Mazda Automobile 2005 RX 8 User Manual

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AWord to Mazda Owners  
Thank you for choosing a Mazda. We at Mazda design and build vehicles with complete  
customer satisfaction in mind.  
To help ensure enjoyable and trouble-free operation of your Mazda, read this manual  
carefully and follow its recommendations.  
An Authorized Mazda Dealer knows your vehicle best. So when maintenance or service is  
necessary, that's the place to go.  
Our nationwide network of Mazda professionals is dedicated to providing you with the best  
possible service.  
We assure you that all of us at Mazda have an ongoing interest in your motoring pleasure  
and in your full satisfaction with your Mazda product.  
Mazda Motor Corporation  
HIROSHIMA, JAPAN  
Important Notes About This Manual  
Keep this manual in the glove box as a handy reference for the safe and enjoyable use of your Mazda. Should you  
resell the vehicle, leave this manual with it for the next owner.  
All specifications and descriptions are accurate at the time of printing. Because improvement is a constant goal at  
Mazda, we reserve the right to make changes in specifications at any time without notice and without obligation.  
Air Conditioning and the Environment  
Your Mazda's genuine air conditioner is filled with HFC134a (R134a), a refrigerant that has been found not to  
damage the earth's ozone layer. If the air conditioner does not operate properly, consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
Please be aware that this manual applies to all models, equipment and options. As a result, you may find  
some explanations for equipment not installed on your vehicle.  
©2004 Mazda Motor Corporation  
Printed in Japan June 2004(Print1)  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
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How to Use This Manual  
We want to help you get the most driving  
pleasure from your vehicle. Your owner's  
manual, when read from cover to cover,  
can do that in many ways.  
NOTE  
A NOTE provides information and  
sometimes suggests how to make better  
use of your vehicle.  
Illustrations complement the words of the  
manual to best explain how to enjoy your  
Mazda. By reading your manual, you can  
find out about the features, important  
safety information, and driving under  
various road conditions.  
The above symbol, located on some parts  
of the vehicle, indicates that this manual  
contains information related to the part.  
Please refer to the manual for a detailed  
explanation.  
The above symbol in this manual means  
Do not do thisor Do not let this  
happen.  
Index: A good place to start is the Index,  
an alphabetical listing of all information  
in your manual.  
You'll find several WARNINGs,  
CAUTIONs, and NOTEs in the manual.  
WARNING  
A WARNING indicates a situation in  
which serious injury or death could  
result if the warning is ignored.  
CAUTION  
A CAUTION indicates a situation in  
which bodily injury or damage to your  
vehicle, or both, could result if the  
caution is ignored.  
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Table of Contents  
Interior, exterior views and part identification of your Mazda.  
Use of safety equipment, including seats, seat belt system, SRS air bags and  
child-restraint systems.  
Explanation of basic operations and controls; opening/closing and adjustment  
of various parts.  
Important information about driving your Mazda.  
Explanation of instruments and controls.  
Use of various features for drive comfort, including air-conditioning and audio  
system.  
Helpful information on what to do in an emergency.  
How to keep your Mazda in top condition.  
Important consumer information including warranties and add-on equipment.  
Technical information about your Mazda.  
Navigation System  
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Your Vehicle at a Glance  
1
Interior, exterior views and part identification of your Mazda.  
1-1  
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Your Vehicle at a Glance  
Dashboard and Interior Overview  
The equipment and installation position varies according to model and grade.  
1-2  
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Your Vehicle at a Glance  
Dashboard and Interior Overview  
1-3  
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Your Vehicle at a Glance  
Exterior Overview  
The equipment and installation position varies according to model and grade.  
1-4  
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Your Vehicle at a Glance  
Exterior Overview  
1-5  
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1-6  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
2
Use of safety equipment, including seats, seat belt system, SRS air bags and  
child-restraint systems.  
2-1  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seats  
Front Seats (Manually  
Operated Seats)  
WARNING  
Securing the Seats:  
Adjustable seats and seatbacks that  
are not securely locked are dangerous.  
In a sudden stop or collision, the seat  
or seatback could move, causing  
injury. Make sure the adjustable  
components of the seat are locked in  
place by attempting to slide the seat  
forward and backward and rocking  
the seatback.  
WARNING  
Modification of the Front Seats:  
Modifying or replacing the front seats  
such as replacing the upholstery or  
loosening any bolts is dangerous. The  
front seats contain air bag  
components essential to the  
supplemental restraint system. Such  
modifications could damage the  
supplemental restraint system and  
result in serious injury. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer if there is  
any need to remove or reinstall the  
front seats.  
qSeat Slide  
WARNING  
Driver's Seat Adjustment:  
Adjusting the driver's seat while the  
vehicle is moving is dangerous. The  
driver could lose control of the vehicle  
and have an accident. Adjust the  
driver's seat only when the vehicle is  
stopped.  
Damaged Front Seats:  
Driving with damaged front seats is  
dangerous. A collision, even one not  
strong enough to inflate the air bags,  
could damage the front seats which  
contain essential air bag components.  
If there was a subsequent collision, the  
air bag may not deploy which could  
lead to injuries. Always have an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer inspect the  
front seats, front seat belt  
To move a seat forward or backward, raise  
the lever and slide the seat to the desired  
position and release the lever.  
pretensioners and air bags after a  
collision.  
2-2  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seats  
Make sure the lever returns to its original  
position and the seat is locked in place by  
attempting to push it forward and  
backward.  
To change the seatback angle, lean  
forward slightly while raising the lever.  
Then lean back to the desired position and  
release the lever.  
qSeat Recline  
WARNING  
Reclining:  
Sitting in a reclined position while the  
vehicle is moving is dangerous  
because you don't get the full  
protection from seat belts. During  
sudden braking or a collision, you can  
slide under the lap belt and suffer  
serious internal injuries. For  
maximum protection, sit well back and  
upright.  
Make sure the lever returns to its original  
position and the seatback is locked in  
place by attempting to push it forward and  
backward.  
Unlocked Seatback:  
The seatback plays an important role  
in your protection in a vehicle.  
Leaving the seatback unlocked is  
dangerous as it can allow passengers  
to be ejected or thrown around and  
baggage to strike occupants in a  
sudden stop or collision, resulting in  
severe injury. After adjusting the  
seatback at any time, even when there  
are no other passengers, rock the  
seatback to make sure it is locked in  
place.  
CAUTION  
When returning a rear-reclined seatback  
to its upright position, make sure you  
support the seatback while operating  
the seatback lever. If the seatback is not  
supported, it will flip forward suddenly  
and could cause injury.  
2-3  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seats  
To fold the seatback, pull the strap and  
lower the seatback forward.  
qHeight Adjustment (Driver's  
Seat)  
By moving the seat lever up or down, the  
seat bottom height can be adjusted.  
Up  
Down  
To return it to the upright position, lift the  
seatback and push it into place. Rock the  
seatback to make sure it is locked.  
qFolding the Passenger's Seat  
WARNING  
Unlocked Seatback:  
The seatback plays an important role  
in your protection in a vehicle.  
Leaving the seatback unlocked is  
dangerous as it can allow passengers  
to be ejected or thrown around and  
baggage to strike occupants in a  
sudden stop or collision, resulting in  
severe injury. After adjusting the  
seatback at any time, even when there  
are no other passengers, rock the  
seatback to make sure it is locked in  
place.  
2-4  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seats  
Front Seats (Electrically  
Operated Seats)  
CAUTION  
l
l
The seat-bottom power adjustment is  
operated by motors. Avoid extended  
operation because excessive use can  
damage the motors.  
WARNING  
Modification of the Front Seats:  
Modifying or replacing the front seats  
such as replacing the upholstery or  
loosening any bolts is dangerous. The  
front seats contain air bag  
To prevent the battery from running  
down, avoid using the power  
adjustment when the engine is  
stopped. The adjuster uses a large  
amount of electric power.  
components essential to the  
l
Don't use the switch to make more  
than one adjustment at a time.  
supplemental restraint system. Such  
modifications could damage the  
supplemental restraint system and  
result in serious injury. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer if there is  
any need to remove or reinstall the  
front seats.  
qSeat Slide (Driver's Seat)  
To slide the seat, move the slide lifter  
switch on the outside of the seat to the  
front or back and hold it. Release the  
switch at the desired position.  
Damaged Front Seats:  
Driving with damaged front seats is  
dangerous. A collision, even one not  
strong enough to inflate the air bags,  
could damage the front seats which  
contain essential air bag components.  
If there was a subsequent collision, the  
air bag may not deploy which could  
lead to injuries. Always have an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer inspect the  
front seats, front seat belt  
pretensioners and air bags after a  
collision.  
2-5  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seats  
qSeat Recline (Driver's Seat)  
qHeight Adjustment (Driver's  
Seat)  
Front height adjustment  
WARNING  
To adjust the front height of the seat-  
bottom, raise or lower the front of the  
slide lifter switch on the left side of the  
seat.  
Reclining:  
Sitting in a reclined position while the  
vehicle is moving is dangerous  
because you don't get the full  
protection from seat belts. During  
sudden braking or a collision, you can  
slide under the lap belt and suffer  
serious internal injuries. For  
maximum protection, sit well back and  
upright.  
Change the seatback angle by pressing the  
front or rear side of the reclining switch.  
Release the switch at the desired position.  
Rear height adjustment  
Raise or lower the back of the switch to  
adjust the rear height of the seat-bottom.  
2-6  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seats  
To fold the seatback, pull the strap and  
lower the seatback forward.  
qLumbar Support Adjustment  
(Driver's Seat)  
The amount of lumbar support can be  
adjusted by pressing the switch.  
To increase the seat firmness, press and  
hold the front part of the switch to the  
desired position, then release it.  
Press the rear part of the switch to  
increase softness.  
To return it to the upright position, lift the  
seatback and push it into place. Rock the  
seatback to make sure it is locked.  
qSeat Warmer  
The front seats are electrically heated. The  
ignition switch must be in the ON  
position.  
qFolding the Passenger's Seat  
Press the switch to turn the seat warmer  
on or off. When the switch is in the ON  
position, the indicator light will come on.  
WARNING  
Unlocked Seatback:  
The seatback plays an important role  
in your protection in a vehicle.  
Leaving the seatback unlocked is  
dangerous as it can allow passengers  
to be ejected or thrown around and  
baggage to strike occupants in a  
sudden stop or collision, resulting in  
severe injury. After adjusting the  
seatback at any time, even when there  
are no other passengers, rock the  
seatback to make sure it is locked in  
place.  
2-7  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seats  
NOTE  
Rear Seat  
The thermostat regulates seat  
temperature by turning the current on  
and off.  
WARNING  
Stacking Cargo:  
Stacking luggage or other cargo  
higher than the seatbacks, and placing  
articles on the rear package tray is  
dangerous. During sudden braking or  
a collision, objects can fly around and  
become projectiles that may hit and  
injure passengers. Don't stack cargo  
higher than the seatbacks or place  
articles on the rear package tray.  
Not Securing Luggage and Cargo:  
Not securing cargo while driving is  
dangerous as it could move or be  
crushed during sudden braking or a  
collision and cause injury. Make sure  
luggage and cargo is secured before  
driving.  
2-8  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seats  
WARNING  
Do Not Sit on the Rear Center  
Console:  
Allowing someone to sit on the rear  
center console between the rear seats  
is dangerous. The rear center console  
is not designed for occupant seating.  
During a collision, occupants not  
wearing a seat belt could be thrown  
from the vehicle and seriously injured  
or even killed. Do not allow anyone to  
sit on the center console between the  
rear seats.  
2-9  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
Seat Belt Precautions  
Seat belts help to decrease the possibility of severe injury during accidents and sudden  
stops. Mazda recommends that the driver and all passengers always wear seat belts.  
All of the seat belt retractors are designed to keep the lap/shoulder belts out of the way  
when not in use.  
The driver's seat belt has no provisions for child-restraint systems and has only an  
emergency locking mode. The driver may wear it comfortably, and it will lock during a  
collision.  
However, the front passenger's seat and all rear lap/shoulder belt retractors operate in two  
modes: emergency locking mode, and for child-restraint systems, automatic locking mode.  
While we recommend you put all children in the rear seats, if you must use the front  
passenger seat for a child, slide the front passenger seat as far back as possible and make  
sure the child-restraint system is secured properly.  
WARNING  
Not Wearing Seat Belts:  
Not wearing a seat belt is extremely dangerous. During a collision, occupants not  
wearing seat belts could hit someone or things inside the vehicle or even be thrown out  
of the vehicle. They could be seriously injured or even killed. In the same collision,  
occupants wearing seat belts would be much safer. Always wear your seat belt and  
make sure all occupants are properly restrained.  
Seat Belt Damaged During an Accident:  
Using a damaged seat belt is dangerous. An accident could damage the belt webbing  
of the seat belt in use. A damaged seat belt cannot provide adequate protection in a  
collision. Whether a front seat was occupied or not, if the front air bags deployed the  
seat belt pretensioners also deployed and both front seat belts must be replaced. Have  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer inspect all seat belt systems in use during an accident  
before they are used again.  
Twisted Seat Belts:  
Twisted seat belts are dangerous. In a collision, the full width of the belt isn't available  
to absorb the impact. This puts more force on the bones beneath the belt, which could  
cause serious injury or death. Don't wear twisted seat belts.  
2-10  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
WARNING  
One Belt, One Passenger:  
Using one seat belt for more than one person at a time is dangerous. A seat belt used  
in this way can't spread the impact forces properly and the two passengers could be  
crushed together and seriously injured or even killed. Never use one belt for more  
than one person at a time.  
Seat Belt Caught or Pinched in the Door:  
Wearing a seat belt that is caught or pinched in the door is dangerous. The seat belt  
could become loose and not provide adequate protection in a sudden stop or collision.  
Always make sure the seat belt is not caught or pinched in the door.  
Seat Belt with Seat Belt Slide Bar:  
Placing your foot or other objects such as an umbrella on the seat belt slide bar is  
dangerous. The front seat belt is built in the rear door and the lower part of the seat  
belt slides forward or backward along the seat belt slide bar as the rear door opens or  
closes. If the seat belt slider is blocked, the seat belt could be improperly positioned  
and would provide little or no protection in a collision. Always make sure nothing is  
placed on the seat belt slide bar.  
CAUTION  
Belt retraction may become difficult if the belts and rings are soiled, so try to keep them  
clean.  
Ring  
2-11  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
qPregnant Women and Persons with Serious Medical Conditions  
Pregnant women should wear seat belts. Ask your doctor for specific recommendations.  
The lap belt should be worn SNUGLYAND AS LOWAS POSSIBLE OVER THE HIPS.  
The shoulder belt should be worn across your shoulder properly, but never across the  
stomach area.  
Persons with serious medical conditions also should wear seat belts. Check with your  
doctor for any special instructions regarding specific medical conditions.  
qEmergency Locking Mode  
If the belt has fully retracted, it will always be in the emergency locking mode until you  
move it into automatic locking mode by pulling the belt all the way out to its full length. In  
the emergency locking mode, the belt remains comfortable on the occupant and the  
retractor will lock in position during a collision.  
If the belt feels tight and hinders comfortable movement while the vehicle is stopped or in  
motion, you may be in the automatic locking mode because you have pulled the belt too far  
out. To return to the more comfortable emergency locking mode, wait until you can stop  
the vehicle in a safe level area, retract the belt fully to convert it back to emergency locking  
mode and then again extend it around you.  
qAutomatic Locking Mode  
Always use the automatic locking mode to keep the child-restraint system from shifting to  
an unsafe position in the event of an accident. To get the seat belt into the automatic  
locking mode, pull it all the way out and connect it as instructed on the child-restraint  
system. It will retract down to the child-restraint system and stay locked on it. See the  
section on child restraint (page 2-20).  
2-12  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
Location of Seat Belt  
For rear seat  
For front seat  
2-13  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
3-Point Type Seat Belt  
WARNING  
qFastening the Seat Belts  
Positioning the Shoulder Portion of  
the Seat Belt:  
1. Grasp the buckle and tongue.  
2. Slowly pull out the lap/shoulder belt.  
Improper positioning of the shoulder  
portion of the seat belt is dangerous.  
Always make sure the shoulder  
portion of the seat belt is positioned  
across your shoulder and near your  
neck, but never under your arm, on  
your neck, or on your upper arm.  
Belt  
Tongue  
4. Make sure the shoulder belt is snugly  
fitted against your body.  
3. Insert the tongue into the buckle until  
you hear a click.  
Take up slack  
Keep low on  
hip bone  
Tongue  
Too high  
WARNING  
Positioning the Lap Portion of the  
Seat Belt:  
Buckle  
The lap portion of the seat belt worn  
too high is dangerous. In a collision,  
this would concentrate the impact  
force directly on the abdominal area,  
causing serious injury. Wear the lap  
portion of the belt snugly and as low  
as possible.  
2-14  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
qUnfastening the Seat Belts  
Front Seat Belt  
Pretensioner and Load  
Limiting Systems  
Depress the button on the buckle.  
For optimum protection, the driver and  
front passenger seat belts are equipped  
with pretensioner and load limiting  
systems.  
In moderate or greater frontal or near-  
frontal accidents, the front air bag and  
pretensioner systems deploy  
simultaneously. The pretensioners take up  
slack in the front seat belts as the air bags  
are expanding. The seat belt pretensioner  
system will not activate if the seat belt is  
not fastened, only you can be sure it is  
worn properly. The load limiting system  
releases belt webbing in a controlled  
manner to reduce belt force on the  
occupant's chest.  
NOTE  
If a belt does not fully retract, inspect it  
for kinks and twists. If it is still not  
retracting properly, have it inspected at  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
WARNING  
Incorrect Positioning of the Driver  
and Front Passenger Seat Belts:  
Incorrect positioning of the driver and  
passenger seat belts is dangerous.  
Without proper positioning, the  
pretensioner and load limiting systems  
cannot provide adequate protection in  
an accident and this could result in  
serious injury. Wear seat belts only as  
recommended in this owner's manual.  
2-15  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
WARNING  
WARNING  
Expended Seat Belt Pretensioners:  
Use of front seat belts with the  
pretensioner system expended is  
dangerous.  
Pretensioner System Disposal:  
Improper disposal of the pretensioner  
system or a vehicle with non-  
deactivated pretensioners is  
The seat belt pretensioners will only  
function once. After they are  
expended, they will not work again  
and must be replaced immediately.  
If the seat belt pretensioners are not  
replaced, the risk of injury in a  
collision will increase.  
dangerous. Unless all safety  
procedures are followed, injury could  
result. Ask an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer how to safely dispose of the  
pretensioner system or how to scrap a  
pretensioner-equipped vehicle.  
Always have an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer inspect the seat belt  
NOTE  
pretensioners and air bags after any  
collision. The seat belt pretensioners  
and air bags must be replaced after  
any collision, which causes them to  
deploy.  
l
The pretensioner system will only  
activate in a moderate or greater  
frontal or near-frontal collision. It  
will not activate in most rollovers,  
side or rear impacts.  
l
Some smoke (non-toxic gas) will be  
Modification or Testing of the  
released when the air bags and  
pretensioners deploy. This does not  
indicate a fire. This gas normally has  
no effect on occupants, however,  
those with sensitive skin may  
experience light skin irritation. If  
residue from the deployment of the  
air bags or the front pretensioner  
system gets on the skin or in the  
eyes, wash it off as soon as possible.  
Pretensioner System:  
Modifying the components or wiring  
of the pretensioner system, including  
the use of electronic testing devices is  
dangerous. You could accidentally  
activate it or make it inoperable which  
would prevent it from activating in an  
accident. The occupants or repairers  
could be seriously injured. Never  
modify the components or wiring, or  
use electronic testing devices on the  
pretensioner system.  
2-16  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (29,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
qAir Bag/Front Seat Belt  
Pretensioner System Warning  
Light  
Seat Belt Extender  
If your seat belt is not long enough, even  
when fully extended, a seat belt extender  
may be available to you at no charge from  
your Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
This extender will be only for you and for  
the particular vehicle and seat. Even if it  
plugs into other seat belts, it may not hold  
in the critical moment of a crash.  
When ordering an extender, only order  
one that provides the necessary additional  
length to fasten the seat belt properly.  
Please contact your Authorized Mazda  
Dealer for more information.  
If the air bag/front seat belt pretensioner  
system is normal, the warning light  
illuminates when the ignition switch is  
turned to the ON position or after the  
engine is cranked. After about 6 seconds  
it goes out.  
WARNING  
A system malfunction is indicated when  
the warning light constantly flashes,  
illuminates or doesn't illuminate at all  
when the ignition switch is turned to the  
ON position. If any of these occur, consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible. The system may not work in an  
accident.  
Unnecessary Use of an Extender:  
Using a seat belt extender when not  
necessary is dangerous. The seat belt  
will be too long and not fit properly. In  
an accident, the seat belt will not  
provide adequate protection and you  
could be seriously injured. Only use  
the extender when it is required to  
fasten the seat belt properly.  
WARNING  
Using an Improper Extender:  
Self-Servicing the Air Bag/  
Pretensioner Systems:  
Using a seat belt extender that is for  
another person or a different vehicle  
or seat is dangerous. The seat belt will  
not provide adequate protection and  
the user could be seriously injured in  
an accident. Only use the extender  
provided for you and for the particular  
vehicle and seat. NEVER use the  
extender in a different vehicle or seat.  
Self-servicing or tampering with the  
systems is dangerous. An air bag/  
pretensioner could accidentally  
activate or become disabled. This  
could cause serious injuries. Never  
tamper with the systems and always  
have an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
performs all servicing and repairs.  
2-17  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (30,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
Seat Belt Warning Light  
WARNING  
Using an Extender That is Too Long:  
Using an extender that is too long is  
dangerous. The seat belt will not fit  
properly. In an accident, the seat belt  
will not provide adequate protection  
and you could be seriously injured.  
Don't use the extender or choose one  
shorter in length if the distance  
between the extender's buckle and the  
center of the user's body is less than  
15cm (6 in).  
If the driver's seat belt is not fastened  
when the ignition switch is turned to the  
ON position, the seat belt warning light  
will remain on until the belt is fastened.  
If the system does not operate correctly,  
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
NOTE  
When not in use, remove the seat belt  
extender and store it in the vehicle. If  
the seat belt extender is left connected,  
the rear door cannot be opened because  
the seat belt does not fully retract and  
the seat belt warning light will not  
illuminate and function properly.  
2-18  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (31,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Seat Belt Systems  
Seat 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.  
2-19  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (32,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Child Restraint  
Child Restraint Precautions  
Mazda strongly urges the use of child-restraint systems for children small enough to use  
them.  
You are required by law to use a child-restraint system for children in the U.S. and Canada.  
Check your local and state or provincial laws for specific requirements regarding the safety  
of children riding in your vehicle.  
Whatever child-restraint system you consider, please pick the appropriate one for the age  
and size of the child, obey the law and follow the instructions that come with the individual  
child-restraint system.  
A child who has outgrown child-restraint systems should sit in the rear and use seat belts,  
both lap and shoulder. If the shoulder belt crosses the neck or face, move the child closer to  
the center of the vehicle.  
Statistics confirm that the rear seat is the best place for all children up to 12 years of age,  
and more so with a supplemental restraint system (air bags).  
A rear-facing child-restraint system should NEVER be used on the front seat with the air  
bag system activated. The front passenger's seat is also the least preferred seat for other  
child-restraint systems.  
WARNING  
Proper Size of Child-Restraint System:  
For effective protection in vehicle accidents and sudden stops, a child must be  
properly restrained using a seat belt or child-restraint system depending on age and  
size. If not, the child could be seriously injured or even killed in an accident.  
Follow the Manufacturer's Instructions and Always Keep the Child-Restraint System  
Buckled Down:  
An unsecured child-restraint system is dangerous. In a sudden stop or a collision it  
could move causing serious injury or death to the child or other occupants. Make sure  
the child-restraint system is properly secured in place according to the child-restraint  
system manufacturer's instructions. When not in use, remove it from the vehicle or  
fasten it with a seat belt, or latch it down to BOTH LATCH lower anchors for LATCH  
child-restraint systems.  
2-20  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (33,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Child Restraint  
WARNING  
Holding a Child While the Vehicle is Moving:  
Holding a child in your arms while the vehicle is moving is extremely dangerous. No  
matter how strong the person may be, he or she cannot hold onto a child in a sudden  
stop or collision and it could result in serious injury or death to the child or other  
occupants. Even in a moderate accident, the child may be exposed to air bag forces  
that could result in serious injury or death to the child, or the child may be slammed  
into the adult, injuring the adult. Always secure a child in a proper child-restraint  
system.  
Rear-Facing Child-Restraint System:  
Rear-facing child-restraint systems on the front seat are particularly dangerous.  
The child-restraint system can be hit by a deploying air bag and moved violently  
backward resulting in serious injury or death to the child. NEVER use a rear-facing  
child-restraint system in the front seat with an air bag that could deploy even in a  
moderate collision.  
Front Passenger Seat Position:  
A front-facing child-restraint system should only be put on the front seat when it is  
unavoidable. Always move the seat as far back as possible, because the force of a  
deploying air bag could cause serious injury or death to the child.  
2-21  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (34,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Child Restraint  
WARNING  
Children and Seating Position with Side and Curtain Air Bags:  
Allowing anyone to lean over or against the front or rear doors is dangerous. If the  
vehicle is equipped with side and curtain air bags, the impact of inflation could cause  
serious injury or death to the person. Children are more likely to sleep in the vehicle;  
when they do, they are more at risk in the front passenger's seat that have a side air  
bag because they may slump over into the path of the air bags. Furthermore, leaning  
over or against the doors could block the side and curtain air bags and eliminate the  
advantages of supplemental protection. With the front air bag and the additional side  
air bag that comes out of the front seat, the rear seat is always a better location for  
children who are prone to sleeping. Do not allow a child to lean over or against the  
doors, even if the child is seated in a child-restraint system.  
One Belt, One Passenger:  
Using one seat belt for more than one person at a time is dangerous. A seat belt used  
in this way can't spread the impact forces properly and the two passengers could be  
crushed together and seriously injured or even killed. Never use one belt for more  
than one person at a time.  
CAUTION  
A seat belt or child-restraint system can become very hot in a closed vehicle during  
warm weather. To avoid burning yourself or a child, check them before you or your child  
touches them.  
NOTE  
Your Mazda is equipped with LATCH lower anchors for attachment of specially  
designed LATCH child-restraint systems in the rear seat. When using these anchors to  
secure a child-restraint system, refer to LATCH Child-Restraint Systems(page 2-27).  
2-22  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page35  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (35,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Child Restraint  
qRear Seat Child-Restraint System  
Installing Child-Restraint  
Systems  
Installation  
Follow these instructions when using a  
child-restraint system, unless you are  
attaching a LATCH-equipped child-  
restraint system to the rear LATCH lower  
anchors. Refer to LATCH Child-  
Restraint Systems(page 2-27).  
Accident statistics reveal that a child is  
safer in the rear seat. The front passenger's  
seat is clearly the worst choice for any  
child under 12, and with rear-facing child-  
restraint systems it is clearly unsafe due to  
air bags.  
NOTE  
Some child-restraint systems now come  
with tethers and therefore must be  
installed on the seats that take tethers to  
be effective. In your Mazda, tethered  
child-restraint systems can only be  
accommodated in the two positions on the  
rear seat.  
Follow the child-restraint system  
manufacturer's instructions carefully. If  
you are not sure whether you have a  
LATCH system or tether, check in the  
child-restraint system manufacturer's  
instructions and follow them  
accordingly. Depending on the type of  
child-restraint system, it may not  
employ seat belts which are in  
Some child-restraint systems also employ  
specially designed LATCH attachments;  
refer to LATCH Child-Restraint  
Systems(page 2-27).  
automatic locking mode.  
1. Secure the child-restraint system with  
the lap portion of the lap/shoulder belt.  
See the manufacturer's instructions on  
the child-restraint system for belt  
routing instructions.  
WARNING  
Tethered Child-Restraint Systems  
Work Only on Tether-Equipped Rear  
Seats:  
2. To get the retractor into the automatic  
locking mode, pull the shoulder belt  
portion of the seat belt until the entire  
length of the belt is out of the retractor.  
Installation of a tether equipped child-  
restraint system in the front  
passenger's seat defeats the safety  
design of the system and will result in  
an increased chance of serious injury  
if the child-restraint system goes  
forward without benefit of being  
tethered.  
Place tether equipped child-restraint  
systems where there are tether  
anchors.  
2-23  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
Child Restraint  
3. Push the child-restraint system firmly  
into the vehicle seat. Be sure the belt  
retracts as snugly as possible. Clicking  
from the retractor will be heard during  
retraction if the system is in the  
automatic locking mode. If the belt  
does not lock the seat down tight,  
repeat this step.  
Anchor bracket location  
Tether strap position  
Tether  
strap  
NOTE  
Inspect this function before each use of  
the child-restraint system. You should  
not be able to pull the shoulder belt out  
of the retractor while the system is in  
the automatic locking mode. When you  
remove the child-restraint system, be  
sure the belt fully retracts to return the  
system to emergency locking mode  
before occupants use the seat belts.  
Anchor  
bracket  
WARNING  
Child-Restraint Tether Usage:  
Using the tether or tether anchor to  
secure anything but a child-restraint  
system is dangerous. This could  
weaken or damage the tether or tether  
anchor and result in injury. Use the  
tether and tether anchor only for a  
child-restraint system.  
4. If your child-restraint system requires  
the use of a tether strap, hook and  
tighten the tether strap by following the  
manufacturer's instructions.  
2-24  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (37,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Child Restraint  
qIf You Must Use the Front Seat  
WARNING  
for Children  
If you cannot put all children in the rear  
seat, at least put the smallest children in  
the rear and be sure the largest child up  
front uses the shoulder belt over the  
shoulder.  
Do not put rear-facing child-restraint  
systems on the front passenger's seat.  
This seat is also not set up for tethered  
child-restraint systems, put them in one of  
the rear seat positions set up with tether  
anchors.  
Front Passenger's Seat Position:  
As your vehicle has front air bags and  
doubly so if your vehicle has side air  
bags, a front-facing child-restraint  
system should be put on the front seat  
only when it is unavoidable.  
Always move the seat as far back as  
possible, because the force of a  
deploying air bag could cause serious  
injury or death to the child.  
Likewise the LATCH child-restraint  
system cannot be secured in the front  
passenger's seat and should be used in the  
rear seat.  
Rear-Facing Child-Restraint System:  
Rear-facing child-restraint systems on  
the front seat are particularly  
dangerous.  
Don't allow anyone to sleep against the  
right front or rear doors if you have an  
optional side and curtain air bag, it could  
cause serious injuries to an out of position  
occupant. As children more often sleep in  
cars, it is better to put them in the rear  
seat. If installing the child-restraint system  
on the front seat is unavoidable, follow  
these instructions when using a front-  
facing child-restraint system in the front  
passenger's seat.  
The child-restraint system can be hit  
by a deploying air bag and moved  
violently backward resulting in serious  
injury or death to the child. NEVER  
use a rear-facing child-restraint  
system in the front seat with an air bag  
that could deploy even in a moderate  
collision.  
NOTE  
l
To check if your front seats have side  
air bags:  
Every Mazda side air bag will have a  
SRS-Air Baglabel on the outboard  
shoulder of the front seats.  
l
To check if your vehicle has curtain  
air bags:  
Every Mazda curtain air bag will  
have an SRS-Air Bagmarking on  
the front and rear window pillars  
along the roof edge.  
2-25  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (38,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Child Restraint  
2. Secure the child-restraint system with  
the lap portion of the lap/shoulder belt.  
See the manufacturer's instructions on  
the child-restraint system for belt  
routing instructions.  
WARNING  
Children and Seating Position with  
Side and Curtain Air Bags:  
Allowing anyone to lean over or  
against the front door, the area of  
front seat, front and rear window  
pillars and the roof edge along both  
sides which the side and curtain air  
bags deploy even though using a  
child-restraint system is dangerous. If  
the vehicle is equipped with side and  
curtain air bags, the impact of  
inflation could cause serious injury or  
death to the child. Furthermore,  
leaning over or against the front door  
could block the side and curtain air  
bags and eliminate the advantages of  
supplemental protection. With the  
front air bag and the additional side  
air bag that comes out of the front  
seat, the rear seat is always a better  
location for children. Do not allow a  
child to lean over or against the doors,  
even if the child is seated in a child-  
restraint system.  
3. To get the retractor into the automatic  
locking mode, pull the shoulder belt  
portion of the seat belt until the entire  
length of the belt is out of the retractor.  
4. Push the child-restraint system firmly  
into the vehicle seat. Be sure the belt  
retracts as snugly as possible. Clicking  
from the retractor will be heard during  
retraction if the system is in automatic  
locking mode. If the belt does not lock  
the seat down tight, repeat the previous  
step and also this one.  
NOTE  
l
Inspect this function before each use  
of the child-restraint system. You  
should not be able to pull the  
shoulder belt out of the retractor  
while the system is in the automatic  
locking mode. When you remove the  
child-restraint system, be sure the  
belt fully retracts to return the system  
to emergency locking mode before  
occupants use the seat belts.  
qFront Passenger's Seat Child-  
Restraint System Installation  
1. Slide the seat as far back as possible.  
l
Follow the child-restraint system  
manufacturer's instructions carefully.  
Depending on the type of child-  
restraint system, it may not employ  
seat belts which are in automatic  
locking mode.  
2-26  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (39,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Child Restraint  
LATCH Child-Restraint Systems  
Your Mazda is equipped with LATCH lower anchors for attachment of specially designed  
LATCH child-restraint systems in the rear seat. Both anchors must be used, otherwise the  
seat will bounce around and put the child in danger. Some LATCH child-restraint systems  
must also be used in conjunction with a tether to be effective. If they have a tether you  
must use it to better assure your child's safety.  
WARNING  
Manufacturer's Instructions for Child-Restraint System:  
An unsecured child-restraint system is dangerous. In a sudden stop or a collision it  
could move causing serious injury or death to the child or other occupants. Make sure  
the child-restraint system is properly secured in place according to the child-restraint  
system manufacturer's instructions.  
Unsecured Child-Restraint System:  
An unsecured child-restraint system is dangerous. In a sudden stop or a collision it  
could move causing serious injury or death to the child or other occupants. Follow the  
child-restraint system manufacturer's instructions on belt routing to secure the seat  
just as you would with a child in it so that nobody is tempted to put a child in an  
improperly secured seat later on. When not in use, remove it from the vehicle or fasten  
it with a seat belt, or latch it down to BOTH LATCH lower anchors for LATCH child-  
restraint systems.  
LATCH Child-Restraint Systems:  
Not following the child-restraint system manufacturer's instructions when installing  
the child-restraint system is dangerous. If seat belts or a foreign object prevent the  
child-restraint system from being securely attached to the LATCH lower anchors and  
the child-restraint system is installed improperly, the child-restraint system could move  
in a sudden stop or collision causing serious injury or death to the child or other  
occupants. When installing the child-restraint system, make sure there are no seat  
belts or foreign objects near or around the LATCH lower anchors. Always follow the  
child-restraint system manufacturer's instructions.  
2-27  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (40,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
Child Restraint  
Anchor bracket location  
qLATCH Child-Restraint System  
Installation Procedure (Rear  
Seats)  
1. Expand the open seams on the rear of  
the seat bottom slightly to verify the  
locations of the LATCH lower anchors.  
Tether strap position  
Tether strap  
NOTE  
The markings above the LATCH lower  
anchors indicate the locations of  
LATCH lower anchors for the  
Anchor  
bracket  
attachment of a child-restraint system.  
2. Secure the child-restraint system using  
BOTH LATCH lower anchors,  
following the child-restraint system  
manufacturer's instruction.  
WARNING  
Child-Restraint Tether Usage:  
Using the tether or tether anchor to  
secure anything but a child-restraint  
system is dangerous. This could  
weaken or damage the tether or tether  
anchor and result in injury. Use the  
tether and tether anchor only for a  
child-restraint system.  
3. If your child-restraint system came  
equipped with a tether, that probably  
means it is very important to properly  
secure the tether for child safety, please  
carefully follow the child-restraint  
system manufacturer's instructions  
when installing tethers.  
2-28  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) Precautions  
The front and side supplemental restraint systems (SRS) include up to 6 air bags (verify  
SRS AIRBAGlocation indicator marks).  
They are located in:  
l
The steering wheel hub (driver air bag)  
l
The front passenger dashboard (front passenger air bag)  
l
The outboard sides of the front seatbacks (side air bags)  
l
The front and rear window pillars, and the roof edge along both sides (curtain air bags)  
These systems operate independently depending on the type of accident encountered; if  
you have side and curtain air bags, the side and curtain air bags are not likely to deploy on  
both sides in the same accident because a vehicle is not often hit from both sides. The side  
and curtain air bags and the frontal air bag system will not normally deploy during the  
same type of accident unless a combination of frontal and side impacts occur.  
The air bag supplemental restraint systems are designed to provide supplemental protection  
only in the front seats in certain situations and the rear outside passenger positions only in  
same-side collisions, so seat belts are always important in the following ways:  
Without seat belt usage, the air bags cannot provide adequate protection during an accident.  
Seat belt usage is necessary to:  
l
Keep the occupant from being thrown into an inflating air bag.  
l
Reduce the possibility of injuries during an accident that is not designed for air bag  
inflation, such as roll-over or rear impact.  
l
Reduce the possibility of injuries in frontal or side collisions that are not severe enough  
to activate the air bags.  
l
Reduce the possibility of being thrown from your vehicle.  
l
Reduce the possibility of injuries to lower body and legs during an accident because the  
air bags provide no protection to these parts of the body.  
l
Hold the driver in a position which allows better control of the vehicle.  
Children should be protected by a child-restraint system. Laws vary on the size a child  
must be to use a child-restraint system (page 2-20).  
Carefully consider which child-restraint system is necessary for your child and follow the  
installation directions in this Owner's Manual as well as the child-restraint system  
manufacturer's instructions.  
2-29  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (42,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
WARNING  
Air Bags without Seat Belts:  
Depending only on the air bags for protection during an accident is dangerous. Alone,  
air bags may not prevent serious injuries. The appropriate air bags can be expected to  
inflate only in collisions with frontal, near frontal or side forces that are at least  
moderate. Vehicle occupants should always wear seat belts.  
Child in the Front Seat:  
Placing a child, 12 years or under, in the front seat is dangerous. The child could be  
hit by a deploying air bag and be seriously injured or even killed. A sleeping child is  
more likely to lean against the door and be hit by the side air bag in a moderate, right-  
side collision. Whenever possible, always secure a child 12 years and under on the  
rear seat with an appropriate child-restraint system for the child's age and size.  
Rear-Facing Child-Restraint System:  
Rear-facing child-restraint systems on the front seat are particularly dangerous.  
The child-restraint system can be hit by a deploying air bag and moved violently  
backward resulting in serious injury or death to the child. NEVER use a rear-facing  
child-restraint system in the front seat with an air bag that could deploy even in a  
moderate collision.  
Seating Position with Front Air Bags:  
Sitting too close to the air bag modules or placing hands or feet on them is extremely  
dangerous. Front Air bags inflate with great force and speed. Serious injuries could  
occur if someone is too close. The driver should always hold onto only the rim of the  
steering wheel. The front seat passenger should keep both feet on the floor. Front seat  
occupants should adjust their seats as far back as possible and always sit upright  
against the seatbacks with seat belts worn properly.  
2-30  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (43,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
WARNING  
Seating Position with Side and Curtain Air Bags:  
Sitting too close to the side air bag modules or placing hands on them is extremely  
dangerous. The side air bags inflate with great force and speed directly out of the  
outboard side of the front seat and expand along the front door on the side the car is  
hit. Serious injury could occur if someone is sitting too close to the door or leaning  
against a window, or if rear seat occupants grab the sides of the front seatbacks.  
Furthermore, sleeping up against the door or hanging out the windows in the vehicle  
could block the side and curtain air bags and eliminate the advantages of  
supplemental protection. Give the side and curtain air bags room to work by sitting in  
the center of the seat while the vehicle is moving with seat belts worn properly.  
Front Air Bag Modules:  
Attaching an object to the front air bag modules or placing something in front of them  
is dangerous. In an accident, the object could interfere with front air bag inflation and  
injure the occupants.  
Always keep the front air bag modules free of objects.  
Side Air Bag Modules:  
Attaching things to the front seat in such a way as to cover the outboard side of the  
seat in any way is dangerous. In an accident the object could interfere with the side air  
bag, which inflates from the outboard side of the front seats, impeding the added  
protection of the side air bag system or redirecting the air bag in a way that is  
dangerous. Furthermore, the bag could be cut open spewing exhaust.  
Do not hang net bags, map pouches or backpacks with side straps on the front seats.  
Never use seat covers on the front seats. Always keep the side air bag modules in your  
front seats free to deploy in the event of a side collision.  
Curtain Air Bag Modules:  
Attaching objects to the areas where the curtain air bag activates such as on the  
windshield glass, side door glass, front and rear window pillars and along the roof  
edge and assist grips is dangerous. In an accident the object could interfere with the  
curtain air bag, which inflates from the front and rear window pillars and along the  
roof edge, impeding the added protection of the curtain air bag system or redirecting  
the air bag in a way that is dangerous. Furthermore, the bag could be cut open  
spewing exhaust.  
Do not place hangers or any other objects on the assist grips. When hanging clothes,  
hang them on the coat hook directly. Always keep the curtain air bag modules free to  
deploy in the event of a side collision.  
2-31  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (44,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
WARNING  
Hot Air Bag Inflators:  
Hot air bag inflators are dangerous. Immediately after inflation, the inflators in the  
steering wheel, dashboard, seatbacks, or the front and rear window pillars and along  
the roof edge are very hot. You could get burned. Don't touch the internal components  
of the air bag modules after the bags have inflated.  
Installation of Front-End Equipment:  
Installation of front-end equipment, such as frontal protection bar (kangaroo bar, bull  
bar, push bar, etc.), snowplow, or winches, is dangerous. The air bag crash sensor  
system could be affected. This could cause air bags to inflate unexpectedly, or it could  
prevent the air bags from inflating during an accident. Front occupants could be  
seriously injured. Never install any front-end equipment to your vehicle.  
Suspension Adjustment:  
Adjusting the vehicle suspension is dangerous. If the vehicle's height or the  
suspension is changed, the vehicle will be unable to accurately detect a collision  
resulting in incorrect or unexpected air bag deployment and the possibility of serious  
injuries.  
Modification of the Supplemental Restraint System:  
Modifying the components or wiring of the supplemental restraint system is  
dangerous. You could accidentally activate it or make it inoperable. Don't make any  
modifications to the supplemental restraint system. This includes installing trim,  
badges, or anything else over the air bag modules. It also includes installing extra  
electrical equipment on or near system components or wiring. An Authorized Mazda  
Dealer can provide the special care needed in the removal and installation of front  
seats. It is important to protect the side and curtain air bag wiring and connections to  
assure that the bags do not accidentally deploy and that the seats retain an  
undamaged air bag connection.  
CAUTION  
To prevent damage to the side and curtain air bag wiring, don't place luggage or other  
objects under the front seats.  
2-32  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (45,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
NOTE  
l
When an air bag deploys, a loud inflation noise can be heard and some smoke will be  
released. Neither is likely to cause injury, however, the texture of the air bags may  
cause light skin injuries on body parts not covered with clothing through friction.  
l
Should you sell your Mazda, we urge you to tell the new owner of its air bag systems  
and that familiarization with all instructions about them, from the Owner's Manual, is  
important.  
2-33  
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Black plate (46,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
Air Bag System Description  
The supplemental restraint systems (SRS) have two basic subsystems:  
l
The air bag system with inflators and air bags.  
l
The electrical system with crash sensors and diagnostic module.  
The air bags are mounted in the following locations: the center of the steering wheel, the  
passenger-side of the dashboard, in the outboard sides of the front seatbacks and the front  
and rear window pillars, along the roof edge. They are out of sight until activated.  
*3  
Dual stage inflators and air bags  
*2  
Seat belt buckle switches  
Inflators and air bags  
Front air bag sensor  
Side and curtain air bag  
crash sensor  
Crash sensors and  
diagnostic module  
(SAS unit)  
Seat slide position sensor  
*1  
(only for driver's seat)  
Side and curtain air bag crash sensor  
Inflators and air bags  
*1 The driver's seat slide position sensor determines whether the driver's seat is fore or aft  
of a reference position. The sensor is designed to control the deployment of the driver's  
air bag depending on how close the driver's seat is to the steering wheel.  
*2 The buckle switches on the front seat belts determine whether or not the front seat belts  
are securely fastened and further control the deployment of the air bags on the front  
seats.  
*3 The front, dual stage air bags control air bag inflation in two energy stages. During an  
impact of moderate severity the front air bags deploy with lesser energy, whereas  
during more severe impacts, they deploy with more energy.  
Deployment of the front air bags may differ between the driver and the front passenger  
depending on the driver's seat position and front seat belt usage, which allow for further  
controlling of the system.  
2-34  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (47,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
qHow the Air Bags Work  
When air bag crash sensors detect a frontal or side impact of greater than moderate force,  
an electrical current is sent to the inflators.  
Gases are produced to inflate the air bags and after the inflation, the air bags quickly  
deflate.  
The air bags will function only once. After that, the air bags will not work again and  
must be replaced.  
Only an Authorized Mazda Dealer can replace the systems.  
The front air bags will deploy  
only on the frontal impact.  
The side air bag will deploy only on the side  
the vehicle receives the force of the impact.  
The curtain air bag will deploy only on the side  
the vehicle receives the force of the impact.  
The side and curtain air bags will deploy  
together on the same side.  
2-35  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (48,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
l
Driving into a big hole or hitting the far  
side of a hole.  
qAir Bag Activation/Deactivation  
Front air bag activation  
A greater than moderate impact will cause  
the front air bags to inflate in the  
following cases:  
l
Hitting a solid wall straight on at  
greater than about 22 km/h (14 mph).  
Limitations to front air bag activation  
Depending on the severity of impact, the  
front air bags may not inflate in the  
following cases:  
l
Impacts involving trees or poles cause  
severe cosmetic damage but may not  
have enough impact to activate the air  
bag.  
l
Hitting a curb, pavement edge or hard  
object.  
l
Landing hard or the vehicle falling.  
l
Frontal offset impact to the vehicle  
may not provide the stopping force  
necessary for air bag deployment.  
l
Frontal impact within about a 30  
degree range from head-on to the  
vehicle.  
2-36  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (49,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
l
Rear-ending or running under a truck's  
Side and curtain air bag activation  
tail gate may not provide the stopping  
force necessary for air bag deployment.  
Greater than moderate impact to one side  
of the vehicle (driver or passenger side  
areas) will cause the side and curtain air  
bags to inflate, but it will not normally  
deploy the front air bags.  
Non-activation of front air bags  
Front air bags will not normally inflate in  
the following cases:  
Limitations to side and curtain air bag  
activation  
l
Collision from the rear.  
Depending on the severity of impact, the  
side and curtain air bags may not inflate in  
the following cases:  
l
Frontal offset impact may not provide  
enough side impact to deploy the side  
and curtain air bags.  
l
Impact to the side, but it may deploy  
the side and curtain air bags.  
l
Side impacts involving trees or poles  
can cause severe cosmetic damage but  
may not have enough impact force to  
activate the side and curtain air bags.  
l
Vehicle roll-over, may deploy the side  
and curtain air bags but not the front air  
bags.  
2-37  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (50,1)  
Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
l
Vehicle roll-over may not provide  
enough side force to deploy the side  
and curtain air bags.  
qConstant Monitoring  
The following components of the air bag  
systems are monitored by a diagnostic  
system:  
l
SAS unit  
l
Front air bag sensor  
l
Air bag modules  
l
Side and curtain air bag crash sensor  
l
Side impacts with two-wheeled  
l
Front seat belt pretensioners  
vehicles may not provide enough force  
to deploy the side and curtain air bags.  
l
Related wiring  
l
Driver's seat slide position sensor  
l
Front seat belt buckle switches  
A diagnostic module continuously  
monitors the systems' readiness. This  
begins when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position and continues while  
the vehicle is being driven.  
Non-activation of side and curtain air  
bags  
The side and curtain air bags will not  
normally inflate in the following cases:  
qAir Bag/Front Seat Belt  
Pretensioner System Warning  
Light  
l
Collision from the rear.  
l
Collision from the front, but it may  
deploy the front air bags.  
If the air bag/front seat belt pretensioner  
system is normal, the warning light  
illuminates when the ignition switch is  
turned to the ON position or after the  
engine is cranked. After about 6 seconds  
it goes out.  
2-38  
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Essential Safety Equipment  
SRS Air Bags  
A system malfunction is indicated when  
the warning light constantly flashes,  
illuminates or doesn't illuminate at all  
when the ignition switch is turned to the  
ON position. If any of these occur, consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible. The system may not work in an  
accident.  
WARNING  
Damaged Air Bag Sensors:  
Driving with damaged air bag sensors  
is dangerous. A collision, even one not  
strong enough to inflate the air bags,  
could damage the sensors. If there was  
a subsequent collision, a damaged  
sensor would not inflate the air bags.  
Always have an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer inspect the air bag systems  
after a collision.  
WARNING  
Self-Servicing the Air Bag/  
Pretensioner Systems:  
Self-servicing or tampering with the  
systems is dangerous. An air bag/  
pretensioner could accidentally  
activate or become disabled. This  
could cause serious injuries. Never  
tamper with the systems and always  
have an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
performs all servicing and repairs.  
Removing Interior Parts:  
Removing any components such as the  
front seat, front dashboard, the  
steering wheel or parts on the front  
and rear window pillars and along the  
roof edge, containing air bag parts or  
sensors is dangerous. These parts  
contain essential air bag parts. The air  
bag could accidentally activate and  
cause serious injuries. Always have an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer remove  
these parts.  
qMaintenance  
The air bag systems do not require regular  
maintenance. But if any of the following  
occurs, take your vehicle to an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible:  
Air Bag Disposal:  
Improper disposal of an air bag or a  
vehicle with live air bags in it can be  
extremely dangerous. Unless all safety  
procedures are followed, injury can  
result. Ask an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer how to safely dispose of an air  
bag or how to scrap an air bag  
equipped vehicle.  
l
The air bag system warning light  
flashes.  
l
The air bag system warning light  
remains illuminated.  
l
The air bag system warning light  
remains off when the ignition switch is  
turned to the ON position.  
l
The air bags inflate.  
2-39  
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2-40  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
3
Explanation of basic operations and controls; opening/closing and adjustment  
of various parts.  
Moonroofí ............................................................................. 3-22  
Theft-Deterrent Systemí ........................................................ 3-27  
íSome models.  
3-1  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Here's what the keys are used for:  
Keys  
Lock Operates  
Master key Valet key  
Ignition switch and  
steering column lock  
Yes  
Yes  
WARNING  
Driver's door  
Glove box  
Storage box  
Trunk lid  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
Yes  
No  
No  
No  
Keys and Children:  
Leaving children in a vehicle with the  
key is dangerous. This could result in  
someone being badly injured or even  
killed. They could play with power  
windows or other controls, or even  
make the vehicle move. Don't leave the  
keys in your vehicle with children and  
keep them in a place where your  
children will not find or play with  
them.  
If you must leave your vehicle with  
another person, such as a parking  
attendant, protect items by locking the  
glove box, storage box and trunk lid with  
the master key. Keep that key and give the  
other person only the valet key.  
A code number is stamped on the plate  
attached to the key set; detach this plate  
and store it in a safe place (not in the  
vehicle) for use if you need to make a  
replacement key.  
NOTE  
Refer to Immobilizer System (page  
3-24) for information regarding keys  
and engine starting on vehicles  
Also write down the code number and  
keep it in another safe and handy place,  
but not in the vehicle.  
equipped with the immobilizer system.  
Your Mazda has two kinds of keys.  
If your key is lost, consult your  
Authorized Mazda Dealer with the code  
number ready.  
Master key  
Valet key  
Key code number plate  
3-2  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Key unfold/fold method (Retractable  
key type)  
Keyless Entry System  
This system locks and unlocks the doors  
and opens the trunk.  
It can also help you signal for attention in  
an emergency.  
To unfold the key, press the release  
button.  
To fold the key, press the release button  
and rotate the key into the holder.  
Press the button slowly and accurately.  
CAUTION  
To avoid damage to the transmitter, do  
not:  
l
Drop it.  
l
Get it wet.  
l
Disassemble it.  
l
Expose it to heat or sunlight.  
3-3  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
qTransmitter  
NOTE  
l
The keyless entry system is designed  
Lock button  
to operate up to about 2.5 m (8 ft)  
from the center of the vehicle, but  
this may vary because of local  
conditions.  
Unlock button  
Panic button  
l
The system doesn't operate when the  
key is in the ignition switch.  
l
Doors cannot be locked by pressing  
the LOCK button while any other  
door is open. The hazard warning  
lights will also not flash.  
Trunk button  
NOTE  
l
If the transmitter does not operate  
when pressing a button or the  
operation range becomes too small,  
the battery may be dead. To install a  
new battery, refer to Maintenance  
(page 3-6).  
l
(U.S.A.)  
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.  
l
Additional transmitters can be  
obtained at an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer. Up to 3 transmitters can be  
used with the keyless entry system  
per vehicle. Bring all transmitters to  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer when  
the electronic codes need to be reset.  
l
(CANADA)  
This device complies with RSS-210  
of Industry CANADA. Operation is  
subject to the following two  
conditions: (1) this device may not  
cause interference, and (2) this  
device must accept any interference,  
including interference that may cause  
undesired operation of the device.  
NOTE  
If the lock and unlock buttons are  
pressed sequentially, the hazard  
warning lights may not flash correctly.  
3-4  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Lock button  
NOTE  
To lock the doors, press the lock button  
and the hazard warning lights will flash  
once.  
The trunk button is disabled when the  
glove box-mounted trunk lid release  
lock-out button is in the OFF position.  
Refer to Remote Trunk Lid Release  
Lock-Out on page 3-14.  
To confirm that all the doors have been  
locked, press the lock button again within  
5 seconds. If they are closed and locked,  
the horn will sound and the hazard  
warning lights will flash once.  
Panic button  
You can use the panic button to turn on  
the alarm, which allows you to signal for  
attention in an emergency.  
NOTE  
l
All doors cannot be locked when any  
NOTE  
door is open and the key is in the  
ignition switch.  
The alarm will work whether any door  
is open or closed.  
l
Confirm that all the doors are locked  
visually or audibly by use of the  
double click.  
Turning on the alarm  
Pressing the panic button for about a  
second will trigger the alarm for about 2  
minutes and 30 seconds, and do the  
following:  
Unlock button  
To unlock the driver's door, press the  
unlock button and the hazard warning  
lights will flash twice.  
l
The horn sounds intermittently.  
l
The hazard warning lights flash.  
To unlock all the doors, press the unlock  
button again within 5 seconds and the  
hazard warning lights will flash twice.  
Turning off the alarm  
Press any button on the transmitter or  
insert the key into the ignition switch.  
NOTE  
After unlocking with the transmitter, all  
doors will automatically lock if one of  
the doors is not opened within about 30  
seconds.  
Trunk button  
To open the trunk, press the trunk button.  
3-5  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Replacing the transmitter battery  
qTransmitter Maintenance  
1. Insert a small screwdriver into the slot  
and push the tab to remove the key  
from the transmitter.  
CAUTION  
l
Make sure the battery is installed  
with the correct pole facing upward.  
Battery leakage could occur if it is  
not installed correctly.  
Tab  
l
When replacing the battery, be  
careful not to bend the electrical  
terminals or get oil on them. Also be  
careful not to get dirt in the  
transmitter as it could damage it.  
l
Danger of battery explosion if it is  
incorrectly replaced.  
l
Replace only with the same type  
battery (CR1620 or equivalent).  
2. Insert a small screwdriver into the slot  
and gently pry open the transmitter.  
l
Dispose of used batteries according  
to the following instructions.  
l
Insulate the plus and minus  
terminals of the battery using  
cellophane or equivalent tape.  
Never disassemble.  
l
l
Never throw the battery into fire  
and/or water.  
Never deform or crush.  
l
3-6  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
3. Press the portion of the battery  
qService  
indicated by A and remove the battery.  
If you have a problem with the keyless  
entry system, consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
If your transmitter is lost or stolen, bring  
all remaining transmitters to an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible for a replacement and to make  
the lost or stolen transmitter inoperative.  
A
CAUTION  
Changes or modifications not expressly  
approved by the party responsible for  
compliance could void the user's  
4. Put in the new battery (CR1620 or  
equivalent) with the positive pole (  
facing down.  
)
authority to operate the equipment.  
5. Align the front and back covers and  
snap the transmitter shut.  
6. Install the key to the transmitter.  
3-7  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
qLocking, Unlocking with Key  
Door Locks  
The driver's door can be locked/unlocked  
with the key.  
Turn the key toward the front to unlock,  
toward the back to lock.  
WARNING  
Unattended Children and Pets:  
Leaving a child or an animal  
unattended in a parked vehicle is  
dangerous. In hot weather,  
temperatures inside a vehicle can  
become high enough to cause brain  
damage or even death. Always take all  
children and animals with you or  
leave a responsible person with them.  
Unlock  
Lock  
Keys and Children:  
Leaving children in a vehicle with the  
key is dangerous. This could result in  
someone being badly injured or even  
killed. They could play with power  
windows or other controls, or even  
make the vehicle move. Don't leave the  
keys in your vehicle with children and  
keep them in a place where your  
children will not find or play with  
them.  
qLocking, Unlocking with  
Transmitter  
The doors can be locked/unlocked by  
operating the keyless entry system  
transmitter, refer to keyless entry system  
(page 3-3).  
qLocking, Unlocking with Door-  
Unlocked Doors:  
Lock Knob  
Unlocked doors in a moving vehicle  
are dangerous. Passengers can fall out  
if a door is accidentally opened and  
can more easily be thrown out in an  
accident. So keep all doors locked  
when driving.  
To lock either front door from the inside,  
push the door-lock knob.  
To unlock, pull it out.  
Door-lock knob  
Lock  
NOTE  
Always remove the key from the  
ignition switch, close all windows, and  
lock all doors and the trunk lid when  
leaving your vehicle unattended. This  
discourages intruders and thieves.  
Unlock  
3-8  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
To lock either front door with the door-  
lock knob from the outside, push the  
door-lock knob to the lock position and  
close the door.  
Locking, unlocking with key  
All doors lock automatically when the  
driver's door is locked with the key. All  
doors unlock when the driver's door is  
unlocked and the key is held in the unlock  
position a second longer.  
Door-lock knob  
Unlock  
Lock  
NOTE  
When locking the doors this way, be  
careful not to leave the key inside the  
vehicle.  
NOTE  
Holding the key in the unlocked  
position in the driver's door lock for  
about a second unlocks all doors. To  
unlock only the driver's door, insert the  
key into the driver's door lock and turn  
the key briefly to the unlock position  
and then immediately return it to the  
center position.  
qPower Door Locks  
NOTE  
All doors cannot be locked when any  
door is open and the key is in the  
ignition switch.  
Locking, unlocking with door-lock  
switch  
All doors lock automatically when LOCK  
is pushed. They all unlock when the  
unmarked part of the door-lock switch is  
pushed.  
3-9  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Driver's door  
qFreestyle Doors  
The pillarless freestyle doors are front and  
rear-hinged for ease of ingress and egress  
to the rear seat.  
Opening the freestyle doors  
Unlock  
1. Open the front door first.  
Lock  
Passenger's door  
Front door  
Unlock  
Lock  
2. Pull the rear door handle and open the  
rear door.  
Rear door handle  
3-10  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Closing the freestyle doors  
CAUTION  
1. Close the rear door first, and then close  
the front door.  
Before closing a front door make sure  
other passengers are not operating a  
rear door and a rear passenger's head or  
hands are away from the rear door. If  
the front door is closed while a  
passenger is operating the rear door  
handle, a hand or fingers could be  
injured if the handle is forced back.  
Also, a rear passenger could hit their  
head against the door during access to  
the rear seat.  
Front door  
Rear door  
NOTE  
l
The rear door cannot be opened  
while the front door is closed.  
CAUTION  
Before closing a front door make sure  
other passengers are not operating a  
rear door and a rear passenger's head or  
hands are away from the rear door. If  
the front door is closed while a  
passenger is operating the rear door  
handle, a hand or fingers could be  
injured if the handle is forced back.  
Also, a rear passenger could hit their  
head against the door during access to  
the rear seat.  
l
Make sure the front seatbelt is  
unfastened before the rear door is  
opened. The rear door can't be  
opened with the front seatbelt  
fastened because the front seatbelt  
may lock.  
l
If any door is left open for more than  
about an hour, the front seatbelt will  
lock, and the rear door cannot be  
opened. If this happens, close all  
doors and open the rear door again.  
l
This vehicle is not equipped with  
NOTE  
child safety locks due to the design  
of the front and rear doors. The rear  
doors must be closed before the front  
doors, and the rear doors cannot be  
opened until the front doors are  
opened.  
The front door cannot latch or lock  
while the rear door is opened.  
2. Make sure the freestyle doors are  
securely closed.  
3-11  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Trunk Lid  
WARNING  
Driving with Doors Not Secured:  
Driving with the doors not securely  
closed is dangerous. If the rear door is  
not completely closed, the front door  
will not be securely closed. This could  
cause the front door to open  
unexpectedly while driving and may  
result in an accident. Make sure the  
rear door is closed securely before  
closing the front door.  
WARNING  
Open Trunk and Exhaust Gas:  
Exhaust gas in the cabin of a vehicle  
is dangerous. This gas contains CO  
(carbon monoxide), which is colorless,  
odorless, and highly poisonous. If  
inhaled, it can cause loss of  
consciousness and death. Because  
exhaust gas can get into the cabin  
through an open trunk, keep the trunk  
closed when driving.  
3-12  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Opening the trunk lid with the key  
qOpening and Closing the Trunk  
Insert the master key into the slot and turn  
it clockwise.  
The valet key will not operate this lock  
(page 3-2).  
WARNING  
Open Trunk Lid and Children:  
Leaving the trunk lid open or leaving  
children in the vehicle with the keys is  
dangerous. Children could open the  
trunk lid and climb inside resulting in  
possible injury or death from heat  
exposure. Close the trunk lid and do  
not allow children to play inside the  
vehicle.  
Open  
Unattended Children and Pets:  
Leaving children or animals  
unattended in a parked vehicle is  
dangerous. Babies left sleeping and  
kids who lock themselves in cars or  
trunks can die very quickly from heat  
prostration. Don't leave your children  
or pets alone in a car at any time.  
Don't leave the car or the trunk  
unlocked. Always keep the car from  
being a tempting place to play by  
locking doors and the trunk, and  
keeping the keys where children won't  
play with them.  
Opening the trunk lid with the  
transmitter  
The trunk lid can be opened by operating  
the keyless entry system transmitter, refer  
to Keyless Entry System (page 3-3).  
Opening the trunk lid with the remote  
release button  
Push the release button.  
3-13  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Closing the trunk lid  
With the switch in the ON position, the  
remote trunk lid release can be operated.  
Grasp the inner handle and pull the trunk  
lid down, then push the trunk lid down  
until it locks securely. Be careful not slam  
it. Pull up on the trunk lid to make sure it  
is secured.  
qTrunk Light  
The trunk light is on when the lid is open  
and off when it's closed.  
Handle  
qRemote Trunk Lid Release Lock-  
NOTE  
Out  
To prevent the battery from being  
discharged, do not leave the trunk open  
for a long period when the engine is not  
running.  
As an added security feature, the remote  
release may be canceled to prevent  
anyone from opening the trunk without  
the master key.  
With the switch in the OFF position, the  
remote trunk lid release cannot be  
operated.  
OFF position  
ON position  
3-14  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Inside Trunk Release Slide  
Lever  
WARNING  
Open Trunk Lid and Children:  
Your vehicle is equipped with an inside  
trunk release slide lever that provides a  
means of escape for children and adults in  
the event they become locked inside the  
trunk.  
Leaving the trunk lid open or leaving  
children in the vehicle with the keys is  
dangerous. Children could open the  
trunk lid and climb inside resulting in  
possible injury or death from heat  
exposure. Close the trunk lid and do  
not allow children to play inside the  
vehicle.  
No matter how careful adults might be  
with keys and locking their cars, parents  
should be aware that children may be  
tempted to play around vehicles and use  
the trunk as a hiding place.  
Unattended Children and Pets:  
Leaving children or animals  
unattended in a parked vehicle is  
dangerous. Babies left sleeping and  
kids who lock themselves in cars or  
trunks can die very quickly from heat  
prostration. Don't leave your children  
or pets alone in a car at any time.  
Don't leave the car or the trunk  
unlocked. Always keep the car from  
being a tempting place to play by  
locking doors and the trunk, and  
keeping the keys where children won't  
play with them.  
Adults are advised to familiarize  
themselves with the operation and  
location of the inside trunk release slide  
lever so that all children can be told about  
it in an appropriate way, keeping in mind  
that most vehicles don't have such levers.  
3-15  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
qOpening the Trunk Lid from the  
Power Windows  
Inside  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position for the power windows to  
operate.  
Slide the illuminated inside trunk release  
slide lever in the direction of the arrow.  
The lever is made of material that will  
glow for hours in the darkness of the  
trunk following a brief exposure to  
ambient light.  
WARNING  
Closing Power Windows:  
Closing power windows are  
dangerous. A person's hands, head, or  
even neck could be caught by the  
window and result in serious injury or  
even death.  
The inside trunk release slide lever is  
located on the inside of the trunk end trim.  
This warning applies especially to  
children. Make sure the opening is  
clear before closing a window.  
Children and Power Windows:  
Leaving the power window switches  
unlocked while children are in the  
vehicle is dangerous. Power window  
switches that are not locked with the  
power window lock switch would allow  
children to operate power windows  
unintentionally which could result in  
serious injury if a child's hands, head  
or neck becomes caught by the  
window. Always lock all passenger  
power windows with the power  
window lock switch on the driver's  
side while children are in the vehicle,  
and never allow children to play with  
power window switches.  
3-16  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
qOperating the Driver's Side  
qOperating the Passenger Power  
Power Window  
Windows  
Manual opening/closing  
The power window may be operated  
when the power window lock switch on  
the driver's door is in the unlocked  
position.  
To open the window to the desired  
position, lightly hold down the switch.  
To close the window to the desired  
position, lightly pull up the switch.  
The passenger window may be opened or  
closed by the power window master  
control switches on the driver's door.  
Power window lock switch  
Open  
Close  
Left front window  
Auto-opening  
Right front window  
To fully open the window automatically,  
press the switch completely down.  
To open the window to the desired  
position, hold down the switch.  
To close the window to the desired  
position, pull up the switch.  
To stop the window partway, lightly pull  
up the switch and then release it.  
Open  
Close  
3-17  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
qPower Window Lock Switch  
Rear Quarter Windows  
With the lock switch in the unlocked  
position, all power windows on each door  
can be operated.  
Open or close a swing-out rear quarter  
window by releasing the latch and moving  
the window.  
With the lock switch in the locked  
position, only the driver's side power  
window can be operated.  
NOTE  
When parked in public areas, it is best  
to keep the rear quarter windows closed  
for security.  
Locked position  
qOpening a Window  
Pull the latch inward and then push the  
window outward.  
Unlocked position  
WARNING  
Unintentional Window Operation:  
Unintentional window operation is  
dangerous. A person's hands, head, or  
neck could be caught by the window  
and result in serious injury. Unless a  
passenger needs to operate a window,  
keep the power window lock switch in  
the locked position.  
3-18  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
qClosing a Window  
Fuel-Filler Lid and Cap  
Pull the latch inward and then push it  
backward until it snaps shut. Make sure  
the window is securely closed.  
WARNING  
Fuel Spray:  
Fuel spray is dangerous. Fuel can  
burn skin and eyes and cause illness if  
ingested. Fuel spray is released when  
there is pressure in the fuel tank and  
the fuel cap is removed too quickly.  
When removing the fuel cap, loosen  
the cap slightly and wait for any  
hissing to stop. Then remove it.  
Fuel Vapor:  
Fuel vapor is dangerous. It could be  
ignited by sparks or flames causing  
serious burns and injuries. Before  
refueling, stop the engine, and always  
keep sparks and flames away from the  
filler neck. Additionally, use of the  
incorrect fuel filler cap or not using a  
fuel filler cap may result in fuel leak,  
which could result in serious burns or  
death in an accident.  
CAUTION  
Always use only a genuine Mazda fuel  
cap or an approved equivalent,  
available at an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer. The wrong cap can result in a  
serious malfunction of the fuel and  
emission control systems. It may also  
cause the check engine light in the  
instrument cluster to illuminate.  
3-19  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
qFuel-Filler Lid  
CAUTION  
To open, pull up the remote fuel-filler lid  
release.  
Make sure the fuel-filler cap is  
tightened securely. The check engine  
light may illuminate on when the cap  
isn't tightened securely. If the light  
remains on (even after you have  
tightened the cap securely, driven, and  
restarted the engine several times), it  
may indicate a different problem.  
Contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer as  
soon as possible.  
Remote fuel-filler  
lid release  
qFuel-Filler Cap  
To remove the filler cap, turn it  
counterclockwise.  
To close the filler cap, turn it clockwise  
until it clicks.  
Open  
Close  
3-20  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
2. Slide the hood latch to the right and lift  
the hood.  
Hood  
WARNING  
Closed and Securely Locked Hood:  
A hood that is not closed and securely  
locked is dangerous as it could fly  
open while the vehicle is moving and  
block the driver's vision which could  
result in a serious accident. Always  
check that the hood is closed and  
securely locked.  
3. Use the support rod to hold the hood  
open.  
qOpening the Hood  
1. With the vehicle parked, pull the  
release handle to unlock the hood.  
Clip  
Support rod  
Release handle  
qClosing the Hood  
1. Check under the hood area to make  
certain all filler caps are in place and  
all loose items (e.g. tools, oil  
containers, etc.) have been removed.  
2. Insert the support rod in its clip while  
holding up the hood. Verify that the  
support rod is secured in the clip before  
closing the hood.  
3. Close the hood so that it locks securely.  
3-21  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
Moonroofí  
NOTE  
After washing your Mazda or after a  
rain, wipe the water off the moonroof  
before operating it to avoid water  
penetration which could cause rust and  
water damage to your headliner.  
The moonroof can be opened or closed  
electrically only when the ignition switch  
is in the ON position.  
Slide switch  
qTilt Operation  
The rear of the moonroof can be tilted  
open to provide more ventilation.  
To fully tilt automatically, push the rear of  
the tilt switch.  
To stop tilting partway, push any part of  
the tilt or slide switch.  
Tilt switch  
To close to the desired position, push the  
front of the tilt or slide switch.  
WARNING  
Extending the Head or Arms Through  
the Moonroof:  
Extending the head, arms, or other  
parts of the body through the  
moonroof is dangerous. The head or  
arms could hit something while the  
vehicle is moving. This could cause  
death or serious injury. Don't let  
passengers stand up or extend  
anything through the open moonroof  
while the vehicle is moving.  
Tilt up  
Close  
Close  
Closing the Moonroof:  
qSlide Operation  
A closing moonroof is dangerous. The  
hands, head, or even neck of a person  
especially a childcould be caught  
in it as it closes, causing serious injury  
or even death. Make sure the opening  
is clear before closing the moonroof.  
To fully open automatically, push the rear  
of the slide switch.  
To stop sliding partway, push any part of  
the tilt or slide switch.  
3-22  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Doors and Locks  
To close to the desired position, push the  
front of the tilt or slide switch.  
Open  
Close  
Close  
qSunshade  
The sunshade can be opened and closed  
by hand.  
The sunshade opens automatically when  
the moonroof is opened, but must be  
closed by hand.  
Sunshade  
CAUTION  
The sunshade doesn't tilt. To avoid  
damaging the sunshade, don't push up  
on it.  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Security System  
Immobilizer System  
CAUTION  
The immobilizer system allows the engine  
to start only with a key the system  
recognizes.  
When starting the engine do not allow  
the following, as the engine may not  
start due to the electronic signal from  
the ignition key not being transmitted  
correctly.  
If someone attempts to start the engine  
with an unrecognized key, the engine will  
not start, thereby helping to prevent the  
theft of your vehicle.  
l
A key ring rests on the key grip.  
CAUTION  
l
Changes or modifications not  
expressly approved by the party  
responsible for compliance could  
void the user's authority to operate  
the equipment.  
l
Metal parts of other keys or metal  
objects touch the key grip.  
l
To avoid damage to the key, do not:  
l
Drop the key.  
Get the key wet.  
Expose the key to any kind of  
l
l
magnetic field.  
Expose the key to high  
l
temperatures on places such as the  
dashboard or hood, under direct  
sunlight.  
l
Spare keys or keys for other vehicles  
equipped with an immobilizer  
system touch or come near the key  
grip.  
l
Devices for electronic purchases, or  
security passage touch or come near  
the key.  
3-24  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Security System  
Disarming  
NOTE  
The system is disarmed when the ignition  
switch is turned to the ON position with  
the correct ignition key.  
The security indicator light illuminates for  
about 3 seconds and goes out.  
l
(U.S.A.)  
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.  
If the engine doesn't start with the correct  
ignition key, and the security indicator  
light keeps illuminating or flashing, the  
system may have a malfunction. Consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
l
(CANADA)  
This device complies with RSS-210  
of Industry CANADA. Operation is  
subject to the following two  
conditions: (1) this device may not  
cause interference, and (2) this  
device must accept any interference,  
including interference that may cause  
undesired operation of the device.  
qOperation  
Arming  
The system is armed when the ignition  
switch is turned from the ON to the ACC  
position.  
The security indicator light in the  
instrument panel flashes every 2 seconds  
until the system is disarmed.  
3-25  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Security System  
qMaintenance  
NOTE  
If you have a problem with the  
immobilizer system or the key, consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
l
If the security indicator light comes  
on and stays on when the ignition  
switch is turned to the ON position,  
the engine will not start.  
NOTE  
l
Signals from a TVor radio station, or  
from a transceiver or a mobile  
l
The keys carry a unique electronic  
telephone, could interfere with your  
immobilizer system. If you are using  
the proper key and your engine fails  
to start, check the security indicator  
light. If it is flashing, remove the  
ignition key and wait 2 seconds or  
more, then reinsert it and try starting  
the engine again. If it doesn't start  
after 3 or more tries, contact an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
code. For this reason, and to assure  
your safety, obtaining replacement  
key requires some waiting time.  
They are only available through an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
l
Always keep a spare key, in case one  
is lost. If a key is lost, contact an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible.  
l
If you lose a key, an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer will reset the  
l
If the security indicator light flashes  
continuously while you are driving,  
don't shut off the engine. Go to an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer and have  
it checked. If you shut off the engine  
while the light is flashing you won't  
be able to restart it.  
electronic codes of your remaining  
keys and immobilizer system. Bring  
all the remaining keys to the  
Authorized Mazda Dealer to reset.  
Starting the vehicle with a key that  
has not been reset is not possible.  
l
Since the electronic codes are reset  
when repairing the immobilizer  
system, the keys are needed. Bring  
all the existing keys to the  
qModification and Add-On  
Equipment  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Mazda cannot guarantee the immobilizer  
system's operation if the system has been  
modified or if any add-on equipment has  
been installed to it.  
CAUTION  
To avoid damage to your vehicle, do  
not modify the system or install any  
add-on equipment to it.  
3-26  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Security System  
qHow to Arm the System  
Theft-Deterrent Systemí  
1. Remove the key from the ignition  
switch.  
The optional theft-deterrent system is  
designed to prevent your vehicle or its  
contents from being stolen when all the  
doors, hood, and trunk lid are locked.  
2. Close the hood. Then close and lock all  
doors and the trunk lid from the outside  
using the key or press the LOCK  
button on your keyless entry system  
transmitter. The hazard warning lights  
will flash once to indicate that the  
system is armed.  
If forcible entry is attempted, the system  
sounds the horn and flashes the hazard  
warning lights.  
NOTE  
The following method will also arm the  
theft-deterrent system:  
Close the hood and the trunk lid . Press  
the area on the door-lock switch  
marked LOCKonce. Close all doors.  
l
The theft-deterrent system operates  
with the key or the keyless entry  
system transmitter.  
l
The system will not function unless  
it is properly armed. To properly  
secure the vehicle, always make sure  
all the windows are completely  
closed and all doors and the trunk lid  
are locked before leaving the vehicle.  
Remember to take your key and  
transmitter.  
NOTE  
Locking the doors with the inside door-  
lock knob will not arm the system.  
qTo Turn off an Armed System  
An armed system can be turned off by any  
one of the following methods:  
qOperation  
l
Unlock a door with the key.  
System triggering conditions  
l
Press the UNLOCK button on the  
The horn sounds intermittently and the  
hazard warning lights flash for about 3  
minutes when the system is triggered by  
any one of the following:  
keyless entry system transmitter.  
l
Insert the key into the ignition switch  
and turn it to the ON position.  
l
Forcing open a door, the hood or the  
The hazard warning lights will flash twice  
to indicate that the system is turned off.  
trunk lid.  
l
Opening a door, the hood or the trunk  
lid by operating an inside door-lock  
knob, the hood release handle or the  
trunk lid release button.  
NOTE  
The trunk lid can be opened with the  
key or the transmitter even when the  
system is armed. The alarm will not  
come on and the system will remain  
armed.  
If the system is triggered again, the lights  
and horn will activate until a door is  
unlocked or the trunk lid is opened with  
the key or with the transmitter.  
íSome models.  
3-27  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Security System  
qTo Stop an Alarm  
A triggered alarm can be turned off by  
any one of the following methods:  
l
Unlock a door or the trunk lid with the  
key.  
l
Press the UNLOCK button or  
button on the keyless entry system  
transmitter.  
NOTE  
If you have any problem with the theft-  
deterrent system, consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
qTheft-Deterrent Labels  
Labels indicating that your vehicle is  
equipped with a Theft-Deterrent System  
are in the glove box.  
Mazda recommends that you affix them to  
the lower rear corner of the front door  
windows.  
3-28  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Steering Wheel and Mirrors  
Steering Wheel  
Mirrors  
qOutside Mirrors  
WARNING  
Check the mirrors' angles before driving.  
Adjusting the Steering Wheel:  
Adjusting the steering wheel while the  
vehicle is moving is dangerous.  
Moving it can very easily cause the  
driver to abruptly turn to the left or  
right. This can lead to loss of control  
or an accident. Never adjust the  
steering wheel while the vehicle is  
moving.  
WARNING  
Convex Mirror (Passenger Side):  
Changing lanes without taking into  
account the actual distance of the  
vehicle in the convex mirror is  
dangerous. You could have a serious  
accident. What you see in the convex  
mirror is closer than it appears. Be  
sure to look over your shoulder before  
changing lanes.  
qTilt Steering Wheel  
To change the angle of the steering wheel,  
stop the vehicle, pull the tilt wheel release  
lever under the steering column down,  
adjust the wheel, then push the release  
lever up to lock the column.  
Power control mirror  
The ignition switch must be in the ACC  
or ON position.  
To adjust:  
Tilt wheel release  
lever  
1. Press the left or right side of the  
selector switch to choose the left or  
right side mirror.  
2. Depress the mirror switch in the  
appropriate direction.  
Outside mirror  
Selector switch  
After adjusting, push the wheel up and  
down to be certain it's locked before  
driving.  
Mirror switch  
3-29  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Steering Wheel and Mirrors  
After adjusting the mirror, lock the control  
by placing the selector switch in the  
middle position.  
qRearview Mirror  
WARNING  
Folding the mirror  
Fold the outside mirror rearward until it is  
locked.  
Blocked View:  
Cargo stacked higher than the  
seatbacks is dangerous. It can block  
your view in the rearview mirror,  
which might cause you to hit another  
car when changing lanes. Don't stack  
things higher than the seatbacks.  
Rearview mirror adjustment  
Before driving, adjust the rearview mirror  
to center on the scene through the rear  
window.  
NOTE  
For the manual day/night mirror,  
perform the adjustment with the day/  
night lever in the day position.  
WARNING  
Driving with Mirrors Folded In:  
Driving with the outside mirrors  
folded in is dangerous. Your rear view  
will be restricted, and you could have  
an accident. Always return the outside  
mirrors to the driving position before  
you start driving.  
Reducing glare from headlights  
Manual day/night mirror  
Push the day/night lever forward for day  
driving. Pull it back to reduce glare of  
headlights from cars at the rear.  
Mirror defrosterí  
Day/Night lever  
If your vehicle has mirror defrosters, turn  
them on by turning the ignition switch to  
the ON position and pushing the rear  
window defroster switch (page 5-54).  
Day  
Night  
3-30  
íSome models.  
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Knowing Your Mazda  
Steering Wheel and Mirrors  
Auto-dimming mirror  
NOTE  
The auto-dimming mirror automatically  
reduces glare of headlights from cars at  
the rear when the ignition switch is in the  
ON position.  
l
Do not use glass cleaner or suspend  
objects on or around the light sensor.  
Otherwise, light sensor sensitivity  
will be affected and may not operate  
normally.  
Press the OFF button ( ) to cancel the  
automatic dimming function. The  
indicator light will go off.  
To reactivate the automatic dimming  
function, press the ON button ( ). The  
indicator light will illuminate.  
Light sensor  
OFF button  
ON button  
Indicator light  
Light sensor  
l
For information regarding the 3  
buttons (  
,
,
) on the auto-  
dimming mirror, refer to HomeLink  
Wireless Control System (page  
3-31  
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3-32  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
4
Important information about driving your Mazda.  
4-1  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Fuel and Engine Exhaust Precautions  
Fuel Requirements  
Vehicles with catalytic converters or oxygen sensors must use ONLY UNLEADED FUEL,  
which will reduce exhaust emissions and keep spark plug fouling to a minimum.  
Your Mazda will perform best with fuel listed in the table.  
Fuel  
Octane Rating*(Anti-knock index)  
Premium unleaded fuel  
91 [ (R+M)/2 method] or above (96 RON or above)  
* U.S. federal law requires that octane ratings be posted on gasoline station pumps.  
You may use a regular unleaded fuel with an Octane Rating from 87 to 90 (91 to 95 RON)  
but this will slightly reduce performance.  
Fuel with a rating lower than 87 octane (91 RON) could cause the emission control system  
to lose effectiveness. It could also cause engine knocking and serious engine damage.  
CAUTION  
l
USE ONLY UNLEADED FUEL.  
Leaded fuel is harmful to the catalytic converter or the oxygen sensor. The lead will  
accumulate on the oxygen sensor and the catalyst inside the converter. This will result  
in a malfunction of the emission control system, causing poor performance.  
l
Your vehicle can only use oxygenated fuels containing no more than 10% ethanol by  
volume. Damage to your vehicle may occur when ethanol exceeds this  
recommendation, or if the gasoline contains any methanol. Stop using gasohol of any  
kind if your vehicle engine is performing poorly.  
l
Never add fuel system additives. Never add cleaning agents other than those specified  
by Mazda. Other cleaning agents and additives may damage the system. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Gasoline blended with oxygenates such as alcohol or ether compounds are generally  
referred to as oxygenated fuels. The common gasoline blend that can be used with your  
vehicle is ethanol blended at no more than 10%. Gasoline containing alcohol, such as  
ethanol or methanol, may be marketed under the name Gasohol.  
Vehicle damage and drivability problems resulting from the use of the following may not  
be covered by the Mazda warranty.  
l
Gasohol containing more than 10% ethanol.  
l
Gasoline or gasohol containing methanol.  
l
Leaded fuel or leaded gasohol.  
4-2  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Fuel and Engine Exhaust Precautions  
Emission Control System  
Your vehicle is equipped with an emission control system (the catalytic converter is part of  
this system) that enables your vehicle to comply with existing exhaust emissions  
requirements.  
WARNING  
Parking Over Flammable Objects:  
Parking over or near anything flammable, such as dry grass, is dangerous. Even with  
the engine turned off, the exhaust system could ignite it because the exhaust system  
gets very hot during normal use. A resulting fire could cause serious injury or death.  
Never park over or near anything flammable.  
CAUTION  
Ignoring the following precautions could cause lead to accumulate on the catalyst inside  
the converter or cause the converter to get very hot. Either condition will damage the  
converter and cause poor performance.  
l
USE ONLY UNLEADED FUEL.  
l
Don't drive your Mazda with any sign of engine malfunction.  
l
Don't coast with the ignition switch turned off.  
l
Don't descend steep grades in gear with the ignition switch turned off.  
l
Don't operate the engine at high idle for more than 5 minutes.  
l
Don't tamper with the emission control system. All inspections and adjustments must  
be made by a qualified technician.  
l
Don't try to push-start or pull-start your vehicle.  
NOTE  
Under U.S. federal law, any modification to the original-equipment emission control  
system before the first sale and registration of a vehicle is subject to penalties. In some  
states, such modification made on a used vehicle is also subject to penalties.  
4-3  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Fuel and Engine Exhaust Precautions  
NOTE  
After driving some distance and turning off the engine, the sound of a valve opening and  
closing can be heard from inside and outside of the cabin interior, however this does not  
indicate an abnormality. Your vehicle has a self-checking device and it operates after  
turning off the engine.  
4-4  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Fuel and Engine Exhaust Precautions  
Engine Exhaust (Carbon Monoxide)  
WARNING  
Carbon Monoxide:  
Engine exhaust gas is dangerous. This gas contains carbon monoxide (CO), which is  
colorless, odorless, and poisonous. When inhaled, it can cause loss of consciousness  
and death. If you smell exhaust gas inside your vehicle, keep all windows fully open  
and contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer immediately.  
Exhaust Gas in Enclosed Area:  
Running the engine inside an enclosed area, such as a garage, is dangerous. Exhaust  
gas, which contains poisonous carbon monoxide, could easily enter the cabin. Loss of  
consciousness or even death could occur. Don't run the engine when inside an  
enclosed area.  
Idling with the Windows Closed:  
Exhaust gas is dangerous. When your vehicle is stopped with the windows closed and  
the engine running for a long time even in an open area, exhaust gas, which contains  
poisonous carbon monoxide, could enter the cabin. Loss of consciousness or even  
death could occur. Open the windows or adjust the heating or cooling system to draw  
fresh air.  
Snow Blocking the Exhaust Gas:  
Running the engine when a vehicle is stopped in deep snow is dangerous. The exhaust  
pipe could be blocked by the snow, allowing exhaust gas to enter the cabin. Because  
exhaust gas contains poisonous carbon monoxide, anyone in the cabin could be  
injured or killed. Clear the snow from underneath and around your vehicle,  
particularly the tail pipe, before starting the engine.  
4-5  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Before Starting the Engine  
Before Getting In  
After Getting In  
l
l
l
l
Be sure the windows, outside mirrors,  
and outside lights are clean.  
Are all doors closed and locked?  
Is the seat adjusted properly?  
l
Inspect inflation pressures and  
condition of tires.  
Are the inside and outside mirrors  
adjusted?  
l
Look under the vehicle for any sign of  
a leak.  
l
l
l
Is everyone's seat belt fastened?  
Check all gauges.  
l
If you plan to back up, make sure  
nothing will be in your way.  
Check all warning lights when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position.  
NOTE  
l
Release the parking brake and make  
sure the brake warning light goes off.  
Engine oil, engine coolant, brake/clutch  
fluid, washer fluid, and other fluid  
levels should be inspected. See  
Maintenance, Section 8.  
Always be thoroughly familiar with your  
Mazda.  
4-6  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Driving Tips  
Break-In Period  
Money-Saving Suggestions  
No special break-in is necessary, but a few  
precautions in the first 1,000 km (600  
miles) may add to the performance,  
economy, and life of your Mazda.  
How you operate your Mazda determines  
how far it will travel on a tank of fuel. Use  
these suggestions to help save money on  
fuel and repairs.  
l
l
Don't race the engine.  
Avoid long warm-ups. Once the engine  
runs smoothly, begin driving.  
l
Don't maintain one constant speed,  
either slow or fast, for a long period of  
time.  
l
Avoid fast starts.  
l
Keep the engine tuned. Follow the  
l
Don't drive constantly at full-throttle or  
high engine rpm (over 7,000 rpm) for  
extended periods of time.  
maintenance schedule (page 8-3) and  
have an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
perform inspections and servicing.  
l
l
Avoid unnecessary hard stops.  
Use the air conditioner only when  
necessary.  
l
Avoid full-throttle starts.  
l
Slow down on rough roads.  
l
Keep the tires properly inflated.  
l
Don't carry unnecessary weight.  
l
Don't rest your foot on the brake pedal  
while driving.  
l
Keep the wheels in correct alignment.  
l
Keep windows closed at high speeds.  
l
Slow down when driving in crosswinds  
and headwinds.  
WARNING  
Coasting:  
Stopping the engine when going down  
a hill is dangerous. This causes the  
loss of power steering and power  
brake control, and may cause damage  
to the drivetrain. Any loss of steering  
or braking control could cause an  
accident. Never stop the engine when  
going down a hill.  
4-7  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Driving Tips  
Hazardous Driving  
Rocking the Vehicle  
WARNING  
WARNING  
Downshifting on Slippery Surfaces:  
Downshifting into lower gear while  
driving on slippery surfaces 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 it is  
necessary to downshift on slippery  
surfaces, be very careful.  
Spinning the Wheels:  
When the vehicle is stuck, spinning  
the wheels at high speed is dangerous.  
The spinning tire could overheat and  
explode. This could cause serious  
injuries. Don't spin the wheels at more  
than 56 km/h (35 mph), and don't  
allow anyone to stand behind a wheel  
when pushing the vehicle.  
When driving on ice or in water, snow,  
mud, sand, or similar hazard:  
CAUTION  
l
Be cautious and allow extra distance  
for braking.  
Too much rocking may cause engine  
overheating, transmission failure, and  
tire damage.  
l
Avoid sudden braking and quick  
steering.  
If you must rock the vehicle to free it from  
snow, sand or mud, depress the  
accelerator slightly and slowly move the  
shift lever from 1 (D) to R.  
l
If your vehicle is not equipped with  
ABS, brake with the pedal by using a  
light up-down motion. Don't hold the  
pedal down constantly.  
If your vehicle is equipped with ABS,  
don't pump the brakes. Continue to  
press down on the brake pedal.  
l
If you get stuck, select a lower gear and  
accelerate slowly. Don't spin the rear  
wheels.  
l
For more traction in starting on  
slippery surfaces such as ice or packed  
snow, use sand, rock salt, chains,  
carpeting, or other nonslip material  
under the rear wheels.  
NOTE  
Use snow chains only on the rear  
wheels.  
4-8  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Driving Tips  
Winter Driving  
CAUTION  
l
Carry emergency gear, including tire  
Check local regulations before using  
studded tires.  
chains, window scraper, flares, a small  
shovel, jumper cables, and a small bag  
of sand or salt.  
NOTE  
Ask an Authorized Mazda Dealer to  
perform the following precautions:  
If your vehicle is equipped with the tire  
pressure monitoring system, the system  
may not function correctly when using  
tires with steel wire reinforcement in  
the sidewalls (page 5-27).  
l
Have the proper ratio of antifreeze in  
the radiator.  
l
Inspect the battery and its cables. Cold  
reduces battery capacity.  
l
Inspect the ignition system for damage  
and loose connections.  
Use snow tires on all four wheels  
Don't go faster than 120 km/h (75 mph)  
while driving with snow tires. Inflate  
snow tires 30 kPa (0.3 kgf/cm2, 4.3 psi)  
more than recommended on the tire  
pressure label (driver's door), but never  
more than the maximum cold-tire pressure  
shown on the tires.  
Your vehicle is originally equipped with  
summer tires designed for optimum  
traction on wet and dry roads. If your  
vehicle is to be used on snow and ice  
covered roads, you may find it necessary  
to replace the original equipment tires  
with snow tires, during the winter months.  
l
Use washer fluid made with  
antifreezebut don't use engine  
coolant antifreeze for washer fluid  
(page 8-21).  
l
Don't use the parking brake in freezing  
weather as the parking brake may  
freeze. Instead, shift to P with an  
automatic transmission and to 1 or R  
with a manual transmission. Block the  
rear wheels.  
qSnow Tires  
WARNING  
Mixing Tire Types:  
Using tires different in size or type is  
dangerous. Your vehicle's handling  
could be greatly affected and result in  
an accident. Use only the same size  
and type tires (snow, radial, or non-  
radial) on all four wheels.  
4-9  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Driving Tips  
Installing the chains  
qTire Chains  
1. Secure the chains on the rear tires as  
tightly as possible. Always follow the  
chain manufacturer's instructions.  
Check local regulations before using tire  
chains.  
2. Retighten the chains after driving 1/  
CAUTION  
21 km (1/41/2 mile).  
l
Chains may scratch or chip  
aluminum wheels. Install tire chains  
on steel wheels only.  
l
Chains may affect handling.  
l
Don't go faster than 50 km/h (30  
mph) or the chain manufacturer's  
recommended limit, whichever is  
lower.  
l
Drive carefully and avoid bumps,  
holes, and sharp turns.  
l
Avoid locked-wheel braking.  
l
Don't use chains on a temporary  
spare tire; it may result in damage to  
the vehicle and to the tire. Your  
vehicle is not equipped with a  
factory installed temporary spare  
tire.  
l
Don't use chains on roads that are  
free of snow or ice. The tires and  
chains could be damaged.  
NOTE  
If your vehicle is equipped with the tire  
pressure monitoring system, the system  
may not function correctly when using  
tire chains.  
Install the chains on the rear tires.  
Don't use chains on the front tires.  
Use only SAE Class Schains, and make  
sure they fit.  
4-10  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Driving Tips  
Driving In Flooded Area  
Overloading  
WARNING  
WARNING  
Driving with Wet Brakes:  
Vehicle Load Weight:  
Driving with wet brakes is dangerous.  
Increased stopping distance or the  
vehicle pulling to one side when  
braking could result in a serious  
accident. Light braking will indicate  
whether the brakes have been affected.  
Dry the brakes by driving very slowly  
and applying the brakes lightly until  
brake performance returns to normal.  
The gross axle weight rating (GAWR)  
and the gross vehicle weight rating  
(GVWR) of your vehicle are on the  
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Label  
on the driver's door frame. Exceeding  
these ratings can cause an accident or  
vehicle damage. You can estimate the  
weight of your load by weighing the  
items (or people) before putting them  
in the vehicle. Be careful not to  
overload your vehicle.  
CAUTION  
Make sure water does not enter the  
vehicle interior or the engine area. The  
vehicle interior could become wet or  
the engine could be damaged.  
4-11  
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Before Driving Your Mazda  
Towing  
Trailer Towing  
Never tow a trailer with your Mazda.  
4-12  
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Driving Your Mazda  
5
Explanation of instruments and controls.  
Traction Control System (TCS)í ........................................... 5-21  
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)í ........................................ 5-22  
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systemí ......................................... 5-25  
Fog Lightsí ............................................................................ 5-51  
Headlight Washerí ................................................................. 5-54  
HomeLink Wireless Control Systemí .................................... 5-56  
íSome models.  
5-1  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Automatic transmission  
Ignition Switch  
To turn the key from the ACC to the  
LOCK position, the shift lever must be in  
the P position.  
qIgnition Switch Positions  
Shift lever  
engaged in P  
(park)  
LOCK  
The steering wheel locks to protect  
against theft. Only in this position can the  
key be removed.  
WARNING  
Removing the Key:  
Manual transmission  
It's dangerous to remove the key from  
the ignition switch while the vehicle is  
moving. Removing the key allows the  
steering wheel to lock. You will lose  
steering control and a serious accident  
could occur.  
To turn the key from the ACC to the  
LOCK position, push the key in at the  
ACC position, then turn it to the LOCK  
position.  
Remove the key only when the vehicle  
is parked.  
Not Setting the Parking Brake:  
Leaving the driver's seat without  
setting the parking brake is  
dangerous. Unexpected vehicle  
movement could occur if the parking  
brake is not set. This could cause an  
accident. Before leaving the driver's  
seat, always set the parking brake and  
make sure the shift lever is in P with  
an automatic transmission or in 1 or R  
with a manual transmission.  
Push the key  
5-2  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (99,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
Starting the Engine  
If turning the key is difficult, jiggle the  
steering wheel from side to side.  
NOTE  
Engine-starting is controlled by the  
spark ignition system.  
ACC (Accessory)  
This system meets all Canadian  
Interference-Causing Equipment  
Standard requirements regulating the  
impulse electrical field strength of radio  
noise.  
The steering wheel unlocks and some  
electrical accessories will operate.  
ON  
This is the normal running position after  
the engine is started. The warning lights  
(except brakes) should be inspected  
before the engine is started (page 5-36).  
1. Occupants should fasten their seat  
belts.  
2. Make sure the parking brake is on.  
3. Depress the brake pedal.  
NOTE  
(With headlight auto-leveling)  
When the ignition switch is turned to  
the ON position, the sound of the  
headlight leveling motors operating at  
the front of the engine compartment can  
be heard. This does not indicate an  
abnormality.  
4. (Manual transmission)  
Depress the clutch pedal all the way  
and shift into neutral.  
Keep the pedal depressed while  
cranking the engine.  
(Automatic transmission)  
Put the vehicle in park (P). If you must  
restart the engine while the vehicle is  
moving, shift into neutral (N).  
START  
The engine is started in this position. It  
will crank until you release the key; then  
it returns to the ON position. The brake  
warning light can be checked after the  
engine is started (page 5-36).  
NOTE  
(Manual transmission)  
The starter will not operate if the clutch  
pedal is not pushed down all the way.  
qIgnition Key Reminder  
(Automatic transmission)  
The starter will not operate if the shift  
lever is not in P or N.  
If the ignition switch is in the LOCK or  
ACC position, a beep sound will be heard  
when the driver's door is opened.  
5. Turn the ignition switch to the START  
position and hold (up to 10 seconds at  
a time) until the engine starts.  
5-3  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (100,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Brake System  
CAUTION  
qFoot Brake  
Don't try the starter for more than 10  
seconds at a time. If the engine stalls or  
fails to start, wait 10 seconds before  
trying again. Otherwise, you may  
Your Mazda has power-assisted brakes  
that adjust automatically through normal  
use.  
damage the starter and drain the battery.  
Should power-assist fail, you can stop by  
applying greater force than normal to the  
brake pedal. But the distance required to  
stop will be greater than usual.  
6. After starting the engine, let it idle for  
about 10 seconds.  
NOTE  
l
In extremely cold weather, below  
WARNING  
18°C (0°F), or after the vehicle has  
not been driven in several days, let  
the engine warm up without  
Coasting with the Engine Off:  
Continuing to coast when the engine  
is stalled or turned off is dangerous.  
Braking will require more effort, and  
the brake's power-assist could be  
depleted if you pump the brake. This  
will cause longer stopping distances or  
even an accident. Don't continue  
coasting when the engine is stalled or  
turned off, find a safe place to stop.  
operating the accelerator.  
l
Whether the engine is cold or warm,  
it should be started without use of  
the accelerator.  
l
To protect the engine, when the  
engine coolant temperature is low,  
the engine does not run at high  
speeds. The fuel supply will be cut at  
an rpm lower than the red zone.  
Riding the Brakes:  
Driving with your foot continuously  
on the brake pedal or steadily applying  
the brakes for long distances is  
dangerous. This causes overheated  
brakes, resulting in longer stopping  
distances or even total brake failure.  
This could cause loss of vehicle  
control and a serious accident. Avoid  
continuous application of the brakes.  
Shift to a lower gear when going down  
steep hills.  
5-4  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (101,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Setting the parking brake  
WARNING  
Depress the brake pedal, then pull the  
brake handle fully upward.  
Driving with Wet Brakes:  
Driving with wet brakes is dangerous.  
Increased stopping distance or the  
vehicle pulling to one side when  
braking could result in a serious  
accident. Light braking will indicate  
whether the brakes have been affected.  
Dry the brakes by driving very slowly  
and applying the brakes lightly until  
brake performance is normal.  
qParking Brake  
Releasing the parking brake  
Depress the brake pedal, then pull the  
handle up and press the button. Lower the  
handle all the way down while holding in  
the button.  
CAUTION  
Driving with the parking brake on will  
cause excessive wear of the brake  
linings or pads.  
NOTE  
For parking in snow, refer to Winter  
Driving (page 4-9) regarding parking  
brake use.  
5-5  
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Black plate (102,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Even if the light goes off, have your brake  
system inspected as soon as possible.  
qBrake System Warning Light  
Electronic brake force distribution  
system warning  
If the electronic brake force distribution  
control unit determines that some  
components are operating incorrectly, the  
control unit may turn the brake system  
warning light on.  
This warning has the following functions:  
In this case, the ABS warning light comes  
on at the same time (page 5-41).  
Parking brake warning  
The light comes on when the parking  
brake is applied with the ignition switch  
in the START or ON position. It goes off  
when the parking brake is fully released.  
WARNING  
Brake Warning Light:  
Low brake fluid level warning/  
Electronic brake force distribution  
system warning  
Driving with the brake system warning  
light on is dangerous. It indicates that  
your brakes may not work at all or  
that they could completely fail at any  
time. If this light remains on, after  
checking that the parking brake is  
fully released, have the brakes  
inspected immediately. Don't drive  
with this light on, and contact an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the  
brakes inspected as soon as possible.  
If the light stays on after the parking brake  
is fully released, you may have a brake  
problem.  
Drive to the side of the road and park off  
the right-of-way.  
Low brake fluid level warning  
You may notice that the pedal is harder to  
push or that it may go closer to the floor.  
In either case, it will take longer to stop  
the vehicle.  
ABS Warning Light and Brake  
Warning Light on at the Same Time:  
Driving when the brake system  
warning light and ABS warning light  
are on at the same time is dangerous.  
When both lights are on, the rear  
wheels could lock more quickly in an  
emergency stop than under normal  
circumstances.  
1. With the engine stopped, check the  
brake fluid level immediately and add  
fluid as required (page 8-18).  
2. After adding fluid, check the light  
again.  
Don't drive with both lights on, and  
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
to have the brakes inspected as soon  
as possible.  
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.  
5-6  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page103  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (103,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qAnti-Lock Brake System (ABS)  
qABS Warning Light  
The ABS control unit continuously  
monitors the speed of each wheel. If one  
is about to lock up, the ABS responds by  
automatically releasing and reapplying  
that wheel's brake.  
The driver will feel a slight vibration in  
the brake pedal and may hear a chattering  
noise from the brake system. This is  
normal when the ABS operates. Don't  
pump the brakes, continue to press down  
on the brake pedal.  
The warning light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
If the ABS warning light stays on while  
you're driving, the ABS control unit has  
detected a system malfunction. If this  
occurs, your brakes will function normally  
as if the vehicle had no ABS.  
WARNING  
ABS:  
Should this happen, consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.  
The ABS cannot compensate for  
unsafe and reckless driving, excessive  
speed, tailgating (following another  
vehicle too closely), and hydroplaning  
(reduced tire friction and road contact  
because of water on the road surface).  
You can still have an accident. So  
don't rely on ABS as a substitute for  
safe driving.  
WARNING  
ABS Warning Light and Brake  
Warning Light on at the Same Time:  
Driving when the brake system  
warning light and ABS warning light  
are on at the same time is dangerous.  
When both lights are on, the rear  
wheels could lock more quickly in an  
emergency stop than under normal  
circumstances.  
Don't drive with both lights on, and  
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
to have the brakes inspected as soon  
as possible.  
NOTE  
Braking distances may be longer on  
loose surfaces (snow or gravel, for  
example) which usually have a hard  
foundation. A vehicle with a normal  
braking system may require less  
distance to stop under these conditions  
because the tires will build up a wedge  
of surface layer when the wheels skid.  
5-7  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page104  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (104,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
Manual Transmission  
Operation  
When the engine is jump-started to  
charge the battery, uneven rpm occurs  
and the ABS warning light comes on.  
This is due to a weak battery, not a  
malfunction.  
qManual Transmission Shift  
Pattern  
Recharge the battery.  
qBrake Pad Wear Indicator  
When the disc brake pads become worn,  
the built-in wear indicators contact the  
disc plates. This causes a screeching noise  
to warn that the pads should be replaced.  
Neutral position  
The shift pattern of the transmission is  
conventional, as shown.  
Press the clutch pedal all the way down  
while shifting; then release it slowly.  
Your vehicle is equipped with a device to  
prevent shifting to R (reverse) by mistake.  
Push the shift lever downward and shift to  
R.  
When you hear this noise, consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible.  
WARNING  
Driving with Worn Disc Pads:  
Driving with worn disc pads is  
dangerous. The brakes could fail and  
cause a serious accident. As soon as  
you hear a screeching noise consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-8  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (105,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qRecommendations for Shifting  
WARNING  
Upshifting  
For normal acceleration, we recommend  
these shift points.  
Sudden Engine-Braking:  
Shifting down while driving on wet,  
snowy, or frozen roads, or while  
driving at high speeds causes sudden  
engine braking, which is dangerous.  
The sudden change in tire speed could  
cause the tires to skid. This could lead  
to loss of vehicle control and an  
accident. Do not use sudden engine  
braking on slippery road surfaces or at  
high speeds.  
Gear  
Vehicle speed  
23 km/h (14 mph)  
1 to 2  
2 to 3  
3 to 4  
4 to 5  
5 to 6  
35 km/h (22 mph)  
47 km/h (29 mph)  
58 km/h (36 mph)  
74 km/h (46 mph)  
For cruising  
Gear  
1 to 2  
Vehicle speed  
23 km/h (14 mph)  
34 km/h (21 mph)  
45 km/h (28 mph)  
56 km/h (35 mph)  
68 km/h (42 mph)  
2 to 3  
CAUTION  
3 to 4  
4 to 5  
l
Keep your foot off the clutch pedal  
5 to 6  
except when shifting gears. Also,  
don't use the clutch to hold the  
vehicle on an upgrade. Riding the  
clutch will cause needless clutch  
wear and damage.  
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.  
l
Make sure the vehicle comes to a  
complete stop before shifting to R.  
Shifting to R while the vehicle is still  
moving may damage the  
transmission.  
NOTE  
If shifting to R is difficult, shift back  
into neutral, release the clutch pedal,  
and try again.  
5-9  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (106,1)  
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.  
qTransmission Ranges  
CAUTION  
The shift lever must be in P or N to  
operate the starter.  
l
l
Shifting into P, N or R while the  
vehicle is moving can damage your  
transmission.  
P (Park)  
P locks the transmission and prevents the  
rear wheels from rotating.  
Shifting into a driving gear or  
reverse when the engine is running  
faster than idle can damage the  
transmission.  
WARNING  
R (Reverse)  
Holding the Vehicle with P:  
Only setting the shift lever to the P  
position without using the parking  
brake to hold the vehicle is dangerous.  
If P fails to hold, the vehicle could  
move and cause an accident. To hold  
the vehicle, set the shift lever to P AND  
set the parking brake.  
In position R, the vehicle moves only  
backward. You must be at a complete stop  
before shifting to or from R, except under  
rare circumstances as explained in  
Rocking the Vehicle (page 4-8).  
5-10  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (107,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
N (Neutral)  
M (Manual)  
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 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 5-12).  
WARNING  
qShift-Lock System  
The shift-lock system prevents shifting  
out of P unless the brake pedal is  
depressed.  
Shifting from N or P:  
It's dangerous to shift from N or P  
into a driving gear when the engine is  
running faster than idle. If this is  
done, the vehicle could move suddenly,  
causing an accident or serious injury.  
If the engine is running faster than  
idle, don't shift from N or P into a  
driving gear.  
To shift from P:  
1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.  
2. Start the engine.  
3. Move the shift lever.  
Shifting into N while Driving:  
Shifting into N while driving is  
dangerous. Engine braking cannot be  
applied when decelerating which  
could lead to an accident or serious  
injury. Do not shift into N when  
driving the vehicle.  
NOTE  
l
When the ignition switch is in the  
LOCK position, the shift lever  
cannot be shifted from P.  
l
To be sure the vehicle is in park, the  
ignition key cannot be removed  
unless the shift lever is in P.  
CAUTION  
Do not shift into N when driving the  
vehicle. Doing so can cause  
transmission damage.  
D (Drive)  
D is the normal driving position. From a  
stop, the transmission will automatically  
shift through a 4-gear sequence.  
5-11  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (108,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Gear position indicator  
qManual Shift Mode  
The numeral for the selected gear  
illuminates.  
This mode gives you the feel of driving a  
manual transmission vehicle by operating  
the shift lever or steering shift switches  
and allows you to control engine rpm and  
torque to the rear wheels much like a  
manual transmission when more control is  
desired.  
Shift position  
indicator  
To change to manual shift mode, shift the  
lever from D to M.  
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 return to automatic shift mode, shift  
the lever from M to D.  
Shifting  
You can shift gears up and down by  
operating the shift lever or the steering  
shift switches.  
NOTE  
l
If you change to manual shift mode  
when the vehicle is stopped, the gear  
will shift to M1.  
NOTE  
l
If the steering shift switches on both  
l
If you shift up once when the vehicle  
sides (left and right) are operated  
simultaneously, the gear will shift  
once.  
is stopped and the gear is at M1, the  
gear will shift to M2. M2 is helpful  
for starting on slippery surfaces.  
l
The gear will not shift if:  
l
Indicators  
The steering shift switch and the  
shift lever are operated  
simultaneously.  
The UP switch and DOWN  
switch are operated  
simultaneously.  
Shift position indicator  
l
In manual shift mode, the Mof the shift  
position indicator in the instrument panel  
illuminates.  
5-12  
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Black plate (109,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Manually shifting up  
To shift up to a higher gear with the  
steering shift switches, tap either of the  
UP switches toward you once with your  
fingers.  
(M1M2M3M4)  
NOTE  
UP switches  
l
When driving slowly, the gears may  
not shift up depending on vehicle  
speed.  
l
In manual shift mode, gears do not  
shift up automatically. Don't run the  
engine with the tachometer needle in  
the RED ZONE. If the tachometer  
needle enters the RED ZONE, you  
may feel engine-braking because the  
fuel delivery will be stopped to  
protect the engine. However, this  
does not indicate an abnormality.  
WARNING  
l
l
Gears may not be shifted from M1 to  
M2 right after shifting the lever from  
D to M. Wait a few seconds and then  
shift up to M2.  
Hand Position When Using Steering  
Shift Switches:  
Putting your hands inside the rim of  
the steering wheel when using the  
steering shift switches is dangerous. If  
the driver air bag were to deploy in a  
collision, your hands could be  
impacted causing injury. Keep your  
hands on the steering wheel rim when  
using fingers or thumbs on the  
steering shift switches.  
When depressing the accelerator  
fully, the transmission will shift to a  
lower gear, depending on vehicle  
speed.  
To shift up to a higher gear with the shift  
lever, tap the shift lever back (+) once.  
5-13  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (110,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Manually shifting down  
To shift down to a lower gear with the  
shift lever, tap the shift lever forward ()  
once.  
(M4M3M2M1)  
WARNING  
Sudden Engine-Braking:  
Shifting down while driving on wet,  
snowy, or frozen roads, or while  
driving at high speeds causes sudden  
engine braking, which is dangerous.  
The sudden change in tire speed could  
cause the tires to skid. This could lead  
to loss of vehicle control and an  
accident. Do not use sudden engine  
braking on slippery road surfaces or at  
high speeds.  
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.  
NOTE  
DOWN switches  
l
When driving at high speeds, the  
gear may not shift down depending  
on vehicle speed.  
l
During deceleration, the gear may  
automatically shift down depending  
on vehicle speed.  
l
When depressing the accelerator  
fully, the transmission will shift to a  
lower gear, depending on vehicle  
speed.  
5-14  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (111,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
WARNING  
If the vehicle is driven at a low speed  
from a standing start while in M2, the  
gear may not shift down to M1  
automatically.  
Hand Position When Using Steering  
Shift Switches:  
Putting your hands inside the rim of  
the steering wheel when using the  
steering shift switches is dangerous. If  
the driver air bag were to deploy in a  
collision, your hands could be  
impacted causing injury. Keep your  
hands on the steering wheel rim when  
using fingers or thumbs on the  
steering shift switches.  
If the vehicle is kicked down at the  
following speeds or lower, the gears shift  
down automatically:  
Gear  
M4M3  
Vehicle speed  
149 km/h (93 mph)  
M4M2  
56 km/h (35 mph)  
56 km/h (35 mph)  
M3M2  
Shifting specification  
Shifting up  
Recommendations for shifting  
Upshifting  
If the vehicle speed is lower than the  
speed specified for each gear, the gear  
cannot be shifted up to a higher gear.  
For normal acceleration and cruising, we  
recommend these shift points.  
Gear  
M1 to M2  
Vehicle speed  
19 km/h (12 mph)  
Gear  
M1M2  
Vehicle speed  
You can shift up to M2 whether  
the vehicle is stopped or moving.  
M2 to M3  
M3 to M4  
34 km/h (21 mph)  
47 km/h (29 mph)  
M2M3  
20 km/h (12 mph)  
31 km/h (19 mph)  
For cruising  
M3M4  
Gear  
M1 to M2  
M2 to M3  
M3 to M4  
Vehicle speed  
Shifting down  
18 km/h (11 mph)  
32 km/h (20 mph)  
45 km/h (28 mph)  
If the vehicle speed is higher than the  
speed specified for each gear, the gear  
cannot be shifted down to a lower gear.  
Downshifting  
Gear  
M4M3  
Vehicle speed  
163 km/h (101 mph)  
110 km/h (68 mph)  
45 km/h (28 mph)  
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.  
M3M2  
M2M1  
During deceleration, the gears shift down  
automatically when speed is reduced to  
the following:  
On a steep downgrade, downshifting  
helps maintain safe speed and prolongs  
brake life.  
Gear  
M4M3  
M3 or M2M1 8 km/h (5 mph)  
Vehicle speed  
31 km/h (19 mph)  
5-15  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (112,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qDriving Tips  
Power Steering  
Passing  
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.  
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.  
If the steering feels rigid during normal  
driving, consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
Climbing steep grades from a stop  
To climb a steep grade from a stopped  
position:  
1. Depress the brake pedal.  
NOTE  
2. Shift to D or M1, depending on the  
load weight and grade steepness.  
The steering may feel rigid if you  
continuously attempt to steer when the  
vehicle is stopped or moving extremely  
slowly. This has been designed to  
protect the system and doesn't indicate a  
malfunction. If you don't attempt to  
steer for a minute, power steering will  
be restored.  
3. Release all brakes 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.  
qPower Steering Malfunction  
Indicator Light  
This indicator light illuminates when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position and goes off when the engine is  
started.  
If this light illuminates while driving, it  
indicates a malfunction of the power  
steering system. Consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
5-16  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
Cruise Control  
The power steering system is inoperable  
when the power steering malfunction  
indicator light illuminates. Steering is  
possible, but 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  
Cruise Control Use:  
Using cruise control in the following  
conditions could cause you to lose  
control of the vehicle:  
l
Hilly terrain  
Steep inclines  
Heavy or unsteady traffic  
Slippery or winding roads  
l
l
l
l
Similar restrictions that require  
inconsistent speed  
Don't use cruise control in these  
situations.  
qCruise Main Indicator Light  
This light comes on when the ON/OFF  
switch is pressed and the cruise control  
system is activated.  
5-17  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qCruise Set Indicator Light  
WARNING  
Cruise Main Switch:  
Leaving the ON/OFF switch on when  
not using the cruise control is  
dangerous as it may be switched on  
accidentally. This could result in loss  
of vehicle control. Keep the ON/OFF  
switch off when cruise control is not in  
use.  
This light comes on when a cruising speed  
is set.  
qActivation/Deactivation  
qTo Set Speed  
To activate the system, press the ON/OFF  
switch.  
1. Activate the cruise control system.  
The cruise main indicator light  
illuminates.  
2. Accelerate to the desired speed, which  
must be more than 30 km/h (19 mph).  
To deactivate the system, press the switch  
again.  
The cruise main indicator light turns off.  
3. Press the SET/COAST button and  
release it at the speed you want.  
Release the accelerator at the same  
time.  
Don't continue to hold in the button. Until  
you release it, speed will continue to drop  
(unless you continue to accelerate) and  
you'll miss the desired speed.  
5-18  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Your vehicle has a tap-up feature that  
allows you to increase your current speed  
in increments of 1.6 km/h (1 mph) by a  
momentary tap of the RES/ACCEL  
button. Multiple taps will increase your  
vehicle speed 1.6 km/h (1 mph) for each  
tap.  
NOTE  
l
The SET function can't be activated  
until about 2 seconds after the ON/  
OFF switch has been engaged.  
l
On a steep grade, the vehicle may  
momentarily slow down going up or  
speed up while going down.  
l
Accelerate to the desired speed.  
Press the SET/COAST button and  
release it immediately.  
qTo Increase Cruising Speed  
Follow either of these procedures.  
l
Press the RES/ACCEL button and hold  
it. Your vehicle will accelerate.  
Release the button at the speed you  
want.  
NOTE  
Accelerate if you want to speed up  
temporarily when the cruise control is  
on. Greater speed will not interfere with  
it or change the set speed.  
Take your foot off the accelerator to  
return to the set speed.  
5-19  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qTo Decrease Cruising Speed  
qTo Resume Cruising Speed at  
More Than 30 km/h (19 mph)  
Press the SET/COAST button and hold it.  
The vehicle will gradually slow.  
Release the button at the speed you want.  
If some other method besides the ON/  
OFF switch was used to cancel cruising  
speed and the system is still activated, the  
most recent set speed will automatically  
resume when the RES/ACCEL button is  
pressed.  
If vehicle speed is below 30 km/h (19  
mph), increase the vehicle speed up to 30  
km/h (19 mph) and press the RES/  
ACCEL button.  
Your vehicle has a tap-down feature that  
allows you to decrease your current speed  
in decrements of 1.6 km/h (1 mph) by a  
momentary tap of the SET/COAST  
button. Multiple taps will decrease your  
vehicle speed 1.6 km/h (1 mph) for each  
tap.  
qTo Cancel  
To turn off the system, use one of these  
methods:  
l
Press the ON/OFF switch.  
l
Slightly depress the brake pedal.  
l
Depress the clutch pedal. (Manual  
transmission only)  
5-20  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
l
Press the CANCEL button.  
Traction Control System  
(TCS)í  
The Traction Control System (TCS)  
enhances traction and safety by  
controlling engine torque and breaking.  
When the TCS detects driving wheel  
slippage, it lowers engine torque and  
operates the brakes to prevent loss of  
traction.  
This means that on a slick surface, the  
engine adjusts automatically to provide  
optimum power to the drive wheels  
without causing them to spin and lose  
traction.  
The system is off when the ignition is off.  
NOTE  
Cruise control will cancel at about 15  
km/h (9 mph) below the preset speed or  
below 30 km/h (19 mph).  
WARNING  
TCS and Unsafe 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. So  
don't rely on the traction control  
system as a substitute for safe driving.  
TCS and Snow and Ice:  
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. Use snow  
tires or tire chains and drive at  
reduced speeds when roads are  
covered with ice and/or snow.  
íSome models.  
5-21  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
Dynamic Stability Control  
(DSC)í  
To turn off the TCS, press the DSC  
OFF switch (page 5-24).  
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)  
automatically controls braking and engine  
torque in conjunction with systems such  
as ABS and TCS to control side slip when  
driving on slippery surfaces, or during  
sudden or evasive maneuvering,  
qTCS/DSC Indicator Light  
enhancing vehicle the safety.  
Refer to ABS (page 5-7) and TCS (page  
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.  
WARNING  
DSC and Unsafe Driving:  
The dynamic stability control (DSC)  
cannot compensate for unsafe and  
reckless driving excessive speed,  
tailgating (following another vehicle  
too closely), and hydroplaning  
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.  
(reduced tire friction and road contact  
because of water on the road surface).  
You can still have an accident. So  
don't rely on the dynamic stability  
control as a substitute for safe driving.  
NOTE  
l
In addition to the indicator light  
flashing, a slight lugging sound will  
come from the engine. This indicates  
that the TCS is operating properly.  
l
On slippery surfaces, such as fresh  
snow, it will be impossible to  
achieve high rpm when the TCS is  
on.  
5-22  
íSome models.  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qDSC OFF Indicator Light  
CAUTION  
l
The DSC may not operate correctly  
unless the following are observed:  
l
Use tires of the correct size  
specified for your Mazda on all  
four wheels.  
Use tires of the same  
l
This indicator light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
It also comes on when the DSC OFF  
switch is pressed and TCS/DSC is  
switched off.  
manufacturer, brand and tread  
pattern on all four wheels.  
Do not mix worn tires.  
l
l
The DSC may not operate correctly  
when using tire chains or the  
temporary spare tire.  
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.  
l
If repair or replacement of the  
steering or other surrounding  
equipment is necessary, have it done  
at an Authorized Mazda Dealer. If  
the center position of the steering  
deviates, the DSC may not operate  
correctly because there is a sensor in  
the steering which detects driving  
conditions.  
qTCS/DSC Indicator Light  
This indicator light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position. If the TCS or DSC is  
operating, the indicator light flashes.  
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.  
5-23  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qDSC OFF Switch  
NOTE  
Press the DSC OFF switch to turn off the  
TCS/DSC. The DSC OFF indicator light  
will illuminate.  
If the battery is disconnected, 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.  
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON  
position.  
2. Turn the steering clockwise fully,  
then turn it counterclockwise fully.  
3. Make sure the DSC OFF indicator  
goes off.  
4. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF  
position, then turn it to the ON  
position again.  
Press the switch again to turn the TCS/  
DSC back on. The DSC OFF indicator  
light will go out.  
5. Make sure the TCS/DSC indicator  
light goes off.  
If the TCS/DSC indicator light and the  
DSC OFF indicator light remain  
illuminated even after turning the  
ignition switch to the ON position,  
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-24  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
NOTE  
Tire Pressure Monitoring  
Systemí  
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.  
The tire pressure monitoring system  
(TPMS) monitors the pressure for each  
tire.  
If tire pressure is too low or too high 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.  
When this happens, turn off the TCS/  
DSC.  
l
l
If the TCS/DSC is off when the  
engine is turned off, it automatically  
activates when the ignition switch is  
turned on.  
The tire pressure sensors installed on each  
wheel send tire pressure data by radio  
signal to the receiver unit in the vehicle.  
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  
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  
Tire pressure sensors  
TPMS does not alleviate your need to  
check the pressure and condition of all  
four tires before you drive each day.  
simultaneously. In this case, turn off  
the engine and restart it to restore the  
TCS/DSC.  
íSome models.  
5-25  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
qTire Pressure Monitoring System  
CAUTION  
Warning Light  
l
When the tire pressure monitoring  
system warning light is lit, one or  
more of your tires is significantly  
under-inflated. You should stop and  
check your tires as soon as possible,  
and inflate them to the proper  
pressure as indicated on the vehicle's  
tire information placard. Driving on  
a significantly under-inflated tire  
causes the tire to overheat and can  
lead to tire failure. Under-inflation  
also reduces fuel efficiency and tire  
tread life, and may affect the  
vehicle's handling and stopping  
ability. Each tire, including the spare,  
should be checked monthly when  
cold and set to the recommended  
inflation pressure as specified in the  
vehicle placard and owner's manual.  
This warning light illuminates for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
Thereafter, the warning light illuminates  
when tire pressure is too low or too high  
in one or more tires, and flashes when  
there is a system malfunction.  
WARNING  
Vehicle Handling When Tire Pressure  
Monitoring System Warning Light  
Illuminates/Flashes:  
l
To avoid false readings, the system  
samples for a little while before  
indicating a problem. As a result it  
will not instantaneously register a  
rapid tire deflation or blow out.  
When the tire pressure monitoring  
system warning light illuminates or  
flashes, or the tire pressure warning  
beep sound is heard, it is dangerous to  
drive the vehicle at high speeds, or  
perform sudden maneuvering or  
braking. Vehicle drivability could  
worsen and result in an accident.  
When the tire pressure monitoring  
system warning light illuminates or  
flashes, or the tire pressure warning  
beep sound is heard, decrease vehicle  
speed immediately and avoid sudden  
maneuvering and braking. Have the  
system and tires checked or perform  
the appropriate repair as soon as  
possible.  
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.  
5-26  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
CAUTION  
WARNING  
Do not use non-genuine tire sealant. It  
may damage the tire pressure sensor.  
Ignoring the Warning Light:  
Ignoring the warning light is  
dangerous, even if you know why it is  
illuminated. Have the problem taken  
care of as soon as possible before it  
develops into a more serious situation  
that could lead to tire failure and a  
dangerous accident.  
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.  
Warning light illuminates/Warning  
beep sounds  
NOTE  
When the warning light illuminates, and  
the warning beep sound is heard (about 3  
seconds), tire pressure is too low or too  
high in one or more tires.  
A tire pressure sensor is not installed to  
the temporary spare tire. The warning  
light will flash continuously while the  
temporary spare tire is being used.  
Adjust the tire pressure to the correct tire  
pressure at an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
or the nearest service station. Refer to the  
specification charts (page 10-6).  
Warning light flashes  
When the warning light flashes, there may  
be a system malfunction. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
CAUTION  
qSystem Error Activation  
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.  
When the warning light flashes, there may  
be a system malfunction. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
A system error activation may occur in  
the following cases:  
If the warning light illuminates again even  
after the tire pressures are adjusted, there  
may be a tire puncture.  
l
When there is equipment or a device  
near the vehicle using the same radio  
frequency as that of the tire pressure  
sensors.  
Vehicles with Instant Mobility System  
(IMS) emergency flat tire repair kit  
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.  
If an emergency tire repair is needed,  
repair the punctured tire with the  
emergency flat tire repair kit (page 7-5).  
5-27  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
l
When using the following devices in  
the vehicle that may cause radio  
interference with the receiver unit.  
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.  
l
A digital device such as a personal  
computer.  
A current converter device such as a  
l
DC-AC converter.  
When changing tires yourself  
l
When excess snow or ice adheres to  
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.  
the vehicle, especially around the  
wheels.  
l
When the tire pressure sensor batteries  
are exhausted.  
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
When using a wheel with no tire  
pressure sensor installed.  
l
When using tires with steel wire  
reinforcement in the side walls.  
2. Wait for about 15 minutes.  
l
When using tire chains.  
3. After about 15 minutes, drive the  
vehicle at a speed of at least 20 km/h  
(12 mph) for several minutes and the  
tire pressure sensor ID signal code will  
be registered automatically.  
qTires and Wheels  
Changing tires and wheels  
The following procedure allows the  
TPMS to recognize a tire pressure sensor's  
unique ID signal code whenever tires or  
wheels are changed, such as changing to  
and from winter tires.  
NOTE  
If the vehicle is driven within about 15  
minutes of changing tires, the tire  
pressure monitoring system warning  
light will flash because the sensor ID  
signal code would not have been  
registered. If this happens, park the  
vehicle for about 15 minutes, after  
which the sensor ID signal code will  
register upon driving the vehicle for  
several minutes.  
NOTE  
Each tire pressure sensor has a unique  
ID signal code. The signal code must be  
registered with the TPMS before it can  
work. The easiest way to do it is to have  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer change  
your tire and complete ID signal code  
registration.  
5-28  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Starting and Driving  
Replacing tires and wheels  
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.  
CAUTION  
l
When replacing/repairing the tires or  
wheels or both, have the work done  
by an Authorized Mazda Dealer, or  
the tire pressure sensors may be  
damaged.  
l
When reinstalling a previously  
removed tire pressure sensor to a  
wheel, replace the grommet for the  
tire pressure sensor.  
l
The wheels equipped on your Mazda  
are specially designed for installation  
of the tire pressure sensors. Do not  
use non-genuine wheels, otherwise it  
may not be possible to install the tire  
pressure sensors.  
Be sure to have the tire pressure sensors  
installed whenever tires or wheels are  
replaced.  
When having a tire or wheel or both  
replaced, the following types of tire  
pressure sensor installation are possible.  
l
The tire pressure sensor is removed  
from the old wheel and installed to the  
new one.  
l
The same tire pressure sensor is used  
with the same wheel. Only the tire is  
replaced.  
l
A new tire pressure sensor is installed  
to a new wheel.  
5-29  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
qSpeedometer  
qOdometer, Trip Meter and Trip  
Meter Selector  
The speedometer indicates the speed of  
the vehicle.  
The display mode can be changed  
between trip meter A and trip meter B by  
pressing the selector while one of them is  
displayed. The selected mode will be  
displayed.  
qSpeed Unit Selector  
In some countries, you may have to  
change the speed units between km/h and  
mph.  
Trip meter selector  
Press the speed unit selector for 2 second  
or more.  
The speed units for the speedometer will  
change between km/h and mph.  
Trip meter  
Odometer  
Speed unit selector  
Trip meter A  
Speedometer  
NOTE  
Odometer  
Odometer and trip meter distance units  
will change between kilometers and  
miles in accordance with the speed unit.  
Press the selector  
Trip meter B  
Odometer  
Press the selector  
5-31  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
The trip meter records the total distance  
the vehicle is driven until the meter is  
again reset. Return it to 0.0by holding  
the selector depressed for more than 1  
second. Use this meter to measure trip  
distances and to compute fuel  
NOTE  
When the ignition switch is in the ACC  
or LOCK position, the odometer or trip  
meters cannot be displayed, however,  
pressing the selector button can  
inadvertently switch the trip meters or  
reset them during an approximate ten-  
minute period in the following cases:  
consumption.  
NOTE  
l
After the ignition switch is turned to  
the ACC or LOCK position from the  
ON position.  
l
Only the trip meters record tenths of  
kilometers (miles).  
l
The trip record will be erased when:  
l
After any door is opened.  
l
The power supply is interrupted  
(blown fuse or the battery is  
disconnected).  
The vehicle is driven over 999.9  
km (mile).  
Odometer  
The odometer records the total distance  
the vehicle has been driven.  
l
Trip meter  
qTachometer  
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.  
The tachometer shows engine speed in  
thousands of revolutions per minute  
(rpm).  
Automatic transmission  
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.  
Striped zone  
Red zone  
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.  
5-32  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page129  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (129,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
Manual transmission  
qEngine Coolant Temperature  
Gauge  
Striped zone  
Red zone  
The engine coolant temperature gauge  
shows the temperature of the engine  
coolant.  
CAUTION  
Don't run the engine with the  
tachometer needle in the RED ZONE.  
This may cause severe engine damage.  
If the needle exceeds normal range toward  
H, it indicates overheating.  
NOTE  
CAUTION  
l
The beep sounds to indicate engine  
Driving with an overheated engine can  
cause serious engine damage (page  
overrev when the tachometer needle  
enters the striped zone.  
l
To protect the engine, when the  
engine coolant temperature is low,  
the engine does not run at high  
speeds. The fuel supply will be cut at  
an rpm lower than the red zone.  
5-33  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page130  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (130,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
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.  
qFuel Gauge  
The fuel gauge shows approximately how  
much fuel is in the tank. We recommend  
keeping the tank over 1/4 full. When the  
low fuel warning light illuminates or  
when the needle is near E, refuel as soon  
as possible.  
1. Turn off the engine and inspect the  
engine oil level (page 8-13). If it's low,  
add oil.  
2. Start the engine.  
3. If the needle still doesn't move, have  
your vehicle checked at an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
CAUTION  
Low fuel warning light  
Don't run the engine if the oil pressure  
is low. It could result in extensive  
engine damage.  
qEngine Oil Pressure Gauge  
NOTE  
The Mazda RX-8 requires regular  
checking of the engine oil level. The  
compact, high performance RENESIS  
rotary engine in your vehicle consumes  
a small amount of engine oil due to its  
structural design. An oil pump  
optimizes the amount of oil injected to  
lubricate the rotor seals in the  
combustion cycle. Although your  
vehicle is equipped with an engine oil  
level warning light and an engine oil  
pressure gauge, it is best to keep the  
engine oil level in the range between  
full and low by checking the oil  
dipstick regularly. Mazda recommends  
checking the oil level at every second  
fuel filling. The oil consumption of the  
engine depends on engine speed and  
engine load. Under extreme driving  
conditions, oil consumption can be  
higher.  
Engine oil pressure is normal when the  
engine oil pressure gauge needle points  
halfway between L and H with the engine  
running.  
If the needle on the gauge doesn't move  
after starting the engine, follow steps 1  
through 3.  
5-34  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page131  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (131,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Instrument Cluster and Indicators  
When driving on snowy or foggy roads,  
or in other situations when the instrument  
cluster or information display's visibility  
is reduced due to glare from surrounding  
brightness, cancel the illumination  
dimmer and increase the illumination  
intensity.  
qDashboard Illumination  
Rotate the thumb wheel to adjust the  
brightness of the instrument cluster and  
other illuminations in the dashboard.  
NOTE  
l
The brightness of dashboard  
To cancel the illumination dimmer, rotate  
the thumb wheel upward fully. You may  
hear a click sound and the illumination  
dimmer will be canceled (instrument  
cluster illumination color turns to white).  
illuminations (except instrument  
cluster) can be adjusted when the  
headlight switch is in the or  
position.  
l
The brightness of the instrument  
cluster illumination can be adjusted  
when the headlight switch is in any  
position.  
NOTE  
If the dashboard illumination switch is  
kept at the illumination dimmer cancel  
position, the instrument cluster and the  
information display will not dim when  
the headlight switch is turned to the  
Bright  
Dim  
or  
position again.  
Canceling the illumination dimmer  
When the headlight switch is in the or  
position, the illumination of the  
instrument cluster and the information  
display dims (the instrument cluster  
illumination color turns to red).  
5-35  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page132  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (132,1)  
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  
Charging System Warning Light  
Engine Oil Level Warning Light  
Engine Coolant Level Warning Light  
Check Engine Light  
ABS Warning Light  
Air Bag/Front Seat Belt Pretensioner System Warning Light  
Low Fuel Warning Light  
Seat Belt Warning Light  
5-36  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page133  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (133,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Signal  
Warning/Indicator Lights  
Door-Ajar Warning Light  
Page  
Low Washer Fluid Level Warning Light  
Automatic Transmission Warning Light  
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light  
Security Indicator Light  
Headlight High-Beam Indicator Light  
Shift Position Indicator Light  
TCS/DSC Indicator Light  
DSC OFF Indicator Light  
Cruise Main Indicator Light  
Cruise Set Indicator Light  
Light-On Indicator Light  
Power Steering Malfunction Indicator Light  
Headlight Auto-Leveling Malfunction Indicator Light  
Turn-Signal/Hazard Warning Indicator Lights  
5-37  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page134  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (134,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Even if the light goes off, have your brake  
system inspected as soon as possible.  
qBrake System Warning Light  
Electronic brake force distribution  
system warning  
If the electronic brake force distribution  
control unit determines that some  
components are operating incorrectly, the  
control unit may turn the brake system  
warning light on.  
This warning has the following functions:  
In this case, the ABS warning light comes  
on at the same time (page 5-41).  
Parking brake warning  
The light comes on when the parking  
brake is applied with the ignition switch  
in the START or ON position. It goes off  
when the parking brake is fully released.  
WARNING  
Brake Warning Light:  
Low brake fluid level warning/  
Electronic brake force distribution  
system warning  
Driving with the brake system warning  
light on is dangerous. It indicates that  
your brakes may not work at all or  
that they could completely fail at any  
time. If this light remains on, after  
checking that the parking brake is  
fully released, have the brakes  
inspected immediately. Don't drive  
with this light on, and contact an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the  
brakes inspected as soon as possible.  
If the light stays on after the parking brake  
is fully released, you may have a brake  
problem.  
Drive to the side of the road and park off  
the right-of-way.  
Low brake fluid level warning  
You may notice that the pedal is harder to  
push or that it may go closer to the floor.  
In either case, it will take longer to stop  
the vehicle.  
ABS Warning Light and Brake  
Warning Light on at the Same Time:  
Driving when the brake system  
warning light and ABS warning light  
are on at the same time is dangerous.  
When both lights are on, the rear  
wheels could lock more quickly in an  
emergency stop than under normal  
circumstances.  
1. With the engine stopped, check the  
brake fluid level immediately and add  
fluid as required (page 8-18).  
2. After adding fluid, check the light  
again.  
Don't drive with both lights on, and  
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
to have the brakes inspected as soon  
as possible.  
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.  
5-38  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (135,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
2. Turn off the engine and inspect the  
engine oil level (page 8-13). If it's low,  
add oil.  
qCharging System Warning Light  
3. Check the light.  
If the engine oil level warning light is  
illuminated and you are unable to  
immediately add engine oil, do not drive  
at high speed, keep the engine speed low  
and get to a location where oil can be  
added as soon as possible. We recommend  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
This warning light illuminates when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position and turns off when the engine is  
started.  
If the light remains illuminated even after  
you add oil, have your vehicle checked at  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
If the warning light illuminates while  
driving, it indicates a malfunction of the  
alternator or of the charging system.  
Drive to the side of the road and park off  
the right-of-way. Consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
CAUTION  
Don't run the engine if the oil level is  
low. It could result in extensive engine  
damage.  
CAUTION  
Don't continue driving when the  
charging system warning light is  
illuminated.  
qEngine Oil Level Warning Light  
This warning light indicates low engine  
oil level.  
If the light illuminates while driving:  
1. Drive to the side of the road and park  
off the right-of-way.  
5-39  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (136,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
3. Check the light.  
NOTE  
If the light remains illuminated even after  
you add engine coolant, have your vehicle  
towed to an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
The Mazda RX-8 requires regular  
checking of the engine oil level. The  
compact, high performance RENESIS  
rotary engine in your vehicle consumes  
a small amount of engine oil due to its  
structural design. An oil pump  
CAUTION  
Don't run the engine if the engine  
coolant level is low. It could result in  
extensive engine damage.  
optimizes the amount of oil injected to  
lubricate the rotor seals in the  
combustion cycle. Although your  
vehicle is equipped with an engine oil  
level warning light and an engine oil  
pressure gauge, it is best to keep the  
engine oil level in the range between  
full and low by checking the oil  
dipstick regularly. Mazda recommends  
checking the oil level at every second  
fuel filling. The oil consumption of the  
engine depends on engine speed and  
engine load. Under extreme driving  
conditions, oil consumption can be  
higher.  
qCheck Engine Light  
If this light comes on while driving, the  
vehicle may have a problem. It is  
important to note the driving conditions  
when the light came on and consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
qEngine Coolant Level Warning  
Light  
The check engine light may come on in  
the following cases:  
l
The fuel tank level being very low or  
approaching empty.  
l
The engine's electrical system has a  
problem.  
l
This warning light indicates low engine  
coolant level.  
The emission control system has a  
problem.  
l
The fuel-filler cap is missing or not  
If the light illuminates while driving:  
tightened securely.  
1. Drive to the side of the road and park  
off the right-of-way.  
If the check engine light remains on or  
flashes continuously, do not drive at high  
speeds and consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer as soon as possible.  
2. Turn off the engine and inspect the  
engine coolant level (page 8-15). If it's  
low, add engine coolant.  
5-40  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page137  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (137,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qABS Warning Light  
NOTE  
When the engine is jump-started to  
charge the battery, uneven rpm occurs  
and the ABS warning light comes on.  
This is due to a weak battery, not a  
malfunction.  
Recharge the battery.  
The warning light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
qAir Bag/Front Seat Belt  
Pretensioner System Warning  
Light  
If the ABS warning light stays on while  
you're driving, the ABS control unit has  
detected a system malfunction. If this  
occurs, your brakes will function normally  
as if the vehicle had no ABS.  
Should this happen, consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.  
If the air bag/front seat belt pretensioner  
system is normal, the warning light  
illuminates when the ignition switch is  
turned to the ON position or after the  
engine is cranked. After about 6 seconds  
it goes out.  
WARNING  
ABS Warning Light and Brake  
Warning Light on at the Same Time:  
Driving when the brake system  
warning light and ABS warning light  
are on at the same time is dangerous.  
When both lights are on, the rear  
wheels could lock more quickly in an  
emergency stop than under normal  
circumstances.  
Don't drive with both lights on, and  
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
to have the brakes inspected as soon  
as possible.  
A system malfunction is indicated when  
the warning light constantly flashes,  
illuminates or doesn't illuminate at all  
when the ignition switch is turned to the  
ON position. If any of these occur, consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible. The system may not work in an  
accident.  
5-41  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page138  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:11 PM  
Black plate (138,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qDoor-Ajar Warning Light  
WARNING  
Self-Servicing the Air Bag/  
Pretensioner Systems:  
Self-servicing or tampering with the  
systems is dangerous. An air bag/  
pretensioner could accidentally  
activate or become disabled. This  
could cause serious injuries. Never  
tamper with the systems and always  
have an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
performs all servicing and repairs.  
This warning light comes on when any  
door isn't securely closed.  
qLow Washer Fluid Level  
Warning Lightí  
qLow Fuel Warning Light  
Low fuel warning light  
This warning light indicates that little  
washer fluid remains. Add fluid (page  
This warning light in the fuel gauge  
signals that the fuel tank will soon be  
empty.  
qAutomatic Transmission Warning  
Refuel as soon as possible.  
Light  
qSeat Belt Warning Light  
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.  
If the driver's seat belt is not fastened  
when the ignition switch is turned to the  
ON position, the seat belt warning light  
will remain on until the belt is fastened.  
If the system does not operate correctly,  
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-42  
íSome models.  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (139,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
CAUTION  
WARNING  
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  
Vehicle Handling When Tire Pressure  
Monitoring System Warning Light  
Illuminates/Flashes:  
When the tire pressure monitoring  
system warning light illuminates or  
flashes, or the tire pressure warning  
beep sound is heard, it is dangerous to  
drive the vehicle at high speeds, or  
perform sudden maneuvering or  
braking. Vehicle drivability could  
worsen and result in an accident.  
When the tire pressure monitoring  
system warning light illuminates or  
flashes, or the tire pressure warning  
beep sound is heard, decrease vehicle  
speed immediately and avoid sudden  
maneuvering and braking. Have the  
system and tires checked or perform  
the appropriate repair as soon as  
possible.  
transmission. Consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.  
qTire Pressure Monitoring System  
Warning Lightí  
This warning light illuminates for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
Ignoring the Warning Light:  
Ignoring the warning light is  
Thereafter, the warning light illuminates  
when tire pressure is too low or too high  
in one or more tires, and flashes when  
there is a system malfunction.  
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 or too  
high in one or more tires.  
íSome models.  
5-43  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page140  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (140,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Adjust the tire pressure to the correct tire  
pressure at an Authorized Mazda Dealer  
or the nearest service station. Refer to the  
specification charts (page 10-6).  
Warning light flashes  
When the warning light flashes, there may  
be a system malfunction. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
qSecurity Indicator Light  
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.  
If the warning light illuminates again even  
after the tire pressures are adjusted, there  
may be a tire puncture.  
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.  
Vehicles with Instant Mobility System  
(IMS) emergency flat tire repair kit  
The light stops flashing when the ignition  
switch is turned to the ON position with  
the correct ignition key.  
If an emergency tire repair is needed,  
repair the punctured tire with the  
emergency flat tire repair kit (page 7-5).  
At this time, the immobilizer system is  
disarmed and the light illuminates for  
about 3 seconds and then goes out.  
CAUTION  
Do not use non-genuine tire sealant. It  
may damage the tire pressure sensor.  
If the engine doesn't start with the correct  
ignition key, and the security indicator  
light keeps illuminating or flashing, the  
system may have a malfunction. Consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
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.  
qHeadlight High-Beam Indicator  
Light  
NOTE  
A tire pressure sensor is not installed to  
the temporary spare tire. The warning  
light will flash continuously while the  
temporary spare tire is being used.  
This light indicates one of two things:  
l
The high-beam headlights are on.  
5-44  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (141,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qTCS/DSC Indicator Lightí  
l
The turn signal lever is in the flash-to-  
pass position.  
qShift Position Indicator Light  
(Automatic Transmission)  
This indicates the selected shift position  
when the ignition switch is in the ON  
position.  
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.  
qDSC OFF Indicator Lightí  
Gear position indicator  
This indicator light stays on for a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
It also comes on when the DSC OFF  
switch is pressed and TCS/DSC is  
switched off.  
Gear position indicator  
When the shift lever is in the D or M  
position, the numeral for the selected gear  
illuminates.  
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.  
5-45  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (142,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
qCruise Set Indicator Light  
NOTE  
If the battery is disconnected, 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.  
This light comes on when a cruising speed  
is set.  
1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON  
position.  
2. Turn the steering clockwise fully,  
then turn it counterclockwise fully.  
qLight-On Indicator Light  
3. Make sure the DSC OFF indicator  
goes off.  
4. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF  
position, then turn it to the ON  
position again.  
5. Make sure the TCS/DSC indicator  
light goes off.  
This indicator light comes on when the  
exterior lights are on.  
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.  
qPower Steering Malfunction  
Indicator Light  
qCruise Main Indicator Light  
This indicator light illuminates when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position and goes off when the engine is  
started.  
This light comes on when the ON/OFF  
switch is pressed and the cruise control  
system is activated.  
If this light illuminates while driving, it  
indicates a malfunction of the power  
steering system. Consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
5-46  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page143  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (143,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
When operating the hazard warning  
lights, both turn-signal indicator lights  
NOTE  
flash (page 5-56).  
The power steering system is inoperable  
when the power steering malfunction  
indicator light illuminates. Steering is  
possible, but requires more physical  
effort.  
NOTE  
If an indicator light remains illuminated  
(does not flash) or if it flashes  
abnormally, the turn signal bulb may be  
burned out.  
qHeadlight Auto-Leveling  
Malfunction Indicator Lightí  
This indicator light stays on far a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
Thereafter, the indicator light will  
illuminate when the headlight auto-  
leveling system has a malfunction.  
If the indicator light illuminates, contact  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
qTurn-Signal/Hazard Warning  
Indicator Lights  
When operating the turn-signal lights, the  
left or right turn-signal indicator light  
flashes to indicate which turn-signal light  
is operating (page 5-51).  
íSome models.  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (144,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beep Sounds  
Beep Sounds  
qSeat Belt Warning Beep  
If the driver's seat belt is not fastened  
when the ignition switch is turned to the  
ON position, a beep sound will be heard  
for about 6 seconds.  
qIgnition Key Reminder  
If the ignition switch is in the LOCK or  
ACC position, a beep sound will be heard  
when the driver's door is opened.  
qLights-On Reminder  
If lights are on and the key is removed  
from the ignition switch, a beep sound  
will be heard when the driver's door is  
opened.  
qEngine Overrev Warning Beep  
The beep sounds to indicate engine  
overrev when the tachometer needle  
enters the striped zone (page 5-32).  
qTire Inflation Pressure Warning  
Beepí  
The warning beep sound will be heard for  
about 3 seconds when there is any  
abnormality in tire inflation pressures  
(page 5-25).  
5-48  
íSome models.  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (145,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Lighting Control  
WARNING  
Xenon Fusion Bulb Replacement:  
Replacing the xenon fusion bulbs by  
yourself is dangerous. Because the  
xenon fusion bulbs require high  
voltage, you could receive an electric  
shock if the bulbs are handled  
incorrectly. Do not replace the xenon  
fusion bulbs by yourself. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer when the  
replacement is necessary.  
qHeadlights  
NOTE  
To turn on the lights, turn the headlight  
switch on the end of the control lever.  
If the headlights flash, or the brightness  
weakens, the bulb-life may be depleted  
and a replacement is necessary. Consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Switch Position  
Headlights  
Off  
Off  
Off  
On  
On  
On  
Taillights  
Parking lights  
License lights  
Side-marker lights  
qLights-On Reminder  
If lights are on and the key is removed  
from the ignition switch, a beep sound  
will be heard when the driver's door is  
opened.  
NOTE  
To prevent discharging the battery, don't  
leave the lights on while the engine is  
off.  
qHeadlight High-Low Beam  
Push the lever forward for high beam.  
Pull it back for low.  
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.  
High beam  
Low beam  
íSome models.  
5-49  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
If the indicator light illuminates, contact  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
qFlashing the Headlights  
To flash the headlights, pull the lever fully  
toward you. The headlight switch need  
not be on, and the lever will return to the  
normal position when released.  
qDaytime Running Lights  
(Canada)  
In Canada, vehicles must be driven with  
the headlights on during daytime  
operation.  
For that reason, the daytime running lights  
automatically turn on when the ignition  
switch is turned to the ON position.  
NOTE  
The Daytime Running Lights turn off  
when the parking brake is applied.  
qHeadlight Levelingí  
The number of riders and weight of cargo  
in the luggage compartment change the  
angle of the headlights.  
The angle of the headlights will be  
automatically adjusted when turning on  
the headlights.  
Headlight auto-leveling malfunction  
indicator light  
This indicator light stays on far a few  
seconds when the ignition switch is turned  
to the ON position.  
Thereafter, the indicator light will  
illuminate when the headlight auto-  
leveling system has a malfunction.  
5-50  
íSome models.  
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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 front fog lights on, rotate the  
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.  
fog light switch to the  
position.  
The headlight switch must be in the  
position to turn on the front 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  
Fog light switch  
OFF  
Left lane  
change  
To turn them off, rotate the fog light  
switch to the OFF position or turn the  
headlight switch to the or OFF  
position.  
Left turn  
Green indicators on the dashboard show  
which signal is working.  
NOTE  
Lane-change signals  
The fog lights will turn off when the  
headlights are set at high beam.  
Move the lever slightly toward the  
direction of the change until the  
indicator flashesand hold it there. It  
will return to the off position when  
released.  
NOTE  
If an indicator light stays on without  
flashing or if it flashes abnormally, the  
turn signal bulb may be burned out.  
íSome models.  
5-51  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
qWindshield Wipers  
Windshield Wipers and  
Washer  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position.  
WARNING  
Frozen Washer Fluid:  
Using windshield washer fluid without  
anti-freeze protection in freezing  
temperatures is dangerous. The  
washer fluid could freeze on the  
windshield and block your vision. You  
could have an accident. Don't use the  
washer without first warming the  
windshield and never use plain tap  
water.  
Turn the wipers on by pulling the lever  
down.  
INT Intermittent  
1 Normal  
2 Fast  
Variable-speed intermittent wipers  
Set the lever to INT and choose the  
interval timing by rotating the ring.  
NOTE  
Because heavy ice and snow can jam  
the wiper blades, the wiper motor is  
protected from motor breakdown,  
overheating and possible fire by a  
circuit breaker. This mechanism will  
automatically stop operation of the  
blades, but only for about 5 minutes.  
If this happens, turn off the wiper  
switch and park off the right-of-way,  
and remove the snow and ice.  
INT ring  
After 5 minutes, turn on the switch and  
the blades should operate normally. If  
they don't resume functioning, consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as  
possible.  
5-52  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
One-touch wipers  
NOTE  
For a single wiping cycle, push the lever  
up to MIST.  
(With headlight washers)  
When the headlights are on, the  
headlight washers operate automatically  
once every fifth time the windshield  
washer operates.  
Refer to Headlight Washer (page 5-54).  
qWindshield Washer  
Pull the lever toward you and hold it to  
spray washer fluid.  
OFF  
Washer  
NOTE  
With the wiper lever in the OFF or INT  
position, the wipers will operate  
continuously until the lever is released.  
If the washer doesn't work, inspect the  
fluid level (page 8-21). If it's OK, consult  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
5-53  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Headlight Washerí  
Rear Window Defroster  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position and the headlights must be turned  
on.  
The rear window defroster clears frost,  
fog, and thin ice from the rear window.  
The ignition switch must be in the ON  
position.  
The headlight washers operate  
automatically once every fifth time the  
windshield washer operates.  
Press the switch to turn on the rear  
window defroster. The rear window  
defroster operates for about 15 minutes  
and turns off automatically.  
The indicator light illuminates during  
operation.  
If you want to operate only the headlight  
washers, pull the windshield wiper lever  
toward you twice rapidly.  
To turn off the rear window defroster  
before the 15 minutes has elapsed, press  
the switch again.  
OFF  
Indicator light  
Washer  
NOTE  
When you pull the windshield wiper  
lever twice, the windshield washer may  
spray a little.  
CAUTION  
Don't use sharp instruments or window  
cleaners with abrasives to clean the  
inside of the rear window surface. They  
may damage the defroster grid inside  
the window.  
5-54  
íSome models.  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
NOTE  
Horn  
This defroster is not designed for  
melting snow. If there is an  
accumulation of snow on the rear  
window, remove it before using the  
defroster.  
To sound the horn, press around the  
mark on the steering wheel.  
5-55  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
Hazard Warning Flasher  
HomeLink Wireless  
Control Systemí  
The hazard warning lights should always  
be used when you stop on or near a  
roadway.  
NOTE  
HomeLink and HomeLink house are  
registered trademarks of Johnson  
Controls.  
The hazard warning lights warn other  
drivers that your vehicle is a traffic hazard  
and that they must take extreme caution  
when near it.  
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  
Hazard warning flasher  
surrounding your home.  
Indicator light  
Depress the hazard warning flasher and all  
four turn signals will flash.  
NOTE  
HomeLink button  
l
The turn signals don't work when the  
hazard warning lights are on.  
l
Check local regulations about the use  
of hazard warning lights while the  
vehicle is being towed. They may  
forbid it.  
5-56  
íSome models.  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
NOTE  
WARNING  
FCC ID: NZLSTDHL3  
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.)  
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.  
CANADA:4112104541A  
This device complies with FCC rules  
part 15. Operation is subject to the  
following conditions:  
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.  
Safety While Programming or  
Operating 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. Always check the areas  
surrounding garage doors and gates  
for people or obstructions before  
programming or during operation of  
the HomeLink system.  
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.  
l
Verify that there is a remote control  
CAUTION  
transmitter available for the device you  
would like to program.  
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.  
l
Disconnect the power to the device.  
5-57  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
4. After the HomeLink indicator light  
changes from a slow to a rapidly  
blinking light, release both the  
HomeLink and hand-held transmitter  
buttons.  
qProgramming the HomeLink  
System  
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.  
The HomeLink system provides 3 buttons  
which can be individually selected and  
programmed using the transmitters for  
current, on-market devices as follows:  
5. Press and hold the just-trained  
HomeLink button and observe the  
indicator light.  
1. Press and hold the two outer  
HomeLink buttons (buttons one and  
three) - releasing only when the  
If the indicator light stays on constantly,  
programming is complete and your  
device should activate 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.  
HomeLink button is pressed and released.  
NOTE  
To program the remaining two  
HomeLink buttons, begin with  
Programming- step 2. Do not repeat  
step 1.  
2. Position the end of your hand-held  
transmitter 2.57.5 cm (13 inches)  
away from the HomeLink button you  
wish to program while keeping the  
indicator light in view.  
If the indicator light blinks rapidly for  
two seconds and then turns to a  
constant light, continue with  
Programmingsteps 68 to complete  
the programming of a rolling code  
equipped device (most commonly a  
garage door opener).  
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.  
6. At the garage door opener receiver  
(motor-head unit) in the garage, locate  
the learnor smartbutton. This can  
usually be found where the hanging  
antenna wire is attached to the motor-  
head unit.  
NOTE  
Some gate operators and garage door  
openers may require you to replace this  
Programming Step 3 with procedures  
noted in the Gate Operator/Canadian  
Programmingsection.  
5-58  
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Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
7. Firmly press and release the learnor  
smartbutton. (The name and color of  
the button may vary by manufacturer.)  
qGate operator/Canadian  
Programming  
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-outin the same  
manner.  
NOTE  
There are 30 seconds in which to  
initiate step 8.  
8. Return to the vehicle and firmly press,  
hold for two seconds and release the  
programmed HomeLink button. Repeat  
the press/hold/releasesequence 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.  
If you live in Canada or you are having  
difficulties programming a gate operator  
by using the Programmingprocedures  
(regardless of where you live), replace  
Programming HomeLinkstep 3 with  
the following:  
HomeLink should now activate your  
rolling code equipped device.  
NOTE  
If programming a garage door opener or  
gate operator, it is advised to unplug the  
device during the cyclingprocess to  
prevent possible overheating.  
NOTE  
To program the remaining two  
HomeLink buttons, begin with  
Programming- step 2. Do not repeat  
step 1.  
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.)  
For questions or comments, please contact  
HomeLink at www.homelink.com or 1-  
800-355-3515.  
Proceed with Programmingstep 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.  
5-59  
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Black plate (156,1)  
Driving Your Mazda  
Switches and Controls  
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.  
5-60  
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Interior Comfort  
6
Use of various features for drive comfort, including air-conditioning and audio  
system.  
6-1  
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Interior Comfort  
Climate Control System  
qParking in Direct Sunlight  
Operating Tips  
If the vehicle has been parked in direct  
sunlight during hot weather, open the  
windows to let warm air escape, then run  
the climate control system.  
qOperating the Climate Control  
System  
Operate the climate control system with  
the engine running.  
qNot Using for a Long Period  
Run the air conditioner about 10 minutes  
at least once a month to keep internal  
parts lubricated.  
NOTE  
To prevent the battery from being  
discharged, do not leave the fan control  
dial on for a long period of time when  
the engine is not running.  
qCheck the Refrigerant before the  
Weather Gets Hot  
Have the air conditioner checked before  
the weather gets hot. Lack of refrigerant  
may make the air conditioner less  
efficient. Consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer for refrigerant inspection.  
qClearing the Air Inlet  
Clear all obstructions like leaves, snow  
and ice from the hood and the air inlet in  
the cowl grille to improve the system  
efficiency.  
The air conditioner is filled with  
HFC134a (R134a), a refrigerant that will  
not damage the ozone layer.  
If the air conditioner is low on refrigerant  
or has a malfunction, consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
qFoggy Windows  
The windows may fog up easily in humid  
weather. Use the climate control system to  
defog the windows.  
To help defog the windows, operate the  
air conditioner to dehumidify the air.  
qReplacement of the Cabin Air  
Filter  
If your vehicle is equipped with an air  
filter for the air conditioner, it is necessary  
to change the filter periodically as  
indicated in scheduled maintenance (page  
8-3). Consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer for replacement of the cabin air  
filter.  
qOutside/Recirculated Air Position  
Use the outside air position in normal  
conditions. The recirculated air position  
should be used only when driving on  
dusty roads or for quick cooling of the  
interior.  
6-2  
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Interior Comfort  
Climate Control System  
Vent Operation  
Center vents  
Side vents  
Center Vents  
qAdjusting the Vents  
Directing airflow  
Side Vents  
To adjust the direction of airflow, move  
the adjustment knob.  
To adjust the direction of airflow, open the  
vents and rotate them left and right.  
Knob  
NOTE  
When using the air conditioner, mist  
may come out from the vents. This is  
not a sign of trouble but a result of  
humid air being suddenly cooled.  
6-3  
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Interior Comfort  
Climate Control System  
qSelecting the Airflow Mode  
Dashboard Vents  
Defroster and Floor Vents  
Dashboard and Floor Vents  
Defroster Vents  
Floor Vents  
6-4  
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Interior Comfort  
Climate Control System  
Control Panel  
Climate control information is displayed on the information display.  
Windshield defroster switch  
Rear window defroster switch  
A/C Switch  
Fan control dial  
Air intake selector  
Temperature control dial  
Mode selector switch  
Fan control dial  
qControl Switches  
Temperature control dial  
Cold  
Hot  
This dial allows variable fan speeds.  
0Fan off  
1Low speed  
2Medium low speed  
3Medium high speed  
4High speed  
This dial controls temperature. Turn it  
clockwise for hot and counterclockwise  
for cold.  
6-5  
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Interior Comfort  
Climate Control System  
Mode selector switch  
Air intake selector  
Press the mode selector switch to select  
airflow mode (page 6-4).  
This switch controls the source of air  
entering the vehicle.  
Press the switch to alternate between the  
NOTE  
and  
positions. The indicator  
To set the air vent to  
, press the  
light for the selected mode will illuminate.  
windshield defroster switch.  
It is recommended that under normal  
conditions the switch be kept in the  
outside air position.  
A/C switch  
Outside air position (  
)
Outside air is taken into the vehicle. Use  
this position for normal ventilation and  
heating.  
Recirculated air position (  
)
Outside air is shut off. Air within the  
vehicle is recirculated.  
Push the switch to turn the air conditioner  
on. The indicator light on the switch will  
illuminate when the fan control dial is set  
at position 1, 2, 3, or 4.  
This position can be used when driving on  
a dusty road or in similar conditions. It  
also helps to provide quicker cooling of  
the interior.  
Push the switch once again to turn the air  
conditioner off.  
NOTE  
The air conditioner may not function  
when the outside temperature  
approaches 0 °C (32 °F).  
6-6  
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Interior Comfort  
Climate Control System  
NOTE  
WARNING  
l
If the windshield fogs up easily, set  
the mode selector switch to the  
position.  
The Recirculated Air Position:  
Using the position in cold or  
rainy weather will cause the windows  
l
If cooler air is desired at face level,  
set the mode selector switch at the  
position and adjust the  
temperature control dial to maintain  
maximum comfort.  
to fog up. Your vision will be  
hampered, which could lead to a  
serious accident. Do not use the  
position in cold or rainy weather.  
l
l
The air to the floor is warmer than  
air to the face (except when the  
temperature control dial is set at the  
extreme hot or cold position).  
Windshield defroster switch  
In the  
position, air conditioning  
is automatically turned on to defrost  
the windshield (however, the  
indicator light does not illuminate)  
and the  
position is  
automatically selected.  
Press the switch to defrost the windshield  
and front door windows.  
qCooling (With Air Conditioner)  
Rear window defroster switch  
1. Press the mode selector switch to the  
position.  
When using the rear window defroster  
switch, refer to Rear Window Defroster  
(page 5-54).  
2. Set the temperature control dial to the  
cold position.  
qHeating  
3. Set the fan control dial to the desired  
speed.  
1. Press the mode selector switch to the  
position.  
4. Turn on the air conditioner.  
2. Set the temperature control dial to the  
hot position.  
5. Adjust the fan control dial and  
temperature control dial to maintain  
maximum comfort.  
3. Set the fan control dial to the desired  
speed.  
6-7  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (164,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Climate Control System  
qWindshield Defrosting and  
CAUTION  
Defogging  
When using the air conditioner while  
driving up long hills or in heavy traffic,  
closely monitor the temperature gauge  
(page 5-33).  
1. Press the windshield defroster switch.  
2. Set the temperature control dial to the  
desired position.  
The air conditioner may cause engine  
overheating. If the gauge indicates  
overheating, turn the air conditioner off.  
3. Set the fan control dial to the desired  
speed.  
WARNING  
NOTE  
Foggy Windshield:  
l
When maximum cooling is desired,  
set the temperature control dial to the  
extreme cold position and set the air  
Using the  
position with the  
temperature control set to the cold  
position will cause the outside of the  
windshield to fog up. Your vision will  
be hampered, which could lead to a  
serious accident. Set the temperature  
control to the hot or warm position  
intake selector to the  
position,  
then set the fan control dial to  
position 4.  
l
If warmer air is desired at floor level,  
set the mode selector switch at the  
position and adjust the  
when using the  
position.  
temperature control dial to maintain  
maximum comfort.  
NOTE  
l
The air to the floor is warmer than  
air to the face (except when the  
temperature control dial is set at the  
extreme hot or cold position).  
l
For maximum defrosting, set the  
temperature control dial to the  
extreme hot position and the fan  
control dial to position 4.  
l
l
If warm air is desired at the floor, set  
the mode selector switch to the  
position.  
qVentilation  
1. Press the mode selector switch to the  
position.  
In the  
or  
position, air  
conditioning is automatically turned  
on to defrost the windshield quickly  
(however, the indicator light does not  
2. Set the air intake selector to the  
position.  
3. Set the temperature control dial to the  
desired position.  
illuminate) and the  
position is  
automatically selected. The air intake  
selector switch cannot be changed to  
4. Set the fan control dial to the desired  
speed.  
the  
position.  
6-8  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page165  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (165,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Climate Control System  
qDehumidifying (With Air  
Conditioner)  
Operate the air conditioner in cool or cold  
weather to help defog the windshield and  
side windows.  
1. Press the mode selector switch to the  
desired position.  
2. Set the air intake selector to the  
position.  
3. Set the temperature control dial to the  
desired position.  
4. Set the fan control dial to the desired  
speed.  
5. Turn on the air conditioner.  
6-9  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (166,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
Antenna  
Operating Tips for Audio  
System  
qRear Window Antenna  
The rear window antenna receives both  
AM and FM signals.  
WARNING  
Do Not Adjust Audio While Driving  
the Vehicle:  
CAUTION  
Adjusting the audio while driving the  
vehicle is dangerous as it could  
distract your attention from the vehicle  
operation which could lead to a  
serious accident. Always adjust the  
audio while the vehicle is stopped.  
When washing the inside rear window,  
use a soft cloth dampened in lukewarm  
water, gently wiping the antenna lines.  
Use of glass cleaning products could  
damage the antenna.  
CAUTION  
For the purposes of safe driving, adjust  
the audio volume to a level that allows  
you to hear sounds outside of the  
vehicle.  
NOTE  
l
Do not use the audio for long periods  
of time while the engine is off.  
Otherwise the battery could go dead.  
l
If a digital cellular phone or CB  
radio is used in or near the vehicle, it  
could cause noise to occur from the  
audio system, however, this does not  
indicate that the system has been  
damaged.  
6-10  
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Black plate (167,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
Signals from an FM transmitter are similar  
to beams of light because they do not  
bend around corners, but they do reflect.  
Unlike AM signals, FM signals cannot  
travel beyond the horizon. Therefore, FM  
stations cannot be received at the great  
distances possible with AM reception.  
qRadio Reception  
AM characteristics  
AM signals bend around such things as  
buildings or mountains and bounce off the  
ionosphere. Therefore, they can reach  
longer distances than FM signals. Because  
of this, two stations may sometimes be  
picked up on the same frequency at the  
same time.  
Ionosphere  
FM wave  
AM wave  
Ionosphere  
FM wave  
100—200 km (60—120 miles)  
Atmospheric conditions can also affect  
FM reception. High humidity will cause  
poor reception. However, cloudy days  
may provide better reception than clear  
days.  
Station 1  
Station 2  
FM characteristics  
An FM broadcast range is usually about  
4050 km (2530 miles) from the  
source. Because of extra coding needed to  
break the sound into two channels, stereo  
FM has even less range than monaural  
(non-stereo) FM.  
Multipath noise  
Since FM signals can be reflected by  
obstructions, it is possible to receive both  
the direct signal and the reflected signal at  
the same time. This causes a slight delay  
in reception and may be heard as a broken  
sound or a distortion. This problem may  
also be encountered when in close  
FM Station  
proximity to the transmitter.  
40—50 km  
(25—30 miles)  
Reflected wave  
Direct  
6-11  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (168,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
Flutter/Skip noise  
Strong signal noise  
Signals from an FM transmitter move in  
straight lines and become weak in valleys  
between tall buildings, mountains, and  
other obstacles. When a vehicle passes  
through such an area, the reception  
conditions may change suddenly, resulting  
in annoying noise.  
This occurs very close to a transmitter  
tower. The broadcast signals are  
extremely strong, so the result is noise and  
sound breakup at the radio receiver.  
Station drift noise  
When a vehicle reaches the area of two  
strong stations broadcasting at similar  
frequencies, the original station may be  
temporarily lost and the second station  
picked up. At this time there will be some  
noise from this disturbance.  
Weak signal noise  
In suburban areas, broadcast signals  
become weak because of distance from  
the transmitter. Reception in such fringe  
areas is characterized by sound breakup.  
Station 2  
Station 1  
88.1 MHz  
88.3 MHz  
6-12  
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Black plate (169,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
l
If the cassette tape is loose, it may  
produce poor sound or performance  
during playback. Use a pencil or  
qOperating Tips for Cassette Tape  
Player  
Cleaning the cassette tape player  
something similar to remove any slack.  
The tape head, capstans, and pinch rollers  
will gather oxide residue from cassette  
tapes. This can cause weak or wavering  
sounds and damage to the cassette tapes  
and player. Use a good quality head-  
cleaning tape or a liquid cleaner cassette  
tape to remove it.  
Should the unit not operate normally,  
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Never attempt to repair it or insert a  
screwdriver or anything else.  
l
l
Only cassette tapes that play no longer  
than 90 minutes should be used.  
Cassette tape exceeding 90 minutes are  
thin and may easily break.  
Handling the cassette tape player  
The following precautions should be  
observed.  
Do not leave a cassette tape in the tape  
player slot when not in use. Remove it  
completely to permit the slot door to  
close and to protect the mechanism  
from dust.  
l
Do not spill any liquid on the audio  
system.  
l
Store cassette tapes away from extreme  
heat, magnetic fields, and direct  
sunlight. Protect the exposed cassette  
tape from dirt and damage. Store  
cassette tapes in their original cases or  
other protective cases.  
l
Do not insert any objects, other than  
cassette tape, into the slot.  
6-13  
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Black plate (170,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
l
The MD player can also play MDLPs  
that have been recorded in MDLP  
mode. (MDLPs bearing the  
qOperating Tips for Mini Disc  
(MD) Player  
The following precautions should be  
observed.  
identification logo as shown below).  
l
Do not spill any liquid on the audio  
system.  
l
When inserting the MD, make sure the  
MD label is facing up, and the MD is  
oriented to the insertion slot in the  
direction of the arrow. If not inserted  
correctly, the MD will be ejected, or  
may remain stuck in the MD deck.  
l
Do not insert any objects, other than  
MDs, into the slot.  
l
The MD player has been designed to  
l
Do not touch the internal part of the  
MD. If the MD shutter is slid open for  
no reason, it may be broken.  
play MDs bearing the identification  
logo as shown. No other MDs can be  
played.  
l
Store MDs in their cases and away  
from direct sunlight.  
6-14  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (171,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
l
The CD revolves at high speed within  
the unit. Defective (cracked or badly  
bent) CDs should never be used.  
qOperating Tips for CD Player/In-  
Dash CD Changer  
Condensation phenomenon  
Immediately after turning on the heater  
when the vehicle is cold, the CD or  
optical components (prism and lens) in the  
CD player/changer may become clouded  
with condensation. At this time, the CD  
will eject immediately when placed in the  
unit. A clouded CD can be corrected  
simply by wiping it with a soft cloth.  
Clouded optical components will clear  
naturally in about an hour. Wait for  
normal operation to return before  
l
Do not use non-conventional discs  
such as heart-shaped, octagonal discs,  
etc. The CD player/changer could be  
damaged.  
attempting to use the unit.  
Handling the CD player/In-dash CD  
changer  
The following precautions should be  
observed.  
l
Do not spill any liquid on the audio  
system.  
l
A new CD may have rough edges on  
its inner and outer perimeters. If a disc  
with rough edges is used, proper  
setting will not be possible and the CD  
player/changer will not play the CD.  
Remove the rough edges in advance by  
using a ball-point pen or pencil as  
shown below. To remove the rough  
edges, rub the side of the pen or pencil  
against the inner and outer perimeter of  
the CD.  
l
Do not insert any objects, other than  
CDs, into the slot.  
6-15  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (172,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
l
l
l
l
When driving over uneven surfaces,  
the sound may jump.  
Dust, finger smudges, and dirt can  
decrease the amount of light reflected  
from the signal surface, thus affecting  
sound quality. If the CD should  
become soiled, gently wipe it with a  
soft cloth from the center of the CD to  
the edge.  
Do not use record sprays, antistatic  
agents, or household spray cleaners.  
Volatile chemicals such as benzine and  
thinner can also damage the surface of  
the CD and must not be used. Anything  
that can damage, warp, or fog plastic  
should never be used to clean CDs.  
l
The CD player/changer has been  
designed to play CDs bearing the  
identification logo as shown. No other  
discs can be played.  
CDs, like traditional audio records, are  
made of plastic. To avoid warping,  
keep the CDs in their cases and do not  
store them where they will be exposed  
to direct sunlight.  
l
l
The CD player/changer ejects the CD if  
the CD is inserted upside down. Also  
dirty and/or defective CDs may be  
ejected.  
l
Be sure never to touch the signal  
surface when handling the CDs. Pick  
up a CD by grasping the outer edge or  
the edge of the hole and the outer edge.  
8 cm (3 in) CDs and CD accessories  
(e.g. 8 cm disc adapter) cannot be used  
in the CD player/changer.  
l
l
Do not insert cleaning discs in the CD  
player/changer.  
Do not insert any disc with a peel-off  
or seal on it.  
l
Do not stick paper or tape on the CD.  
Avoid scratching the reverse side (the  
side without a label).  
6-16  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (174,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
qPower/Volume/Sound Controls  
Power/Volume dial  
Audio control dial  
Illustration is of a representative audio unit.  
Power ON/OFF  
Turn the power/volume dial to the right to  
increase volume, to the left to decrease it.  
Turn the ignition switch to the ACC or  
ON position.  
Audio sound adjustment  
1. Press the audio control dial to select the  
function. The selected function will be  
indicated.  
Press the power/volume dial to turn the  
audio system on.  
Press the power/volume dial again to turn  
the audio system off.  
*
Standard audio-  
equipped model  
NOTE  
To prevent the battery from being  
discharged, do not leave the audio  
system on for a long period of time  
when the engine is not running.  
Volume adjustment  
*
To adjust the volume, turn the power/  
volume dial.  
6-18  
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Black plate (175,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
BOSE Sound System-equipped model  
BOSE Sound  
System-  
Indication  
Turn Left Turn Right  
*
equipped model  
OFF  
ON  
Decrease  
bass  
Increase  
bass  
Decrease  
treble  
Increase  
treble  
Shift the  
Shift the  
sound to the sound to the  
front  
rear  
*
Shift the  
Shift the  
sound to the sound to the  
left  
right  
* Depending on the mode selected, the  
indication changes.  
OFF  
ON  
2. Turn the audio control dial to adjust the  
selected functions as follows:  
NOTE  
Standard audio-equipped model  
About 5 seconds after selecting any  
mode, the volume function will be  
automatically selected. To reset bass,  
mid-range, treble, fade, and balance,  
press the audio control dial for 2  
seconds. The unit will beep and  
CLEARwill be displayed.  
Indication  
Turn Left Turn Right  
Select mode  
Decrease  
bass  
Increase  
bass  
Decrease  
Increase  
mid-range mid-range  
Decrease  
treble  
Increase  
treble  
Automatic Level Control (ALC)  
(Standard audio-equipped model)  
Shift the  
sound to the sound to the  
Shift the  
front  
rear  
The automatic level control is a feature  
that automatically adjusts audio volume  
and sound quality according to the vehicle  
speed.  
The volume increases in accordance with  
the increase in vehicle speed, and  
decreases as vehicle speed decreases.  
Shift the  
sound to the sound to the  
Shift the  
left  
right  
OFF  
ON  
6-19  
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Black plate (176,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
The following four modes are available.  
Select the desired mode.  
Mode  
Volume change  
No change  
Minimum  
Medium  
Maximum  
Turn the audio control dial to select the  
ALC OFF, ALC LEVEL13 mode. The  
selected mode will be indicated.  
*AudioPilot (BOSE Sound System-  
equipped model)  
AudioPilot automatically adjusts audio  
volume and sound quality in accordance  
with the level of noise entering the vehicle  
interior while driving. When AudioPilot is  
turned ON, the system automatically  
calculates the conditions for optimum  
hearing of sound which may be difficult  
to hear depending on exterior noise.  
* AudioPilot is a registered trademark of  
BOSE Corporation.  
BEEP setting  
The beep-sound when operating the audio  
system can be set on or off.  
6-20  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (177,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
6-21  
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Black plate (178,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
qOperating the Radio  
Type A  
Satellite button*  
Band selector button  
Channel preset buttons  
Seek tuning  
button  
Scan button  
Manual tuning dial  
Auto memory button  
Electric serial number button*  
*For reception of optional Sirius digital satellite radio.  
Used on vehicles equipped with the separately sold Sirius digital satellite radio unit.  
For information on use, read the manual accompanying the Sirius unit.  
Subscription of Sirius digital satellite radio service is available in the U.S. (Except Alaska and Hawaii).  
Type B  
Band selector buttons  
Channel preset buttons  
Seek tuning  
button  
Scan button  
Manual tuning dial/Auto memory button  
6-22  
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Black plate (179,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
Radio ON  
NOTE  
(Type A)  
Press a band selector button (  
turn the radio on.  
If the power supply is interrupted (fuse  
blows or the battery is disconnected),  
the preset channels will be canceled.  
) to  
(Type B)  
Press a band selector button (  
to turn the radio on.  
,
)
Manual tuning  
Turning the manual tuning dial will  
change the frequency higher or lower.  
Band selection  
(Type A)  
Successively pressing the band selector  
button ( ) switches the bands as  
follows: FM1FM2AM.  
Seek tuning  
Pressing the seek tuning button (  
will cause the tuner to seek a higher or  
lower frequency automatically.  
,
)
(Type B)  
NOTE  
Choose AM by pressing the AM button  
(
) and FM by pressing the FM1/2  
If you continue to press and hold the  
button, the frequency will continue  
changing without stopping.  
button ( ).  
The selected mode will be indicated. If  
FM stereo is being received, STwill be  
displayed.  
Scan tuning  
Press the scan button (  
,
) to  
automatically sample strong stations.  
NOTE  
Scanning stops at each station for about 5  
seconds. To hold a station, press the scan  
If the FM broadcast signal becomes  
weak, reception automatically changes  
from STEREO to MONO for reduced  
noise, and the STindicator will go  
out.  
button (  
,
) again during this interval.  
Preset channel tuning  
The 6 preset channels can be used to store  
6 AM and 12 FM stations.  
Tuning  
1. To set a channel first select AM, FM1,  
or FM2. Tune to the desired station.  
The radio has the following tuning  
methods: Manual, Seek, Scan, Preset  
channel, and Auto memory tuning. The  
easiest way to tune stations is to set them  
on preset channels.  
2. Depress a channel preset button for  
about 2 seconds until a beep is heard.  
The preset channel number and station  
frequency will be displayed. The  
station is now held in the memory.  
6-23  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (180,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
3. Repeat this operation for the other  
stations and bands you want to store.  
To tune one in the memory, select AM,  
FM1, or FM2 and then press its  
channel preset button. The station  
frequency and the channel number will  
be displayed.  
NOTE  
If the power supply is interrupted (fuse  
blows or the battery is disconnected),  
the preset channels will be canceled.  
Auto memory tuning  
This is especially useful when driving in  
an area where the local stations are not  
known. Additional AM/FM stations can  
be stored without disturbing the  
previously set channels.  
Press and hold the auto memory button  
(
) for about 2 seconds until a beep  
is heard; the system will automatically  
scan and temporarily store up to 6 stations  
with the strongest frequencies in each  
selected band in that area.  
After scanning is completed, the station  
with the strongest frequency will be tuned  
and its frequency displayed.  
Press and release the auto memory button  
(
) to recall stations from the auto-  
stored stations. One stored station will be  
selected each time; its frequency and  
channel number will be displayed.  
NOTE  
If no stations can be tuned after  
scanning operations, Awill be  
displayed.  
6-24  
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Black plate (181,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
6-25  
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Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
qOperating the Cassette Tape Playerí  
Cassette tape play button  
Fast-forward button  
APC button:  
(next program)  
(one being  
played)  
Rewind  
button  
Repeat button  
Dolby NR button  
Cassette tape eject button  
Program button  
Illustration is of a representative audio unit.  
Cassette tape insert  
Dolby noise reduction  
Insert the cassette tape into the slot, open  
edge to the right and cassette tape will  
begin play, and TAPE PLAYwill be  
displayed. At the end of the cassette tape,  
the unit automatically reverses cassette  
When using a tape with Dolby NR*, push  
the Dolby NR button ( ). The  
symbol will be displayed. To play a tape  
without Dolby NR, push the button once  
again.  
tape play. When  
is lit, the cassette  
tape's top side is playing. When  
the bottom side is on.  
is lit,  
* Noise reduction system manufactured  
under license from Dolby Laboratories  
Licensing Corporation.  
Dolby and the double-D symbol  
are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories  
Licensing Corporation.  
Playing  
Press the cassette tape play button  
(
) to start play when a cassette  
tape is in the unit. If there isn't a cassette  
tape in the unit when the cassette tape  
Ejecting the cassette tape  
play button (  
NO TAPEwill flash on and off.  
) is pressed,  
Press the cassette tape eject button ( ) to  
eject the cassette tape.  
6-26  
íSome models.  
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Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
NOTE  
NOTE  
The cassette tape can be ejected when  
the ignition switch is in the OFF  
position.  
APC may not operate properly if:  
l
A tape was recorded at a low level.  
l
A tape has long, silent intervals.  
l
Fast-forward/Rewind  
A tape is a live recording.  
Press the fast-forward button (  
fast-forward.  
) to  
l
A tape has very short intervals of  
less than 3 seconds.  
Press the rewind button (  
) to rewind.  
To stop this operation and play the  
cassette tape, press the button again.  
Repeat play  
This operation makes it possible to listen  
to a selection repeatedly.  
NOTE  
Press the repeat button (  
The current selection playing will be  
repeated (RPTwill be displayed).  
Press the repeat button (  
to cancel repeat play.  
) during play.  
When the cassette tape ends during fast-  
forward or rewind, it automatically  
stops and starts playing.  
) once again  
Reversing  
Press the program button (  
change cassette tape-play direction.  
) to  
NOTE  
RPT may not operate properly if:  
NOTE  
l
A tape was recorded at a low level.  
l
When the cassette tape ends, the unit  
automatically reverses play.  
A tape has long, silent intervals.  
l
A tape is a live recording.  
l
A tape has very short intervals of  
less than 3 seconds.  
Automatic program control (APC)  
APC is used to find the beginning of  
either the next program or the one being  
played.  
Press the APC button ( ) to the  
beginning of the next selection.  
Press the APC button ( ) to the  
beginning of the one being played. To  
stop this operation and play the cassette  
tape, press the button again.  
6-27  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page184  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (184,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
qOperating the Mini Disc (MD) Playerí  
MD play button  
Display button  
Track up  
button  
Scan button  
Fast-forward  
button  
Track down  
button  
Display feed  
dial  
MD eject button  
MD slot  
Reverse button  
Repeat button  
Random button  
Illustration is of a representative audio unit.  
Inserting the MD  
Fast-forward/Reverse  
Insert the MD, label-side up with the  
arrow pointed to the slot. The auto-  
loading mechanism will set the MD and  
begin play. There will be a short lapse  
before play begins while the player reads  
the digital signals on the MD.  
Press and hold the fast-forward button  
(
) to advance through a track at high  
speed.  
Press and hold the reverse button (  
to reverse through a track at high speed.  
)
Track search  
Playing  
Press the track up button ( ) once to  
skip forward to the beginning of the next  
track.  
Press the MD play button (  
start play when a MD is in the unit.  
) to  
If there isn't a MD in the unit when the  
MD play button ( ) is pressed,  
NO DISCwill flash on and off.  
Press the track down button ( ) once to  
skip back to the beginning of the current  
track.  
Ejecting the MD  
Music scan  
Press the MD eject button ( ) to eject the  
MD.  
This feature helps to find a program by  
playing about the first 10 seconds of each  
track.  
6-28  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (185,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
Press the scan button (  
play to start scan play operation (the track  
number will flash).  
,
) during  
NOTE  
If there is no song or disc title recorded  
on the MD, NO TITLEwill be  
displayed.  
Press the scan button (  
to cancel scan play.  
,
) once again  
NOTE  
Long disc or song titles  
When long disc or song titles cannot be  
completely displayed, rotate the display  
If the unit is left in scan, normal play  
will resume where scan was selected.  
feed dial (  
) to the right.  
The remainder of the title will proceed  
and appear on the display to the end of the  
title.  
Repeat play  
This feature makes it possible to listen to  
a selection repeatedly.  
Press the repeat button (  
) during play.  
The current selection will be repeated  
(RPTwill be displayed).  
Press the repeat button (  
to cancel repeat play.  
) once again  
Random play  
This feature allows the MD player to  
randomly select the order of the songs.  
Press the random button (  
) during  
play. The next selection will be randomly  
selected (RDMwill be displayed).  
Press the random button (  
) once  
again to cancel random play.  
Changing the display  
To change the display during MD play,  
press the display button ( ) to advance  
through each of the following displays:  
Track number/  
Elapsed play  
back time  
Song title  
Disc title  
6-29  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page186  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (186,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
qOperating the Compact Disc (CD) Playerí  
Load button  
CD play button  
CD eject button  
CD slot  
Display button  
Track up  
button  
Scan button  
Fast-forward  
button  
Track down  
button  
Repeat button  
Reverse button  
Random button  
Illustration is of a representative audio unit.  
Inserting the CD  
Ejecting the CD  
Insert the CD into the slot, label-side up.  
The auto-loading mechanism will set the  
CD and begin play. There will be a short  
lapse before play begins while the player  
reads the digital signals on the CD.  
Press the CD eject button ( ) to eject the  
CD.  
Fast-forward/Reverse  
Press and hold the fast-forward button  
(
) to advance through a track at high  
Playing  
speed.  
Press the CD play button ( ) to start  
play when a CD is in the unit.  
Press and hold the reverse button (  
to reverse through a track at high speed.  
)
If there isn't a CD in the unit when the CD  
play button ( ) is pressed, NO DISC”  
will flash on and off.  
Track search  
Press the track up button ( ) once to  
skip forward to the beginning of the next  
track.  
Press the track down button ( ) once to  
skip back to the beginning of the current  
track.  
NOTE  
When the load button (  
) is pressed,  
the CD will load and play even if the  
CD eject button ( ) had been  
previously pressed.  
6-30  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (187,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
Music scan  
This feature helps to find a program by  
playing about the first 10 seconds of each  
track.  
Press the scan button (  
,
) during  
play to start scan play operation (the track  
number will flash).  
Press the scan button (  
to cancel scan play.  
,
) once again  
NOTE  
If the unit is left in scan, normal play  
will resume where scan was selected.  
Repeat play  
This feature makes it possible to listen to  
a selection repeatedly.  
Press the repeat button (  
) during play.  
The current selection will be repeated  
(RPTwill be displayed).  
Press the repeat button (  
to cancel repeat play.  
) once again  
Random play  
This feature allows the CD player to  
randomly select the order of the songs.  
Press the random button (  
) during  
play. The next selection will be randomly  
selected (RDMwill be displayed).  
Press the random button (  
) once  
again to cancel random play.  
6-31  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page188  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (188,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
qOperating the In-Dash CD Changerí  
Load button  
Channel preset buttons  
Display button  
CD eject button  
CD slot CD play button  
Track up  
button  
Scan button  
Fast-forward  
button  
Track down  
button  
Disc down button  
Repeat button  
Disc up button  
Reverse button  
Random button  
Illustration is of a representative audio unit.  
Inserting the CD  
Normal insertion  
The CD must be label-side up when  
inserting. The auto-loading mechanism  
will set the CD and begin play. There will  
be a short lapse before play begins while  
the player reads the digital signals on the  
CD.  
1. Press the load button (  
).  
2. When INis displayed, insert the CD.  
Inserting CDs into desired tray number  
1. Press and hold the load button (  
for about 2 seconds until a beep is  
heard.  
)
The disc number and the track number  
will be displayed.  
2. Press the channel preset button for the  
desired tray number within 3 seconds  
after the beep is heard.  
NOTE  
A CD cannot be inserted while the  
display reads WAIT. A beeping  
sound can be heard during this waiting  
time. Simultaneously pressing the  
power/volume dial and the load button  
3. When INis displayed, insert the CD.  
NOTE  
The CD cannot be inserted to the  
desired tray number if the number is  
already occupied.  
(
) for about 2 seconds will turn  
this beeping sound ON or OFF.  
6-32  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (189,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
Multiple insertion  
Ejecting CDs from desired tray number  
1. Press and hold the load button (  
for about 2 seconds until a beep is  
heard.  
)
1. Press and hold the CD eject button (  
for about 2 seconds until a beep is  
heard.  
)
2. Wait 3 seconds or press the load button  
) again within 3 seconds after the  
2. Press the channel preset button for the  
desired CD number within 3 seconds  
after the beep is heard.  
(
beep is heard.  
3. When INis displayed, insert the CD.  
3. Pull out the CD.  
4. When INis displayed again, insert  
Multiple ejection  
the next CD.  
1. Press and hold the CD eject button (  
for about 2 seconds until a beep is  
heard.  
)
NOTE  
The first-inserted CD will be played  
automatically when:  
2. Wait 3 seconds or press the CD eject  
button ( ) again within 3 seconds  
after the beep is heard.  
l
No other CD is inserted within 15  
seconds after INis displayed.  
3. Pull out the CD, then the next CD will  
be ejected.  
l
The CD trays are full.  
NOTE  
Displaying the CD-inserted tray  
number  
l
CDs will be ejected starting with the  
When you want to know the number for a  
CD-inserted tray, press the display button  
one with the lowest number.  
l
All CDs in the tray will be ejected  
continuously.  
(
). The tray number will be displayed  
for 5 seconds.  
l
CDs can be ejected when the ignition  
Ejecting the CD  
Normal ejection  
switch is off. Press and hold the CD  
eject button ( ) for about 2 seconds  
and all CDs will eject.  
1. Press the CD eject button ( ). The  
disc number and DISC” “OUTwill  
be displayed.  
Playing  
Press the CD play button ( ) to start  
play when a CD is in the unit.  
2. Pull out the CD.  
If there isn't a CD in the unit when the CD  
play button ( ) is pressed, NO DISC”  
will flash on and off.  
NOTE  
When the CD is ejected during play, the  
next CD will be played automatically.  
6-33  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (190,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
Fast-forward/Reverse  
Press the repeat button (  
) during play.  
The current selection will be repeated  
(RPTwill be displayed).  
Press and hold the fast-forward button  
(
) to advance through a track at high  
Press the repeat button (  
to cancel repeat play.  
) once again  
speed.  
Press and hold the reverse button (  
)
to reverse through a track at high speed.  
Random play  
Track search  
This feature allows the CD player to  
randomly select the order of the songs.  
Press the track up button ( ) once to  
skip forward to the beginning of the next  
track.  
Press the track down button ( ) once to  
skip back to the beginning of the current  
track.  
Press the random button (  
) during  
play. The next selection will be randomly  
selected (RDMwill be displayed).  
Press the random button (  
) once  
again to cancel random play.  
Disc search  
Press the disc up button (  
forward to the beginning of the next CD.  
Press the disc down button ( ) to  
) to skip  
skip back to the beginning of the previous  
CD.  
Music scan  
This feature helps to find a program by  
playing about the first 10 seconds of each  
track.  
Press the scan button (  
,
) during  
play to start scan play operation (the track  
number will flash).  
Press the scan button (  
to cancel scan play.  
,
) once again  
NOTE  
If the unit is left in scan, normal play  
will resume where scan was selected.  
Repeat play  
This feature makes it possible to listen to  
a selection repeatedly.  
6-34  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (191,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
qError Indications  
If you see an error indication on the display, find the cause in the chart. If you cannot clear  
the error indication, take the vehicle to an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Indication  
Cause  
Solution  
Insert the MD properly. If the error indication does not  
disappear, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
MD is inserted upside down  
CHECK MD  
Insert another MD properly. If the error indication does not  
disappear, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
MD is defective  
Insert the CD properly. If the error indication does not disappear,  
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
CD is inserted upside down  
CD is defective  
CHECK CD  
Insert another CD properly. If the error indication does not  
disappear, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
6-35  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (192,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
qChanging the Source  
Press the mode switch (  
the audio source (FM1 radio>FM2  
radio>AM radio>CD player or CD  
changer>Cassette tape player or MD  
player>cyclical).  
Audio Control Switch  
Operation  
) to change  
NOTE  
Mazda installed this system to help you  
avoid being too distracted using audio  
controls on the dashboard. Always  
make safe driving your first priority.  
NOTE  
Cassette tape, MD, CD and CD changer  
modes cannot be selected in the  
following cases:  
qAdjusting the Volume  
l
A cassette deck, MD, CD, or CD  
changer is not equipped on the audio  
system.  
To increase the volume, press volume  
button ( ).  
To decrease the volume, press volume  
button ( ).  
l
A cassette tape, MD or CD has not  
been inserted.  
6-36  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page193  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (193,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
qSeek Switch  
qMute Switch  
Press the mute switch ( ) once to mute  
audio, press it again to resume audio  
output.  
When listening to the radio  
Press the seek switch (  
,
), the radio  
switches to the next/previous stored  
station in the order that it was stored  
(16).  
Press the seek switch (  
,
) for about 2  
seconds until a beep is heard to seek a  
higher or lower frequency automatically.  
When playing a cassette tape  
Press the seek switch ( ), release, and it  
will advance to the next selection.  
Press the seek switch ( ), release, and it  
will repeat the selection being played.  
When playing a CD or MD  
Press the seek switch ( ) to skip to the  
next track.  
Press the seek switch ( ) to repeat the  
current track.  
6-37  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (194,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Audio System  
Safety Certification  
This CD player is made and tested to meet exacting safety standards. It meets FCC  
requirements and complies with safety performance standards of the U.S. Department of  
Health and Human Services.  
CAUTION  
l
This CD player should not be adjusted or repaired by anyone except qualified service  
personnel.  
If servicing is required, contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
l
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those  
specified herein may result in hazardous laser exposure. Never operate the CD player  
with the top case of the unit removed.  
l
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for  
compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.  
NOTE  
For CD player section:  
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.  
NOTE  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital  
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide  
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This  
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed  
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio  
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a  
particular installation.  
6-38  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (195,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
Sunvisors  
Interior Lights  
When you need a sunvisor, lower it for  
use in front or swing it to the side.  
qIlluminated Entry System  
When the illuminated entry system  
operates, the overhead light (switch is in  
the DOOR position) and the courtesy  
lights turn on for:  
Sunvisor  
l
About 30 seconds after the driver's  
door is unlocked and the ignition key is  
removed.  
l
About 15 seconds after all doors are  
closed.  
l
About 15 seconds after the key is  
removed from the ignition with all  
doors closed.  
qVanity Mirrors  
The light also turns off when:  
To use the vanity mirror, lower the  
sunvisor.  
l
The ignition switch is turned to the ON  
The vanity mirror light will illuminate  
when you open the cover.  
position and all doors are closed.  
l
The driver's door is locked.  
NOTE  
If any door is left opened, the light goes  
out after about 5 minutes.  
The light turns on again when the  
ignition switch is turned to the ON  
position, or when any door is opened  
after all doors have been closed.  
6-39  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (196,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
Rear  
qOverhead Lights  
Front  
With moonroof  
Switch  
Position  
Rear Overhead Lights  
Light off  
l
Light on when any door is open  
Without moonroof  
l
Light on or off when the  
illuminated entry system is on  
Light on  
qMap Lights  
The map lights are switched on or off by  
pressing the switches.  
With moonroof  
Switch  
Front Overhead Lights  
Position  
Light off  
l
Light on when any door is open  
l
Light on or off when the  
illuminated entry system is on  
6-40  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (197,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
Without moonroof  
qCourtesy Lights  
Turns on when any door is open or the  
illuminated entry system is on.  
Courtesy Light  
6-41  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (198,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
Information Display  
qInformation Display Functions  
The information display has the following functions:  
l
Clock  
l
Ambient Temperature Display (Outside Temperature Display)  
l
Climate Control Display  
l
Audio Display  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (199,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
12:0112:2912:00  
12:3012:591:00  
qClock  
When the ignition switch is in the ACC or  
ON position, the time is displayed.  
NOTE  
When the SET button is released, the  
seconds are reset to 00.  
qAmbient Temperature Display  
When the ignition switch is in the ON  
position, press the AMB button to display  
the ambient temperature.  
Time setting  
1. Press the CLK button until a beep  
sounds, and 12Hrand 24Hrwill be  
displayed.  
2. Press the SET button to switch between  
12Hrand 24Hrdisplays. The  
selected display will flash.  
To select the desired clock setting,  
press the CLK button again while the  
preferred setting is flashing.  
NOTE  
3. Hr. ADJUSTwill be displayed next,  
and the hour portion of the display will  
flash. Press the SET button to set the  
hour, then press the CLK button.  
l
The displayed ambient temperature  
may vary from the actual ambient  
temperature depending on the  
surrounding area and vehicle  
conditions.  
4. Min. ADJUSTwill be displayed  
next, and the minutes portion of the  
display will flash. Press the SET button  
to set the minutes, then press the CLK  
button.  
l
Press the AMB button 2 seconds or  
more to switch the display from  
Fahrenheit to Centigrade or vice  
versa.  
Time resetting  
While the clock is displayed, press the  
SET button 1.5 seconds or more. When  
the button is released, a beep will sound  
and the clock will be reset as follows:  
(Example)  
6-43  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (200,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
qClimate Control Display  
Lighter  
The climate control system status is  
displayed. To operate the climate control  
system, refer to Climate Control System”  
(page 6-2).  
The ignition switch must be in the ACC  
or ON position.  
1. Open the cover.  
qAudio Display  
The audio system status is displayed. To  
operate the audio system, refer to  
Audio System(page 6-10).  
2. Press the lighter in and release it. When  
ready for use, it automatically pops out.  
6-44  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (201,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
Ashtray  
CAUTION  
l
Don't touch the metal part of the  
CAUTION  
lighter, you may burn yourself.  
Don't use the ashtray for trash. You  
might start a fire.  
l
Don't hold the lighter in because it  
will overheat.  
l
Don't use the lighter socket for plug-  
To use, open the cover.  
in accessories such as shavers and  
coffee pots. They may damage it or  
cause electrical failure. Use only a  
genuine Mazda lighter or the  
equivalent.  
l
If the lighter doesn't pop out within  
30 seconds, remove it to prevent  
overheating.  
To remove, open the cover and pull up the  
ashtray.  
6-45  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (202,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
qFront  
Cup Holder  
To use, slide the lid while pushing the  
button until you hear a click sound.  
WARNING  
Using Cup Holder:  
Using a cup holder to hold hot liquids  
while the vehicle is moving is  
dangerous. If the contents spill, you  
could be scalded. Never use a cup  
holder to hold hot liquids while the  
vehicle is moving.  
Don't Put Anything Other Than Cups  
or Drink cans in Cup Holder:  
Putting objects other than cups or  
drink cans in a cup holder is  
dangerous.  
CAUTION  
During sudden braking or  
Do not use a cup holder with the lid  
unlocked. During sudden braking or  
maneuvering, the lid could slide  
forward causing the cup contents to  
spill.  
maneuvering, occupants could be hit  
and injured, or objects could be  
thrown around the vehicle, causing  
interference with the driver and the  
possibility of an accident. Only use a  
cup holder for cups or drink cans.  
qRear  
To use, pull the lid up.  
CAUTION  
To reduce the possibility of injury in an  
accident or a sudden stop, keep cup  
holders closed when not in use.  
6-46  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (203,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
qCoin Box  
Storage Compartments  
To open, press the release catch down and  
pull the lid downward.  
WARNING  
Open Storage Boxes:  
Driving with the storage boxes open is  
dangerous. To reduce the possibility of  
injury in an accident or a sudden stop,  
keep the storage boxes closed when  
driving.  
CAUTION  
Don't leave eyeglasses or lighters in the  
storage boxes while parked under the  
sun. A lighter could explode or the  
plastic material in eyeglasses could  
deform and crack from high  
qGlove Box  
To open the glove box, pull the latch  
toward you.  
Insert the master key and turn it clockwise  
to lock, counterclockwise to unlock.  
temperature.  
qOverhead Console  
This console box is designed to store  
accessories. Push and release to open.  
Unlock  
Lock  
6-47  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page204  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (204,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
Rear  
qCenter Console  
To open, pull the release catch.  
Front  
1. Slide the lid while pushing the button  
until you hear a click sound.  
CAUTION  
2. Open the lid.  
Do not place bottles filled with fluid  
(e.g. cosmetic fragrance) in the console  
box. If the fluid leaks, it could damage  
the navigation system or the electrical  
wiring, or both.  
qStorage Box  
The storage box is designed to store  
accessories.  
6-48  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page205  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (205,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
To open, squeeze the latch and pull the lid  
down.  
Loading long objects with storage box  
removed  
When closing the storage box, put the  
storage box back in its original position  
until you hear a click sound.  
The storage box can be removed for  
convenient loading of long objects such as  
skis placed through the trunk.  
NOTE  
WARNING  
When using the storage box to store  
heavy accessories, remove the storage  
box before placing or removing the  
accessories.  
Loading Long Objects Through  
Removed Storage Box Area:  
Sudden braking or maneuvering while  
long objects are loaded through the  
removed storage box area and into the  
trunk is dangerous. Operation of the  
shift/selector lever could be obstructed  
resulting in a serious accident. Secure  
long objects in the trunk so that they  
cannot be thrown forward in the cabin  
and avoid sudden braking or  
Insert the master key and turn it clockwise  
to lock, counterclockwise to unlock.  
Unlock  
Lock  
maneuvering.  
6-49  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page206  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (206,1)  
Interior Comfort  
Interior Equipment  
NOTE  
Accessory Socket  
To prevent discharging the battery, don't  
use the socket for long periods with the  
engine off or idling.  
The ignition switch must be in the ACC  
or ON position.  
Only use genuine Mazda accessories or  
the equivalent requiring no greater than  
120 W (DC12 V, 10 A).  
The accessory socket is in the center  
console.  
CAUTION  
To prevent accessory socket damage or  
electrical failure, pay attention to the  
following:  
l
Don't use accessories that require  
more than 120 W (DC12 V, 10 A).  
l
Don't use accessories that are not  
genuine Mazda accessories or the  
equivalent.  
l
Close the cover when the accessory  
socket is not in use.  
l
Correctly insert the plug into the  
accessory socket.  
6-50  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
 
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page207  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (207,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
7
Helpful information on what to do in an emergency.  
7-1  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (208,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Parking in an Emergency  
Parking in an Emergency  
The hazard warning lights should always  
be used when you stop on or near a  
roadway.  
The hazard warning lights warn other  
drivers that your vehicle is a traffic hazard  
and that they must take extreme caution  
when near it.  
Depress the hazard warning flasher and all  
four turn signals will flash.  
NOTE  
l
The turn signals don't work when the  
hazard warning lights are on.  
l
Check local regulations about the use  
of hazard warning lights while the  
vehicle is being towed. They may  
forbid it.  
7-2  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (209,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
Spare Tire and Tool Storage  
Tools are stored in the locations illustrated in the diagram.  
Instant Mobility System (IMS) Emergency Flat Tire Repair Kit  
Tool box  
Lug wrench  
Jack handle  
Tiedown eyelet  
Jack  
7-3  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page210  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (210,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
The temporary spare tire is lighter and  
smaller than a conventional tire, and is  
designed only for emergency use and  
should be used only for VERY short  
periods. Temporary spares should  
NEVER be used for long drives or  
extended periods.  
qJack  
To remove the jack  
1. Open the tool box.  
WARNING  
Driving with a Temporary Spare Tire  
on Ice or Snow:  
Driving with a spare tire on the rear  
(driving) wheels on ice or snow is  
dangerous. Handling will be affected.  
You could lose control of the vehicle  
and have an accident. Put the spare  
tire on the front axle and move a  
regular tire to the rear.  
2. Turn the jack screw counterclockwise.  
To secure the jack  
Perform the removal procedure in reverse.  
qSpare Tire  
A temporary spare tire is not equipped  
with your Mazda. If an emergency tire  
repair is needed, repair the flat tire with  
the emergency flat tire repair kit (page  
7-5). If you require a temporary spare tire,  
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
When installing a temporary spare tire,  
follow the manufacturer's instructions for  
the temporary spare tire.  
7-4  
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RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page211  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (211,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
Instant Mobility System  
(IMS) Emergency Flat  
Tire Repair Kit  
CAUTION  
To avoid damage to the temporary  
spare or to the vehicle, observe the  
following precautions:  
The IMS emergency flat tire repair kit  
included with your Mazda is for a  
temporary repair of a slightly damaged  
flat tire resulting from running over nails  
or similar sharp objects on the road  
surface.  
l
Don't exceed 80 km/h (50 mph).  
l
Avoid driving over obstacles.  
Also, don't drive through an  
automatic car wash. This tire's  
diameter is smaller than a  
conventional tire's, so the ground  
clearance is reduced about 25 mm (1  
in).  
NOTE  
Your vehicle is not equipped with a  
spare tire. In the event of a flat tire, use  
the emergency flat tire repair kit to  
repair the tire temporarily. When doing  
the repair, refer to the instructions  
included in the emergency flat tire  
repair kit. After temporarily repairing a  
tire with the emergency flat tire repair  
kit, take your vehicle to an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer to have the tire replaced.  
l
Don't use a tire chain on this tire  
because it won't fit properly.  
l
Don't use your temporary spare on  
any other vehicle; it has been  
designed only for your Mazda.  
l
Use only one temporary spare tire on  
your vehicle at the same time.  
(With limited slip differential)  
When using the temporary spare tire on  
the rear axle, replace it with a standard  
tire as soon as possible. The size  
difference between the spare and the  
standard tire will cause the limited slip  
differential to malfunction.  
NOTE  
(With Tire Pressure Monitoring  
System)  
A tire pressure sensor is not installed to  
the temporary spare tire. The warning  
light will flash continuously while the  
temporary spare tire is being used (page  
7-5  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (212,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
qAbout the IMS Emergency Flat  
WARNING  
Tire Repair Kit  
The IMS emergency flat tire repair kit  
includes the following items.  
Ingestion of Tire Sealant:  
Ingestion of tire sealant is dangerous.  
In the event tire sealant is accidentally  
swallowed, drink large amounts of  
water immediately and seek medical  
assistance. Do not allow children to  
touch the tire sealant.  
Compressor  
Tire sealant  
Tire Sealant Contacting Eyes and  
Skin:  
Injection hose  
Tire sealant that comes into contact  
with the eyes and skin is dangerous. If  
tire sealant enters the eyes or contacts  
the skin, flush immediately with large  
amounts of water and seek medical  
assistance. Do not allow children to  
touch the tire sealant.  
Repaired tire  
sticker  
Spare valve  
core  
Valve core  
tool  
Instruction  
Speed restriction  
sticker  
Case  
7-6  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (213,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
4. Unload passengers and luggage, and  
remove the emergency flat tire repair  
kit.  
NOTE  
l
The tire sealant cannot be reused.  
Purchase new tire sealant at an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
l
The emergency flat tire repair kit  
cannot be used in the following  
cases.  
Consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
l
The period of effective use for the  
tire sealant has expired. (The  
period of effectiveness is  
indicated on the bottle label.)  
The tear or puncture exceeds  
l
5. Shake the tire sealant well.  
about 4 mm (0.16 in).  
l
The damage has occurred to an  
area of the tire other than the  
tread.  
The vehicle has been driven with  
l
nearly no air remaining in the tire.  
The tire has come off the wheel  
l
rim.  
l
Damage to the wheel rim has  
occurred.  
The tire has two or more  
l
punctures.  
qUsing the IMS Emergency Flat  
CAUTION  
Tire Repair Kit  
If the bottle is shaken after the injection  
hose is screwed on, tire sealant could  
spray out from the injection hose. Tire  
sealant contacting clothing or other  
objects may be impossible to remove.  
Shake the bottle before screwing on the  
injection hose.  
1. Park on a level surface off the right-of-  
way and set the parking brake.  
2. Put a vehicle with an automatic  
transmission in Park (P), a manual  
transmission in Reverse (R) or 1, and  
turn off the engine.  
3. Turn on the hazard warning flasher.  
7-7  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (214,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
NOTE  
CAUTION  
The tire sealant can be used at outside  
temperatures down to 30°C.  
If there is air remaining in the tire when  
the valve core is removed, the valve  
core could fly out. Remove the valve  
core carefully.  
In extremely cold temperatures (0°C  
(32°F) or below), the tire sealant  
hardens easily and injection of the  
sealant will be difficult. Warm the  
sealant inside the vehicle before doing  
the injection work.  
8. Turn the valve core counterclockwise  
with the valve core tool and remove the  
valve core.  
6. Remove the cap from the bottle. Screw  
on the injection hose with the bottle's  
inner cap left on to break the inner cap.  
Valve  
Valve core  
Injection hose  
Bottle  
NOTE  
Store the valve core in a place where it  
won't get dirty.  
7. Remove the valve cap from the flat  
tire. Press the back of a valve core tool  
to the core of the tire valve and bleed  
all the remaining air.  
9. Remove the plug from the injection  
hose and insert the injection hose into  
the valve.  
Valve  
Plug  
Valve cap  
Injection hose  
Valve core tool  
7-8  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (215,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
10. Hold the bottom of the bottle upright,  
squeeze the bottle with your hands,  
and inject the entire amount of tire  
sealant into the tire.  
NOTE  
Do not throw away the empty tire  
sealant bottle as the sealant in the bottle  
can be replenished when replacing the  
tire. Take the bottle to an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
13. Attach the vehicle speed restriction  
sticker in a place where the driver can  
easily see it.  
Valve  
NOTE  
The tire sealant cannot be reused.  
Purchase new tire sealant at an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
11. Pull out the injection hose from the  
valve. Reinsert the valve core into the  
valve and turn it clockwise to install  
it.  
WARNING  
Attaching Sticker to the Steering  
Wheel Pad:  
12. Attach the sticker that indicates  
completion of the tire repair on a flat  
outer surface of the repaired tire.  
Attaching the vehicle speed restriction  
sticker to the steering wheel pad is  
dangerous. The sticker could interfere  
with air bag inflation and cause  
serious injury. Also, do not attach the  
sticker to the meter panel, as it would  
obstruct vision of areas such as  
warning light indicators or the  
speedometer.  
7-9  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (216,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
14. Install the compressor hose to the tire  
valve.  
16. Turn the compressor switch on and  
inflate the tire carefully to the correct  
inflation pressure.  
WARNING  
Valve  
Compressor hose  
Operating the Compressor:  
Operating the compressor above 300  
kPa (3.1 kgf/cm2, 3 bar, 43.5 psi) is  
dangerous. When the inflation  
pressure rises above 300 kPa (3.1 kgf/  
cm2, 3 bar, 43.5 psi), heated air will be  
exhausted from the back of the  
compressor and you could be burned.  
Never operate the compressor above  
300 kPa (3.1 kgf/cm2, 3 bar, 43.5 psi).  
15. Insert the compressor plug into the  
interior accessory socket and turn the  
ignition switch to the ACC position  
(page 6-50).  
CAUTION  
Compressor  
plug  
If the compressor operates slowly or  
becomes hot, it indicates overheating.  
Turn the compressor off immediately  
and leave it turned off for 30 minutes or  
longer.  
Compressor  
Center console  
CAUTION  
l
Before pulling out the compressor  
plug from the electrical socket, make  
sure the compressor power switch is  
off.  
l
The compressor turns on and off  
with the push-button switch.  
7-10  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (217,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
NOTE  
NOTE  
l
Check the tire inflation pressure label  
(driver's door) for the correct tire  
inflation pressure.  
(With Tire Pressure Monitoring  
System)  
If the tire is not properly inflated, the  
tire pressure monitoring system warning  
light will illuminate (page 5-26).  
l
l
Do not use the compressor for longer  
than 10 minutes because using the  
compressor for long periods could  
damage it.  
20. After driving the vehicle for 10  
minutes or 5 km (3 miles), check the  
tire pressure with the tire pressure  
gauge equipped with the compressor.  
If the tire pressure has fallen below  
the correct tire pressure, inflate the  
tire to the correct pressure again  
following the steps from number 15.  
If the tire does not inflate, repair of  
the tire may not be possible. If the  
tire does not reach the correct  
inflation pressure within a 10-minute  
period, it probably has received more  
extensive damage. When this  
happens, the emergency flat tire  
repair kit cannot be used to repair the  
tire. Contact an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
CAUTION  
l
If the tire inflation pressure falls  
l
below 130 kPa (1.3 kgf/cm2 or bar,  
18.9 psi), repair cannot be done with  
the repair kit. Park the vehicle on a  
level surface off the right-of-way and  
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
If the tire has been over-inflated,  
loosen the screw cap on the  
compressor and bleed some of the air  
out.  
17. When the tire has been inflated to the  
proper inflation pressure, turn the  
l
If the tire inflation pressure  
continues to remain low after  
repeating steps 14 to 21, park the  
vehicle on a level surface off the  
right-of-way and contact an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
compressor switch off and remove the  
compressor hose from the tire valve.  
18. Install the tire valve cap.  
19. Put the emergency flat tire repair kit  
in the trunk and continue driving.  
NOTE  
CAUTION  
When checking the tire inflation  
pressure with the tire pressure gauge on  
the compressor unit, make sure the  
compressor switch is turned off.  
l
Drive carefully to an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer and keep the vehicle  
speed below 80 km/h (50 mph).  
l
If the vehicle is driven 80 km/h (50  
mph) or higher, the vehicle might  
begin to vibrate.  
7-11  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (218,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
21. If the tire inflation pressure remains  
stable, the tire repair is complete.  
Drive the vehicle with care to an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the  
tire replaced.  
Changing the Tire  
WARNING  
Jacking a Vehicle:  
Changing a tire is dangerous if not  
done properly. The vehicle can slip off  
the jack and seriously injure someone.  
Be sure to follow the directions for  
changing a tire, and never get under a  
vehicle that is supported only by a  
jack.  
CAUTION  
l
A tire that has been temporarily  
repaired with the tire sealant cannot  
be reused. Mazda recommends  
replacing the tire with a new one.  
l
The wheel can be reused after any  
sealant adhering to it is wiped off  
and carefully inspected. However,  
replace the tire valve with a new one.  
Passenger in Vehicle Supported by a  
Jack:  
Allowing someone to remain in a  
vehicle supported by a jack is  
dangerous. The occupant could cause  
the vehicle to fall resulting in serious  
injury. Never allow anyone inside a  
vehicle supported by a jack.  
qInspecting the IMS Emergency  
Flat Tire Repair Kit  
Inspect the emergency tire repair kit at  
regular intervals.  
l
Check the tire sealant period of  
CAUTION  
effective use.  
l
Check the operation of the tire  
compressor.  
(With Tire Pressure Monitoring  
System)  
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.  
NOTE  
The tire sealant has a period of effective  
use. Check the period of effective use  
indicated on the bottle label and do not  
use it if it has expired. Have the tire  
sealant replaced at an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer before the period of  
effective use has expired.  
7-12  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (219,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
NOTE  
NOTE  
l
Make sure the jack is well lubricated  
before using it.  
When blocking a tire, use rocks or  
wood blocks of sufficient size to hold  
the tire in place.  
(With Tire Pressure Monitoring  
System)  
qRemoving the Tire  
l
Be sure to register the tire pressure  
sensor ID signal code whenever tires  
or wheels are changed (page 5-28).  
1. Loosen the lug nuts by turning them  
counterclockwise one turn each, but  
don't remove any until the tire has been  
raised off the ground.  
1. Park on a level surface off the right-of-  
way and firmly set the parking brake.  
2. Put a vehicle with an automatic  
transmission in Park (P), a manual  
transmission in Reverse (R) or 1, and  
turn off the engine.  
3. Turn on the hazard warning flasher.  
4. Have everyone get out of the vehicle  
and away from the vehicle and traffic.  
5. Remove the jack, and tool (page 7-3).  
6. Block the wheel diagonally opposite  
the tire to be changed. When blocking  
a wheel, place a block both in front and  
behind the tire.  
2. Place the jack under the jacking  
position closest to the tire being  
changed.  
Jacking position  
7-13  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (220,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
4. Turn the jack handle clockwise and  
raise the vehicle high enough so that  
the tire can be installed. Before  
removing the lug nuts, make sure your  
Mazda is firmly in position and that it  
cannot slip or move.  
WARNING  
Incorrect Jacking Position:  
Attempting to jack the vehicle in  
positions other than those  
recommended in this manual is  
dangerous. The vehicle could slip off  
the jack and seriously injure or even  
kill someone. Use only the front and  
rear jacking positions recommended  
in this manual.  
Improper Jack:  
Using a jack that isn't designed for  
your Mazda is dangerous. The vehicle  
could slip off the jack and seriously  
injure someone. Use only the jack  
provided with your Mazda.  
5. Remove the lug nuts by turning them  
counterclockwise, then remove the  
wheel.  
Placing Objects Under the Jack:  
Jacking the vehicle with an object  
under the jack is dangerous. The jack  
could slip and someone could be  
seriously injured by the jack or the  
falling vehicle. Never place objects  
under the jack.  
3. Insert the jack handle into the jack.  
7-14  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:12 PM  
Black plate (221,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
qLocking Lug Nuts  
qMounting the Tire  
If your vehicle has optional antitheft  
wheel lug nuts, one on each wheel will  
lock the tires and you must use a special  
key to unlock them. This key is attached  
to the lug wrench and is stored with the  
spare tire. Register them with the lock  
manufacturer by filling out the card  
provided in the glove box and mailing it  
in the accompanying envelope. If you lose  
your key, consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer or use the lock manufacturer's  
order form, which is with the registration  
card.  
1. Remove dirt and grime from the  
mounting surfaces of the wheel and  
hub, including the hub bolts, with a  
cloth.  
Antitheft lug nut  
Special key  
WARNING  
Removing Dirt and Grime from  
Wheels, Hubs and Hub Bolts:  
When changing or replacing a tire,  
not removing dirt and grime from the  
mounting surfaces of the wheel, hub  
and hub bolts is dangerous. The lug  
nuts could loosen while driving and  
cause the tire to come off, resulting in  
an accident. Make sure the mounting  
surfaces of the wheel, hub and lug  
nuts are clean before changing or  
replacing tires.  
To remove an antitheft lug nut  
1. Get the key for the locking lug nut.  
2. Place it on top of the nut, and be sure  
to hold the key square to it. If you hold  
the key at an angle, you may damage  
both key and nut. Don't use a power  
impact wrench.  
2. Mount the tire.  
3. Place the lug wrench on top of the key  
and apply pressure. Turn the wrench  
counterclockwise.  
To replace the nut  
1. Place the key on top of the nut.  
2. Place the lug wrench on top of the key,  
apply pressure, and turn it clockwise.  
7-15  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
3. Install the lug nuts with the beveled  
edge inward; tighten them by hand.  
4. Turn the jack handle counterclockwise  
and lower the vehicle. Use the lug  
wrench to tighten the nuts in the order  
shown.  
WARNING  
If you're unsure of how tight the nuts  
should be, have them inspected at an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Don't Apply Oil or Grease to Lug  
Nuts, Bolts:  
Nut tightening torque  
Applying oil or grease to lug nuts and  
bolts is dangerous. The lug nuts could  
loosen while driving and cause the tire  
to come off, resulting in an accident.  
In addition, lug nuts and bolts could  
be damaged if tightened more than  
necessary. Do not apply oil or grease  
to lug nuts and bolts and do not  
tighten the lug nuts beyond the  
recommended tightening torque.  
88118  
N·m (kgf·m, ft·lbf)  
(912, 6587)  
WARNING  
Loose Lug Nuts:  
Improperly or loosely tightened lug  
nuts are dangerous. The wheel could  
wobble or come off. This could result  
in loss of vehicle control and cause a  
serious accident. Always securely and  
correctly tighten the lug nuts.  
7-16  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Flat Tire  
WARNING  
Metric Studs and Lug Nuts:  
Because the wheel studs and lug nuts  
on your Mazda have metric threads,  
using a non-metric nut is dangerous.  
On a metric stud, it would not secure  
the wheel and would damage the stud,  
which could cause the wheel to slip off  
and cause an accident. Be sure to  
reinstall the same nuts you removed or  
replace them with metric nuts of the  
same configuration.  
Incorrect Tire Air Pressure:  
Driving on tires with incorrect air  
pressure is dangerous. Tires with  
incorrect pressure could affect  
handling and result in an accident.  
Don't drive with any tires that have  
incorrect air pressure.  
NOTE  
To prevent the jack and tool from  
rattling, store them properly.  
7-17  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Overheating  
NOTE  
Overheating  
Once the engine coolant exceeds a  
preset temperature, an electrical cooling  
fan turns on. It will continue running  
for about 10 minutes after the ignition  
switch is turned to off.  
If the temperature gauge indicates  
overheating, the vehicle loses power, or  
you hear a loud knocking or pinging  
noise, the engine is probably too hot.  
WARNING  
If the temperature gauge indicates  
overheating:  
1. Drive safely to the side of the road and  
park off the right-of-way.  
Electrical Fan and Engine  
Inspection:  
2. Put a vehicle with an automatic  
transmission in park (P), a manual  
transmission in neutral.  
Working near the electrical cooling  
fan when it is running is dangerous.  
You could be hit by the fan and  
seriously injured. Turn off the ignition  
switch and make sure the fan is not  
running before attempting to work  
near the electrical cooling fan.  
Apply the parking brake.  
3. Turn off the air conditioner.  
4. Check whether coolant or steam is  
escaping from under the hood or from  
the engine compartment.  
If steam is coming from the engine  
compartment:  
Don't go near the front of the vehicle.  
Stop the engine.  
Wait until the steam dissipates, then  
open the hood and start the engine.  
Cooling System Cap:  
When the engine and radiator are hot,  
scalding coolant and steam may shoot  
out under pressure and cause serious  
injury. Don't remove the cooling  
system cap when the engine and  
radiator are hot.  
If neither coolant nor steam is  
escaping:  
Steam from Overheated Engine:  
Steam from an overheated engine is  
dangerous. The escaping steam could  
seriously burn you. Open the hood  
ONLY after steam is no longer  
escaping from the engine.  
Open the hood and idle the engine until  
it cools.  
CAUTION  
If the cooling fan does not operate  
while the engine is running, the engine  
temperature will increase. Stop the  
engine and call an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
7-18  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Overheating  
5. Make sure the cooling fan is operating,  
then turn off the engine after the  
temperature has decreased.  
6. When cool, check the coolant level.  
If it's low, look for coolant leaks from  
the radiator and hoses.  
If you find a leak or other damage, or if  
coolant is still leaking:  
Stop the engine and call an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
If you find no problems, the engine is  
cool, and no leaks are obvious:  
Carefully add coolant as required (page  
CAUTION  
If the engine continues to overheat or  
frequently overheats, have the cooling  
system inspected. The engine could be  
seriously damaged unless repairs are  
made. Consult an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
7-19  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Emergency Starting  
Starting a Flooded Engine  
If the engine fails to start, it may be  
flooded (excessive fuel in the engine).  
Follow this procedure:  
1. Depress the accelerator all the way and  
hold it there.  
2. Turn the ignition switch to the START  
position and hold it therefor up to 10  
seconds. If the engine starts, release the  
key and accelerator immediately  
because the engine will suddenly rev  
up.  
3. If the engine fails to start, crank it  
without depressing the acceleratorfor  
up to 10 seconds.  
7-20  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Emergency Starting  
Jump-Starting  
Jump-starting is dangerous if done incorrectly. So follow the procedure carefully. If you  
feel unsure about jump-starting, we strongly recommend that you have a competent service  
technician do the work.  
WARNING  
Follow These Precautions Carefully:  
To ensure safe and correct handling of the battery, read the following precautions  
carefully before using the battery or inspecting it.  
Eye Protection:  
Working without eye protection is dangerous. Battery fluid contains SULFURIC  
ACID which could cause blindness if splashed into in your eyes. Also, hydrogen gas  
produced during normal battery operation, could ignite and cause the battery to  
explode. Always wear eye protection when working near the battery.  
Spilled Battery Fluid:  
Spilled battery fluid is dangerous.  
Battery fluid contains SULFURIC ACID which could cause serious injuries if it gets  
in eyes, skin or clothing. If this happens, immediately flush your eyes with water for  
15 minutes or wash your skin thoroughly and get medical attention. Wear eye  
protection and protective gloves to prevent contact with battery fluid.  
Children and Batteries:  
Allowing children to play near batteries is dangerous. Battery fluid could cause  
serious injuries if it gets in the eyes or on the skin. Always keep batteries out of the  
reach of children.  
7-21  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Emergency Starting  
WARNING  
Keep Flames Away:  
Flames and sparks near open battery cells are dangerous. Hydrogen gas, produced  
during normal battery operation, could ignite and cause the battery to explode. An  
exploding battery can cause serious burns and injuries. Keep all flames including  
cigarettes and sparks away from open battery cells. When working near a battery, do  
not allow metal tools to contact the positive ( ) or negative ( ) terminal of the  
battery. Do not allow the positive ( ) terminal to contact the vehicle body.  
Battery-Related Explosion:  
Flames and sparks near open battery cells are dangerous. Hydrogen gas, produced  
during normal battery operation, could ignite and cause the battery to explode. An  
exploding battery can cause serious burns and injuries. Keep all flames, including  
cigarettes, and sparks away from open battery cells.  
Low Fluid Level or Frozen Battery:  
Jump-starting a frozen battery or one with a low fluid level is dangerous. It may  
rupture or explode, causing serious injury.  
Don't jump-start a frozen battery or one with a low fluid level.  
Connecting to Negative Terminal:  
Connecting the end of the second cable to the negative ( ) terminal of the discharged  
battery is dangerous.  
A spark could cause the gas around the battery to explode and injure someone.  
Connect the cable to a point away from the battery.  
Connecting Jumper Cable to Moving Parts:  
Connecting a jumper cable near or to moving parts (cooling fans, belts) is dangerous.  
The cable could get caught when the engine starts and cause serious injury. Never  
connect a jumper cable to or near any part that moves.  
CAUTION  
Use only a 12 V booster system. You can damage a 12 V starter, ignition system, and  
other electrical parts beyond repair with a 24 V power supply (two 12 V batteries in  
series or a 24 V motor generator set).  
7-22  
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Black plate (229,1)  
In Case of an Emergency  
Emergency Starting  
1. Remove the engine cover.  
4. Make sure the booster battery is 12 V  
and that its negative terminal is  
grounded.  
5. If the booster battery is in another  
vehicle, don't allow the vehicles to  
touch. Turn off the engine of the  
vehicle with the booster battery and all  
unnecessary electrical loads in both  
vehicles.  
6. Connect the jumper cables in the exact  
sequence as in the illustration.  
l
Connect one end of a cable to the  
2. Remove the rubber hose from the  
battery cover.  
positive terminal on the discharged  
battery (1).  
l
Attach the other end to the positive  
terminal on the booster battery (2).  
l
Connect one end of the other cable  
to the negative terminal of the  
booster battery (3).  
l
Connect the other end to a solid,  
stationary, exposed metallic point  
(for example, the tightening bolt)  
away from the discharged battery  
(4).  
Connect cables  
in numerical  
3. Remove the battery cover from its rear  
side.  
order and  
Discharged  
disconnect in  
battery  
reverse order.  
Booster battery  
7. Start the engine of the booster vehicle  
and run it a few minutes. Then start the  
engine of the other vehicle.  
7-23  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Emergency Starting  
8. When finished, carefully disconnect the  
cables in the reverse order described in  
Step 6.  
Push-Starting  
WARNING  
NOTE  
Towing a Vehicle to Start It:  
Towing a vehicle to start it is  
dangerous. The vehicle being towed  
could surge forward when its engine  
starts, causing the two vehicles to  
collide. The occupants could be  
injured. Never tow a vehicle to start it.  
Verify that the engine cover is securely  
installed.  
You can't start a vehicle with an automatic  
transmission by pushing it.  
CAUTION  
You shouldn't push-start a vehicle that  
has a manual transmission. It can  
damage the emission control system.  
7-24  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Emergency Towing  
Towing Description  
CAUTION  
We recommend that towing be done only  
by an Authorized Mazda Dealer or a  
commercial tow-truck service.  
Don't tow the vehicle pointed forward  
with driving wheels on the ground. This  
may cause internal damage to the  
transmission.  
Proper lifting and towing are necessary to  
prevent damage to the vehicle.  
Government and local laws must be  
followed.  
A towed vehicle usually should have its  
rear wheels off the ground. If excessive  
damage or other conditions prevent this,  
use wheel dollies.  
CAUTION  
Don't tow with sling-type equipment.  
This could damage your vehicle. Use  
wheel-lift or flatbed equipment.  
Wheel dollies  
7-25  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Emergency Towing  
Tiedown Hooks  
CAUTION  
CAUTION  
The cap cannot be completely removed.  
Do not use excessive force as it may  
damage the cap or scratch the painted  
bumper surface.  
Don't use the tiedown hooks under the  
front and rear for towing.  
They are designed ONLY for tying  
down the vehicle when it's being  
transported. Using them for towing will  
damage the bumper.  
3. Securely install the tiedown eyelet  
using the lug wrench.  
Front  
qTiedown Hooks  
1. Remove the tiedown eyelet and the lug  
wrench from the trunk (page 7-3).  
2. Wrap the lug wrench with a soft cloth  
to prevent damage to the bumper and  
open the cap located on the front and  
rear bumper.  
Front  
Rear  
Rear  
7-26  
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In Case of an Emergency  
Emergency Towing  
4. Hook the tying rope to the tiedown  
eyelet.  
Recreational Towing  
An example of recreational towingis  
towing your vehicle behind a motorhome.  
The transmission is not designed for  
towing this vehicle on all 4 wheels.  
When doing recreational towing refer to  
Towing Description(page 7-25) and  
Tiedown Hooks(page 7-26) and  
carefully follow the instructions.  
Front  
Rear  
CAUTION  
If the tiedown eyelet is not securely  
tightened, it may loosen or disengage  
from the bumper when tying down the  
vehicle. Make sure that the tiedown  
eyelet is securely tightened to the  
bumper.  
7-27  
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7-28  
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Maintenance and Care  
8
How to keep your Mazda in top condition.  
8-1  
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Maintenance and Care  
Introduction  
Introduction  
Be extremely careful and prevent injury to yourself and others or damage to your vehicle  
when using this manual for inspection and maintenance.  
If you're unsure about any procedure it describes, we strongly urge you to have a reliable  
and qualified service shop perform the work, preferably an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Factory-trained Mazda technicians and genuine Mazda parts are best for your vehicle.  
Without this expertise and the parts that have been designed and made especially for your  
Mazda, inadequate, incomplete, and insufficient servicing may result in problems. This  
could lead to vehicle damage or an accident and injuries.  
For expert advice and quality service, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
The owner should retain evidence that proper maintenance has been performed as  
prescribed.  
Claims against the warranty resulting from lack of maintenance, as opposed to defective  
materials or authorized Mazda workmanship, will not be honored.  
Any auto repair shop using parts equivalent to your Mazda's original equipment may  
perform maintenance. But we recommend that it always be done by an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer using genuine Mazda parts.  
8-2  
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Maintenance and Care  
Scheduled Maintenance  
Scheduled Maintenance  
Follow Schedule 1 if the vehicle is operated mainly where none of the following conditions  
apply.  
If any do apply, follow Schedule 2 (Canada and Puerto Rico residents follow Schedule 2).  
l
Repeated short-distance driving  
l
Driving in dusty conditions  
l
Driving with extended use of brakes  
l
Driving in areas where salt or other corrosive materials are being used  
l
Driving on rough or muddy roads  
l
Extended periods of idling or low-speed operation  
l
Driving for long periods in cold temperatures or extremely humid climates  
NOTE  
After the prescribed period, continue to follow the described maintenance at the  
recommended intervals.  
8-3  
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Maintenance and Care  
Scheduled Maintenance  
qSchedule 1  
Number of months or kilometers (miles), whichever comes first  
Months  
6
12  
24  
15  
18  
36  
24  
48  
30  
30  
60  
36  
72  
45  
42  
84  
48  
96  
60  
Maintenance Interval  
×1000 km  
12  
7.5  
×1000 miles  
22.5  
37.5  
52.5  
ENGINE  
Engine oil  
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
I
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
I
Engine oil filter  
Drive belt  
AIR FILTER  
Air filter  
C
C
R
R
C
IGNITION SYSTEM  
Spark plugs  
FUEL SYSTEM  
Fuel filter  
Fuel lines, hoses and connections*1  
COOLING SYSTEM  
Cooling system  
Replace every 160,000 km (100,000 miles)  
I
I
I
I
Replace at first 96,000 km (60,000 miles) or 48 months;  
after that, every 24 months  
Engine coolant  
CHASSIS and BODY  
Brake line, hoses and connection  
Disk brakes  
I
I
I
I
I
I
Tire (Rotation)  
Rotate every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)  
Steering operation and linkages  
I
I
I
I
Front and rear suspension and ball joints  
Manual transmission oil  
Rear differential oil  
R
R
I
Driveshaft dust boots  
I
Exhaust system and heat shields  
All locks and hinges  
Flat tire repair kit*2  
Inspect every 72,000 km (45,000 miles) or 60 months  
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
Inspect every year  
8-4  
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Maintenance and Care  
Scheduled Maintenance  
Number of months or kilometers (miles), whichever comes first  
Months  
×1000 km  
×1000 miles  
6
12  
24  
15  
18  
36  
24  
48  
30  
30  
60  
36  
72  
45  
42  
84  
48  
96  
60  
Maintenance Interval  
12  
7.5  
22.5  
37.5  
52.5  
AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEM  
Cabin air filter (If installed)  
Replace every 40,000 km (25,000 miles) or 24 months  
Chart symbols  
I: Inspect and repair, clean, adjust, or replace if necessary.  
R: Replace  
L: Lubricate  
C: Clean  
Remarks  
*1 According to state/provincial and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on these items will not  
void your emissions warranties. However, Mazda recommends that all maintenance services be performed at  
the recommended time or mileage/kilometer period to ensure long-term reliability.  
*2 Check the tire repair fluid expiration date every year when performing the periodic maintenance. Replace the  
tire repair fluid bottle with new one before the expiration date.  
8-5  
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Maintenance and Care  
Scheduled Maintenance  
qSchedule 2  
Number of months or kilometers (miles), whichever comes first  
Months  
×1000 km  
×1000 miles  
4
8
5
8
12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48  
Maintenance Interval  
16 24 32 40 48 56 64 72 80 88 96  
10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60  
ENGINE  
Puerto Rico  
Others  
Replace every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 3 months  
Engine oil  
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
I
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
R
I
Engine oil filter  
Drive belt  
AIR FILTER  
Air filter  
C
C
R
R
C
IGNITION SYSTEM  
Spark plugs  
FUEL SYSTEM  
Fuel filter  
Fuel lines, hoses and connections*1  
COOLING SYSTEM  
Cooling system  
Replace every 160,000 km (100,000 miles)  
I
I
I
I
Replace at first 96,000 km (60,000 miles) or 48 months;  
after that, every 24 months  
Engine coolant  
Engine coolant level  
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM  
Function of all lights  
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
CHASSIS and BODY  
Brake line, hoses and connection  
Brake and clutch fluid level  
Brake fluid  
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
R
I
R
I
Disk brakes  
I
I
Tire (Rotation)  
Rotate every 8,000 km (5,000 miles)  
Tire inflation pressure and tire wear  
Steering operation and linkages  
Front and rear suspension and ball joints  
Manual transmission oil  
Rear differential oil  
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
R
R
I
R
R
I
Driveshaft dust boots  
Exhaust system and heat shields  
All locks and hinges  
Inspect every 72,000 km (45,000 miles) or 60 months  
L
I
L
I
L
I
L
I
L
I
L
I
L
I
L
I
L
I
L
I
L
I
L
I
Washer fluid level  
Flat tire repair kit*2  
Inspect every year  
8-6  
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Maintenance and Care  
Scheduled Maintenance  
Number of months or kilometers (miles), whichever comes first  
Months  
4
8
5
8
12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48  
Maintenance Interval  
×1000 km  
16 24 32 40 48 56 64 72 80 88 96  
10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60  
×1000 miles  
AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEM  
Cabin air filter (If installed)  
Replace every 40,000 km (25,000 miles) or 24 months  
Chart symbols  
I: Inspect and repair, clean, adjust, or replace if necessary.  
R: Replace  
L: Lubricate  
C: Clean  
Remarks  
*1 According to state/provincial and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on these items will not  
void your emissions warranties. However, Mazda recommends that all maintenance services be performed at  
the recommended time or mileage/kilometer period to ensure long-term reliability.  
*2 Check the tire repair fluid expiration date every year when performing the periodic maintenance. Replace the  
tire repair fluid bottle with new one before the expiration date.  
8-7  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Owner Maintenance Schedule  
The owner or a qualified service technician should make these vehicle inspections at the  
indicated intervals to ensure safe and dependable operation.  
Bring any problem to the attention of an Authorized Mazda Dealer or qualified service  
technician as soon as possible.  
qWhen Refueling  
l
Brake and clutch fluid level (page 8-18)  
l
Engine coolant level (page 8-15)  
l
Engine oil level (page 8-13)  
l
Washer fluid level (page 8-21)  
qAt Least Monthly  
Tire inflation pressures (page 8-28)  
qAt Least Twice a Year (For Example, Every Spring and Fall)  
l
Automatic transmission fluid level (page 8-19)  
You can do the following scheduled maintenance items if you have some mechanical  
ability and a few basic tools and if you closely follow the directions in this manual.  
l
Air filter (page 8-22)  
l
Engine coolant (page 8-15)  
l
Engine oil (page 8-14)  
8-8  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Owner Maintenance Precautions  
Improper or incomplete service may result in problems. This section gives instructions only  
for items that are easy to perform.  
As explained in the Introduction (page 8-2), several procedures can be done only by a  
qualified service technician with special tools.  
Improper owner maintenance during the warranty period may affect warranty coverage.  
For details, read the separate Mazda Warranty statement provided with the vehicle. If  
you're unsure about any servicing or maintenance procedure, have it done by an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
There are strict environmental laws regarding the disposal of waste oil and fluids. Please  
dispose of your waste properly and with due regard to the environment.  
We recommend that you entrust the oil and fluid changes of your vehicle to an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer.  
WARNING  
Maintenance Procedures:  
Performing maintenance work on a vehicle is dangerous if not done properly. You can  
be seriously injured while performing some maintenance procedures. If you lack  
sufficient knowledge and experience or the proper tools and equipment to do the work,  
have it done by a qualified technician.  
Running the Engine:  
Working under the hood with the engine running is dangerous. It becomes even more  
dangerous when you wear jewelry or loose clothing.  
Either can become entangled in moving parts and result in injury.  
Therefore, if you must run the engine while working under the hood, make certain  
that you remove all jewelry (especially rings, bracelets, watches, and necklaces) and  
all neckties, scarves, and similar loose clothing before getting near the engine or  
cooling fan which may turn on unexpectedly.  
Electrical Fan and Engine Inspection:  
Working near the electrical cooling fan when it is running is dangerous. You could be  
hit by the fan and seriously injured. Turn off the ignition switch and make sure the  
fan is not running before attempting to work near the electrical cooling fan.  
8-9  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
NOTE  
Once the engine coolant exceeds a preset temperature, an electrical cooling fan turns on.  
It will continue running for about 10 minutes after the ignition switch is turned to off.  
8-10  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Engine Compartment Overview  
Engine oil-filler cap  
Engine oil dipstick  
Brake/Clutch fluid  
Automatic transmission fluid-level dipstick  
(only for automatic transmission)  
reservoir  
Windshield washer  
fluid reservoir  
Cooling system cap  
Engine coolant reservoir  
Fuse block (next  
to air filter)  
Fuse block  
Battery  
(near battery)  
Air filter  
8-11  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
U.S.A. and CANADA  
Engine Oil  
NOTE  
The Mazda RX-8 requires regular  
checking of the engine oil level. The  
compact, high performance RENESIS  
rotary engine in your vehicle consumes  
a small amount of engine oil due to its  
structural design. An oil pump  
(ILSAC)  
optimizes the amount of oil injected to  
lubricate the rotor seals in the  
combustion cycle. Although your  
vehicle is equipped with an engine oil  
level warning light and an engine oil  
pressure gauge, it is best to keep the  
engine oil level in the range between  
full and low by checking the oil  
dipstick regularly. Mazda recommends  
checking the oil level at every second  
fuel filling. The oil consumption of the  
engine depends on engine speed and  
engine load. Under extreme driving  
conditions, oil consumption can be  
higher.  
Only use oils Certified For Gasoline  
Enginesby the American Petroleum  
Institute (API). An oil with this trademark  
symbol conforms to the current engine  
and emission system protection standards  
and fuel economy requirements of the  
International Lubricant Standardization  
and Approval Committee (ILSAC),  
comprised of U.S. and Japanese  
automobile manufacturers.  
–30  
–10  
10  
30  
20  
40 50  
–20  
0
qRecommended Oil  
–20  
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil.  
Oil container labels provide important  
information.  
80 100  
120  
0
20 40 60  
A chief contribution this type of oil makes  
to fuel economy is reducing the amount of  
fuel necessary to overcome engine  
friction.  
5W-20  
8-12  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Except U.S.A. and CANADA  
4. Remove the engine cover.  
(ILSAC)  
The quality designation SL, or ILSAC  
must be on the label.  
5. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and  
reinsert it fully.  
–30  
–10  
10  
30  
20  
40 50  
–20  
0
–20  
80  
100  
120  
0
20 40  
60  
Full  
OK  
5W-20  
Low  
6. Pull it out again and examine the level.  
It's OK between L and F.  
qInspecting Engine Oil Level  
But if it's near or below L, add enough  
oil to bring the level to F.  
1. Be sure the vehicle is on a level  
surface.  
2. Warm up the engine to normal  
operating temperature.  
CAUTION  
3. Turn it off and wait at least 5 minutes  
for the oil to return to the oil pan.  
Don't add engine oil over F. This may  
cause engine damage.  
The distance between L and F on the  
dipstick represents the following:  
Oil capacity  
L (US qt, Imp qt)  
1.7 (1.8, 1.5)  
8-13  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
1. Remove the engine cover.  
NOTE  
Verify that the engine cover is securely  
installed.  
qChanging Engine Oil and Filter  
Change engine oil and filter according to  
Scheduled Maintenance (page 8-3).  
Please act responsiblyprotect the  
environment and take used oil to a  
recycling facility. Ask your dealer or a  
service station for information.  
2. Warm up the engine for a few minutes  
and turn it off. Remove the oil-filler  
cap.  
WARNING  
3. Remove the drain plug and drain the  
oil into a suitable container.  
Handling Used Engine Oil:  
Continuous contact with used engine  
oil is dangerous. It could cause skin  
cancer. Always wash with soap and  
water immediately after changing oil  
and filter.  
4. Replace the plug tightly after the oil  
has thoroughly drained.  
5. Fill the engine with new oil to the F  
mark on the dipstick.  
6. Securely reinstall the oil-filler cap.  
Changing engine oil  
Tighten  
Loosen  
WARNING  
Checking or Changing Engine Oil:  
Hot engine oil is dangerous. If the  
engine has been running, the engine  
oil becomes very hot. You could be  
seriously burned. Don't check or  
change the engine oil when the engine  
is hot.  
Forward  
Drain Plug  
7. Start the engine and inspect around the  
drain plug for leaks.  
8. Turn it off and wait 5 minutes for the  
oil to return to the oil pan.  
8-14  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Check the oil level and fill to the F mark  
if necessary.  
Engine Coolant  
qInspecting Coolant Level  
Oil capacity (General reference only,  
refer to Specifications section for  
capacities.)  
WARNING  
NOTE  
Hot Engine:  
A hot engine is dangerous. If the  
engine has been running, parts of the  
engine compartment can become very  
hot. You could be burned. Carefully  
inspect the engine coolant in the  
coolant reservoir, but do not open it.  
Do not use a match or live flame in the  
engine compartment. DO NOT ADD  
COOLANT WHEN THE ENGINE IS  
HOT.  
l
The indicated engine oil capacities  
are for general reference purposes  
only. When adding or changing oil,  
verify the engine oil level with the  
oil dipstick.  
l
Use only specified engine oil (page  
l
Verify that the engine cover is  
securely installed.  
Changing oil filter  
Electrical Fan and Engine  
Inspection:  
Because you need a special tool to  
retighten the filter, an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer should do the work.  
Working near the electrical cooling  
fan when it is running is dangerous.  
You could be hit by the fan and  
seriously injured. Turn off the ignition  
switch and make sure the fan is not  
running before attempting to work  
near the electrical cooling fan.  
Cooling System Cap:  
When the engine and radiator are hot,  
scalding coolant and steam may shoot  
out under pressure and cause serious  
injury. Don't remove the cooling  
system cap when the engine and  
radiator are hot.  
8-15  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
NOTE  
CAUTION  
Once the engine coolant exceeds a  
preset temperature, an electrical cooling  
fan turns on. It will continue running  
for about 10 minutes after the ignition  
switch is turned to off.  
Radiator coolant will damage paint.  
Rinse it off quickly if spilled.  
Do not overfill.  
If new coolant is required frequently,  
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Inspect the antifreeze protection and  
coolant level in the coolant reservoir at  
least once a yearat the beginning of the  
winter seasonand before traveling  
where temperatures may drop below  
freezing.  
qChanging Coolant  
Change coolant according to Scheduled  
Maintenance (page 8-3).  
CAUTION  
Inspect the condition and connections of  
all cooling system and heater hoses.  
Replace any that are swollen or  
deteriorated.  
l
Use only soft (demineralized) water  
in the coolant mixture. Water that  
contains minerals will cut down on  
the coolant's effectiveness.  
The coolant should be at full in the  
radiator and between the F and L marks  
on the coolant reservoir when the engine  
is cool.  
l
Don't add only water. Always add a  
proper coolant mixture.  
l
The engine has aluminum parts and  
must be protected by an ethylene-  
glycol-based coolant to prevent  
corrosion and freezing.  
l
DO NOT USE alcohol or methanol  
antifreeze. DO NOT MIX alcohol or  
methanol with the coolant. This  
could damage the cooling system.  
l
Don't use a solution that contains  
more than 60 % antifreeze.  
This would reduce effectiveness.  
If it's at or near L, add enough coolant to  
the coolant reservoir to provide freezing  
and corrosion protection and to bring the  
level to F.  
8-16  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
For mixture percentage:  
3. With the drain plug loose but not fully  
removed, flush out the system with  
running water.  
Volume  
Protection  
Antifreeze  
solution  
Demineralized  
water  
Above 16°C  
(3°F)  
35%  
45%  
55%  
65%  
55%  
45%  
Loosen  
Above 26°C  
(15°F)  
Tighten  
Loosen  
Tighten  
Above 40°C  
(40°F)  
To change coolant  
WARNING  
Removing the Cooling System Cap:  
Removing the cooling system cap  
while the engine is running or hot is  
dangerous. This might lead to cooling  
system and engine damage and could  
result in serious injury from escaping  
hot coolant or steam. Turn off the  
engine and wait until it's cool. Even  
then, be very careful when removing  
the cap. Wrap a thick cloth around the  
cap and slowly turn it  
counterclockwise to the first stop.  
Step back while the pressure escapes.  
When you're sure all the pressure is  
gone, press down on the cap still  
using a cloth turn the cap, and  
remove it.  
4. Drain the system completely and  
retighten the plug. Add as much  
ethylene-glycol-based coolant mixture  
and water as necessary to provide  
freezing and corrosion protection.  
5. In extremely cold climates, add the  
mixture percentage recommended in  
the coolant mixture percentage table.  
6. Reinstall the cooling system cap.  
7. Run the engine at idle for about 10  
minutes, then turn it off. If the coolant  
level warning light comes on during  
this time, turn the engine off.  
After turning off the engine, inspect the  
drain plug and the water hoses for  
leaks.  
1. Remove the cooling system cap.  
8. After the engine has cooled, remove  
the cooling system cap and inspect the  
coolant level. If it's low, repeat steps 5  
to 7.  
2. Only when the engine is cool, loosen  
the radiator drain plug and drain the  
coolant into a suitable container.  
Properly dispose of the used coolant.  
8-17  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
NOTE  
Brake/Clutch Fluid  
Because this procedure requires  
technical expertise, we recommend that  
it be done by an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer.  
qInspecting Brake/Clutch Fluid  
Level  
The brakes and clutch draw fluid from the  
same reservoir.  
Inspect the fluid level in the reservoir  
regularly. It should be kept at MAX.  
The level normally drops with  
accumulated distance, a condition  
associated with wear of brake and clutch  
linings. If it is excessively low, have the  
brake/clutch system inspected by an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
8-18  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
qAdding Brake/Clutch Fluid  
Automatic Transmission  
Fluid (ATF)  
WARNING  
qInspecting Automatic  
Transmission Fluid Level  
Spilled Brake Fluid:  
Spilled brake fluid is dangerous. If it  
gets in your eyes, they could be  
seriously injured. If this happens,  
immediately flush your eyes with water  
and get medical attention. Brake fluid  
spilled on a hot engine could cause a  
fire. Be careful not to spill brake fluid  
on yourself or on the engine.  
The automatic transmission fluid level  
should be inspected regularly. Measure it  
as described below.  
The volume of fluid changes with the  
temperature. Fluid must be checked at idle  
without driving at normal operating  
temperature.  
Low Brake/Clutch Fluid Levels:  
Low brake/clutch fluid levels are  
dangerous. Low levels could signal  
brake lining wear or a brake system  
leak. Your brakes could fail and cause  
an accident. If you find a low fluid  
level, have the brakes and clutch  
inspected.  
CAUTION  
l
Low fluid level causes transmission  
slippage. Overfilling can cause  
foaming, loss of fluid, and  
transmission malfunction.  
l
Use specified fluid (page 10-4). A  
nonspecified fluid could result in  
If the fluid level is low, add fluid until it  
reaches MAX.  
transmission malfunction and failure.  
Before adding fluid, thoroughly clean the  
area around the cap.  
1. Park on a level surface and set the  
parking brake firmly.  
2. Idle the engine about two minutes.  
Push down on the brake pedal.  
CAUTION  
l
Brake and clutch fluid will damage  
3. Move the shift lever through all ranges  
and set it at P.  
painted surfaces. If brake or clutch  
fluid does get on a painted surface,  
wipe it off immediately.  
l
Using nonspecified brake and clutch  
fluids (page 10-4) will damage the  
systems. Mixing different fluids will  
also damage them.  
If the brake/clutch system frequently  
requires new fluid, consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
8-19  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Fluid hot scale A  
WARNING  
When the vehicle has been driven and the  
fluid is at normal operating temperature,  
about 65°C (150°F), the level must be  
between Full and Low.  
Sudden Vehicle Movement:  
Shifting the shift lever without first  
depressing the brake pedal is  
dangerous. The vehicle could move  
suddenly and cause an accident.  
Make sure the brake pedal is applied  
before shifting the shift lever.  
Fluid cold scale B  
When the engine has not been running  
and the outside temperature is about 20°C  
(70°F), the level must be between Full  
and Low.  
4. Remove the engine cover.  
CAUTION  
l
Use the cold scale only as a  
reference.  
l
If outside temperature is lower than  
about 20°C (70°F), start the engine  
and inspect the fluid level after the  
engine reaches operating  
temperature.  
l
If the vehicle has been driven for an  
extended period at high speeds or in  
city traffic in hot weather, inspect the  
level only after stopping the engine  
and allowing the fluid to cool for 30  
minutes.  
5. With the engine still idling, pull out the  
dipstick, wipe it clean, and put it back.  
6. Pull it out again.  
The proper fluid level is marked on the  
dipstick as follows.  
Fully insert the dipstick. When adding  
fluid, inspect with the dipstick to make  
sure it doesn't pass full.  
NOTE  
l
Inspect the fluid on both sides of the  
Full  
A
dipstick in a well lit area for an  
accurate reading.  
Low  
Full  
B
l
Verify that the engine cover is  
securely installed.  
Low  
8-20  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Inspect fluid level in the washer fluid  
reservoir; add fluid if necessary.  
Washer Fluid  
qInspecting Washer Fluid Level  
WARNING  
Substitute Washer Fluid:  
Full  
OK  
Using radiator antifreeze as washer  
fluid is dangerous. If sprayed on the  
windshield, it will dirty the windshield,  
affect your visibility, and could result  
in an accident. Use only windshield  
washer fluid or plain water in the  
reservoir.  
Low  
Use plain water if washer fluid is  
unavailable.  
Using Washer Fluid Without Anti-  
freeze Protection in Cold Weather:  
Operating your vehicle in  
But use only washer fluid in cold weather  
to prevent it from freezing.  
temperatures below 4 degrees C (40  
degrees F) using washer fluid without  
anti-freeze protection is dangerous as  
it could cause impaired windshield  
vision and result in an accident. In  
cold weather, always use washer fluid  
with anti-freeze protection.  
NOTE  
State or local regulations may restrict  
the use of volatile organic compounds  
(VOCs), which are commonly used as  
anti-freeze agents in washer fluid. A  
washer fluid with limited VOC content  
should be used only if it provides  
adequate freeze resistance for all  
regions and climates in which the  
vehicle will be operated.  
8-21  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Body Lubrication  
Air Filter  
All moving points of the body, such as  
door and hood hinges and locks, should  
be lubricated each time the engine oil is  
changed. Use a nonfreezing lubricant on  
locks during cold weather.  
CAUTION  
Don't drive without an air filter. This  
could result in excessive engine wear.  
This air filter may be cleaned with  
compressed air and reused, or replaced,  
depending on its condition. Unless it is  
very dirty, simply shake it to remove  
foreign particles. Each time you inspect it,  
wipe inside the air cleaner housing with a  
damp cloth.  
Make sure the hood's secondary latch  
keeps the hood from opening when the  
primary latch is released.  
qReplacing the Air Filter  
NOTE  
If the vehicle is operated in very dusty  
or sandy areas, replace the filter more  
often than recommended intervals.  
1. Make sure the ignition switch is turned  
off.  
2. Disconnect the electrical connector.  
8-22  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
3. Unfasten the clamps.  
Wiper Blades  
CAUTION  
l
l
Hot waxes applied by automatic car  
washers have been known to affect  
the wiper's ability to clean windows.  
To prevent damage to the wiper  
blades, don't use gasoline, kerosene,  
paint thinner, or other solvents on or  
near them.  
4. Lift off the air filter cover and remove  
the filter.  
Contamination of either the windshield or  
the blades with foreign matter can reduce  
wiper effectiveness. Common sources are  
insects, tree sap, and hot wax treatments  
used by some commercial car washes.  
Air filter cover  
If the blades are not wiping properly,  
clean the window and blades with a good  
cleaner or mild detergent; then rinse  
thoroughly with clean water. Repeat if  
necessary.  
Air filter  
qReplacing Windshield Wiper  
Blades  
5. Wipe inside the air cleaner housing  
with a damp cloth.  
When the wipers no longer clean well, the  
blades are probably worn or cracked.  
Replace them.  
6. Clean or replace the filter.  
7. Install in the reverse order of removal.  
CAUTION  
Replace the filter according to Scheduled  
Maintenance (page 8-3).  
To prevent damage to the wiper arms  
and other components, don't move the  
wipers by hand.  
NOTE  
After installing the air filter cover, make  
sure the electrical connector is securely  
connected.  
8-23  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
2. Hold the end of the rubber and pull  
until the tabs are free of the metal  
support.  
NOTE  
To prevent damage to the wiper arm  
blades when raising both the driver and  
passenger side wiper arms, raise the  
driver side wiper arm first. Conversely,  
when setting down the wiper arms, set  
the passenger side wiper arm down  
first.  
Metal support  
1. Raise the wiper arm and turn the blade  
assembly to expose the plastic locking  
clip.  
Tab  
Compress the clip and slide the  
assembly downward; then lift it off the  
arm.  
3. Remove the metal stiffeners from the  
blade rubber and install them in new  
blades.  
Plastic locking clip  
CAUTION  
To prevent damage to the windshield,  
don't let the wiper arm fall on it.  
8-24  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
CAUTION  
l
Don't bend or discard the stiffeners.  
You need to use them again.  
l
If the metal stiffeners are switched,  
the blade's wiping efficiency could  
be reduced.  
So don't use the driver's side metal  
stiffeners on the passenger's side, or  
vice versa.  
l
Be sure to reinstall the metal  
stiffeners in the new blade rubber so  
that the curve is the same as it was in  
the old blade rubber.  
4. Carefully insert the new blade rubber.  
Then install the blade assembly in the  
reverse order of removal.  
NOTE  
Install the blade so that the tabs are  
toward the bottom of the wiper arm.  
8-25  
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Black plate (260,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Battery  
WARNING  
Battery-Related Lead Materials:  
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds,  
chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm.  
Wash hands after handling.  
Follow These Precautions Carefully:  
To ensure safe and correct handling of the battery, read the following precautions  
carefully before using the battery or inspecting it.  
Eye Protection:  
Working without eye protection is dangerous. Battery fluid contains SULFURIC  
ACID which could cause blindness if splashed into in your eyes. Also, hydrogen gas  
produced during normal battery operation, could ignite and cause the battery to  
explode. Always wear eye protection when working near the battery.  
Spilled Battery Fluid:  
Spilled battery fluid is dangerous.  
Battery fluid contains SULFURIC ACID which could cause serious injuries if it gets  
in eyes, skin or clothing. If this happens, immediately flush your eyes with water for  
15 minutes or wash your skin thoroughly and get medical attention. Wear eye  
protection and protective gloves to prevent contact with battery fluid.  
Children and Batteries:  
Allowing children to play near batteries is dangerous. Battery fluid could cause  
serious injuries if it gets in the eyes or on the skin. Always keep batteries out of the  
reach of children.  
8-26  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (261,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
WARNING  
Keep Flames Away:  
Flames and sparks near open battery cells are dangerous. Hydrogen gas, produced  
during normal battery operation, could ignite and cause the battery to explode. An  
exploding battery can cause serious burns and injuries. Keep all flames including  
cigarettes and sparks away from open battery cells. When working near a battery, do  
not allow metal tools to contact the positive ( ) or negative ( ) terminal of the  
battery. Do not allow the positive ( ) terminal to contact the vehicle body.  
Battery-Related Explosion:  
Flames and sparks near open battery cells are dangerous. Hydrogen gas, produced  
during normal battery operation, could ignite and cause the battery to explode. An  
exploding battery can cause serious burns and injuries. Keep all flames, including  
cigarettes, and sparks away from open battery cells.  
qBattery Maintenance  
NOTE  
l
Remove the engine and battery  
covers before performing battery  
maintenance.  
Engine cover  
Battery cover  
To get the best service from a battery:  
l
Keep it securely mounted.  
l
Keep the top clean and dry.  
l
Verify that the engine cover is  
securely installed.  
l
Keep terminals and connections clean,  
tight, and coated with petroleum jelly  
or terminal grease.  
8-27  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (262,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
l
Rinse off spilled electrolyte  
Tires  
immediately with a solution of water  
and baking soda.  
For reasons of proper performance, safety,  
and better fuel economy, always maintain  
recommended tire inflation pressures and  
stay within the recommended load limits  
and weight distribution.  
l
If the vehicle will not be used for an  
extended time, disconnect the battery  
cables.  
WARNING  
Using Different Tire Types:  
Driving your vehicle with different  
types of tires is dangerous. It could  
cause poor handling and poor  
braking; leading to loss of control.  
Use all radial, all bias-belted, or all  
bias-type tires.  
Using Wrong-Sized Tires:  
Using any other tire size than what is  
specified for your Mazda (page 10-6)  
is dangerous. It could seriously affect  
ride, handling, ground clearance, tire  
clearance, and speedometer  
calibration. This could cause you to  
have an accident. Use only tires that  
are the correct size specified for your  
Mazda.  
qTire Inflation Pressure  
WARNING  
Incorrect Tire Inflation:  
Overinflation or underinflation of tires  
is dangerous. Adverse handling or  
unexpected tire failure could result in  
a serious accident. Always inflate the  
tires to the correct pressure (page  
8-28  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (263,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
í
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System  
NOTE  
does not alleviate the need to check the  
tire condition every day, including  
whether the tires all look inflated properly.  
Inspect all tire pressure monthly  
l
Always check tire pressure when  
tires are cold.  
l
l
(including the spare í) when the tires are  
cold. Maintain recommended pressures  
for the best ride, top handling, and  
minimum tire wear.  
Warm tires normally exceed  
recommended pressures. Don't  
release air from warm tires to adjust  
the pressure.  
Underinflation can cause reduced  
fuel economy and poor sealing of the  
tire bead, which will deform the  
wheel and cause separation of tire  
from rim.  
l
Overinflation can produce a harsh  
ride and a greater possibility of  
damage from road hazards.  
Keep your tire pressure at the correct  
levels. If one frequently needs  
inflating, have it inspected.  
Refer to the specification charts (page  
qTire Rotation  
To equalize tread wear, rotate the tires  
every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)/8,000  
km*(5,000 miles) or sooner if irregular  
wear develops. During rotation, inspect  
them for correct balance.  
* Unique driving conditions for U.S.A.,  
Canada and Puerto Rico  
NOTE  
Because your vehicle is not equipped  
with a spare tire, you cannot do a tire  
rotation safely with the jack that comes  
with your vehicle. Have an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer perform tire rotation.  
íSome models.  
8-29  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (264,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
CAUTION  
Limited-Slip Differential system;  
don't use the following:  
l
Tires not of the designated size  
l
Tires of different sizes or types at the  
same time  
l
Tires not sufficiently inflated  
Forward  
If these instructions aren't followed, the  
rotation of the left and right wheels will  
be different and will thus apply a  
constant load on the limited-slip  
differential.  
Also, inspect them for uneven wear and  
damage. Abnormal wear is usually caused  
by one or a combination of the following:  
This will cause a malfunction.  
l
Incorrect tire pressure  
qReplacing a Tire  
l
Improper wheel alignment  
l
Out-of-balance wheel  
l
WARNING  
Severe braking  
Worn Tires:  
After rotation, inflate all tire pressures to  
specification (page 10-6) and inspect the  
lug nuts for tightness.  
Driving with worn tires is dangerous.  
Reduced braking, steering, and  
traction could result in an accident.  
Always use tires that are in good  
condition.  
CAUTION  
Rotate unidirectional tires and radial  
tires that have an asymmetrical tread  
pattern or studs only from front to rear,  
not from side to side. Tire performance  
will be weakened if rotated from side to  
side.  
CAUTION  
(With Tire Pressure Monitoring  
System)  
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.  
8-30  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (265,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
qTemporary Spare Tire  
NOTE  
Your Mazda is not equipped with a spare  
tire. If you require a spare tire, consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
(With Tire Pressure Monitoring  
System)  
l
When tires with steel wire  
reinforcement in the sidewalls are  
used, the system may not function  
correctly even with a genuine wheel.  
Refer to System Error Activation on  
Inspect the temporary spare tire at least  
monthly to make sure it's properly inflated  
and stored.  
The temporary spare tire is easier to  
handle because of its construction. It is  
lighter and smaller than a conventional  
tire and should be used only for an  
emergency and only for a short distance.  
l
Be sure to install the tire pressure  
sensors whenever tires or wheels are  
replaced. Refer to Tires and Wheels  
on page 5-28.  
Use the temporary only until the  
conventional tire is repaired, which should  
be as soon as possible.  
If a tire wears evenly, a wear indicator  
will appear as a solid band across the  
tread.  
Maintain its pressure at 420 kPa (4.2 kgf/  
cm2 or bar, 60 psi).  
Replace the tire when this happens.  
Tread wear indicator  
CAUTION  
l
Don't use your temporary spare tire  
rim with a snow tire or a  
conventional tire. Neither will  
properly fit and could damage both  
tire and rim.  
l
The temporary spare tire has a tread  
New tread  
Worn tread  
life of up to 5,000 km (3,000 miles),  
depending on road conditions and  
driving habits.  
You should replace it before the band is  
across the entire tread.  
l
The temporary spare tire is for  
limited use, however, if the tread  
wear solid-band indicator appears,  
replace the tire with the same type of  
temporary spare (page 8-30).  
8-31  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (266,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
qReplacing a Wheel  
NOTE  
Be sure to install the tire pressure  
sensors whenever tires or wheels are  
replaced. Refer to Tires and Wheels on  
WARNING  
Using a Wrong-Sized Wheel:  
Using a wrong-sized wheel is  
dangerous. Braking and handling  
could be affected, leading to loss of  
control and an accident. Always use  
wheels of the correct size on your  
vehicle.  
When replacing a wheel, make sure the  
new one is the same as the original factory  
wheel in diameter, rim width, and offset.  
Proper tire balancing provides the best  
riding comfort and helps reduce tread  
wear. Out-of-balance tires can cause  
vibration and uneven wear, such as  
cupping and flat spots.  
CAUTION  
l
A wrong-sized wheel may adversely  
affect:  
l
Tire fit  
Wheel and bearing life  
Ground clearance  
Snow-chain clearance  
Speedometer calibration  
Headlight aim  
Bumper height  
Tire Pressure Monitoring System  
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
Limited-Slip Differential System  
l
(With Tire Pressure Monitoring  
System)  
l
When replacing/repairing the tires  
or wheels or both, have the work  
done by an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer, or the tire pressure sensors  
may be damaged.  
l
The wheels equipped on your  
Mazda are specially designed for  
installation the tire pressure  
sensors. Do not use non-genuine  
wheels, otherwise it may not be  
possible to install the tire pressure  
sensors.  
8-32  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (267,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Light Bulbs  
Brake lights/Taillights  
Trunk light  
Overhead light (Rear)  
Rear side-marker lights  
High-mount brake light  
Rear turn signal lights  
Reverse lights  
Courtesy lights  
License plate light  
Overhead light/Map lights (Front)  
Vanity mirror lights  
Parking lights  
Front side-marker lights  
Front turn signal lights  
Fog lights  
Headlights (Low-beam)  
Some models.  
Headlights (High-beam)  
8-33  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (268,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Your Mazda's headlights and fog lights  
have replaceable halogen bulbs.  
qReplacing a Headlight Bulb  
1. Make sure the ignition switch is turned  
off and the headlight switch is off.  
WARNING  
2. Lift the hood and find the high and low  
beam bulbs in the rear of the headlight  
unit.  
Xenon Fusion Bulb Replacement:  
Replacing the xenon fusion bulbs by  
yourself is dangerous. Because the  
xenon fusion bulbs require high  
voltage, you could receive an electric  
shock if the bulbs are handled  
incorrectly. Do not replace the xenon  
fusion bulbs by yourself. Consult an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer when the  
replacement is necessary.  
The outboard bulb is the LOW beam,  
and the inboard one is the HIGH beam.  
Refer to Light Bulbs on page 8-33.  
3. If you are changing the right headlight  
bulb, start the engine, turn the steering  
wheel all the way to the right, and turn  
off engine. If you are changing the left  
headlight bulb, turn the steering wheel  
to the left.  
Handling Halogen Bulbs:  
4. Turn the center section of the plastic  
retainer counterclockwise and remove  
the retainers and partially peel back the  
mudguard.  
When a halogen bulb breaks, it is  
dangerous. These bulbs contain  
pressurized gas. If one is broken, it  
will explode and serious injuries could  
be caused by the flying glass.  
Removal  
If the glass portion is touched with  
bare hands, body oil could cause the  
bulb to overheat and explode when lit.  
Never touch the glass portion of the  
bulb with your bare hands and always  
wear eye protection when handling or  
working around halogen bulbs.  
Installation  
Children and Halogen Bulbs:  
Playing with a halogen bulb is  
dangerous. Serious injuries could be  
caused by dropping a halogen bulb or  
breaking it some other way.  
Always keep halogen bulbs out of the  
reach of children.  
8-34  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (269,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
High-beam bulb  
(Halogen bulbs)  
1. Turn the socket and bulb assembly  
counterclockwise and remove it.  
Carefully remove the headlight bulb  
from its socket in the reflector by  
gently pulling it straight backward out  
of the socket.  
1. Detach the electrical connector from  
the sealing cover by pulling it to the  
rear.  
2. Disconnect the bulb from the electrical  
connector by pressing the tab on the  
connector with your finger and pulling  
the bulb upward.  
2. Detach the sealing cover from the bulb.  
3. Unhook the bulb retaining spring.  
3. Install the new bulb in the reverse order  
of removal.  
NOTE  
Use the protective cover and carton of  
the replacement bulb to dispose of the  
old bulb promptly out of the reach of  
children.  
4. Swing the retaining spring out and  
away to free the headlight bulb.  
5. Carefully remove the headlight bulb  
from the socket by pulling it straight  
back.  
Low-beam bulb  
(Xenon fusion bulb)  
You cannot replace the low beam bulbs by  
yourself.  
The bulbs must be replaced at an  
Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
6. Replace the bulb.  
7. Install the new bulb in the reverse order  
of removal.  
8-35  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (270,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Front turn signal lights, Parking lights,  
Front side-marker lights  
NOTE  
Use the protective cover and carton of  
the replacement bulb to dispose of the  
old bulb promptly out of the reach of  
children.  
1. Turn the socket and bulb assembly  
counterclockwise and remove it.  
2. Disconnect the bulb from the socket.  
qReplacing a Fog Light Bulbí  
Due to the complexity and difficulty of  
the procedure, the bulbs should be  
replaced by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
qReplacing a Bulb (Front)  
1. If you are changing the right bulb, start  
the engine, turn the steering wheel all  
the way to the right, and turn off  
Front turn signal  
lights  
Parking lights  
engine. If you are changing the left  
bulb, turn the steering wheel to the left.  
2. Turn the center section of the plastic  
retainer counterclockwise and remove  
the retainers and partially peel back the  
mudguard.  
Removal  
Front side-marker lights  
3. Install the new bulb in the reverse order  
of removal.  
Installation  
8-36  
íSome models.  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (271,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Overhead light (Rear), Courtesy lights,  
Vanity mirror lights  
qReplacing a Bulb (Interior)  
Overhead light/Map lights (Front)  
1. Wrap a small flathead screwdriver with  
a soft cloth to prevent damage to the  
lens and remove the lens by carefully  
prying on the edge of the lens with the  
screwdriver.  
1. Remove the screws with a Phillips  
screwdriver.  
2. Wrap a flathead screwdriver with a soft  
cloth to prevent damage to the trim and  
gently insert it in the overhead light as  
shown in the figure, and then remove  
the overhead light unit.  
2. Disconnect the bulb by pulling it out.  
Overhead light (Rear)  
Edge  
Courtesy lights  
3. Turn the socket and bulb assembly  
counterclockwise and remove it.  
4. Disconnect the bulb from the socket.  
Edge  
5. Install the new bulb in the reverse order  
of removal.  
8-37  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (272,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
qReplacing a Bulb (Rear)  
Vanity mirror lights  
Rear turn signal lights, Brake lights/  
Taillights, Reverse lights  
1. Pull the center section of the plastic  
retainer and remove the retainers and  
partially open the trunk side trim.  
Removal  
Edge  
3. Install the new bulb in the reverse order  
of removal.  
Installation  
Trunk light  
1. Press both sides of the lens cap to  
remove it.  
2. Disconnect the bulb by pulling it out.  
2. Turn the socket and bulb assembly  
counterclockwise and remove it.  
3. Disconnect the bulb from the socket.  
Rear turn signal lights  
Brake lights/Taillights  
Reverse lights  
3. Install the new bulb in the reverse order  
of removal.  
4. Install the new bulb in the reverse order  
of removal.  
Rear side-marker lights  
Due to the complexity and difficulty of  
the procedure, the bulbs should be  
replaced by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
8-38  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (273,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
High-mount brake light  
2. Wrap a flathead screwdriver with a soft  
cloth to prevent damage to the lens and  
remove the lens by carefully prying on  
the edge of the lens with a flathead  
screwdriver.  
1. Turn the center section of the plastic  
retainer counterclockwise and remove  
the retainers and trunk rear trim.  
Removal  
3. Disconnect the bulb by pulling it out.  
Edge  
Installation  
2. Turn the socket and bulb assembly  
counterclockwise and remove it.  
4. Install the new bulb in the reverse order  
of removal.  
3. Disconnect the bulb from the socket.  
4. Install the new bulb in the reverse order  
of removal.  
License plate light  
1. Press the front of the lens to detach the  
front tabs.  
8-39  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (274,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
3. Pull the fuse straight out with the fuse  
puller provided on the inside of the  
engine compartment fuse block cover.  
Fuses  
Your vehicle's electrical system is  
protected by fuses.  
If any lights, accessories, or controls don't  
work, inspect the appropriate circuit  
protector. If a fuse has blown, the inside  
element will be melted.  
If the same fuse blows again, avoid using  
that system and consult an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.  
qFuse Replacement  
4. Inspect it and replace if it's blown.  
Replacing the fuses on the driver's side  
If the electrical system doesn't work, first  
inspect fuses on the driver's side.  
1. Turn off the ignition switch and other  
switches.  
2. Open the fuse panel cover.  
Blown  
Normal  
5. Push in a new fuse of the same  
amperage rating, and make sure it fits  
tightly. If it doesn't, have an Authorized  
Mazda Dealer install it.  
If you have no spare fuses, borrow one  
of the same rating from a circuit not  
essential to vehicle operation, such as  
the AUDIO or CIGAR circuit.  
CAUTION  
Always replace a fuse with one of the  
same rating. Otherwise you may  
damage the electric system.  
8-40  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (275,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Replacing the fuses under the hood  
3. If a fuse is blown, replace it with a new  
one of the same amperage rating.  
If the headlights or other electrical  
components don't work and the fuses in  
the cabin are OK, inspect the fuse block  
under the hood. If a fuse is blown, it must  
be replaced. Follow these steps:  
1. Turn off the ignition switch and all  
other switches.  
2. Remove the fuse block cover.  
Normal  
Blown  
Next to air filter  
NOTE  
l
To replace the MAIN fuse, contact  
an Authorized Mazda Dealer (page  
l
Verify that the engine cover is  
securely installed.  
Near battery  
Engine cover  
Battery cover  
NOTE  
Remove the engine and battery covers  
before removing the fuse block cover  
near the battery.  
8-41  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (276,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
qFuse Panel Description  
Fuse block (Engine compartment)  
(Next to air filter)  
(Near battery)  
FUSE  
RATING  
DESCRIPTION  
PROTECTED COMPONENT  
For protection of all circuits  
1
2
3
MAIN  
120A  
40A  
60A  
HEATER  
AIR PUMP  
Heater  
Air pump  
Power windows, Power door locks, Illuminated entry system,  
Moonroofí  
4
BTN  
30A  
5
6
7
8
9
DEFOG  
FAN  
50A  
40A  
60A  
30A  
15A  
15A  
15A  
15A  
30A  
20A  
20A  
10A  
Rear window defroster  
Electric fan  
ABS, DSCí  
ABS/DSC  
ACC  
Lighter, Power control mirror, Accessory socket, Audio system  
HEAD  
Headlight high beamsí, Headlight cleanerí  
Headlight low beam (RH)  
Headlight low beam (LH)  
DRLí (Headlight high beams)  
DSCí  
10 HEAD LOW R  
11 HEAD LOW L  
12 DRL  
13 DSC  
14 SEAT WARM  
15 H/CLEAN  
16 R.FOG  
Seat warmerí  
Headlight cleanerí  
8-42  
íSome models.  
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Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (277,1)  
Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
FUSE  
RATING  
DESCRIPTION  
PROTECTED COMPONENT  
17 FOG  
15A  
10A  
30A  
15A  
15A  
20A  
15A  
15A  
15A  
20A  
20A  
Fog lightsí  
18 A/C MAG  
19 IG  
Air conditioner  
For protection of various circuits  
For protection of various circuits  
Brake lights  
20 IG KEY  
21 STOP  
22 FUEL PUMP  
23 HORN  
24 HAZARD  
25 ETV  
Fuel pump  
Horn  
Hazard warning flashers, Turn signals  
Electric throttle valve  
Windshield wiper and washer  
Power windows  
26 WIPER  
27 P.WIND  
Engine control system, Supplemental restraint system, ABS,  
Power steering  
28 ENGINE  
29 TAIL  
15A  
10A  
Taillights, License plate light, Parking lights, Front side-maker  
lights, Rear side-marker lights  
30 ILLUMI  
31 EGI COMP1  
32 EGI COMP2  
33 EGI INJ  
34 EPS  
10A  
10A  
10A  
15A  
60A  
Illuminated entry system  
Engine control system  
Engine control system  
Fuel injector  
Power steering  
íSome models.  
8-43  
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Maintenance and Care  
Owner Maintenance  
Fuse panel (Driver's side)  
FUSE  
DESCRIPTION  
PROTECTED COMPONENT  
RATING  
15A  
7.5A  
20A  
7.5A  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
CIGAR  
ACC  
Lighter  
Audio system, Power control mirror  
AUX PWR  
A/C  
Accessory socket  
Air conditioner  
SPARE  
SPARE  
M.DEF  
7.5A  
20A  
10A  
7.5A  
20A  
30A  
30A  
15A  
15A  
10A  
Mirror defrosterí  
10 DSC  
DSCí  
11 AUDIO  
12 D.LOCK  
13 P.WIND  
14 ROOM  
15 SPARE  
16 SPARE  
Audio systemí  
Power door locks, Moonroofí  
Power windows  
Interior lights  
8-44  
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Maintenance and Care  
Appearance Care  
qDamage Caused by Bird  
How to Minimize  
Environmental Paint  
Damage  
Dropping, Insects, or Tree Sap  
Occurrence  
Bird droppings contain acids. If these  
aren't removed they can eat away the clear  
and color base coat of the vehicle's  
paintwork.  
The paintwork on your Mazda represents  
the latest technical developments in  
composition and methods of application.  
When insects stick to the paint surface  
and decompose, corrosive compounds  
form. These can erode the clear and color  
base coat of the vehicle's paintwork if  
they are not removed.  
Environmental hazards, however, can  
harm the paint's protective properties, if  
proper care is not taken.  
Here are some examples of possible  
damage, with tips on how to prevent  
them.  
Tree sap will harden and adhere  
permanently to the paint finish. If you  
scratch the sap off while it is hard, some  
vehicle paint could come off with it.  
qEtching Caused by Acid Rain or  
Industrial Fallout  
Prevention  
Occurrence  
It is necessary to have your Mazda  
washed and waxed to preserve its finish  
according to the instructions in this  
section. This should be done as soon as  
possible.  
Industrial pollutants and vehicle emissions  
drift into the air and mix with rain or dew  
to form acids. These acids can settle on a  
vehicle's finish. As the water evaporates,  
the acid becomes concentrated and can  
damage the finish.  
Bird droppings can be removed with a  
soft sponge and water. If you are traveling  
and these are not available, a moistened  
tissue may also take care of the problem.  
The cleaned area should be waxed  
according to the instructions in this  
section.  
Insects and tree sap are best removed with  
a soft sponge and water or a commercially  
available chemical cleaner.  
And the longer the acid remains on the  
surface, the greater the chance is for  
damage.  
Prevention  
It is necessary to wash and wax your  
vehicle to preserve its finish according to  
the instructions in this section. These  
steps should be taken immediately after  
you suspect that acid rain has settled on  
your vehicle's finish.  
Another method is to cover the affected  
area with dampened newspaper for one to  
two hours. After removing the newspaper,  
rinse off the loosened debris with water.  
8-45  
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Maintenance and Care  
Appearance Care  
qWater Marks  
NOTE  
Occurrence  
l
The paint chipping zone varies with  
the speed of the vehicle. For  
example, when traveling at 90 km/h  
(56 mph), the paint chipping zone is  
50 m (164 ft).  
Rain, fog, dew, and even tap water can  
contain harmful minerals such as salt and  
lime. If moisture containing these  
minerals settles on the vehicle and  
evaporates, the minerals will concentrate  
and harden to form white rings. The rings  
can damage your vehicle's finish.  
l
l
In low temperatures a vehicle's finish  
hardens. This increases the chance of  
paint chipping.  
Prevention  
Chipped paint can lead to rust  
forming on your Mazda. Before this  
happens, repair the damage by using  
Mazda touch-up paint according to  
the instructions in this section.  
Failure to repair the affected area  
could lead to serious rusting and  
expensive repairs.  
It is necessary to wash and wax your  
vehicle to preserve its finish according to  
the instructions in this section. These  
steps should be taken immediately after  
you find water marks on your vehicle's  
finish.  
qPaint Chipping  
Occurrence  
Paint chipping occurs when gravel thrown  
in the air by another vehicle's tires hits  
your vehicle.  
How to avoid paint chipping  
Keeping a safe distance between you and  
the vehicle ahead reduces the chances of  
having your paint chipped by flying  
gravel.  
8-46  
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Maintenance and Care  
Appearance Care  
To minimize scratches on the vehicle's  
paint finish:  
Exterior Care  
Follow all label and container directions  
when using a chemical cleaner or polish.  
Read all warnings and cautions.  
l
Rinse off any dirt or other foreign  
matter using lukewarm or cold water  
before washing.  
l
Use plenty of lukewarm or cold water  
qMaintaining the Finish  
and a soft cloth when washing the  
vehicle. Do not use a nylon cloth.  
Washing  
l
To help protect the finish from rust and  
deterioration, wash your Mazda  
Rub gently when washing or drying the  
vehicle.  
thoroughly and frequently, at least once a  
month, with lukewarm or cold water.  
l
Take your vehicle only to a car wash  
that keeps its brushes well maintained.  
l
Don't use abrasive cleansers or wax  
that contain abrasives.  
If the vehicle is washed improperly, the  
paint surface could be scratched. Here are  
some examples of how scratching could  
occur.  
CAUTION  
Scratches occur on the paint surface  
when:  
Don't use steel wool, abrasive cleaners,  
or strong detergents containing highly  
alkaline or caustic agents on chrome-  
plated or anodized aluminum parts.  
This may damage the protective  
l
The vehicle is washed without first  
rinsing off dirt and other foreign  
matter.  
coating; also, cleaners and detergents  
may discolor or deteriorate the paint.  
l
The vehicle is washed with a rough,  
dry, or dirty cloth.  
l
The vehicle is washed at a car wash  
that uses brushes that are dirty or too  
stiff.  
Pay special attention to removing salt,  
dirt, mud, and other foreign material from  
the underside of the fenders, and make  
sure the drain holes in the lower edges of  
the doors and rocker panels are clean.  
l
Cleansers or wax containing abrasives  
are used.  
Insects, tar, tree sap, bird droppings,  
industrial fallout, and similar deposits can  
damage the finish if not removed  
immediately. When prompt washing with  
plain water is ineffective, use a mild soap  
made for use on vehicles.  
NOTE  
l
Mazda is not responsible for  
scratches caused by automatic car  
washes or improper washing.  
l
Scratches are more noticeable on  
vehicles with darker paint finishes.  
Thoroughly rinse off all soap with  
lukewarm or cold water. Don't allow soap  
to dry on the finish.  
8-47  
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Maintenance and Care  
Appearance Care  
After washing the vehicle, dry it with a  
clean chamois to prevent water spots from  
forming.  
qRepairing Damage to the Finish  
Deep scratches or chips on the finish  
should be repaired promptly. Exposed  
metal quickly rusts and can lead to major  
repairs.  
WARNING  
Driving with Wet Brakes:  
CAUTION  
Driving with wet brakes is dangerous.  
Increased stopping distance or the  
vehicle pulling to one side when  
braking could result in a serious  
accident. Light braking will indicate  
whether the brakes have been affected.  
Dry the brakes by driving very slowly  
and applying the brakes lightly until  
brake performance is normal.  
If your Mazda is damaged and needs  
metal parts repaired or replaced, make  
sure the body shop applies anti-  
corrosion materials to all parts, both  
repaired and new. This will prevent  
them from rusting.  
qBright-Metal Maintenance  
l
Use tar remover to remove road tar and  
insects. Never do this with a knife or  
similar tool.  
Waxing  
Your vehicle needs to be waxed when  
water no longer beads on the finish.  
Always wash and dry the vehicle before  
waxing it. In addition to the vehicle body,  
wax the metal trim to maintain its luster.  
l
To prevent corrosion on bright-metal  
surfaces, apply wax or chrome  
preservative and rub it to a high luster.  
l
During cold weather or in coastal areas,  
1. Use wax which contains no abrasives.  
Waxes containing abrasive will remove  
paint and could damage bright metal  
parts.  
cover bright-metal parts with a coating  
of wax or preservative heavier than  
usual. It would also help to coat them  
with noncorrosive petroleum jelly or  
some other protective compound.  
2. Use a good grade of natural wax for  
metallic, mica, and solid colors.  
3. When waxing, coat evenly with the  
sponge supplied or a soft cloth.  
CAUTION  
Don't use steel wool, abrasive cleaners,  
or strong detergents containing highly  
alkaline or caustic agents on chrome-  
plated or anodized aluminum parts.  
This may result in damage to the  
protective coating and cause  
4. Wipe off the wax with a soft cloth.  
NOTE  
A spot remover to remove oil, tar, and  
similar materials will usually also take  
off the wax. Rewax these areas even if  
the rest of the vehicle doesn't need it.  
discoloration or paint deterioration.  
8-48  
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Maintenance and Care  
Appearance Care  
qUnderbody Maintenance  
qAluminum Wheel Maintenance  
Road chemicals and salt used for ice and  
snow removal and solvents used for dust  
control may collect on the underbody. If  
not removed, they will speed up rusting  
and deterioration of such underbody parts  
as fuel lines, frame, floor pan, and exhaust  
system, even though these parts may be  
coated with anti-corrosive material.  
A protective coating is provided over the  
aluminum wheels. Special care is needed  
to protect this coating.  
NOTE  
l
Don't use a wire brush or any  
abrasive cleaner, polishing  
compound, or solvent on aluminum  
wheels. They may damage the  
coating.  
Thoroughly flush the underbody and  
wheel housings with lukewarm or cold  
water at the end of each winter. Try also  
to do this every month.  
l
Only use a mild soap or neutral  
detergent and always use a sponge or  
soft cloth to clean the wheels.  
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm or  
cold water. Also, be sure to clean the  
wheels after driving on dusty or  
salted roads. This helps prevent  
corrosion.  
Pay special attention to these areas  
because they easily hide mud and dirt. It  
will do more harm than good to wet  
down the road grime without removing  
it.  
l
Avoid washing your vehicle in an  
automatic car wash that uses high-  
speed or hard brushes.  
The lower edges of doors, rocker panels,  
and frame members have drain holes that  
should not be clogged. Water trapped  
there will cause rusting.  
l
If your aluminum wheels lose luster,  
wax the wheels.  
WARNING  
Driving with Wet Brakes:  
Driving with wet brakes is dangerous.  
Increased stopping distance or the  
vehicle pulling to one side when  
braking could result in a serious  
accident. Light braking will indicate  
whether the brakes have been affected.  
Dry the brakes by driving very slowly  
and applying the brakes lightly until  
brake performance is normal.  
8-49  
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Maintenance and Care  
Appearance Care  
Fabricí  
Interior Care  
Remove dust and loose dirt from fabric  
with a whisk broom or vacuum cleaner.  
Clean it with a mild soap solution good  
for upholstery and carpets. Remove fresh  
spots immediately with a fabric spot  
cleaner.  
qDashboard Precautions  
Prevent caustic solutions such as perfume  
and cosmetic oils from contacting the  
dashboard. They'll damage and discolor it.  
If these solutions get on the dashboard,  
wipe them off immediately.  
To keep the fabric looking clean and  
fresh, take care of it. Otherwise its color  
will be affected, it can be stained easily,  
and its fire-resistance may be reduced.  
CAUTION  
Do not use glazing agents.  
Glazing agents contain ingredients  
which may cause discoloration,  
wrinkling, cracks and peeling.  
CAUTION  
Use only recommended cleaners and  
procedures. Others may affect  
appearance and fire-resistance.  
qCleaning the Upholstery and  
Interior Trim  
Suede-like materialí  
Vinyl  
Stains which are not treated immediately  
will be difficult to remove later, and may  
cause fading or discoloration.  
Remove dust and loose dirt from vinyl  
with a whisk broom or vacuum cleaner.  
Clean vinyl with a leather-and-vinyl  
cleaner.  
Remove stains as soon as possible.  
Leatherí  
To clean, wipe with a soft, damp cloth.  
Then buff with a soft, dry cloth.  
Real leather isn't uniform and may have  
scars, scratches, and wrinkles. Clean it  
with a leather cleaner or mild soap.  
If the leather gets wet from rain, remove  
the moisture as soon as possible and dry  
in a shaded area.  
If stains cannot be removed, using plain  
water, try wiping with soapy water or a  
mild detergent.  
If the seats get wet, promptly remove  
moisture with a dry cloth and allow it to  
further dry in a shaded area.  
If moisture is not removed, it will cause  
hardening and shrinkage of the leather.  
Do not leave vinyl products on the seats  
for long periods as they may affect the  
leather quality and coloring.  
CAUTION  
Don't clean the suede with leather  
cleaner, a detergent, or soap. It will  
cause discoloration.  
To dry away any water, wipe with a soft,  
dry cloth.  
8-50  
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Maintenance and Care  
Appearance Care  
qCleaning the Window Interiors  
CAUTION  
If the windows become covered with an  
oily, greasy, or waxy film, clean them  
with glass cleaner. Follow the directions  
on the container.  
Sharp or pointed metal objects can  
damage the suede beyond repair.  
Piano black panel  
The center panel and door switch panels  
have been treated with a special coating  
that resists scratching.  
When the panel needs to be cleaned, use a  
soft cloth to wipe off dirt from the surface.  
CAUTION  
l
Don't scrape or scratch the inside of  
the rear window. You may damage  
the rear window defroster grid.  
l
When washing the inside rear  
window, use a soft cloth dampened  
in lukewarm water, gently wiping  
the antenna lines.  
Use of glass cleaning products could  
damage the antenna.  
NOTE  
Scratches or nicks on the center and  
door switch panels resulting from the  
use of a hard brush or cloth may not be  
repairable.  
qCleaning the Lap/Shoulder Belt  
Webbing  
Clean the webbing with a mild soap  
solution recommended for upholstery or  
carpets. Follow instructions. Don't bleach  
or dye the webbing; this may weaken it.  
After cleaning the belts, thoroughly dry  
the belt webbing and make sure there is  
no remaining moisture before retracting  
them.  
WARNING  
Damaged Seat Belt:  
Using damaged seat belts is  
dangerous. In a collision, damaged  
belts cannot provide adequate  
protection. Have an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer replace damaged belts  
immediately.  
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Customer Information and Reporting  
Safety Defects  
9
Important consumer information including warranties and add-on equipment.  
9-1  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Customer Assistance  
Customer Assistance (U.S.A.)  
Your complete and permanent satisfaction is our business. We are here to serve you. All  
Authorized Mazda Dealers have the knowledge and the tools to keep your Mazda vehicle  
in top condition.  
If you have any questions or recommendations for improvement regarding the service of  
your Mazda vehicle or servicing by Mazda Dealer personnel, we recommend that you take  
the following steps:  
qSTEP 1: Contact Your Mazda Dealer  
Discuss the matter with an Authorized Mazda Dealer. This is the quickest and best way to  
address the issue. If your concern has not been resolved by the CUSTOMER RELATIONS,  
SALES, SERVICE, or PARTS MANAGER, then please contact the GENERAL  
MANAGER of the dealership or the OWNER.  
qSTEP 2: Contact Mazda North American Operations  
If for any reason you feel the need for further assistance after contacting your dealership  
management, you can reach Mazda North American Operations by one of three ways.  
By email at: www.mazdaUSA.com (Click the TALK TO US link at the top of the  
home page).  
Answers to many of your Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), including how to  
locate or contact a local Mazda Dealership in the U.S., can be found here.  
By phone at: 1 (800) 222-5500  
By letter at:  
Attn: Customer Assistance  
Mazda North American Operations  
7755 Irvine Center Drive  
Irvine, CA 92618-2922  
P.O. Box 19734  
Irvine, CA 92623-9734  
In order to serve you efficiently and effectively, please help us by providing the following  
information:  
1. Your name, address, and telephone number  
2. Year and model of vehicle  
3. Vehicle Identification Number (17 digits, noted on your registration or title or located on  
the upper driver's side corner of the dash)  
9-2  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Customer Assistance  
4. Purchase date and current mileage  
5. Your dealer's name and location  
6. Your question(s)  
If you live outside the U.S.A., please contact your nearest Mazda Distributor.  
9-3  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Customer Assistance  
Customer Assistance (Canada)  
qSatisfaction Review Process  
Your complete and permanent satisfaction is of primary concern to Mazda. All Authorized  
Mazda Dealers have both the knowledge and tools to keep your Mazda in top condition. In  
our experience, any questions, problems, or complaints regarding the operation of your  
Mazda or any other general service transactions are most effectively resolved by your  
dealer. If the cause of your dissatisfaction cannot adequately be addressed by normal  
dealership procedures, we recommend that you take the following steps:  
qSTEP 1: Contact the Mazda Dealer  
Discuss the matter with a member of dealership management. If the Service Manager has  
already reviewed your concerns, contact the owner of the dealership or its General  
Manager.  
qSTEP 2: Contact the Mazda Regional Office  
If you feel that you still require assistance, ask the dealer Service Manager to arrange for  
you to meet the local Mazda Service Representative. If more expedient, contact Mazda  
Canada Inc.Regional Office nearest you for such arrangements. Regional Office address  
and phone numbers are shown (page 9-6).  
qSTEP 3: Contact the Mazda Customer Relations Department  
If still not substantially satisfied, contact the Customer Relations Department, Mazda  
Canada Inc., 305 Milner Avenue, Suite 400 Scarborough, Ontario M1B 3V4 Canada  
TEL:1 (800) 263-4680.  
Provide the Department with the following information:  
1. Your name, address and telephone number  
2. Year and model of vehicle  
3. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Refer to the Vehicle Identification Labelspage  
of section 10 of this manual for the location of the VIN.  
4. Purchase date  
5. Present odometer reading  
6. Your dealer's name and location  
7. The nature of your problem and/or cause of dissatisfaction  
The Department, in cooperation with the local Mazda Service Representative, will review  
the case to determine if everything possible has been done to ensure your satisfaction.  
9-4  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Customer Assistance  
Please recognize that the resolution of service problems in most cases requires the use of  
your Mazda dealer's service facilities, personnel and equipment. We urge you to follow the  
above three steps in sequence for most effective results.  
qMediation/Arbitration Program  
Occasionally a customer concern cannot be resolved through Mazda's Customer  
Satisfaction Program. If after exhausting the procedures in this manual your concern is still  
not resolved, you have another option.  
Mazda Canada Inc. participates in an arbitration program administered by the  
Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP). CAMVAP will advise you about  
how your concern may be reviewed and resolved by an independent third party through  
binding arbitration.  
Your complete satisfaction is the goal of Mazda Canada Inc. and our dealers.  
Mazda's participation in CAMVAP makes a valuable contribution to our achieving that  
goal. There is no charge for using CAMVAP. CAMVAP results are fast, fair and final as the  
award is binding on both you and Mazda Canada Inc.  
qCanadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP)  
If a specific item of concern arises, where a solution cannot be reached between an owner,  
Mazda, and/or one of it's dealers (that all parties cannot agree upon), the owner may wish  
to use the services offered by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP).  
CAMVAP uses the services of Provincial Administrators to assist consumers in scheduling  
and preparing for their arbitration hearings. However, before you can proceed with  
CAMVAP you must follow your Mazda dispute resolution process as outlined previously.  
9-5  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Customer Assistance  
CAMVAP is fully implemented in all provinces and territories.  
Consumers wishing to obtain further information about the Program should contact the  
Provincial Administrator at 1 (800) 207-0685, or by contacting the  
Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan Office at:  
Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan  
235 Yorkland Boulevard, suite 300  
North York, Ontario  
M2J 4Y8  
http://camvap.ca  
Provincial Administrators may be reached locally as listed below:  
Province/Territory  
British Columbia & Yukon Territories  
Alberta & Northwest Territories  
Saskatchewan  
CAMVAP Number  
1 (800) 207-0685  
1 (800) 207-0685  
1 (800) 207-0685  
1 (800) 207-0685  
1 (800) 207-0685  
1 (800) 207-0685  
1 (800) 207-0685  
Manitoba  
Ontario  
Atlantic Canada  
Quebec  
qRegional Offices  
REGIONAL OFFICES  
AREAS COVERED  
MAZDA CANADA INC.  
WESTERN REGION  
8171 ACKROYD ROAD  
SUITE 2000  
ALBERTA,  
BRITISH COLUMBIA,  
MANITOBA,  
RICHMOND B.C.  
V6X 3K1  
SASKATCHEWAN,  
YUKON  
(604) 303-5670  
MAZDA CANADA INC.  
CENTRAL/ATLANTIC REGION  
305 MILNER AVENUE  
SUITE 400  
ONTARIO,  
NEW BRUNSWICK,  
NOVA SCOTIA,  
SCARBOROUGH, ONTARIO  
M1B 3V4  
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND,  
NEWFOUNDLAND  
1 (800) 263-4680  
MAZDA CANADA INC.  
QUEBEC REGION  
6111 ROUTE TRANS  
CANADIENNE  
QUEBEC  
POINTE CLAIRE, QUEBEC  
H9R 5A5  
(514) 694-6390  
9-6  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Customer Assistance  
Customer Assistance (Puerto Rico)  
Your complete and permanent satisfaction is our business. That is why all Authorized  
Mazda Dealers have the knowledge and the tools to keep your Mazda vehicle in top  
condition.  
If you have any questions or recommendations for improvement regarding the service of  
your Mazda vehicle or servicing by Mazda Dealer personnel, we recommend that you take  
the following steps:  
qSTEP 1  
Discuss the matter with an Authorized Mazda Dealer. This is the quickest and best way to  
address the issue. If your concern has not been resolved by the CUSTOMER RELATIONS,  
SALES, SERVICE, or PARTS MANAGER, then please contact the GENERAL  
MANAGER of the dealership or the OWNER.  
qSTEP 2  
If, after following STEP 1, you feel the need for further assistance, please contact your  
area's Mazda representative (Indicated on the next page).  
Please help us by providing the following information:  
1. Your name, address, and telephone number  
2. Year and model of vehicle  
3. Vehicle Identification Number (17 digits, noted on your registration or title or located on  
the upper driver's side corner of the dash)  
4. Purchase date and current mileage  
5. Your dealer's name and location  
6. Your question(s)  
9-7  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Mazda Importer/Distributors  
Importer/Distributor  
Distributor in Each Area  
qU.S.A.  
qCANADA  
Mazda North American Operations  
7755 Irvine Center Drive  
Irvine, CA 92618-2922 U.S.A.  
P.O. Box 19734  
Irvine, CA 92623-9734 U.S.A.  
TEL:1 (800) 222-5500 (in U.S.A.)  
(949) 727-1990 (outside U.S.A.)  
Mazda Canada Inc.  
305 Milner Avenue, Suite 400  
Scarborough, Ontario M1B 3V4 Canada  
TEL:1 (800) 263-4680 (in Canada)  
(416) 609-9909 (outside Canada)  
qPUERTO RICO  
Plaza Motors Corp. (Mazda de Puerto  
Rico)  
P.O. Box 362722, San Juan, Puerto Rico  
00936-2722  
TEL: (787) 641-9300  
qGUAM  
Triple J Motors  
157 South Marine Drive, Tamuning,  
GUAM 96911 USA  
P.O. Box 6066 Tamuning, Guam 96931  
TEL: (671) 649-6555  
qSAIPAN  
Pacific International Marianas, Inc.  
(d.b.a. Midway Motors)  
P.O. Box 887 Saipan, MP 96950  
TEL: (670) 234-7524  
Triple J Saipan, Inc.  
(d.b.a. Triple J Motors)  
P.O. Box 500487 Saipan, MP 96950-0487  
TEL: (670) 234-7133/3051  
qAMERICAN SAMOA  
Polynesia Motors, Inc.  
P.O. Box 1120, Pago Pago, American  
Samoa 96799  
TEL: (684) 699-9347  
9-8  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Warranty  
Warranties for Your Mazda  
l
l
l
l
l
New Vehicle Limited Warranty  
Distributor Major Component Limited Warranty (Canada only)  
Safety Restraint System Limited Warranty  
Anti-perforation Limited Warranty  
Federal Emission Control Warranty (U.S.A. only)  
l
Emission Defect Warranty  
Emission Performance Warranty  
l
l
l
l
l
California Emission Control Warranty (U.S.A. only)  
Emission Control Warranty (Canada only)  
Replacement Parts and Accessories Limited Warranty  
Tire Warranty  
NOTE  
Detailed warranty information is provided with your Mazda.  
9-9  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Warranty  
Outside the United States  
Government regulations in the United States require that automobiles meet specific  
emission regulations and safety standards. Therefore, vehicles built for use in the United  
States may differ from those sold in other countries.  
The differences may make it difficult or even impossible for your vehicle to receive  
satisfactory servicing in other countries. We strongly recommend that you NOT take your  
Mazda outside the United States. However, in the event that you are moving to Canada  
permanently, Mazda vehicles built for use in the United States could be eligible for  
exportation to Canada with specific vehicle modifications to comply with the Canadian  
Motor Vehicle Safety requirements (CMVSS).  
NOTE  
The above is applicable for a permanent import/export situation and not related to  
travelers on vacation.  
You may have the following problems if you do take your vehicle outside of the United  
States:  
l
Recommended fuel may be unavailable. Any kind of leaded fuel or low-octane fuel will  
affect vehicle performance and damage the emission controls and engine.  
l
Proper repair facilities, tools, testing equipment, and replacement parts may not be  
available.  
Please refer to your Manufacturer's Warranty Booklet for more information.  
9-10  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Warranty  
Outside Canada  
Government regulations in Canada require that automobiles meet specific emission  
regulations and safety regulations. Therefore, vehicles built for use in Canada may differ  
from those sold in other countries.  
The differences may make it difficult or even impossible for your vehicle to receive  
satisfactory servicing in other countries. We strongly recommend that you NOT take your  
Mazda outside Canada. However, in the event that you are moving to the United States  
permanently, Mazda vehicles built for use in Canada could be eligible for exportation to the  
United States with specific vehicle modifications to comply with the United States Federal  
Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).  
NOTE  
The above is applicable for a permanent import/export situation and not related to  
travelers on vacation.  
You may have the following problems if you do take your vehicle outside of Canada:  
l
Recommended fuel may be unavailable. Any kind of leaded fuel or low-octane fuel will  
affect vehicle performance and damage the emission controls and engine.  
l
Proper repair facilities, tools, testing equipment, and replacement parts may not be  
available.  
Please refer to your Manufacturer's Warranty Booklet for more information.  
9-11  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Warranty  
Registering Your Vehicle in A Foreign Country (Except  
United States and Canada)  
Government regulations in your country could require that automobiles meet specific  
emission and safety standards.  
Vehicles built for your country may differ from those built for other countries. In addition  
to registration problems, satisfactory service may be difficult or even impossible in another  
country.  
The fuel specified for your vehicle may be unavailable.  
Parts, servicing techniques, and tools necessary to maintain and repair your vehicle may be  
unavailable.  
There might not be an Authorized Mazda Dealer in the country you plan to take your  
vehicle.  
The Mazda warranty is valid only in certain countries.  
9-12  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Warranty  
Add-On Non-Genuine Parts and Accessories  
Non-genuine parts and accessories for Mazda vehicles can be found in stores.  
These may fit your vehicle, but they are not approved by Mazda for use with Mazda  
vehicles. When you install non-genuine parts or accessories, they could affect your  
vehicle's performance or safety system; the Mazda warranty doesn't cover this. Before you  
install any non-genuine parts or accessories, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
WARNING  
Installation of Non-Genuine Parts or Accessories:  
Installation of non-genuine parts or accessories is dangerous. Improperly designed  
parts or accessories could seriously affect your vehicle's performance or safety system.  
This could cause you to have an accident or increase your chances of injuries in an  
accident. Always consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer before you install non-genuine  
parts or accessories.  
Add-On Electrical and Electronic Equipment:  
Incorrectly choosing or installing improper add-on equipment or choosing an  
improper installer is dangerous. Essential systems could be damaged, causing engine  
stalling, air-bag (SRS) activation, ABS inactivation, or a fire in the vehicle.  
Be very careful in choosing and installing add-on electrical equipment, such as mobile  
telephones, two-way radios, stereo systems, and car alarm systems.  
Mazda assumes no responsibility for death, injury, or expenses that may result from the  
installation of add-on non-genuine parts or accessories.  
9-13  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Cell Phones  
Cell Phones Warning  
WARNING  
Use of Cell Phones and Other Devices by Driver:  
Use of any electrical devices such as cell phones, computers, portable radios, vehicle  
navigation or other devices by the driver while the vehicle is moving is dangerous.  
Dialing a number on a cell phone while driving also ties-up the driver's hands. Use of  
these devices will cause the driver to be distracted and could lead to a serious accident.  
If a passenger is unable to use the device, pull off the right-of-way to a safe area  
before use. If use of a cell phone is necessary despite this warning, use a hands-free  
system to at least leave the hands free to drive the vehicle. Never use a cell phone or  
other electrical devices while the vehicle is moving and, instead, concentrate on the  
full-time job of driving.  
Please comply to the legal regulations concerning the use of communication  
equipment in vehicles in your country.  
9-14  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Type Approval of Equipment  
Type Approval of Equipment  
Immobilizer system  
9-15  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Uniform Tire Quality Grading System (UTQGS)  
Uniform Tire Quality Grading System (UTQGS)  
This information relates to the tire grading system developed by the U.S. National  
Highway Traffic Safety Administration for grading tires by tread wear, traction, and  
temperature performance.  
qTread Wear  
The tread wear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested  
under controlled conditions on a specified government test course.  
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one-and-a-half times as well on the government  
course as a tire graded 100.  
The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however,  
and may depart significantly from the norm because of variations in driving habits, service  
practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.  
qTraction-AA, A, B, C  
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. These grades represent  
the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on  
specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor  
traction performance.  
WARNING  
The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on braking (straight ahead) traction  
tests and does not include acceleration cornering (turning), hydroplaning, or peak  
traction characteristics.  
qTemperature-A, B, C  
The temperature grades A (the highest), B, and C, represent the tire's resistance to the  
generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions  
on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.  
Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire  
life, and excessive temperatures can lead to sudden tire failure.  
Grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger vehicle tires must meet  
under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent  
higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by  
law.  
9-16  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Uniform Tire Quality Grading System (UTQGS)  
WARNING  
The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and  
not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either  
separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.  
These grades will be added to the sidewalls of passenger vehicle tires over the next several  
years according to a schedule established by the NHTSA and the tire manufacturers.  
The grade of tires available as standard or optional equipment on Mazda vehicles may vary  
with respect to grade.  
ALL PASSENGER VEHICLE TIRES MUST CONFORM TO THESE GRADES AND  
TO ALL OTHER FEDERAL TIRE-SAFETY REQUIREMENTS.  
qUniform Tire Quality Grading  
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder  
and maximum section width.  
For example:  
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A  
UTQGS MARK (example)  
TREADWEAR 200 TRACTION AA  
TEMPERATURE A  
9-17  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Reporting Safety Defects  
Reporting Safety Defects  
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could  
cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway  
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Mazda Motor  
Corporation (Your Mazda Importer/Distributor).  
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it  
finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and  
remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual  
problems between you, your dealer, or Mazda Motor Corporation (Your Mazda  
Importer/Distributor).  
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1  
(800) 424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA,  
U.S. Department of Transportation. Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also  
obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.  
NOTE  
If you live in the U.S.A., all correspondence to Mazda Motor Corporation should be  
forwarded to:  
Mazda North American Operations  
7755 Irvine Center Drive  
Irvine, California 92618-2922  
P.O. Box 19734  
Irvine, CA 92623-9734  
Customer Assistance Center or toll free at 1 (800) 222-5500  
If you live outside of the U.S.A., please contact the nearest Mazda Distributor shown  
(page 9-8) in this booklet.  
9-18  
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Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects  
Service Publications  
Service Publications  
Factory-authorized Mazda service publications are available for owners who wish to do  
some of their own maintenance and repair.  
When requesting any of our publications through an Authorized Mazda Dealer, refer to the  
chart below.  
If they don't have what you need in stock, they can order it for you.  
PUBLICATION ORDER NUMBER  
9999-95-064B-05  
PUBLICATION DESCRIPTION  
2005 WORKSHOP MANUAL (English)  
2005 WIRING DIAGRAM (English)  
2005 OWNER'S MANUAL  
99999-95-040G-05  
9999-95-079C-05 (U.S.A. only)  
9999-EC-079C-05 (Canada only)  
9999-PR-079C-05 (Puerto Rico only)  
2005 OWNER'S MANUAL  
2005 OWNER'S MANUAL  
qWORKSHOP MANUAL:  
Covers recommended maintenance and repair procedures of the drive train, body and  
chassis.  
qWIRING DIAGRAM:  
Provides electrical schematics as well as component location for the entire electrical  
system.  
qOWNER'S MANUAL:  
This booklet contains information regarding the proper care and operation of your vehicle.  
This is not a technician's manual.  
9-19  
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9-20  
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Specifications  
10  
Technical information about your Mazda.  
10-1  
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Identification Numbers  
qChassis Number  
Vehicle Information Labels  
qVehicle Identification Number  
The vehicle identification number legally  
identifies your vehicle. The number is on  
a plate attached to the left top side of the  
dashboard. This plate can easily be seen  
through the windshield.  
qVehicle Emission Control  
Information Label  
qMotor Vehicle Safety Standard  
Label  
qTire Pressure Label  
10-2  
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Identification Numbers  
qEngine Number  
Forward  
10-3  
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Specifications  
Specifications  
qEngine  
Item  
Type  
Model  
Rotary engine  
Displacement  
Compression ratio  
654 ml × 2 (654 cc × 2, 40.0 cu in × 2)  
10.0  
qElectrical System  
Item  
Model  
Manual transmission  
Battery  
Alternator  
Starter  
12V-52AH/5HR  
Automatic transmission  
12 V - 100 A  
12 V - 1.4 kW  
Manual transmission  
Automatic transmission  
Trailing side  
12 V - 1.8 kW  
N3H1 18 110C*1*2  
N3Y3 18 110, N3H2 18 110C*1*2  
Spark-plug number  
Spark-plug gap  
Leading side  
1.151.25mm (0.0450.049 in)  
*1 Standard  
*2 ex factory  
CAUTION  
When cleaning the iridium plugs, do not use a wire brush. The fine particulate coating on  
the iridium alloy and platinum tips could be damaged.  
qLubricant Quality  
Lubricant  
Classification  
Refer to the recommended SAE viscosity numbers on page 8-12.  
API Service GL-4 or GL-5 (SAE 75W-90)  
ATF M-III or equivalent (e.g. Dexron® III)  
API Service GL-5 (SAE 90)  
Engine oil  
Manual transmission oil  
Automatic transmission fluid  
Rear differential oil  
API Service GL-5 (SAE 80W-90)  
API Service GL-5 (SAE 75W-90)*  
Brake/Clutch fluid  
SAE J1703 or FMVSS116 DOT-3  
* Not available from Mazda  
10-4  
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Specifications  
qCapacities  
(Approximate Quantities)  
Unit  
US qt  
Item  
L
3.5  
3.3  
9.8  
1.75  
8.7  
1.3  
60  
Imp qt  
With oil filter replacement  
3.7  
3.1  
Engine oil  
Coolant  
Without oil filter replacement  
3.5  
10.4  
2.9  
8.6  
Manual transmission oil  
Automatic transmission fluid  
Rear differential oil  
Fuel tank  
1.8  
1.5  
7.7  
9.2  
1.4  
1.1  
15.9 (US gal)  
13.2 (Imp gal)  
Check oil and fluid levels with dipsticks or reservoir gauges.  
qDimensions  
Item  
Overall length  
Overall width  
Overall height  
Front tread  
Model  
4,425 mm (174.2 in), 4,430 mm*(174.4 in)  
1,770 mm (69.7 in)  
1,340 mm (52.8 in)  
1,500 mm (59.1 in)  
Rear tread  
1,505 mm (59.3 in)  
Wheelbase  
2,700 mm (106.3 in)  
* With license plate holder  
qWeights  
Weight  
Item  
Manual transmission  
1,728 kg (3,809 lb)  
827 kg (1,823 lb)  
Automatic transmission  
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)  
1,748 kg (3,854 lb)  
841 kg (1,854 lb)  
907 kg (2,000 lb)  
1,385 kg (3,053 lb)  
1,394 kg (3,073 lb)  
Front  
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)  
Rear  
901 kg (1,986 lb)  
U.S.A.  
1,374 kg (3,029 lb)  
1,384 kg (3,051 lb)  
CW (Curb Weight)  
Canada  
qAir Conditioner  
Gas complies with SAE J639  
Maximum operating charge  
0.42 kg (14.8 oz)  
HFC134a (R-134a)  
10-5  
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Specifications  
qLight Bulbs  
Exterior light  
Category  
Light bulb  
Wattage  
65  
ECE R  
H9  
SAE  
High beam  
Headlights  
Low beam  
Halogen  
55  
H7  
Xenon fusion  
35  
D2S  
Front turn signal lights  
Parking lights  
Fog lightsí  
21  
WY21W  
W5W  
H11  
5
55  
Front side-marker lights  
High-mount brake light  
Rear turn signal lights  
Brake lights/Taillights  
Reverse lights  
3.8  
21  
#194  
#7440  
W21W  
WY21W  
W21/5W  
W21W  
W5W  
21  
21/5  
21  
#7443  
#7440  
License plate light  
Rear side-marker lights  
5
0.57  
The rear side-marker light bulbs cannot be replaced because they are an LED-type bulb. The rear combination  
component must be replaced.  
Interior light  
Category  
Light bulb  
Wattage  
ECE R  
W5W  
W5W  
Trunk light  
5
5
Overhead light/Map lights (Front)  
Overhead light (Rear)  
Courtesy lights  
10  
5
W5W  
Vanity mirror lights  
1.8  
qTires  
NOTE  
The tires have been optimally matched with the chassis of your vehicle.  
When replacing tires, Mazda recommends that you replace tires of the same type  
originally fitted to your vehicle. For details, contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
10-6  
íSome models.  
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Specifications  
Check the tire pressure label for tire size and inflation pressure. Refer to Tire Inflation  
Pressure on page 8-28.  
Inflation pressure  
Tire size  
Front  
Rear  
225/55R16 94V  
225/45R18 91W  
220 kPa  
220 kPa  
(2.2 kgf/cm2, 32 psi or lb/po2)  
(2.2 kgf/cm2, 32 psi or lb/po2)  
Vehicle capacity weight:308 kg (680 lb)  
qFuses  
Refer to the fuse rating on page 8-40.  
10-7  
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10-8  
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Index  
11  
11-1  
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Index  
A
B
Brake/Clutch  
Brakes  
Automatic Transmission  
C
Child Restraint  
B
Battery  
Beep Sounds  
11-2  
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Black plate (317,1)  
Index  
D
E
Defroster  
F
Flasher  
Fluids  
E
Engine  
Engine Coolant  
Fuel  
G
11-3  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page318  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (318,1)  
Index  
H
I
Headlights  
J
I
K
Ignition  
L
Light Bulbs  
M
Maintenance  
11-4  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page319  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (319,1)  
Index  
M
R
Mirrors  
S
Seat Belt System  
Seats  
O
P
Security System  
SRS Air Bags  
R
11-5  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page320  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
Black plate (320,1)  
Index  
S
T
Towing  
T
Tiedown  
V
Tires  
W
11-6  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
RX-8_8T69-EA-04G_Edition1 Page322  
Wednesday, June 9 2004 2:13 PM  
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11-8  
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Form No.8T69-EA-04G  
NAVIGATION SYSTEM  
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Prod  
Contents, Accessories, and Laser  
Accessories  
Laser Produc  
Contents . . .  
Safety Inform  
Introduction  
Names and F  
Accessories  
Prepa-  
Please contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer if you are  
missing any of the following accessories.  
ration  
Map Disc  
Before U  
Owner's Manual  
Destin  
Imme-  
CAUTION:  
THIS PRODUCT IS A CLASS LASER PRODUCT .  
HOWEVER THIS PRODUCT USES A VISIBLE/INVISIBLE LASER BEAM  
WHICH COULD CAUSE HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE IF DIRECTED.  
BE SURE TO OPERATE THIS PRODUCT CORRECTLY AS INSTRUCTED.  
USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF  
I
diate  
use  
PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN  
HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE. DO NOT OPEN COVERS AND DO  
NOT REPAIR YOURSELF. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.  
Charac  
POI Ico  
Direct De  
After Rou  
Laser products:  
Wave length: 650 nm  
Laser power: No hazardous radiation is emitted with safety protection.  
Route Ch  
Marked Point  
Advanced  
use  
Setup  
Precautions/S  
If  
necessary  
Troubleshoot  
Maintenance  
2
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Product  
Laser  
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Laser Product . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
2
2
3
4
8
Prepa-  
ration  
Names and Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10  
Before Use  
Before Use  
GActivation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12  
GPop Up Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14  
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
GSystem Operation Verification  
15  
16  
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
GScreen Quality Adjustment  
GMap Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18  
GChanging the map Orientation/Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19  
Destination Entry and Route Search  
20  
Imme-  
G
Destination by address  
G
Destination by intersection  
diate  
G
Destination by Point of Interest (POI) categories  
Destination by history  
use  
G
G
G
Destination by a marked point  
Destination by the map  
Routing  
Character Entry  
22  
POI Icons on Maps / Zipcode Entry  
23  
24  
Direct Destination Input  
G
Ro,ute Search Cancellation, Whole Route display,  
Route guidance cancellation  
After Routing  
Route Changes  
Marked Point  
25  
26  
Marking  
28  
30  
Advanced  
use  
Setup  
User setting  
Precautions/System Performance  
GVoice Guidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34  
GAutomatic Distance Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34  
GGPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35  
GMap Matching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35  
GPositioning Accuracy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36  
GRoute Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36  
GRoute Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37  
GVerification First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38  
GError Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40  
If  
necessary  
As  
necessary  
Troubleshooting  
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41  
3
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Safety Information  
IRead this owner's manual for your Navigation System carefully before using the system.  
They contain instructions about how to use the system in a safe and effective manner.  
Mazda assumes no responsibility for any problems resulting from failure to observe the instructions  
given in this manual.  
W
Warning  
IThis manual uses pictographs to show you how to use the product safely and to alert you to potential  
dangers resulting from improper connections and operation. The meanings of the pictographs are  
explained below. It is important that you fully understand the pictographs and explanations in order to  
use this manual and the system properly.  
I
I
D
Do  
be  
Warnings  
The presence of this Warning symbol in the text is intended to  
N
Do  
pr  
alert you to the importance of heeding the operation instructions.  
Failure to heed the instructions may result in severe injury or death.  
Warning  
Warning  
I
Do not keep your eyes fixed on the monitor screen or operate the system  
while driving.  
Do not change the settings and destination locations while driving. Minimize the time  
spent on viewing the monitor screen and listening to the voice guidance while driving.  
Operating the system will distract the driver from looking ahead of the vehicle and can  
cause accidents. Always stop the vehicle in a safe location and use the parking brake  
before operating the system.  
Warnings  
I
I
Always obey local traffic regulations.  
Your guided route may include roads that are not open to vehicles or are closed due to  
traffic regulations. Comply with the local traffic regulations and take another route.  
Do not use the unit when it is out of order  
.
If the unit is out of order (no image, no sound) or in an abnormal state (has foreign  
matter in it, is exposed to water, is smoking, or smells), then turn it off immediately and  
consult with an Authorized Mazda Dealer. Using the unit in out-of-order condition  
may lead to accidents, fires, or electric shocks.  
I
I
Use the proper power supply.  
This product is designed for operation with a negative grounded 12 V DC battery  
system.  
Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous.  
This could result in someone being badly injured or even killed. They could play with  
power windows or other controls, or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys  
in your vehicle with children.  
4
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m.  
The presence of this Warning symbol in the text is intended  
to alert you to the importance of heeding the operation instructions.  
Failure to heed the instructions may result in severe injury or death.  
e instructions  
Warning  
Warning  
ou to potential  
graphs are  
ons in order to  
I
I
Do not disassemble.  
Do not disassemble the product or attempt to repair it yourself. If the product needs to  
be repaired, take it to an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Warnings  
ntended to  
instructions.  
jury or death.  
Never attempt to play the map disc on an audio player.  
Do not attempt to play the map disc on other CD (DVD) player. The loud sound  
produced may damage your hearing and your speakers.  
stem  
he time  
driving.  
and can  
g brake  
sed due to  
route.  
oreign  
diately and  
dition  
ttery  
play with  
ve the keys  
5
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Safety Information  
The presence of this Caution symbol in the text is intended to  
PLEASE READ  
This software and  
protect it.  
alert you to the importance of heeding the operation instructions.  
Failure to heed the instructions may result in injury or material damage.  
Caution  
Caution  
By using this Soft  
You agree to use  
not for service bu  
reproduce this So  
or otherwise reve  
Further Restrictio  
GPS receivers, c  
applications insta  
positioning, dispa  
devices, cell phon  
No warranty. Thi  
suppliers and lice  
or otherwise, incl  
particular purpose  
Disclaimer of Wa  
OR IMPLIED, OF  
NON-INFRINGEM  
extent the above  
Disclaimer of Liab  
RESPECT OF AN  
CLAIM, DEMAND  
RESULT FROM T  
CONTRACTS OR  
DAMAGES ARIS  
SOFTWARE, OR  
TORT OR BASE  
POSSIBILITY OF  
damages limitatio  
Indemnity. You a  
of any kind arisin  
Export Control. Y  
thereof except in  
Governing Law.  
to (i) its conflict o  
IDo not use the product where it is exposed to water, moisture, or dust.  
Exposure to water, moisture, or dust may lead to smoke, fire, or other damage to the unit.  
Make especially sure that the unit does not get wet in car washes or on rainy days.  
Cautions  
IKeep the voice guidance volume at an appropriate level.  
Keep the volume level low enough to be aware of road and traffic conditions while driving.  
IProtect the Deck Mechanism.  
Do not insert any foreign objects into the slot of this unit.  
IThis navigation system is designed use for exclusively in automobiles.  
This navigation system should only be installed in an automobile. Do not install it in a  
ship, aircraft, or any other vehicles except an automobile. Do not use it detached from  
the vehicle.  
IDo not insert or allow your hand or fingers to be caught in the unit.  
To prevent injury, do not get your hand or fingers caught in moving parts or in the disc  
slot. Especially watch out for infants.  
IDo not leave the sliding front cover for the unit's disc insertion slot open.  
If it is left open, foreign objects could enter the unit and cause damage.  
6
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SOFTWARE (MAP DISC) LICENCE AGREEMENT  
PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT CAREFULLY BEFORE USING NAVTECH PRODUCT  
This software and data (Software) is provided for your personal, non-commercial use only. Copyright and other Laws  
protect it.  
tended to  
nstructions.  
erial damage.  
By using this Software you agree to the following terms and conditions.  
You agree to use this Software for solely personal use or, if applicable, for use in your business‘ internal operations, and  
not for service bureau, time-sharing or other similar purposes. Except to save it on your hard drive, you may not copy or  
reproduce this Software, and may not distribute it in any form, for any purpose. You agree not to disassemble, decompile  
or otherwise reverse engineer the Software, except to the extent expressly permitted by mandatory laws.  
Further Restrictions. You may not use this Software with: (i) any positioning devices, including without limitation, any  
GPS receivers, compasses, wheel sensors, or any other distance or direction sensors; or (ii) any products, systems or  
applications installed in or otherwise connected to or in communication with vehicles, or capable of vehicle navigation,  
positioning, dispatch, real time route guidance, fleet management or similar applications; or (iii) any hand-held computer  
devices, cell phones or similar mobile devices.  
dust.  
e to the unit.  
days.  
while driving.  
No warranty. This Software is provided to you as is,and you agree to use it at your own risk. Mazda and its  
suppliers and licencers make no guarantees, representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, arising by law  
or otherwise, including but not limited to, content, quality, accuracy, completeness, effectiveness, reliability, fitness for a  
particular purpose, usefulness, use or results to be obtained from this Software will be uninterrupted or error-free.  
Disclaimer of Warranty: Mazda AND ITS SUPPLIERS AND LICENSORS DISCLAIM ANY WARRANTIES, EXPRESS  
OR IMPLIED, OF QUALITY, PERFORMANCE, MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR  
NON-INFRINGEMENT. Some States, Territories and Countries do not allow certain warranty exclusions, so to that  
extent the above exclusion may not apply to you.  
Disclaimer of Liability: Mazda AND ITS SUPPLIERS AND LICENSORS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE TO YOU: IN  
RESPECT OF ANY CLAIM, DEMAND OR ACTION, IRRESPECTIVE OF THE NATURE OF THE CAUSE OF THE  
CLAIM, DEMAND OR ACTION ALLEGING ANY LOSS, INJURY OR DAMAGES, DIRECT OR INDIRECT, WHICH MAY  
RESULT FROM THE USE OR POSSESSION OF THE SOFTWARE; OR FOR ANY LOSS OF PROFIT, REVENUE,  
CONTRACTS OR SAVINGS, OR ANY OTHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL  
DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF YOUR USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THIS SOFTWARE, ANY DEFECT IN THE  
SOFTWARE, OR THE BREACH OF THESE TERMS OR CONDITIONS, WHETHER IN AN ACTION IN CONTRACT OR  
TORT OR BASED ON A WARRANTY, EVEN IF Panasonic OR ITS LICENSORS HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE  
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. Some states, Territories and Countries do not allow certain liability exclusions or  
damages limitations, so to that extent the above may not apply to you.  
biles.  
all it in a  
ed from  
t.  
the disc  
ot open.  
Indemnity. You agree to indemnify and hold Mazda and its suppliers and licensors harmless from any liability or loss  
of any kind arising out of or in connection with any use by you of this Software.  
Export Control. You agree not to export from anywhere any part of the Software provided to you or any direct product  
thereof except in compliance with applicable export laws, rules and regulations.  
Governing Law. The above terms and conditions shall be governed by the laws of the Netherlands, without giving effect  
to (i) its conflict of laws provisions, or (ii) the United Nations Convention for contracts for the international Sale of Goods.  
7
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Introduction  
Features  
Customer Se  
If you need h  
want to repor  
DVD, please  
This DVD Navigation System combined with the NAVTECH's MAP Disc  
has following special features:  
GDetailed maps are used.  
Selected destinations will be displayed for easy viewing.  
GDesired places or facilities can be stored in the memory.  
Latest map D  
Map content  
points of inte  
to supply the  
the DVD map  
covered to th  
roads may no  
on a regular  
1-888-NAV-M  
Notes  
GDVD audio and video will not work by this unit.  
GThis unit does not support all Video CD and CD formats.  
Map Disc  
This unit supports only DVD-SDAL-formatted map disc (SEAMLESS) that NAVTECH has  
specifically designed for this unit. Mazda shall not be liable for any damages caused by  
using other formatted discs. Make sure to use only the discs specified for this product.  
Caution  
Notes  
Please hav  
This inform  
Use This Product Safety  
IAvoid excessive moisture  
Do not expose the product to water or excessive moisture.  
Press  
Select  
This could cause electrical shorts, fire or other damage.  
IExtremely low or high temperatures may interfere with normal operation  
The inside of the vehicle can become very hot or cold when it is parked for extended  
periods in direct sunlight or in cold places with the engine turned off. The navigation  
system may not operate normally under such circumstances. Turn off the navigation  
system until the inside of the vehicle has cooled down or warmed up. If the system does  
not operate thereafter, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Use the  
menu o  
Select  
Map an  
Navigation System  
For furthe  
instruction  
This navigation system utilizes GPS* satellite signals, Speed sensor and  
Gyrosensor to track and display your vehicle's current position, and to guide you from  
your starting point to your destination along a calculated route.  
GPS (Global Positioning System) is a position detecting system utilizing the signals from GPS satellites  
deployed by the U.S. Defense Department.  
* :  
8
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Map Related Issues  
Customer Service  
If you need help with the operation your Mazda navigation system,  
want to report a map database error or wish to obtain a new map  
DVD, please call 1-888-NAV-MAPS (1-888-628-6277).  
Latest map DVD  
Map content is constantly changing due to the addition of new roads,  
points of interest, traffic restrictions, etc. While every effort is made  
to supply the most accurate DVD map, it is not always possible for  
the DVD map to match the current roadways. Not all map areas are  
covered to the same level of detail. Some areas that include private  
roads may not be included on the database. Map DVD's are updated  
on a regular basis to check availability, please call  
TECH has  
aused by  
roduct.  
1-888-NAV-MAPS (1-888-628-6277).  
Notes  
Please have the map and software version numbers available in advance.  
This information can be found by using the following procedure:  
Press  
Select  
on the remote control.  
MENU  
and press  
operation  
ENTER  
ended  
Use the remote control joystick to scroll through the  
menu options, select and press  
gation  
ENTER  
igation  
stem does  
Select and press  
ENTER  
Map and software versions are now displayed.  
For further assistance please refer to pages 30 in the  
instruction book.  
from  
satellites  
9
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Names and Functions  
MENU key  
Displays menu.  
MENU  
VOICE key  
Initiates vocal guidance  
for route maneuvers.  
Adjusts screen quality.  
VOICE  
(
page 16)  
10  
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Joystick  
Selects items  
ENTER  
by tilting it up, down, right, and left.  
Scrolls map.  
POS (Position) key  
Displays your current position.  
POS  
(
page 18)  
ZOOM key  
ZOOM  
Changes the map scale.  
(
page 19)  
ENTER key  
Executes a selected item.  
Displays pop up menu.  
ENTER  
RET  
(
page 14)  
RET key  
Returns to the previous screen.  
ance  
rs.  
ality.  
11  
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TILT  
TILT  
OPEN  
OPEN  
GAlways close the sliding front cover. If it is left open, foreign  
objects could enter the unit and cause damage.  
12  
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TILT  
TILT  
ft open, foreign  
age.  
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Befo  
Pop Up Menu  
The mobile n  
properly calib  
Pop Up menu appears when pressing  
This function is mainly used during route searches.  
.
ENTER  
1. When usin  
2. When the  
3. When the  
wheel dia  
I
When route has  
been set or route  
in operation  
Route change (  
Route display (  
Route list display  
page 26)  
page 25)  
4. When del  
Marked point registration (  
Map orientation change (  
page 28)  
page 19)  
Notes  
GStart the d  
to start dur  
Stop route Search (  
Rerouting  
page 25)  
GThe vehicle  
depending  
is calculati  
Appears only when the auto reroute  
function page 32)is inactivated.  
Note  
(
I
Resetting  
Change of routing Search method(  
Change volume  
page 21)  
Drive the veh  
(12.5 MPH) w  
Delete Destination (  
page 25)  
Notes  
I
When scroll map  
Make sure t  
is displayed  
Direct destination input  
with the joystick (  
page 24)  
Near POI (Point of Interest) search  
(within a radius of about 6 mile) (  
page 24)  
GExample : When  
is selected.  
Detour submenu  
Highlighted  
Note  
This function is not available on intersection zoom maps.  
14  
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System Operation Verification  
Before Use  
Automatic distance correction  
The mobile navigation system uses GPS data for distance correction automatically. It must be  
properly calibrated for accurate operation. Perform calibration in any of the following circumstances:  
1. When using the navigation system for the very first time after installing the system.  
2. When the navigation system is transferred to another vehicle.  
3. When the tire pressure is changed, tires are rotated, the spare tire is used, tire size, or  
wheel diameter is changed.  
4. When deleting the position correction learning results.  
e 28)  
19)  
Notes  
GStart the driving after closing the opening screen as much as possible. The system is ready  
to start during opening screen.  
GThe vehicle position indicator may disappear temporarily after the speed is increased  
depending on the vehicle model. This is a normal phenomenon indicating that the system  
is calculating the distance correction.  
uto reroute  
s inactivated.  
I
Resetting automatic distance correction  
page 21)  
Drive the vehicle in an open area for approximately 30-minutes at a speed over 20 kph  
(12.5 MPH) while receiving GPS signals.  
Notes  
Make sure the GPS reception indicator is illuminated on the map screen.  
page 24)  
GPS reception indicator  
15  
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Screen Quality Adjustment  
Before Use  
VOICE Press and hold  
ENTER  
ENTER  
1
2
3
Open [Display  
Menu]  
Select  
Screen quality  
adjustment  
Select  
Screen display turns off.  
Press any button to  
return to screen display.  
Screen off  
Select  
/
headlights OFF - DAY MODE  
headlights ON - NIGHT MODE  
Day / Night  
mode selector  
When the headlights are on,  
daytime mode can also be  
selected (if extra screen  
brightness is required under  
certain nighttime conditions).  
This selection can only be done  
when the headlights are on.  
Press  
to switch  
ENTER  
between day and night modes.  
16  
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ent  
ENTER  
ENTER  
3
ENTER  
Adjust screen  
brightness.  
ENTER  
Adjust screen  
contrast.  
n display turns off.  
any button to  
to screen display.  
ENTER  
ENTER  
Returns screen to  
initial settings.  
ts OFF - DAY MODE  
ts ON - NIGHT MODE  
e headlights are on,  
mode can also be  
(if extra screen  
ss is required under  
ighttime conditions).  
ection can only be done  
e headlights are on.  
to switch  
ENTER  
day and night modes.  
17  
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Chang  
Do n  
Do no  
the m  
distra  
vehic  
Warning  
Map  
orientat  
Map sca  
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Changing the Map Orientation/Scale  
Do not keep your eyes fixed on the monitor screen or operate the system while driving  
Do not change the settings and destination locations while driving. Minimize the time spent viewing  
the monitor screen and listening to the voice guidance while driving. Operating the system will  
distract the driver from looking ahead of the vehicle and may cause an accident. Always stop the  
vehicle in a safe location and use the parking brake before operating the system.  
Warning  
Open the pop up menu  
ENTER  
ENTER  
(while in current position map)  
1
2
North Up :  
Geographic north is up.  
Select  
press  
or  
and  
ENTER  
Map  
orientation  
Head Up  
:
The direction you are  
heading is up.  
ZOOM OUT: Enlarges the map.  
ZOOM  
1
The map can be displayed in  
twelve steps with scales from  
to  
.
ZOOM  
Map scale  
ZOOM IN: Reduces the map.  
(more detail.)  
19  
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Do n  
G
G
Do n  
view  
syst  
stop  
Rou  
that  
Destination Entry and Route Search  
Warnings  
G
If you would like to go back to your start point, select the [History] in the [Select  
Destination] Menu, after that, select a green flag icon  
as a destination.  
ENTER select  
ENTER  
ENTER  
MENU  
ENTER  
ENTER  
1
2
3
Enter/Selec  
street name  
Enter/Selec  
city name.*  
Open the [Select  
Destination] Menu  
Select  
Destination by  
address  
Enter the  
2
Zipcode.  
*
*
*
1 The memory store  
2 Depending on th  
Select  
Select  
Destination by  
Enter the nam  
the city wher  
target interse  
intersection  
Default: North Central USA  
Select  
Enter the ta  
city name.  
Character entry  
(
page 22)  
Select a  
To enter the street  
name, city name,  
zip code, and other.  
Destination  
by POI  
destination from  
the POI categories.  
GPOI icon chart  
Enter the ta  
(The 20 closest d  
position appear  
(
page 23)  
Destination by  
history  
Open the [Select  
Destination] Menu  
Select a dest  
Select  
Select  
(Up to 50 points  
Select a des  
(Up to 100 p  
Destination by  
GRefer to page 28 for information about  
a marked point  
marked points.  
Move the cr  
cursor to th  
Select  
Destination by  
the map  
20  
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Do not keep your eyes fixed on the monitor screen or operate the system while driving.  
G
G
Do not change the settings and destination locations while driving. Minimize the time spent  
viewing the monitor screen and listening to the voice guidance while driving. Operating the  
system will distract the driver from looking ahead of the vehicle and may cause an accident. Always  
stop the vehicle in a safe location before operating the system.  
Route searches with the navigation system can include roads that you can not drive on and roads  
that you are prohibited from driving on due to traffic regulations. Please comply with the traffic regulations.  
earch  
Warnings  
[Select  
on.  
Character entry or selection  
ER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
(
page 22)  
3
4
Search method  
Enter/Select the  
street name.  
Select the  
city name.  
Select the  
house  
Enter/Select the  
city name.*1  
Enter/Select  
the street  
name.  
number  
.
Enter the  
2
Zipcode.  
*
*
1 The memory stores up to 10 cities visited recently, and these city names can be selected.  
*2 Depending on the area,zipcode search may not be possible.  
This is the route that  
reaches the destination  
in the shortest time.  
Enter the  
other street  
name that  
makes up the  
intersection.  
Enter the  
name of a  
This route reduces the  
use of highways (if there  
are highways on the way).  
Enter the name of  
street that is  
the city where your  
part of the  
target intersection is.  
intersection.  
You can designate a  
destination on the map.  
(Move the crosshair  
cursor to the destination.)  
The following menus will be  
Enter the target  
city name.  
Enter the  
target name.  
Select a  
desired  
destination  
from the list.  
displayed when  
pressed on the map display.  
[Marked Point]  
is  
ENTER  
Enter the target name.  
[Destination]  
(The 20 closest destinations to the current  
position appear (within a radius of about 30 mile.).)  
[Nearest POI]  
(
page 24)  
Marks the destination  
esulting from the search.  
Select a destination from the list of recent destinations.  
r
(Up to 50 points including the latest starting point are in the system memory.)  
Note  
Select a destination from the list of Marked points  
(Up to 100 points).  
The results from the route  
search are not always the  
shortest routes. You cannot  
always avoid the highways  
even if the highway is set  
to [Avoid Highway].  
nformation about  
Move the crosshair  
cursor to the destination and press ENTER  
.
For example, you will be  
on the highway when your  
vehicle is on the highway  
or when your destination  
exists on the highway.  
Select  
21  
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Character Entry  
POI I  
POI (Poin  
I
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
The followi  
1
2
AUTO SE  
AU  
Select the first several  
Select your target  
characters on the screen. in the list, and press ENTER  
AU  
AS  
GA  
PA  
PA  
PA  
Names of which spelling starts  
with the entered character  
appear.  
: Move the cursor to  
the previous position and  
delete a character.  
RE  
FA  
GIf a desired name is not in the  
list, go back to the step 1,  
and try fewer characters.  
To enter the  
street name,  
city name,  
and other.  
: The list appears.  
RE  
GUp to 10 characters can be  
entered.  
BANKIN  
IEntry of a street name  
AT  
B
Do not enter the type of street such as ST, AVE, PL, LN,  
or RD as the search may not perform successfully.  
Caution  
GExamples  
Street : 33RD ST  
Enter by selecting characters:  
BORDE  
CROSS  
3 3 R D  
BUSINE  
FACILIT  
EMERG  
HO  
P
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
1
2
HOTEL  
MOTEL  
Select the characters  
on the screen.  
Select  
and press  
To enter the  
zip code,  
house  
: Move the cursor to the previous position  
and delete a character.  
number,  
and other.  
: Space  
22  
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POI Icons on Maps / Zipcode Entry  
POI (Point of Interest) Icons  
I
ENTER  
ENTER  
The following are POI icons shown on maps.  
LEISURE/  
RECREATION  
AUTO SERVICES  
NAMED PLACE  
AUTO REPAIR  
AMUSEMENT PARK  
CASINO  
PUBLIC  
FACILITY  
s
AUTOMOBILE  
ASSOCIATION  
CITY HALL  
GAS STATION  
PARK & RIDE  
GOLF COURSE  
COMMUNITY CENTER  
HISTORICAL  
MONUMENT  
COURT HOUSE  
PARKING GARAGE  
PARKING LOT  
MARINA  
EXHIBITION OR  
ng starts  
cter  
CONFERENCE CENTER  
MUSEUM  
LIBRARY  
SCHOOL  
RENTAL CAR  
FACILITY  
PARKS AND  
RECREATION  
not in the  
ep 1,  
ters.  
REST AREA  
SKI RESORT  
UNIVERSITY OR  
COLLEGE  
STADIUM / ARENA  
THEATER  
RESTAURANT  
BANKING  
TOURIST  
ATM  
N,  
ATTRACTION  
SHOPPING  
TOURIST INFORMATI0N  
WINERY  
BANK  
GROCERY STORE  
SHOPPING CENTER  
BORDER  
CROSSING  
TRANS -  
PORTATION  
BUSINESS  
FACILITY  
AIRPORT  
EMERGENCY  
BUS STATION  
HOSPITAL  
FERRY TERMINAL  
POLICE STATION  
LIGHT RAIL  
STATION  
ENTER  
HOTEL OR  
MOTEL  
TRAIN STATION  
s
ENTER  
s position  
23  
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Direct destination input  
Afte  
ENTER  
Position the cursor on your  
destination on the map  
Scroll the map and change the map scale if necessary.  
Route  
search  
cancellat  
ENTER  
ENTER  
Select  
ENTER  
Direct  
destination  
input  
Whole  
route  
(
page 21)  
display  
(while o  
current  
position  
map)  
Select a route search method  
G
You can determine whether or not to use a highway if there is a  
highway within a radius of about 300ft from the crosshair cursor position.  
[Choose Highway]  
: Highway is used.  
: Highway is not used.  
Notes  
GA point near the crosshair cursor position can be a  
destination if there is not a destination point at the  
specified point.  
GA POI icon will be a destination if there is a POI icon close to  
the crosshair cursor.  
Delete  
destinati  
(while o  
current  
position  
map)  
ENTER  
Select  
ENTER  
ENTER  
Driving to  
the nearest  
POI  
(within a  
radius of  
about 6 mile)  
Select the POI category  
GIcon list (  
page 23)  
Select an icon from the list that you would  
like to go to.  
G
The 20 closest destinations to your current position appear.  
(
page21)  
Select a route search method  
Note  
When there is no POI that you would like to go to, then  
[POI Not Found] will appear.  
24  
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After routing  
During route search  
essary.  
ENTER  
Select  
ENTER  
ENTER  
Route  
search  
cancellation  
ENTER  
After route search  
Whole  
route  
ENTER  
ENTER  
Select  
Select  
ENTER  
age 21)  
ere is a  
cursor position.  
display  
(while on  
current  
position  
map)  
a
on close to  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
Delete  
destination  
(while on  
current  
position  
map)  
ER  
ou would  
sition appear.  
page21)  
go to, then  
25  
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Do n  
Do no  
the m  
distra  
vehic  
This function allows you to search  
for alternative routes to the same  
destination.  
Warning  
Route Changes  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
1 2  
Open Pop up Menu  
Select a r  
(while on current position map)  
Alternative  
route  
search  
GMaximum 3  
Select str  
Avoid  
streets  
GStreets to a  
Select the first point that  
you would like to go by on  
the way to your destination.  
Select the se  
and followin  
points  
I
Via point  
Delete a v  
I
Select a point t  
Detour  
distance  
G
Refer to pag  
Notes  
GThe detour  
GYou can set  
opens. It wi  
GIf you add a  
may not be  
26  
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Do not keep your eyes fixed on the monitor screen or operate the system while driving  
Do not change the settings and destination locations while driving. Minimize the time spent viewing  
the monitor screen and listening to the voice guidance while driving. Operating the system will  
distract the driver from looking ahead of the vehicle and may cause an accident. Always stop the  
vehicle in a safe location and use the parking brake before operating the system.  
to search  
the same  
Warning  
ENTER  
Select a route  
GMaximum 3 routes (including the current one) appear.  
Select streets to avoid  
GStreets to avoid become gray  
e first point that  
d like to go by on  
o your destination.  
Use the point search  
and entry by  
following the same  
steps in"Destination  
Entry and Route  
Search"  
Select the second  
and following via  
points  
I
When adding a new point between the  
current position and the first point  
When adding a new point between the  
first point and the destination  
(
page 20, 21)  
Delete a via point  
I
Select a point that you would like to delete.  
G
Refer to page 32 for designating the detour distance.  
Notes  
GThe detour may be longer than the distance you specified.  
GYou can set up to five Via points. If you try to add a sixth point, then the [Delete] menu  
opens. It will prompt you to delete a currently selected point.  
GIf you add a Via point near your current position when adding points, then Avoid Highway  
may not be selected with the route search method in some cases.  
27  
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GUp to 100 points can be stored.  
GEach stored point is memorized with its  
name and icon, and shown on the map.  
Marked Point  
ENTE  
ENTER  
POS  
ENTER  
/
1
2
3
Marking  
your  
current  
position  
POS  
Press  
to display  
the current position  
ENTER  
Move  
to  
position the crosshair  
cursor on a point to be marked  
Marking  
any point  
on the map  
ENTER  
ENTER  
select  
ENTER  
ENTER  
MENU  
1
2
Open [Setup Menu]  
Select a m  
point from  
Changing  
a marked  
point icon  
Select  
Select  
Renaming  
a marked  
point (User  
POI)  
G
Information  
the marked  
appears.  
Deleting  
a marked  
point  
28  
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d.  
d with its  
the map.  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
3
I
Stop your vehicle before doing the following operations:  
Do not change the settings and destination locations while driving.  
Minimize the time spent viewing the monitor screen and listening  
to the voice guidance while driving.  
Warning  
Operating the system will distract the driver from looking ahead of  
the vehicle and may cause an accident. Always stop the vehicle in  
a safe location and use the parking brake before operating the  
system.  
Note  
If the same point is stored in “Marking Your Current  
Position”, then it is registered with one local name on the  
list. If the same point is stored in different processes, for  
example, as in “Marking Your Current Position” and  
“Marking Any Point on the Map”, then two local names,  
identical to each other, will be shown on the list.  
NTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
3
Select an icon  
Select a marked  
point from the list  
Enter a name  
G
Information about  
the marked point  
appears.  
29  
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GThe setting is a variable to suit your preferences.  
Setu  
Setup  
IStop your vehicle before the following operations  
ME  
Do not change the settings and destination locations while driving. Minimize the time spent viewing the  
monitor screen and listening to the voice guidance while driving. Operating the system will  
distract the driver from looking ahead of the vehicle and may cause an accident.  
1
2
Warning  
Always stop the vehicle in a safe location and put the parking brake on before operating the system.  
ENT  
MENU  
ENTER select  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER  
1
2
: D  
Open th  
screen  
: Default  
Map setting (  
page 31)  
page 32)  
Open  
[Setup Menu]  
Route setting (  
System setting (  
page 33)  
ENT  
(
page 9)  
Map area, Map disc (DVD) version and software  
version appear.  
You can check your route from the starting point to the  
destination.  
This function is available after route setup is performed.  
(
(
page 28)  
page 28)  
You can change and delete marked points.  
GOn : Icons on a map.  
GOff : No icon on a map.  
When the actual position of your  
vehicle is different from the vehicle  
position on a map  
Restoring  
defaults  
I
ENTER  
ENTER  
Change the vehicle position.  
IHow to  
ENTER  
Change the vehicle direction.  
: Rotation in a clockwise direction by 11.25°.  
: Rotation in a counterclockwise direction  
by 11.25°.  
30  
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Map  
Setup  
ENTER  
MENU  
select  
ENTER  
nt viewing the  
ill  
1
2
he system.  
ENTER  
ENTER select  
ENTER  
ENTER  
3
ENTER  
: Default  
Open the [Map]  
screen  
IColor (daytime)  
)
32)  
IColor (nighttime)  
33)  
ENTER  
IMap Direction  
G
G
North Up : Geographic north is always up on the map.  
Head Up : The direction you are going is always up on the  
map.  
oftware  
IVehicle Position  
t to the  
formed.  
GCenter : The current vehicle position indicator is displayed  
in the center of the screen.  
GOff Ctr : The current vehicle position indicator is displayed  
at the bottom of the screen.  
s.  
IPOI Icon  
G
G
On : POI icons appear in their marked positions.  
Off : POI icons do not appear in their marked positions.  
of your  
e vehicle  
ITrace Mark  
IHow to exit  
G
G
On : The traced route is marked.  
Off : The traced route is not marked.  
ENTER  
tion by 11.25°.  
se direction  
31  
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Route  
Setup  
Setu  
ME  
MENU  
ENTER select  
ENTER  
1
2
1
2
ENTER select  
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTE  
ENTER  
3
: Default  
: D  
IDetour (mile/km)  
Open the [Route]  
screen  
Open th  
[System  
screen  
The detouring distance is specified.  
G1  
G2  
G5  
: 1 mile/km  
: 2 mile/km  
: 5 mile/km  
G
G
10 : 10 mile/km  
20 : 20 mile/km  
IAuto Re-route  
G
On : Searching for another route is activated to go back  
to the original route when you drive away from it.  
Off : No search takes place.  
EN  
G
Usually, this function should be set to [ON].  
ISystem Mode  
GMap : The map mode  
GGuide : The guide mode map  
IZoom  
GOn : The intersection zoom map appears automatically  
when approaching an intersection.  
Off : The zoom function is not activated when approaching  
an intersection.  
G
IEstimated Travel Time  
G
On : The estimated travel time is announced by  
voice guidance, and displayed on the current  
vehicle map.  
GOff : No announce  
IHow to  
IHow to exit  
ENTER  
32  
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System  
Setup  
MENU  
select  
ENTER  
ENTER  
1
2
ENTER  
ENTER  
ENTER select  
ENTER  
ENTER  
3
: Default  
IVolume control (5 levels)  
Open the  
[System Setup]  
screen  
Sets the volume for voice guidance and voice feedback*.  
When the volume is set to 0, the voice is turned off.  
IBeep  
GOn : Beep activated when pressing buttons in the  
remote control.  
G
Off : Beep inactivated when pressing buttons in the  
remote control.  
go back  
om it.  
ENTER  
IVoice Feedback*  
G
G
On : Activates voice feedback.  
Off : Cancels voice feedback.  
IClock  
ILanguage  
atically  
IChangeover meter/mile  
proaching  
G
G
Metric : Meters  
English : Miles  
IDaylight Saving Time(Summer Time)  
nt  
G
On : Daylight saving time mode is enabled.  
(The navigation internal clock gains 1 hour).  
Off : Daylight saving time mode is disabled.  
G
IHow to exit  
ENTER  
* The operation status is announced by voice.  
(e.g. changing the map orientation, starting or terminating  
the route calculation, staring or terminating the simulation,  
displaying the maneuver list.)  
33  
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Precautions/System Performance  
Voice Guidance  
GThe navigation system is just a support system for the driver. The driver should always  
pay attention to the traffic situation to safely make decisions. You may be unable at  
times to arrive at your destination due to out-of-date information on a map disc. You  
should be especially careful when selecting an urgent destination such as a hospital or  
a police station.  
Warnings  
G Your route may sometimes include roads that are not open to vehicles or are closed  
due to traffic regulations. Please comply with the local traffic regulations.  
G Do not change the settings and destination locations while driving. Minimize the time  
spent viewing the monitor screen and listening to the voice guidance while driving.  
Operating the system will distract the driver from looking ahead of the vehicle and may  
cause an accident. Always stop the vehicle in a safe location and use the parking brake  
before operating the system.  
GIf you are u  
takes about  
position.  
IGPS sign  
Voice guidance has the following functions:  
IIntersection guidance  
GThe system voice announces the distance to an upcoming turn and the turning direction.  
a
This guidance function is automatic. Therefore, you do not have to set it, and it cannot  
be disabled.  
GThe system vocally announces the distance to an upcoming highway  
In tunnels  
branching point or junction.  
GThe GPS sa  
lower positi  
GThere may  
turning on t  
a
This guidance function can be set in the [Setup menu]. For details, see page 32.  
Route  
Second branching point  
First branching point  
150m  
Roundabout.  
Take the second  
exit.  
Left turn ahead,  
then right turn.  
100m  
This functio  
disc, applies  
and displays  
In 700m left turn.  
GIntelligent m  
in vehicle p  
When two intersections are close together,  
the voice guidance may be late.  
When two roundabouts are close together,  
the voice guidance for the second may be late.  
Automatic Distance Correction  
GThe mobile navigation system calculates and indicates the vehicle position on the map by  
multiplying the speed pulse emitted by the vehicle with a correction coefficient.  
The speed pulse emitted varies with the type of vehicle and with differences in tire  
pressure and wear.  
A different correction coefficient might even be required for the same type of vehicle.  
GUsing a spare tire in place of the regular one may cause vehicle position deviations.  
GUsing a spa  
GAny differen  
on the map  
34  
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ance  
GPS  
GPS is a position detecting system utilizing the signals from  
GPS satellites deployed by the U.S. Department of Defense.  
The Mobile Navigation System uses input from three or more  
satellites and calculates the vehicle position based on the  
principle of triangulation.  
uld always  
able at  
sc. You  
hospital or  
The positioning accuracy of the system corresponds to the  
error display of the GPS which is from about 30 to 200 meters.  
e closed  
e the time  
riving.  
e and may  
rking brake  
GIf you are using the system for the first time, or if you have not used it for some time, it  
takes about 5 minutes (or about 2 minutes in open areas) to calculate your vehicle's  
position.  
IGPS signal reception is poor in the following places  
direction.  
nd it cannot  
In tunnels  
Among high-rise buildings Under elevated roads  
In wooded areas  
GThe GPS satellites are controlled by the U.S. Defense Department, which may intentionally  
lower positioning accuracy. In such cases, there may be vehicle position deviations.  
GThere may be vehicle position deviations for some time until GPS signals are received after  
turning on the ignition.  
e 32.  
bout.  
second  
Map Matching  
This function compares your vehicle's tracking data with the road data on the map  
disc, applies dead reckoning to determine the road you are driving on,  
and displays your vehicle on that road on the map.  
GIntelligent map matching addresses the following problems to achieve high accuracy  
in vehicle positioning.  
Position Correction for Elevated Roads  
Position accuracy is improved by detecting if  
the vehicle is running on or under an elevated road.  
ogether,  
may be late.  
Position Correction for Parking Garages  
Position accuracy is improved by detecting if the vehicle  
is driving in an elevated or underground parking garage.  
High-precision Gyrosensor  
A gyro detects turns with an accuracy of 0.05˚ per second.  
Combined with a speed sensor, it enables the system to display  
the current vehicle position even where GPS signals may be  
blocked.  
the map by  
tire  
GUsing a spare tire in place of the regular one may cause vehicle position deviations.  
GAny difference between the direction which your vehicle actually travels and that shown  
on the map is automatically eliminated by azimuth correction.  
ehicle.  
tions.  
35  
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The n  
atten  
destin  
when  
Precautions/System Performance  
Warning  
Positioning Accuracy  
In the following situations, your vehicle position may not be displayed correctly on the map. But, as you  
keep driving, your vehicle position will be automatically corrected utilizing map matching and GPS data.  
Although yo  
wrong with t  
The  
sho  
pas  
in w  
reas  
Entering an intersection  
Making a turn after Running on a steep Running on a spiral  
Running on an  
elevated road  
where a road branches  
off at a small angle  
driving on a long  
straight road  
mountain road  
road  
CAR FERRY  
STOP  
After getting off a  
ferryboat or  
vehicle train  
When your vehicle  
is on a turntable  
with the ignition  
turned off  
Running on a  
slippery road with  
tire chains  
Running on gridiron  
layout of roads  
Snaking on a  
wide road  
Route Guide  
Although you may encounter the following problems in route guide, there is nothing wrong  
with the system.  
In 300 m  
right turn  
?
Left turn  
ahead  
For certain intersection shapes, the  
upcoming turn or the name of the  
intersection may not be announced.  
For certain intersection shapes, you  
may be prompted to turn right or left  
When you should actually stay on the  
same road.  
Voice guidance for the planned route  
may continue even after you have  
deviated from that route such as  
having turned too early.  
The ro  
reach  
your d  
destin  
direct  
the ro  
m
0
0
3
In 300 m  
right turn  
m
0
Some points where the road divides  
on highways or toll roads may not  
be displayed or announced.  
The Intersection Zoom Map may not The announced distance to an  
always agree with the actual shape  
of the intersection.  
upcoming turn may differ slightly  
from reality.  
36  
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The navigation system is just a support system for the driver. The driver should always pay  
attention to the traffic situation to safely make decisions. You may be unable to arrive at your  
destination due to out-of-date information on a map disc. You should be especially careful  
when selecting an urgent destination such as a hospital or a police station.  
nce  
Warning  
Route Search  
ap. But, as you  
and GPS data.  
Although you may encounter the following problems in a route search, there is nothing  
wrong with the system.  
The guide map may  
It may also show roads  
show roads that are not  
that are out of use due  
passable due to closure  
to the opening of a new  
in winter or for other  
road or for other  
reasons.  
It may also show  
roads that only permit  
one-way traffic.  
reasons.  
ng an intersection  
a road branches  
a small angle  
Road  
out of  
use  
Destination  
CAR FERRY  
?
?
?
which  
exit?  
Depending upon the shape of  
roundabout (rotary), the guide  
map may show a wrong exit.  
getting off a  
oat or  
e train  
?
• There may be cases  
where the route remains  
unchanged after another  
search.  
• A congested route may  
be shown.  
Destination  
othing wrong  
?
?
?
Destination  
e planned route  
ter you have  
ute such as  
ly.  
It may show a  
common road under  
or over an elevated  
road.  
The route shown only  
reaches a point near  
your destination if your  
destination has no  
direct access road or  
the road is too narrow.  
m
0
It may show a route  
where you'll have to  
make a U-turn.  
?
nce to an  
ffer slightly  
Destination  
37  
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Verification First  
Troubleshooting  
Note  
There may be some problems due to operational errors or mistakes. Please read this  
manual again and verify that there really is a problem before calling an Authorized Mazda  
Dealer to ask for repair services.  
Symptom  
Check point  
Sympto  
No GPS sy  
are display  
GCheck if a fuse has been blown.  
a
Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
No picture  
GCheck if the voltage level of the vehicle battery is low.  
a
Recharge the battery or change batteries.  
The vehicle  
position is  
displayed  
GCheck if the vehicle position changed when ACC was set to  
OFF.  
When, for example,  
The vehicle  
position is not  
correct  
G
G
G
The vehicle was transported by a ferry boat.  
The vehicle was rotated on a turn table in a parking lot.  
The vehicle was transported by a tow track or other such  
vehicle.  
Drive the vehicle for a while where you are receiving  
GPS signals.  
No voice gu  
a
Buttons in  
remote con  
do not bee  
No map disp  
(blank scre  
38  
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First  
d this  
ed Mazda  
Symptom  
Check point  
GGPS signals may not be received because of obstructions.  
After moving the vehicle away from obstructions, the GPS  
signals can be received.  
No GPS symbols  
are displayed  
low.  
The vehicle  
position is not  
displayed  
GCheck if the mode is set to the map mode.  
a
Press  
POS  
GCheck if the volume control for the voice guidance is  
adjusted to zero.  
was set to  
GCheck if the vehicle is off the route.  
a
Repeat the route search while checking the route guide  
screen.  
No voice guidance  
king lot.  
her such  
GCheck if you are driving the vehicle in the wrong direction on  
the route.  
a
Repeat the route search checking the direction of the  
destination.  
ceiving  
Buttons in the  
remote control  
do not beep  
GCheck if [Beep] is set to [Off] (  
page 33).  
No map displayed  
(blank screen)  
GCheck if the disc is wet, scratched, or dewy.  
39  
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Error Messages  
Troubleshooting  
Main  
Error message  
Solution  
Cleaning  
Use a dry,  
I
I
I
Route  
GChange your destination and route, and repeat the route  
Calculation failed  
search.  
Cautions  
Never use so  
Map disc  
If you require  
please refer  
GThe disc is wet, dirty, scratched, or upside down, or the disc  
Cannot Read Disc  
cannot be played with this unit.  
a
Eject the disc and check it.  
GWhen the message appears in the opening screen:  
IMa  
This  
spe  
by u  
use  
a
Check if the map disc is wet from condensation,  
scratched, or dirty. If the same message is displayed  
when this operation is repeated after checking, then  
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
Caution  
Accessing Data  
Please wait....  
GWhen the message appears during operation:  
a
If the same message appears after repeating the  
operation, then consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.  
How to h  
GDo not to  
GDo not m  
GDo not be  
I
I
I
G
When not  
Please Select  
another point.  
* When entering  
your destination  
Unable to select  
Destination.  
Disc Clea  
GUse a dry  
GChange your destination and route, and repeat the route  
search.  
Do not le  
GDirect su  
GNear car  
GIn dirty, d  
GOn seats  
40  
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sages  
Maintenance  
Care of the Product  
Cleaning this product  
Use a dry, soft cloth to wipe it.  
I
I
I
e route  
Cautions for cleaning  
Never use solvents such as benzene and thinners they may mar the surface of the unit.  
Map disc  
or the disc  
If you require the latest map disc, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer. For latest map disc information,  
please refer to "Map Related Issues" on page 9.  
Handling and Care of Map Discs  
n:  
IMap Disc  
n,  
This unit supports only DVD-SDAL-formatted map disc (SEAMLESS) that NAVTECH has  
played  
, then  
Caution  
specifically designed for this unit. Mazda shall not be liable for any damages caused  
by using other formatted discs. Make sure to specify that a disc should be exclusively  
used for this product when you purchase it.  
he  
How to hold the disc  
Dealer.  
I
I
I
Label side  
GDo not touch the underside of the disc.  
GDo not make scratches on the disc.  
GDo not bend the disc.  
G
When not in use, keep the disc in the case.  
Disc Cleaning  
GUse a dry, soft cloth to wipe from the center outward.  
e route  
<Right>  
<Wrong>  
Do not leave discs in the following places:  
GDirect sunlight  
GNear car heaters  
GIn dirty, dusty and damp areas  
GOn seats and dashboards  
41  
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