temperature Display  
Trip meter  
The trip meter can record the total  
distance of two trips. One is recorded in  
trip meter A, and the other is recorded in  
trip meter B.  
For instance, trip meter A can record the  
distance from the point of origin, and trip  
meter B can record the distance from  
where the fuel tank is filled.  
When trip meter A is selected, pressing  
the selector again within one second will  
change to trip meter B mode.  
When trip meter A is selected, TRIP A  
will be displayed. When trip meter B is  
selected, TRIP B will be displayed.  
5-37  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
The trip meter records the total distance  
the vehicle is driven until the meter is  
again reset. Return it to “0.0” by holding  
the selector depressed for 1 second or  
more. Use this meter to measure trip  
distances and to compute fuel  
NOTE  
(Temperature unit change function)í  
To change the outside temperature display  
from Fahrenheit (°F) to Centigrade (°C),  
press and hold the selector for several  
seconds while the outside temperature is  
displayed.  
l
consumption.  
l
Under the following conditions, the ambient  
temperature display may differ from the  
actual ambient temperature depending on  
the surroundings and vehicle conditions:  
NOTE  
l
Only the trip meters record tenths of  
kilometers (miles).  
l
The trip record will be erased when:  
l
Significantly cold or hot temperatures.  
Sudden changes in ambient temperature.  
The vehicle is parked.  
l
The power supply is interrupted (blown  
l
fuse or the battery is disconnected).  
The vehicle is driven over 999.9 km  
l
l
l
The vehicle is driven at low speeds.  
(mile).  
qTachometer  
Average fuel economy display  
This mode displays the average fuel  
economy by calculating the total fuel  
consumption and the total traveled  
distance since purchasing the vehicle, re-  
connecting the battery after disconnection,  
or resetting the data. The average fuel  
economy is calculated and displayed  
every minute.  
The tachometer shows engine speed in  
thousands of revolutions per minute  
(rpm).  
Manual Transmission  
Red zone  
To clear the data being displayed, press  
the selector for more than 1 second. After  
pressing the selector, - - - L/100 km (- - -  
mpg) will be displayed for about 1 minute  
before the fuel economy is recalculated  
and displayed.  
Outside temperature display  
This mode displays the outside  
temperature.  
5-38  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
Automatic Transmission  
CAUTION  
Driving with an overheated engine  
can cause serious engine damage  
(page 7-18).  
Red zone  
qFuel Gauge  
The fuel gauge shows approximately how  
much fuel is remaining in the tank when  
the ignition switch is in the ON position.  
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  
Do not run the engine with the  
tachometer needle in the RED ZONE.  
This may cause severe engine  
damage.  
Low fuel  
warning light  
q
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge  
The engine coolant temperature gauge  
shows the temperature of the engine  
coolant.  
NOTE  
l
After refueling, it may require some time for  
the needle to stabilize. In addition, the  
needle may deviate while driving on a slope  
or curve since the fuel moves in the tank.  
l
The direction of the arrow (  
) shows that  
the fuel-filler lid is on the left side of the  
vehicle.  
If the needle is near H, it indicates  
overheating.  
5-39  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
qEngine Oil Pressure Gauge  
qDashboard Illumination  
When the exterior lights are on, rotate the  
knob to adjust the brightness of the  
dashboard lights.  
Normal range  
Dim  
Bright  
Engine oil pressure is normal when the  
engine oil pressure gauge needle points  
within the normal range.  
NOTE  
If the needle on the gauge doesn't move  
after starting the engine, follow steps 1  
through 3.  
This symbol ( ) indicates the knob to adjust  
the brightness of the dashboard illumination.  
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 8-19). If it's low,  
add oil.  
2. Start the engine.  
3. If the needle still doesn't move, have  
your vehicle checked at an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
CAUTION  
Don't run the engine if the oil  
pressure is low. It could result in  
extensive engine damage.  
5-40  
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  
5-43  
Charging System Warning Light  
Check Engine Light  
5-44  
5-45  
5-43  
5-45  
5-46  
5-46  
ABS Warning Light  
Air Bag/Seat Belt Pretensioner System Warning Light  
Low Fuel Warning Light  
Seat Belt Warning Light/Beep  
5-41  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Signal  
Warning/Indicator Lights  
Door-Ajar Warning Light  
Page  
5-47  
Automatic Transmission Warning Light  
5-47  
5-48  
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light  
Flat Tire Warning Light  
5-50  
5-50  
5-52  
5-52  
5-52  
5-53  
5-53  
5-53  
5-54  
KEY Warning Light (Red)/KEY Indicator Light (Green)  
Security Indicator Light  
Headlight High-Beam Indicator Light  
Shift Position Indicator Light  
TCS/DSC Indicator Light  
DSC OFF Indicator Light  
Cruise Main Indicator Light (Amber)/Cruise Set Indicator Light (Green)  
Turn Signal/Hazard Warning Indicator Lights  
5-42  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
NOTE  
qBrake System Warning Light  
Having to add brake fluid is sometimes an  
indicator of leakage. Consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible even if the  
brake light is no longer illuminated.  
WARNING  
Do not drive with the brake system  
warning light illuminated. Contact an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the  
brakes inspected as soon as possible:  
Driving with the brake system  
This warning has the following functions:  
Parking brake warning  
The light illuminates when the parking  
brake is applied with the ignition switch  
in the START or ON position. It turns off  
when the parking brake is fully released.  
warning light illuminated is  
dangerous. It indicates that your  
brakes may not work at all or that  
they could completely fail at any  
time. If this light remains  
Low brake fluid level warning  
If the light stays on after the parking brake  
is fully released, you may have a brake  
problem.  
illuminated, after checking that the  
parking brake is fully released, have  
the brakes inspected immediately.  
Drive to the side of the road and park off  
the right-of-way.  
qABS Warning Light  
You may notice that the pedal is harder to  
depress 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, open the  
hood and check the brake fluid level  
immediately, and then add fluid if  
required (page 8-22).  
The warning light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
2. After adding fluid, check the light  
again.  
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.  
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.  
Should this happen, consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.  
Even if the light turns off have your brake  
system inspected as soon as possible by  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-43  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
NOTE  
WARNING  
l
When the engine is jump-started to charge  
the battery, uneven rpm occurs and the ABS  
warning light may illuminate. If this occurs,  
it is the result of the weak battery and does  
not indicate an ABS malfunction.  
Do not drive with both the ABS warning  
light and brake warning light  
illuminated. Have the vehicle towed to  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer to have  
the brakes inspected as soon as  
possible:  
Recharge the battery.  
l
(With DSC vehicles)  
Driving when the brake system  
warning light and ABS warning light  
are illuminated simultaneously is  
dangerous.  
When both lights are illuminated, the  
rear wheels could lock more quickly  
in an emergency stop than under  
normal circumstances.  
The brake assist system does not operate  
while the ABS warning light is illuminated.  
qElectronic Brake Force  
Distribution System Warning  
qCharging System Warning Light  
If the electronic brake force distribution  
control unit determines that some  
components are operating incorrectly, the  
control unit may illuminate the brake  
system warning light and the ABS  
warning light on simultaneously. The  
problem is likely to be the electronic  
brake force distribution system.  
This warning light illuminates when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position and turns off when the engine is  
started.  
If the warning light illuminates while  
driving, it indicates a malfunction of the  
alternator or of the charging system.  
Drive to the side of the road and park off  
the right-of-way. Consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
CAUTION  
Do not continue driving when the  
charging system warning light is  
illuminated because the engine could  
stop unexpectedly.  
5-44  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qCheck Engine Light  
qAir Bag/Seat Belt Pretensioner  
System Warning Light  
This indicator light illuminates when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position and turns off when the engine is  
started.  
If the air bag/seat belt pretensioner system  
is working properly, the warning light  
illuminates when the ignition switch is  
turned to the ON position or after the  
engine is cranked. The warning light turns  
off after a specified period of time.  
If this light illuminates while driving, the  
vehicle may have a problem. It is  
important to note the driving conditions  
when the light illuminated and consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
A system malfunction is indicated if the  
warning light constantly flashes,  
constantly illuminates or does not  
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 check engine light may illuminate in  
the following cases:  
l
The fuel tank level being very low or  
approaching empty.  
The engine's electrical system has a  
l
problem.  
The emission control system has a  
l
WARNING  
problem.  
The fuel-filler cap is missing or not  
Never tamper with the air bag/  
pretensioner systems and always have  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer perform  
all servicing and repairs:  
l
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.  
Self-servicing or tampering with the  
systems is dangerous. An air bag/  
pretensioner could accidentally  
activate or become disabled causing  
serious injury or death.  
5-45  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Belt minder  
qLow Fuel Warning Light  
NOTE  
Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer to  
deactivate or restore the belt minder. Though  
the belt minder can be deactivated, doing so  
will defeat the purpose of the system to warn  
the driver and the front passenger in the event  
that their seat belts are not fastened. For the  
safety of the driver and front passenger, Mazda  
recommends not deactivating the belt minder.  
Low fuel  
warning light  
This warning light signals that the fuel  
tank will soon be empty.  
Refuel as soon as possible.  
Driver seated/Passenger not seated  
The belt minder is a supplemental  
warning to the seat belt warning function.  
If the driver's seat belt is not fastened  
when the ignition switch is turned to the  
ON position, the warning light/beep  
operates to give you further reminders  
according to the chart below.  
qSeat Belt Warning Light/Beep  
Vehicle speed  
Between 0 ― 20  
km/h  
(0 ― 12 mph)  
20 km/h  
(12 mph) or  
more  
Condition  
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.  
Seat belt  
Indicator  
Beep  
Conditions of operation  
: Fastened  
Condition  
Result  
: Unfastened  
: Illuminated  
: Flashing  
: Beep  
The driver's seat belt is not The warning light  
fastened when the ignition flashes and a beep  
switch is turned to the ON sound will be heard  
position.  
for about 6 seconds.  
The driver's seat belt is  
fastened while the warning  
light and the beep sound are  
activated.  
Once the beep sound is heard, it continues  
sounding even if the vehicle speed lowers  
to 20 km/h (12 mph) or less until the  
seatbelt is fastened or the beep sound  
period has passed.  
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.  
5-46  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Driver seated/Passenger seated  
qDoor-Ajar Warning Light  
The seat belt warning function reminds  
the passenger to fasten the seat belt  
according to the chart below.  
Vehicle speed  
Between 0 ― 20  
km/h  
(0 ― 12 mph)  
20 km/h  
(12 mph) or  
more  
Condition  
Seat belt  
(Driver)  
This warning light illuminates when any  
door is not securely closed.  
Close the door securely before driving the  
vehicle.  
Seat belt  
(Passenger)  
Indicator  
Beep  
qAutomatic Transmission Warning  
Light  
: Fastened  
: Unfastened  
: Illuminated  
: Flashing  
: Beep  
Placing heavy items on the passenger seat  
may cause the passenger seat belt warning  
function to operate depending on the  
weight of the item.  
This warning light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
The light illuminates when the  
transmission has a problem.  
Once the beep sound is heard, it continues  
sounding even if the vehicle speed lowers  
to 20 km/h (12 mph) or less until the  
seatbelt is fastened or the beep sound  
period has passed.  
CAUTION  
NOTE  
If the automatic transmission  
warning light illuminates, 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.  
l
To allow the passenger seat weight sensor  
to function properly, do not place and sit on  
an additional seat cushion on the passenger  
seat. The sensor may not function properly  
because the additional seat cushion could  
cause sensor interference.  
l
When a small child sits on the passenger  
seat, it is possible that neither the warning  
light nor the warning beep operate.  
5-47  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qTire Pressure Monitoring System  
WARNING  
(TPMS) Warning Lightí  
If the tire pressure monitoring system  
warning light illuminates or flashes, or  
the tire pressure warning beep sound is  
heard, decrease vehicle speed  
immediately and avoid sudden  
maneuvering and braking:  
If the tire pressure monitoring system  
warning light illuminates or flashes,  
or the tire pressure warning beep  
sound is heard, it is dangerous to  
drive the vehicle at high speeds, or  
perform sudden maneuvering or  
braking. Vehicle drivability could  
worsen and result in an accident.  
To determine if you have a slow leak  
or a flat, pull over to a safe position  
where you can check the visual  
condition of the tire and determine if  
you have enough air to proceed to a  
place where air may be added and  
the system monitored again by an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer or a tire  
repair station.  
This warning light illuminates for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
Thereafter, the warning light illuminates  
and a beep is heard when tire pressure is  
too low in one or more tires, and flashes  
when there is a system malfunction.  
Do not ignore the TPMS Warning Light:  
Ignoring the TPMS warning light is  
dangerous, even if you know why it is  
illuminated. Have the problem taken  
care of as soon as possible before it  
develops into a more serious  
situation that could lead to tire  
failure and a dangerous accident.  
Warning light illuminates/Warning  
beep sounds  
When the warning light illuminates, and  
the warning beep sound is heard (about 3  
seconds), tire pressure is too low in one or  
more tires.  
5-48  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Adjust the tire pressure to the correct tire  
pressure. Refer to the specification charts  
(page 10-7).  
NOTE  
l
Perform tire pressure adjustment when the  
tires are cold. Tire pressure will vary  
according to the tire temperature, therefore  
let the vehicle stand for 1 hour or only drive  
it 1.6 km (1 mile) or less before adjusting  
the tire pressures. When pressure is  
adjusted on hot tires to the cold inflation  
pressure, the TPMS warning light/beep may  
turn on after the tires cool and pressure  
drops below specification.  
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.  
Also, an illuminated TPMS warning light,  
resulting from the tire air pressure dropping  
due to cold ambient temperature, may turn  
off 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.  
l
After adjusting the tire air pressures, it may  
require some time for the TPMS warning  
light to turn off. 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 turns off.  
Tires lose air naturally over time and the  
TPMS cannot tell if the tires are getting too  
soft over time or you have a flat. However,  
when you find one low tire in a set of four-  
that is an indication of trouble; you should  
have someone drive the vehicle slowly  
forward so you can inspect any low tire for  
cuts and any metal objects sticking through  
tread or sidewall. Put a few drops of water  
in the valve stem to see if it bubbles  
l
indicating a bad valve. Leaks need to be  
addressed by more than simply refilling the  
trouble tire as leaks are dangerous - take it  
to an Authorized Mazda Dealer which has  
all the equipment to fix tires, TPMS systems  
and order the best replacement tire for your  
vehicle.  
5-49  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
If the warning light illuminates again even  
after the tire pressures are adjusted, there  
may be a tire puncture.  
Refer to Vehicle with run-flat tires on  
page 7-3.  
Warning light illuminates/Warning  
beep sounds  
If the tire pressures decrease extremely  
after the TPMS warning light has  
illuminated, or if a tire is punctured, the  
flat tire warning light also illuminates, and  
a beep sound will be heard for  
approximately 30 seconds.  
Vehicles with Instant Mobility System  
(IMS) emergency flat tire repair kit  
If an emergency tire repair is needed,  
repair the punctured tire with the  
Refer to Vehicle with run-flat tires on  
page 7-3.  
emergency flat tire repair kit (page 7-7).  
qKEY Warning Light (Red)/KEY  
Indicator Light (Green) (with  
Advanced Key)  
CAUTION  
Do not use non-genuine tire sealant.  
It may damage the tire pressure  
sensor.  
Vehicles with optional temporary spare  
tire  
If you have bought the optional temporary  
spare tire, replace the punctured tire with  
the temporary spare tire. Refer to the  
manufacturer's instructions.  
This indicator has two colors.  
KEY Warning Light (Red)  
When illuminated  
Warning light flashes  
When the warning light flashes, there may  
be a system malfunction. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
l
When the ignition switch is turned to  
the ON position, it illuminates  
momentarily and then goes out.  
If any malfunction occurs in the  
qFlat Tire Warning Lightí  
l
advanced keyless system, it illuminates  
continuously.  
This warning light illuminates for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
5-50  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
l
Under the following conditions, the  
WARNING  
KEY warning light (red) will flash  
Do not drive the vehicle with the KEY  
warning light illuminated:  
continuously when the start knob has  
not been returned to the LOCK  
position to notify the driver that the  
advanced key has been removed from  
the vehicle. It will stop flashing when  
the advanced key is back inside the  
vehicle.  
If the KEY warning light remains  
illuminated, do not continue to drive  
using the advanced key system. Park  
the vehicle in a safe place and use  
the auxiliary key to continue driving  
the vehicle. Have the vehicle  
l
The start knob has not been returned  
inspected at an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer as soon as possible.  
to the LOCK position, the driver's  
door is open, and the advanced key  
is removed from the vehicle.  
When flashing  
l
The start knob has not been returned  
l
to the LOCK position and all the  
doors are closed after removing the  
advanced key from the vehicle.  
Under the following conditions, the  
KEY warning light (red) flashes to  
inform the driver that the start knob  
will not rotate to the ACC position  
even if it is pushed in from the LOCK  
position.  
NOTE  
The flashing KEY warning light (red) and the  
beep sound operate simultaneously (page  
3-22).  
l
The advanced key battery is dead.  
The advanced key is not within  
l
operational range.  
The advanced key is placed in areas  
where it is difficult for the system to  
detect the signal (page 3-7).  
A key from another manufacturer  
KEY Indicator Light (Green)  
When illuminated  
l
When the start knob is pushed in from the  
LOCK position, the system confirms that  
the correct advanced key is inside the  
vehicle, the KEY indicator light (green)  
illuminates, and the start knob can be  
turned to the ACC position (page 3-11).  
l
similar to the advanced key is in the  
operational range.  
When flashing  
When the advanced key battery power is  
low, the KEY indicator light flashes for 30  
seconds after the start knob is turned from  
the ON position to the ACC or LOCK  
position. Replace with a new battery  
before the advanced key becomes  
unusable (page 3-7).  
5-51  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
NOTE  
qHeadlight High-Beam Indicator  
The advanced key can be set so that the KEY  
indicator light (green) does not flash even if  
the battery power is low.  
Light  
Refer to Setting Change (Function  
Customization)(page 3-21).  
qSecurity Indicator Light  
This light indicates one of two things:  
l
The high-beam headlights are on.  
The turn signal lever is in the flash-to-  
l
pass position.  
qShift Position Indicator Light  
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.  
(Automatic Transmission)  
This indicates the selected shift position  
when the ignition switch is in the ON  
position.  
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 turns off.  
If the engine does not 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  
5-52  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Gear position indicator  
NOTE  
If the battery is disconnected or a fuse is  
The gear position indicator displays the  
gear in use while in either manual shift or  
direct mode.  
replaced, the DSC will be inoperable. In this  
case, the DSC OFF indicator light flashes and  
the TCS/DSC indicator light illuminates.  
To make the DSC operable, do the following  
procedure with the battery connected.  
qTCS/DSC Indicator Lightí  
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.  
2. Turn the steering clockwise fully, then turn  
it counterclockwise fully.  
3. Make sure the DSC OFF indicator turn off.  
4. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF  
position, then turn it to the ON position  
again.  
This indicator light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position. If the TCS or DSC is  
operating, the indicator light flashes.  
5. Make sure the TCS/DSC indicator light  
turns off.  
If the light stays on, the TCS or DSC may  
have a malfunction and they may not  
operate correctly. Take your vehicle to an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
If the TCS/DSC indicator light and the DSC  
OFF indicator light remain illuminated even  
after turning the ignition switch to the ON  
position, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
qDSC OFF Indicator Lightí  
qCruise Main Indicator Light  
(Amber)/Cruise Set Indicator  
Light (Green)í  
This indicator light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
It also illuminates when the DSC OFF  
switch is pressed and TCS/DSC is  
switched off (page 5-27).  
The indicator light has two colors.  
Cruise Main Indicator Light (Amber)  
The indicator light illuminates amber  
when the ON/OFF switch is pressed and  
the cruise control system is activated.  
If the light stays on when the TCS/DSC is  
not switched off, take your vehicle to an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer. The dynamic  
stability control may have a malfunction.  
íSome models.  
5-53  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Cruise Set Indicator Light (Green)  
Beep Sounds  
The indicator light illuminates green when  
a cruising speed has been set.  
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.  
qTurn-Signal/Hazard Warning  
Indicator Lights  
If the driver's seat belt is not fastened and  
the vehicle is driven at a speed faster than  
about 20 km/h (12 mph), a beep sound  
will be heard again for a specified period  
of time.  
Refer to Seat Belt Warning Light/Beep on  
page 5-46.  
When operating the turn signal lights, the  
left or right turn signal indicator light  
flashes to indicate which turn signal light  
is operating (page 5-58).  
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.  
When operating the hazard warning  
lights, both turn signal indicator lights  
flash (page 5-61).  
NOTE  
qLights-On Reminder  
If an indicator light remains illuminated (does  
not flash) or if it flashes abnormally, one of the  
turn signal bulbs may be burned out.  
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.  
NOTE  
When the advanced keyless function is used  
and the start knob is in the ACC position, the  
Start Knob Not in Lock Warning Beep (page  
3-19) overrides the lights-on reminder.  
5-54  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qTire Inflation Pressure Warning  
Beepí  
The warning beep sound will be heard for  
about 3 seconds if the tire pressures  
decrease.  
If the tire pressure decreases extremely, a  
beep sound will be heard for  
approximately 30 seconds.  
Refer to Tire Pressure Monitoring System  
on page 5-29.  
qAdvanced Keyless Warning (with  
Advanced Key)  
Warning indicators for the advanced key,  
such as “the advanced key removed from  
vehicle warning”, use a beep sound and  
warning/indicator lights in the instrument  
cluster.  
Refer to Warning and Beep Sounds on  
page 3-19.  
íSome models.  
5-55  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Lighting Control  
WARNING  
Do not replace the xenon fusion bulbs  
yourself:  
Replacing the xenon fusion bulbs  
yourself is dangerous. Because the  
xenon fusion bulbs require high  
voltage, you could receive an electric  
shock if the bulbs are handled  
incorrectly. Consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer when the replacement  
is necessary.  
NOTE  
If the headlights flicker, or the brightness  
weakens, the bulb-life may be depleted and a  
replacement is necessary. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
qHeadlights  
To turn on the lights, turn the headlight  
switch on the end of the control lever.  
qLights-On Reminder  
Switch Position  
Headlights  
Off  
Off  
Off  
On  
On  
On  
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.  
Taillights  
Parking lights  
License lights  
Side-marker lights  
Dashboard  
NOTE  
illumination  
When the advanced keyless function is used  
and the start knob is in the ACC position, the  
Start Knob Not in Lock Warning Beep (page  
3-19) overrides the lights-on reminder.  
NOTE  
To prevent discharging the battery, don't leave  
the lights on while the engine is off unless  
safety requires them.  
í
Xenon fusion headlight bulbs  
The low-beam bulbs of the headlights  
have xenon fusion bulbs that produce a  
bright white beam over a wide area.  
5-56  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
qHeadlight High-Low Beam  
q
Daytime Running Lights (Canada)  
Push the lever forward for high beam.  
Pull back to original position for low  
beam.  
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.  
High beam  
NOTE  
The Daytime Running Lights turn off when the  
Low beam  
parking brake is applied.  
qFlashing the Headlights  
To flash the headlights, pull the lever fully  
toward you. The headlight switch does  
not need to be on, and the lever will return  
to the normal position when released.  
OFF  
Flashing  
5-57  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Fog Lightsí  
Turn and Lane-Change  
Signals  
Use this switch to turn on the fog lights.  
They help you to see as well as to be seen.  
qTurn Signal  
To turn the fog lights on, rotate the fog  
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.  
light switch to the  
position.  
The headlight switch must be in the  
position to turn on the fog lights.  
If the indicator light continues to flash  
after a turn, manually return the lever to  
its original position.  
Right turn  
Right lane change  
OFF  
Fog light switch  
Left lane change  
Left turn  
To turn them off, rotate the fog light  
switch to the OFF position or turn the  
headlight switch to the or OFF  
position.  
Green indicators on the dashboard show  
which signal is working.  
NOTE  
The fog lights will turn off when the headlights  
are set at high beam.  
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.  
5-58  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
NOTE  
Windshield Wipers and  
Washer  
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.  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position.  
WARNING  
Use only windshield washer fluid or  
plain water in the reservoir:  
After 5 minutes, turn on the switch and the  
blades should operate normally. If they do not  
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.  
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.  
Only use windshield washer fluid  
mixed with anti-freeze protection in  
freezing weather conditions:  
Using windshield washer fluid  
without anti-freeze protection in  
freezing weather conditions is  
dangerous as it could freeze on the  
windshield and block your vision  
which could cause an accident.  
In addition, make sure the  
qWindshield Wipers  
windshield is sufficiently warmed  
using the defroster before spraying  
the washer fluid.  
Turn the wipers on by pulling the lever  
down.  
INT ― Intermittent  
LO ― Low speed  
HI ― High speed  
For a single wiping cycle, push the lever  
up to MIST.  
MIST ― Mist  
5-59  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
qWindshield Washer  
Rear Window Defroster  
Pull the lever toward you and hold it to  
spray washer fluid.  
The rear window defroster clears frost,  
fog, and thin ice from the rear window.  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position.  
OFF  
Press the switch to turn on the rear  
window defroster, the indicator light will  
illuminate.  
Washer  
Press the switch again to turn it off.  
NOTE  
With the wiper lever in the OFF or INT  
position, the wipers will operate continuously  
until the lever is released.  
Indicator light  
If the washer does not work, inspect the  
fluid level (page 8-23). If it's normal,  
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
CAUTION  
Do not 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.  
5-60  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Horn  
Hazard Warning Flasher  
To sound the horn, press the  
the steering wheel.  
mark on  
The hazard warning lights should always  
be used when you stop on or near a  
roadway in an emergency.  
The hazard warning lights warn other  
drivers that your vehicle is a traffic hazard  
and that they must take extreme caution  
when near it.  
Depress the hazard warning flasher and all  
the turn signals will flash.  
NOTE  
l
The turn signals do not 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 to verify that it is not in  
violation of the law.  
5-61  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
HomeLink Wireless  
Control Systemí  
WARNING  
Do not use the HomeLink system with  
any garage door opener that lacks the  
safety stop and reverse feature:  
Using the HomeLink system with any  
garage door opener that lacks the  
safety stop and reverse feature as  
required by federal safety standards  
is dangerous. (This includes garage  
doors manufactured before April 1,  
1982.)  
NOTE  
HomeLink and HomeLink house are registered  
trademarks of Johnson Controls.  
The HomeLink system replaces up to 3  
hand-held transmitters with a single built-  
in component in the auto-dimming mirror.  
Pressing the HomeLink button on the  
auto-dimming mirror activates garage  
doors, gates and other devices  
Using these garage door openers can  
increase the risk of serious injury or  
death. For further information,  
contact HomeLink at 1-800-355-3515  
or www.homelink.com or your  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
surrounding your home.  
Indicator light  
Always check the areas surrounding  
garage doors and gates for people or  
obstructions before programming or  
during operation of the HomeLink  
system:  
Programming or operating the  
HomeLink system without verifying  
the safety of areas surrounding  
garage doors and gates is dangerous  
and could result in an unexpected  
accident and serious injury if  
someone were to be hit.  
HomeLink button  
CAUTION  
HomeLink has been tested and  
complies with FCC and Industry  
Canada rules. Changes or  
modifications not expressly approved  
by the party responsible for  
compliance could void the user's  
authority to operate the device.  
5-62  
íSome models.  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
NOTE  
FCC ID: NZLOBIHL3  
CANADA:4112A-OBIHL3  
This device complies with FCC rules part 15.  
Operation is subject to the following  
conditions:  
The HomeLink system provides 3 buttons  
which can be individually selected and  
programmed using the transmitters for  
current, on-market devices as follows:  
1. Press and hold the two outer  
HomeLink buttons (buttons one and  
three) ― releasing only when the  
indicator light begins to flash (after 20  
seconds). Do not hold the buttons for  
longer than 30 seconds and do not  
repeat step 1 to program a second and/  
or third hand-held transmitter to the  
remaining two HomeLink buttons.  
1- This device may not cause any harmful  
interference and  
2- This device must accept any interference  
that may be received including interference  
that may cause undesired operation.  
NOTE  
The programming will not be erased even if  
the battery is disconnected.  
2. Position the end of your hand-held  
transmitter 2.5―7.5 cm (1―3 inches)  
away from the HomeLink button you  
wish to program while keeping the  
indicator light in view.  
qPre-programming the HomeLink  
System  
NOTE  
It is recommended that a new battery be  
placed in the hand-held transmitter of the  
device being programmed to HomeLink for  
quicker training and accurate transmission of  
the radio-frequency signal.  
3. Simultaneously press and hold both the  
chosen HomeLink and hand-held  
transmitter buttons. Do not release the  
buttons until step 4 has been  
completed.  
NOTE  
l
Verify that there is a remote control  
Some gate operators and garage door openers  
may require you to replace this Programming  
Step 3 with procedures noted in the “Gate  
Operator/Canadian Programming” section.  
transmitter available for the device you  
would like to program.  
Disconnect the power to the device.  
l
q
Programming the HomeLink System  
4. After the HomeLink indicator light  
changes from a slow to a rapidly  
blinking light, release both the  
HomeLink and hand-held transmitter  
buttons.  
CAUTION  
When programming a garage door  
opener or a gate, disconnect the  
power to these devices before  
performing programming, as  
continuous operation of the devices  
could damage the motor.  
NOTE  
If the HomeLink indicator light does not  
change to a rapidly blinking light, contact  
HomeLink at www.homelink.com or call 1-  
800-355-3515 for assistance.  
5-63  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
5. Press and hold the just-trained  
HomeLink button and observe the  
indicator light.  
HomeLink should now activate your  
rolling code equipped device.  
NOTE  
To program the remaining two HomeLink  
buttons, begin with “Programming” ― step 2.  
Do not repeat step 1.  
If the indicator light stays on constantly,  
programming is complete and your  
device should activate when the  
HomeLink button is pressed and released.  
For questions or comments, please contact  
HomeLink at www.homelink.com or 1-  
800-355-3515.  
NOTE  
To program the remaining two HomeLink  
buttons, begin with “Programming” ― step 2.  
Do not repeat step 1.  
qGate operator/Canadian  
Programming  
If the indicator light blinks rapidly for  
two seconds and then turns to a  
constant light, continue with  
“Programming” steps 6―8 to complete  
the programming of a rolling code  
equipped device (most commonly a  
garage door opener).  
Canadian radio-frequency laws require  
transmitter signals to “time-out” (or quit)  
after several seconds of transmission ―  
which may not be long enough for  
HomeLink to pick up the signal during  
programming. Similar to this Canadian  
law, some U.S. gate operators are  
designed to “time-out” in the same  
manner.  
6. At the garage door opener receiver  
(motor-head unit) in the garage, locate  
the “learn” or “smart” button. This can  
usually be found where the hanging  
antenna wire is attached to the motor-  
head unit.  
If you live in Canada or you are having  
difficulties programming a gate operator  
by using the “Programming” procedures  
(regardless of where you live), replace  
“Programming HomeLink” step 3 with  
the following:  
7. Firmly press and release the “learn” or  
“smart” button. (The name and color of  
the button may vary by manufacturer.)  
NOTE  
NOTE  
There are 30 seconds in which to initiate step  
If programming a garage door opener or gate  
operator, it is advised to unplug the device  
during the “cycling” process to prevent  
possible overheating.  
8.  
8. Return to the vehicle and firmly press,  
hold for two seconds and release the  
programmed HomeLink button. Repeat  
the “press/hold/release” sequence a  
second time, and, depending on the  
brand of the garage door opener (or  
other rolling code equipped device),  
repeat this sequence a third time to  
complete the programming process.  
5-64  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Continue to press and hold the HomeLink  
button while you press and release ―  
every two seconds (“cycle”) your hand-  
held transmitter until the frequency signal  
has successfully been accepted by  
HomeLink. (The indicator light will flash  
slowly and then rapidly.)  
Proceed with “Programming” step 4 to  
complete.  
qOperating the HomeLink System  
Press the programmed HomeLink button  
to operate a programmed device. The  
code will continue being transmitted for a  
maximum of 20 seconds.  
qReprogramming the HomeLink  
system  
To program a device to HomeLink using a  
HomeLink button previously trained,  
follow these steps:  
1. Press and hold the desired HomeLink  
button. DO NOT release the button.  
2. The indicator light will begin to flash  
after 20 seconds. Without releasing the  
HomeLink button, proceed with  
“Programming” - step 2.  
qErasing Programmed HomeLink  
Buttons  
To erase the existing programming from  
all three operating channels, press and  
hold the two outside buttons (  
,
)
on the auto-dimming mirror until the  
HomeLink indicator light begins to flash  
after approximately 20 seconds.  
Verify that the programming has been  
erased when you resell the vehicle.  
5-65  
5-66  

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