warning MAZDA MODEL 3 HATCHBACK 2021 Owners Manual

Brake System
▼Foot Brake
This vehicle has power-assisted brakes
that adjust automatically through
normal use.

Should power-assist fail, you can stop
by applying greater force than normal
to the brake pedal. But the distance
required to stop will be greater than
usual.
WARNING
Do not coast with the engine stalled
or turned o
ff, fi nd a safe place to stop:
Coasting with the engine stalled or
turned o ff is dangerous. Braking will
require more e ffort, and the brake's
power-assist could be depleted if you
pump the brake. This will cause longer
stopping distances or even an
accident.
Shift to a lower gear when going
down steep hills:
Driving with your foot continuously on
the brake pedal or steadily applying
the brakes for long distances is
dangerous. This causes overheated
brakes, resulting in longer stopping
distances or even total brake failure.
This could cause loss of vehicle control
and a serious accident. Avoid
continuous application of the brakes.
Dry o ff brakes that have become wet
by driving slowly, releasing the
accelerator pedal and lightly applying
the brakes several times until the
brake performance returns to normal:
Driving with wet brakes is dangerous.
Increased stopping distance or the
vehicle pulling to one side when
braking could result in a serious
accident. Light braking will indicate
whether the brakes have been
a ff ected.
CAUTION
 Do not drive with your foot held on
the clutch pedal or brake pedal, or
hold the clutch pedal depressed
halfway unnecessarily. Doing so
could result in the following:
 The clutch and brake parts will
wear out more quickly.
 The brakes can overheat and
adversely
aff ect brake
performance.
 Always depress the brake pedal with
the right foot. Applying the brakes
with the unaccustomed left foot
could slow your reaction time to an
emergency situation resulting in
insu fficient braking operation.
 Wear shoes appropriate for driving in
order to avoid your shoe contacting
the brake pedal when depressing the
accelerator pedal.
When Driving
Brake
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▼Electric Parking Brake (EPB)
The EPB system applies the parking
brake using an electric motor. The
system can operate automatically and
manually.
The EPB switch indicator light turns on
when applying the parking brake and it
turns off
when releasing the parking
brake.
1. Indicator light
WARNING
Do not drive the vehicle with the
parking brake applied:
If the vehicle is driven with the parking
brake applied, the brake parts may
generate heat and the brake system
may not operate, leading to an
accident.
Before driving the vehicle, release the
parking brake and make sure that the
EPB indicator light in the instrument
cluster turns off.
Apply the parking brake when leaving
the vehicle:
Not applying the parking brake when
parking the vehicle is dangerous as the
vehicle may move unexpectedly and
result in an accident. Before leaving the
vehicle, apply the parking brake and
make sure that the EPB indicator light
in the instrument cluster turns on.
NOTE
The parking brake cannot be applied
or released while the vehicle battery
is dead.
Refer to If a Jump-Starting on page
7-17.
When the charging system warning
light in the instrument cluster turns
on, the parking brake cannot be
applied after switching the ignition
OFF. Before switching the ignition
OFF, apply the parking brake
manually.
The sound of the parking brake being
applied or released can be heard,
however, this does not indicate a
problem.
If the EPB is not used for long
periods, an automatic inspection of
the system is performed while the
vehicle is parked. An operation
sound can be heard, however, this
does not indicate a problem.
When applying the parking brake
and switching OFF the ignition, an
operation sound can be heard,
however, this does not indicate a
problem.
The brake pedal may move while
applying or releasing the parking
brake, however, this does not
indicate a problem.
When Driving
Brake
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NOTE
When canceling the parking brake
auto operation and parking the
vehicle, shift the shift lever to the 1st
gear or the R position for a manual
transmission, or shift the selector
lever to the P position for an
automatic transmission, and then
use wheel blocks.
The auto operation may not cancel if
the vehicle is parked on a steep
slope.
When the ignition is switched ON, the
parking brake auto operation is
restored.
▼ Warning Light
The warning light turns on when the
system has a malfunction.
Refer to Brake System Warning
Indication/Warning Light on page
7-27.
▼Brake 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.
When you hear this noise, consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as
possible.
WARNING
Do not drive 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.
NOTE
In high humidity weather conditions,
brake noises, such as brake squeak or
brake squeal can be heard. It does not
indicate a malfunction.
▼Brake Assist
During emergency braking situations
when it is necessary to depress the
brake pedal with greater force, the
brake assist system provides braking
assistance, thus
enhancing braking
performance.

When the brake pedal is depressed
hard or depressed more quickly, the
brakes apply more firmly.
NOTE
When the brake pedal is depressed
hard or depressed more quickly, the
pedal will feel softer but the brakes
will apply more firmly. This is a
normal eff ect of the brake assist
operation and does not indicate a
malfunction.
When the brake pedal is depressed
hard or depressed more quickly, a
motor/pump operation noise may
be heard. This is a normal e ffect of
the brake assist and does not
indicate a malfunction.
The brake assist equipment does not
supersede the functionality of the
vehicle's main braking system.
When Driving
Brake
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AUTOHOLD
▼AUTOHOLD
The AUTOHOLD function automatically holds the vehicle stopped, even if you take
your foot
off the brake pedal. This function can be best used while stopped in
traffic
or at a traffic light. The brakes are released when you start driving the vehicle.
WARNING
Do not rely completely on the AUTOHOLD function:
The AUTOHOLD function is only designed to assist the brake operation while the
vehicle is stopped. Neglecting to operate the brakes and relying only on the
AUTOHOLD system is dangerous and could result in an unexpected accident if the
vehicle were to suddenly move. Operate the brakes appropriately in accordance
with the road and surrounding conditions.
Do not release your foot from the brake pedal while the vehicle is stopped on a
steep grade:
Because there is a possibility of the vehicl
e not being held in the stopped position by
the AUTOHOLD function, the vehicle may move unexpectedly and result in an
accident.
Do not use the AUTOHOLD function on slippery roads such as icy or
snow-covered roads, or unpaved roads:
Even if the vehicle is held in the stopped position by the AUTOHOLD function, the
vehicle may move unexpectedly and result in an accident. Operate the accelerator
pedal, brakes, or steering wheel appropriately as necessary.
Immediately depress the brake pedal in the following cases:
Because the AUTOHOLD function is canceled forcibly, the vehicle may move
unexpectedly and result in an accident.
 “Depress Brake Pedal. Brake Hold Disabled” is displayed in the multi-information
display and the warning sound is activated at the same time.
Always apply the parking brake when parking the vehicle:
Not applying the parking brake when parking the vehicle is dangerous as the vehicle
may move unexpectedly and result in an accident. When parking the vehicle, shift
the selector lever to the P position (automatic transmission vehicle) and apply the
parking brake.
When Driving
Brake
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CAUTION
If you stop operating the accelerator pedal before the vehicle starts moving, the
force holding the vehicle in the stopped position may weaken. Firmly depress the
brake pedal or depress the accelerato r pedal to accelerate the vehicle.
NOTE
Under the following conditions, a problem with the AUTOHOLD is occurring.
Have your vehicle inspected at an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.
A message is indicated on the multi-information display and a warning sound is
activated for about 5 seconds while the AUTOHOLD is operating or when you
press the AUTOHOLD switch.
If you switch the ignition OFF while the AUTOHOLD is operating, the parking
brake is applied automatically to assist you with parking the vehicle.
The AUTOHOLD is canceled when the selector lever/shift lever is shifted to R
position while the vehicle is on level ground , or facing up a hill or grade (as shown
below).
Vehicle posture and road surface gradient AUTOHOLD operation status
Ve h i c l e t i l t s f o r wa r d
Operates
Level ground
Does not operate, canceled
Ve h i c l e t i l t s rea r wa rd
Does not operate, canceled
: Reverse driving (selector lever/shift lever in the reverse (R) position)
When Driving
Brake
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If any of the following conditions
occurs while the AUTOHOLD
function is operating (AUTOHOLD
active indicator light is turned on),
the parking brake is applied
automatically and the AUTOHOLD
function turns o ff. For the Electric
Parking Brake (EPB) operation, refer
to the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) on
page 4-66.
The ignition is switched OFF.There is a problem with the
AUTOHOLD function.
Hill Launch Assist (HLA)
▼ Hill Launch Assist (HLA)
The HLA functions to assist in
accelerating the vehicle from a stop on
slopes. When releasing the brake pedal
and depressing the accelerator pedal
to accelerate the vehicle from a stop
while on a slope, the function prevents
the vehicle from rolling. The HLA also
operates when reversing on a slope.
The braking force is maintained
automatically after releasing the brake
pedal on a steep slope.
For manual transmission vehicles, the
HLA operates when the vehicle is tilted
rearward with the shift lever in a
forward gear, and operates when the
vehicle is tilted forward with the shift
lever in the R position.
For automatic transmission vehicles,
the HLA operates when the vehicle is
tilted rearward with the selector lever
in a forward gear, and operates when
the vehicle is tilted forward with the
selector lever in the R position.
WARNING
Do not rely completely on HLA
:
HLA is an auxiliary device for
accelerating from a stop on a slope.
The system only operates for about 2
seconds and therefore, relying only on
the system, when accelerating from a
stop is dangerous because the vehicle
may move (roll) unexpectedly and
cause an accident.
The vehicle could roll depending on
the vehicle's load or if it is towing
something. In addition, for vehicles
with a manual transmission, the
vehicle could still roll depending on
how the clutch pedal or the accelerator
pedal is operated.
When Driving
Brake
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Antilock Brake System(ABS)
▼Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The ABS control unit continuously
monitors the speed of each wheel. If
one wheel 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 ABS system operation.
Continue to depress the brake pedal
without pumping the brakes.

The warning light turns on when the
system has a malfunction.
Refer to ABS Warning Indication/
Warning Light on page 7-30.
WARNING
Do not rely on ABS as a substitute for
safe driving:
The ABS cannot compensate for unsafe
and reckless driving , excessive speed,
tailgating (following another vehicle
too closely), driving on ice and snow,
and hydroplaning (reduced tire friction
and road contact because of water on
the road surface). You can still have an
accident.
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.
The sound of the ABS operating may
be heard when starting the engine or
immediately after starting the
vehicle, however, it does not indicate
a malfunction.
When Driving
ABS/TCS/DSC
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Tra c t i o n C o n t r o l Sy s te m(TCS)
▼Traction Control System (TCS)
The Traction Control System (TCS)
enhances traction and safety by
controlling engine torque and braking.
When the TCS detects driving wheel
slippage, it lowers engine torque and
operates the brakes to prevent loss of
traction.

This means that on a slick surface, the
engine adjusts automatically to provide
optimum power to the drive wheels,
limiting wheel spin and loss of traction.

The warning light turns on when the
system has a malfunction.
Refer to TCS/DSC Indication/
Indicator Light (Turns on) on page
7-32.
WARNING
Do not rely on the Traction Control
System (TCS) as a substitute for safe
driving:
The Traction Control System (TCS)
cannot compensate for unsafe and
reckless driving , excessive speed,
tailgating (following another vehicle
too closely), and hydroplaning
(reduced tire friction and road contact
because of water on the road surface).
You can still have an accident.
Use snow tires or tire chains and drive
at reduced speeds when roads are
covered with ice and/or snow:
Driving without proper traction devices
on snow and/or ice-covered roads is
dangerous. The Traction Control
System (TCS) alone cannot provide
adequate traction and you could still
have an accident.
NOTE
To t u r n o
ff the TCS, press the DSC OFF
switch (page 4-80).
▼ TCS/DSC Indicator Light
This indicator light stays on for a few
seconds when the ignition is switched
ON.
If the TCS or DSC is operating, the
indicator light
flashes.

If the light stays on, the TCS, DSC or
the brake assist system may have a
malfunction and they may not operate
correctly. Take your vehicle to an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
NOTE
In addition to the indicator light fl ashing , a slight lugging sound will
come from the engine. This indicates
that the TCS/DSC is operating
properly.
On slippery surfaces, such as fresh
snow, it will be impossible to achieve
high rpm when the TCS is on.
When Driving
ABS/TCS/DSC
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Dynamic Stability Control(DSC)
▼Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
automatically controls braking and
engine torque in conjunction with
systems such as ABS and TCS to help
control side slip when driving on
slippery surfaces, or during sudden or
evasive maneuvering, enhancing
vehicle safety.

Refer to ABS (page 4-77) and TCS
(page 4-78).

DSC operation is possible at speeds
greater than 20 km/h (12 mph).

The warning light turns on when the
system has a malfunction.
Refer to TCS/DSC Indication/
Indicator Light (Turns on) on page
7-32.
WARNING
Do not rely on the Dynamic Stability
Control as a substitute for safe
driving:
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
cannot compensate for unsafe and
reckless driving, excessive speed,
tailgating (following another vehicle
too closely), and hydroplaning
(reduced tire friction and road contact
because of water on the road surface).
You can still have an accident.
CAUTION

The DSC may not operate correctly
unless the following are observed:
 Use tires of the correct size
speci fied for your Mazda on all 4
wheels.
 Use tires of the same
manufacturer, brand and tread
pattern on all 4 wheels.
 Do not mix worn tires.
 The DSC may not operate correctly
when tire chains are used or a
temporary spare tire is installed
because the tire diameter changes.
NOTE
If there is a problem with the DSC, the
Hill Launch Assist (HLA) may not
operate.
Refer to Hill Launch Assist (HLA) on
page 4-75.
▼ TCS/DSC Indicator Light
This indicator light stays on for a few
seconds when the ignition is switched
ON. If the TCS or DSC is operating ,
the indicator light
flashes.

If the light stays on, the TCS, DSC or
the brake assist system may have a
malfunction and they may not operate
correctly. Take your vehicle to an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
When Driving
ABS/TCS/DSC
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i-ACTIV AWD Operation*
▼i-ACTIV AWD Operation
AWD provides excellent drivability on
snow-covered and ice-packed roads,
sand and mud, as well as on steep
slopes and other slippery surfaces.
A system malfunction or operation
conditions are indicated by a warning.
Refer to AWD Wa
rning Indication/
Warning Light on page 7-31.
WARNING
Never spin a wheel that is o ff the
ground:
Spinning a wheel that is o ff the ground
as a result of the vehicle being stuck or
in a ditch is dangerous. The drive
assembly could be seriously damaged
which could lead to an accident or
could even lead to overheating, oil
leakage, and a fire.
▼AWD Driving
This vehicle has not been designed for
the purpose of o
ff-road driving or
rallies. Do not attempt to drive over
uneven or rocky surfaces, or across
rivers.
Although this vehicle is equipped with
AWD, acceleration, steering and
braking operations should be
conducted in the same manner as with
a non-AWD vehicle, with the emphasis
placed on safe driving.
▼ Tires and Tire Chains
The condition of the tires plays a large
role in the performance of the vehicle.
Moreover, to prevent adverse eff
ects to
the drive assembly, please note the
following:
Tires
When replacing tires, always replace
all front and rear tires at the same
time.
All tires must be of the same size,
manufacture, brand and tread
pattern. Pay particular attention
when equipping snow or other types
of winter tires.
Do not mix tread-worn tires with
normal tires.
Inspect tire inflation pressures at the
speci fied periods adjust to the
speci fied pressures.
NOTE
Check the tire
inflation pressure label
attached to driver's door frame for the
correct tire inflation pressure.
Make sure to equip the vehicle with
genuine tires of the speci
fied size, on
all wheels. With AWD, the system is
calibrated for all 4 wheels being of
the same dimensions.
Tire chains
Install tire chains to the front tires.Do not use tire chains on the rear
wheels.
Do not drive the vehicle faster than
30 km/h (19 mph) with the tire
chains installed.
Do not drive the vehicle with tire
chains on road conditions other than
snow or ice.
▼ To w i n g
If the vehicle requires towing, have it
towed with all 4 wheels completely
off
the ground.
Refer to Towing Description on page
7-23.
When Driving
i-ACTIV AWD
*Some models.4-83
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