Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
Passing
For extra power when passing another vehicle or climbing steep grades, depress the accelerator fully. The transaxle will shift to a lower gear, depending on vehicle speed.
Climbing steep grades from a stop
To climb a steep grade from a stopped position:
1.Depress the brake pedal.
2.Shift to D or 1, depending on the load weight and grade steepness.
3.Release the brake pedal while gradually accelerating.
Descending steep grades
When descending a steep grade, shift to 2 or 1, depending on load weight and grade steepness. Descend slowly, using the brakes only occasionally to prevent them from overheating.
Power Steering
Power steering is only operable when the engine is running. If the engine is off or if the power steering system is inoperable, you can still steer, but it requires more physical effort.
If the steering feels stiffer than usual during normal driving, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
qPower Steering Malfunction Indicator Light
This indicator light illuminates or flashes when the ignition is switched ON, and turns off when the engine is started.
If the light remains illuminated or flashing after the engine is started, or illuminates while driving, turn off the engine after parking in a safe place, and then start the engine again.
If the light does not illuminate after restarting the engine, this indicates that the power steering is restored and normal steering is possible.
If the light remains illuminated, the power steering is still inoperable. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
