brakes MAZDA MODEL MPV 2003 (in English) User Guide

5-11
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G

Overdrive
Overdrive operation
In D, the transaxle automatically shifts to
overdrive, which improves fuel economy
and reduces noise.
To allow engine braking when going
down a steep grade, make sure the
overdrive button is in the off position.
And for a smoother ride with less shifting,
don’t use it when:
•Going up a steep grade.
•Driving in stop-and-go traffic.
•Pulling heavy loads.
To turn off the overdrive, push the
button.
The transaxle will then shift through a 4-
gear sequence in D.
Shift patterns without overdrive:
D = 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th
3 = 2nd, 3rd
2 = 2nd
To turn it on, push the button again.
Shift patterns with overdrive:
D = 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th
3 = 2nd, 3rd
2 = 2ndO/D OFF indicator light
This light comes on when the overdrive
has been turned off.

Driving Tips
Passing
For extra power when passing another
vehicle or climbing steep grades, depress
the accelerator fully. The transaxle will
shift to a lower gear, depending on vehicle
speed.
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 2, depending on the load
weight and grade steepness.
3. Release all brakes while gradually
accelerating.
Overdrive button
If the overdrive-off indicator light
flashes, the transaxle has an electrical
problem. Continuing to drive your
Mazda in this condition could cause
damage to your transaxle. Consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as
possible.
CAUTION
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5-12
Driving Your Mazda
Starting and Driving
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G
Descending steep grades
When descending a steep grade, shift to 3
or 2, depending on load weight and grade
steepness. Descend slowly, using the
brakes only occasionally to prevent them
from overheating.Power steering is only operable when the
engine is running. If the engine is off or if
the power steering system is inoperable,
you can still steer, but it requires more
physical effort.
If the steering feels rigid during normal
driving, consult an Authorized Mazda
Dealer.Power Steering
Never hold the steering wheel to the
extreme left or right for more than 5
seconds with the engine running.
This could damage the power steering
system.
CAUTION
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5-25
Driving Your Mazda
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beeps
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G

Brake System Warning Light
This warning has the following functions:
Parking brake warning
The light comes on when the parking
brake is applied with the ignition switch
in the START or ON position. It goes off
when the parking brake is fully released.
Low brake fluid level warning/
Electronic brake force distribution
system warning
If the light stays on after the parking brake
is fully released, you may have a brake
problem.
Drive to the side of the road and park off
the right-of-way.
Low brake fluid level warning
You may notice that the pedal is harder to
push or that it may go closer to the floor.
In either case, it will take longer to stop
the vehicle.
1. With the engine stopped, check the
brake fluid level immediately and add
fluid as required (page 8-13).
2. After adding fluid, check the light
again.If the warning light remains on, or if the
brakes do not operate properly, do not
drive the vehicle. Have it towed to an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
Even if the light goes off, have your brake
system inspected as soon as possible.
Electronic 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.
In this case, the ABS warning light comes
on at the same time (page 5-27).
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5-26
Driving Your Mazda
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beeps
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G

Charging System Warning Light
This warning light comes on when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON
position and goes off when the engine is
started.
If the warning light comes on 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.

Engine Oil Pressure Warning
Light
This warning light indicates low engine
oil pressure.
If the light comes on while driving:
1. Drive to the side of the road and park
off the right-of-way.
Brake Warning Light:
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, have the brakes
inspected immediately. Don’t drive
with this light on, and contact an
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the
brakes inspected as soon as possible.
ABS Warning Light and Brake
Warning Light on at the Same Time:
Driving when the brake system
warning light and ABS warning light
are on at the same time is dangerous.
When both lights are on, the rear
wheels could lock more quickly in an
emergency stop than under normal
circumstances.
Don’t drive with both lights on, and
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer
to have the brakes inspected as soon
as possible.
WARNING
Don’t continue driving when the
charging system warning light is
illuminated.
CAUTION
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5-27
Driving Your Mazda
Warning/Indicator Lights and Beeps
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G
2. Turn off the engine and inspect the
engine oil level (page 8-9). If it’s low,
add oil.
3. Check the light.
If the light remains on even after you add
oil, have your vehicle towed to the nearest
service station or to an Authorized Mazda
Dealer.

Check 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.
The check engine light may come on in
the following cases:
•The fuel tank level being very low or
approaching empty.
•The engine’s electrical system has a
problem.
•The emission control system has a
problem.
•The fuel-filler cap is missing or not
tightened securely.If the check engine light flashes
continuously, decrease your speed and
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as
soon as possible.

ABS Warning Light
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.
Should this happen, consult an Authorized
Mazda Dealer as soon as possible. Don’t run the engine if oil pressure is
low. It could result in extensive engine
damage.
CAUTION
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.
WARNING
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8-3
Maintenance and Care
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G
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).
•Repeated short-distance driving
•Driving in dusty conditions
•Driving with extended use of brakes
•Driving in areas where salt or other corrosive materials are being used
•Driving on rough or muddy roads
•Extended periods of idling or low-speed operation
•Driving for long periods in cold temperatures or extremely humid climates
•Towing a trailer
Scheduled Maintenance
NOTE
After the prescribed period, continue to follow the described maintenance at the
recommended intervals.
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8-4
Maintenance and Care
Scheduled Maintenance
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G

Schedule 1
I:
Inspect and repair, clean, adjust, or replace if necessary.
R:
Replace
L:
Lubricate
C:
Clean
ENGINE
IGNITION SYSTEM
FUEL SYSTEM
COOLING SYSTEM
CHASSIS and BODY
AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEM (if equipped)
*
1According to state 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 kilometrage (mileage) period to ensure long-term reliability. Maintenance Interval
(Number of months
or kilometers (miles),
whichever comes first)Months 6 12182430364248
×1000 km 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96
×1000 miles 7.5 15 22.5 30 37.5 45 52.5 60
Engine oilRRRRRRRR
Engine oil filterRRRRRRRR
Drive belts II
PCV valve
*1I
Spark plugs (Platinum tipped type)Replace every 160,000 km (100,000 miles)
Air filterCR C
Fuel lines and hoses
*1II
Cooling systemII
Engine coolantReplace at first 72,000 km (45,000 miles) or 36 months ;
after that, every 48,000 km (30,000 miles) or 24 months
Brake lines, hoses and connectionsII
Brake fluidRR
Disc brakesII
Drum brakesII
Steering operation and linkagesII
Front suspension ball jointsII
Driveshaft dust bootsII
Bolts and nuts on chassis and bodyII
Exhaust system heat shieldsII
All locks and hingesLLLLLLLL
Refrigerant amountIIII
Compressor operationIIII
Cabin air filter (if equipped)Replace once a year or every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
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8-5
Maintenance and Care
Scheduled Maintenance
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G

Schedule 2
I:
Inspect and repair, clean, adjust, or replace if necessary.
R:
Replace L :
Lubricate C :
Clean
ENGINE
IGNITION SYSTEM
FUEL SYSTEM
COOLING SYSTEM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
CHASSIS and BODY
AIR CONDITIONER SYSTEM (if equipped)
*
1According to state 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 kilometrage
(mileage) period to ensure long-term reliability.
*
2If the vehicle is operated under any of the following conditions, change the spark plugs every 96,000 km(60,000 miles) or
shorter.
a)Repeated short-distance driving
b)Extended periods of idling or low-speed operation
c)Driving for long periods in cold temperatures or extremely humid climates
d)Towing a trailerMaintenance Interval
(Number of months or
kilometers (miles),
whichever comes first)Months 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48
×1000 km 8 16 24 32 40 48 56 64 72 80 88 96
×1000 miles 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
Engine oilPuerto RicoReplace every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 3 months
OthersRRRRRRRRRRRR
Engine oil filterRRRRRRRRRRRR
Drive belts II
PCV valve
*1I
Hoses and tubes for emission(Puerto Rico)I
Spark plugs (Platinum
tipped type)USAReplace every 96,000 km (60,000 miles)
Others
*2Replace every 160,000 km (100,000 miles)
Air filterPuerto RicoCRCR
OthersCR C
Fuel lines and hoses
*1I I
Cooling systemII
Engine coolantReplace at first 72,000 km (45,000 miles) or 36 months ;
after that, every 48,000 km (30,000 miles) or 24 months
Engine coolant levelIIIIIIIIIIII
Function of all lightsIIIIIIIIIIII
Brake lines, hoses and connectionsII
Brake fluidRR
Brake fluid level IIIIIIIIIIII
Disc brakesIIII
Drum brakes I I
Tire inflation pressure and tire wearIIIIIIIIIIII
Steering operation and linkagesII
Power steering fluid levelIIIIIIIIIIII
Front suspension ball jointsII
Driveshaft dust bootsII
Bolts and nuts on chassis and bodyIIII
Exhaust system heat shieldsII
All locks and hingesLLLLLLLLLLLL
Washer fluid levelIIIIIIIIIIII
Refrigerant amountIIII
Compressor operationIIII
Cabin air filter (if equipped)Replace once a year or every 20,000 km (12,000 miles)
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8-14
Maintenance and Care
Owner Maintenance
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G

Adding Brake Fluid
If the fluid level is low, add fluid until it
reaches MAX.
Before adding fluid, thoroughly clean the
area around the cap.

Inspecting Power Steering Fluid
Level
Inspect the fluid level in the reservoir at
each engine oil change with the engine off
and cold. Add fluid if necessary; it does
not require periodic changing.
The level must be kept between MIN and
MAX.
Visually examine the lines and hoses for
leaks and damage.
If new fluid is required frequently, consult
an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
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.
Low Brake Fluid Levels:
Low brake 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 inspected.
•Brake fluid will damage painted
surfaces. If brake fluid does get on a
painted surface, wipe it off
immediately.
•Using nonspecified brake fluids
(page 10-4) will damage the system.
Mixing different fluids will also
damage it.
If the brake system frequently
requires new fluid, consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
WARNING
CAUTION
Power Steering Fluid
To avoid damage to the power steering
pump, don’t operate the vehicle for
long periods when the power steering
fluid level is low.
NOTE
Use specified power steering fluid
(page 10-4).
CAUTION
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8-41
Maintenance and Care
Appearance Care
Form No. 8R21-EA-02G
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.
Thoroughly rinse off all soap with
lukewarm or cold water. Don’t allow soap
to dry on the finish.
After washing the vehicle, dry it with a
clean chamois to prevent water spots from
forming.
Wa x i n g
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.
1. Use wax which contains no abrasives.
Waxes containing abrasive will remove
paint and could damage bright metal
parts.
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.
4. Wipe off the wax with a soft cloth.

Repairing 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.

Bright-Metal Maintenance
•Use tar remover to remove road tar and
insects. Never do this with a knife or
similar tool.
•To prevent corrosion on bright-metal
surfaces, apply wax or chrome
preservative and rub it to a high luster.
•During cold weather or in coastal
areas, 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.
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.
WARNING
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.
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.
CAUTION
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