MAZDA MODEL CX-50 2023 Owners Manual

Driving on Uneven Road
▼Driving on Uneven Road
Your vehicle's suspension and
underbody can be damaged if driven
on rough/uneven roads or over speed
bumps at excessive speeds. Use care
and reduce speed when traveling on
rough/uneven roads or over speed
bumps.

Use care not to damage the vehicle's
underbody, bumpers or
muffler(s)
when driving under the following
conditions:
Ascending or descending a slope
with a sharp transition angle
Ascending or descending a driveway
or trailer ramp with a sharp transition
angle

This vehicle is equipped with low
profile tires allowing class-leading
performance and handling. As a result,
the sidewall of the tires are very thin
and the tires and wheels can be
damaged if driven through potholes or
on rough/uneven roads at excessive
speeds. Use care and reduce speed
when traveling on rough/uneven roads
or through potholes.
Turbocharger Information (SKYACTIV-G 2.5T)
▼Turbocharger Information
(SKYACTIV-G
2.5T)
CAUTION

After driving at freeway speeds or up
a long hill, trailer towing for a long
time, idle the engine at least 30
seconds before stopping it.
Otherwise, the turbocharger could
be damaged. However, when i-stop
operates, idling is unnecessary.
 Racing or over-revving the engine,
particularly after it's just been
started, can damage the
turbocharger.
 To protect the engine from damage,
the engine is designed so that it
cannot be raced just after starting it
in extremely cold weather.
The turbocharger greatly enhances
engine power. Its advanced design
provides improved operation and
requires minimum maintenance.

To get the most from it, observe the
following.
1. Change engine oil and filter according to Scheduled
Maintenance.
Refer to Scheduled Maintenance
(U.S.A. and Puerto Rico) on page
6-4.
Refer to Scheduled Maintenance
(Canada) on page 6-6.
Refer to Scheduled Maintenance
(Mexico) on page 6-8.
2. Use only recommended engine oil (page 6-16). Extra additives are
NOT recommended.
Before Driving
Driving Tips
3-52
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

Trailer Towing (U.S.A. and Canada)
▼Trailer Towing (U.S.A. and Canada)
Your Mazda was designed and built primarily to carry passengers and cargo.
If you tow a trailer, follow these instructions because driver and passenger safety
depends on proper equipment and safe driving habits. Towing a trailer will
affect
handling, braking , durability, performance, and fuel economy.
Never overload your vehicle or trailer. Co nsult an Authorized Mazda Dealer if you
need further details.
CAUTION
Do not tow a trailer during the first 1,000 km (600 miles) of your new Mazda. If you
do, you may damage the engine, transmission, differential, wheel bearings, and
other power-train components.
NOTE
When towing, use of gasoline with a octane rating of 91 or higher is
recommended.
Your vehicle is equipped with a Mazda intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) towing
mode* which enhances vehicle stab ility when towing a trailer.
Refer to Mazda intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) (AWD) on page 4-83.
When towing a trailer, do not use the following safety systems (If a Mazda genuine
trailer hitch is used, these systems are automatically turned off):
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)Smart Brake Support [Rearward detection function]Smart Brake Support [Rear crossing]Parking Sensor System (Rear)Blind Spot Assist of Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK)
▼ We igh t L imits
TTW and GCWR
The total trailer weight (TTW), gross comb
ination weight rating (GCWR), gross axle
weight rating (GAWR), trailer load, and trailer tongue load must be within the
prescribed limits.
The total trailer weight (TTW) is the sum of the weights of the trailer load (trailer
weight plus cargo), trailer hitch, 2 passengers, and vehicle load (baggage, food,
camp gear, etc.). Never allow the total trailer weight (TTW) to exceed
specifications in the Trailer Towing-Load Table.
The maximum GCWR is the combination weight of the trailer and load plus the
towing vehicle (including trailer hitch, ve hicle passengers, and load). It must not
exceed the specifications in the load table.
Before Driving
Towing
*Some models.3-53
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

GAWR and GVWR
Do not exceed front and rear GAWR (gross axle weight rating) and GVWR (gross
vehicle weight rating). If you do, vehicle handling , braking , and performance will be
affected. These values are also on the Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Label posted
on the driver's door frame.
High-altitude operation
CAUTION
Be aware of the towing load weight differe nces when towing at high altitudes. For
altitudes exceeding 1,000 meter (3,280 ft 10 in), always reduce the towing load by
10 % for every 1,000 meter (3,280 ft 10 in) increase in altitude from the load
indicated under the maximum GCWR heading in the trailer towing-load table. If the
determined maximum total towing load we ight is exceeded, the engine and other
power-train parts may be damaged.
TRAILER TOWING-LOAD TABLE
Because vehicle weights vary, adjustments must be made to meet the requirements
in this table.
Item Model
SKYACTIV-G 2.5 SKYACTIV-G
2.5T
FWD AWD AWD
MAX. FRONTAL
AREA
2.79 m2 (30 ft2)
MAX. TTW
907 kg (2,000 lb) 1587.5 kg
(3,500 lb)
MAX. GCWR
2,704 kg
(5,961.2 lb) 2,829 kg
(6,236.8 lb) 3,554 kg
(7,835.1 lb)
MAX. GAWR
Front 1,090 kg
(2,403.0 lb) 1,133 kg
(2,497.8 lb) 1,182 kg
(2,605.8 lb)
Rear 996 kg (2195.7
lb) 1,079 kg
(2,378.7 lb) 1,073 kg
(2,365.5 lb)
MAX. GVWR
2,074 kg
(4,572.3 lb) 2,199 kg
(4,847.9 lb) 2,243 kg
(4,944.9 lb)
Before Driving
To w i n g
3-54
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

ItemModel
SKYACTIV-G 2.5 SKYACTIV-G
2.5T
FWD AWD AWD
TRAIL-
ER-TONGUE
LOAD To n g u e l o a d
Tongue load/Trailer load × 100 = 10 % to 15 %
Trailer load
DISTRIBUTION
OF TRAILER
LOADFront 60 %
Rear 40 %
WARNING
Always keep tow loads within
specified limits as indicated in the Trailer
To w i n g - L o a d Ta b l e :
Attempting to tow loads greater than those specified is dangerous as it may cause
serious handling and performance problems that could result in personal injury or
vehicle damage, or both.
Load your trailer with the weight about 60 % toward the front and 40 % toward
the rear:
Loading the trailer with more weight in the rear than in the front is dangerous. Doing
so could cause you to lose control. The trailer tongue load must be 10 % ―15 % of
the total trailer load (sum of the weights of the trailer and cargo).
Always have the total trailer weight and tongue load determined prior to
departure:
Attempting to tow loads without determining the total trailer weight and tongue
load is dangerous. Trailer sway from crosswinds, rough roads or other causes could
result in loss of control and a serious accident.
CAUTION
The total trailer weight and tongue load ca n be determined by weighing the trailer
on platform scales at a highway we ight station or a trucking company.
Before Driving
Towing
3-55
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

▼Tra i l e r H i tc h
Use only a hitch ball recommended by the trailer manufacturer that conforms to the
gross trailer weight requirement.
When not towing a trailer, remove the trailer hitch (if detachable) to reduce the
possibility of damage as a result of the vehicle being rear-ended.
WARNING
Always make sure the trailer hitch is securely attached before departure:
An unsecured trailer hitch is dangerous as it causes greater trailer sway from
crosswinds, rough roads or other causes, resulting in loss of control and a serious
accident.
Examine all trailer-hitch mounting bolts regularly and tighten any that are loose. If
the hitch is removed, seal any open mounting holes to prevent exhaust, dust, water,
dirt and other foreign elements from fil
tering in, possibly endangering personal
safety and damaging your vehicle.
Do not install a hitch that stiffens the bumper as it will reduce the bumper's
performance.
Make sure there are no exhaust gas leaks into the passenger compartment if any
mounting bolts are connected to the body:
Modifying your vehicle exhaust system is dangerous. Exhaust gas entering the vehicle
could cause loss of consciousness or even death.
When mounting the trailer hitch, make no modifications to the vehicle exhaust
system.
CAUTION
 Make all hitch adjustments with actual loads. Do not load and unload vehicle
while adjusting hitch. This action will change the vehicle height.
 Do not use an axle-mounted hitch. This may damage the axle and related parts.
▼ Tires
When towing a trailer, make sure all tires are inflated to the recommended cold-tire
pressure, as indicated on the tire pressure
chart on the driver's door frame. Trailer
tire size, load rating, and inflation pressures should conform to tire manufacturer
specifications.
WARNING
Never use the temporary spare tire when towing:
Using the temporary spare tire on your vehicle when towing a trailer is dangerous as
it could result in tire failure, loss of control, and injury to vehicle occupants.
Before Driving
To w i n g
3-56
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

▼Safety Chains
Safety chains must be used as a precautionary measure should the trailer become
unintentionally unhitched. They should cross under the trailer tongue and attach to
the hitch. Leave enough slack to allow full
turns. Consult literature published by your
trailer or hitch manufacturer for more details.
WARNING
Make sure the safety chain is securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle
prior to departure:
Towing a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both the trailer and
the vehicle is dangerous. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch ball, the
trailer could wander into another lane and cause a collision.
▼ Tra i l e r L i g h t s
Trailer lights must comply with all federal, state, and local regulations. Equip your
trailer as required before towing it day or night.
CAUTION
Do not connect a trailer lighting system dire
ctly to the lighting system of your Mazda.
This may damage your vehicle's electrical system and lighting systems. Have a
recreational vehicle dealer or trailer rental agency connect the system, and inspect
the brake lights and turn signals yourself before each trip.
▼ Tra i l e r B ra ke s
If the total trailer weight exceeds 450 kg (1,000 lb), trailer brakes are required. If
your trailer has brakes, make sure they comply with all federal, state, and local
regulations.
WARNING
Do not connect a hydraulic trailer-brake system to your vehicle's brake system:
Connecting a hydraulic trailer-brake system directly to the vehicle brake system is
dangerous and will result in inadequate braking and possible injury.
Before Driving
Towing
3-57
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new
2022-1-6 14:55:18

▼Trailer Towing Tips
Verify that your Mazda maintains a near-normal attitude when a loaded or
unloaded trailer is connected. Do not drive if it has an abnormal front-up or
front-down position. Inspect for incorrec
t tongue load, worn suspension parts,
and trailer overloading.
Make sure the trailer is properly loaded and the cargo is secure to prevent it from
shifting.
Make sure the mirrors conform to all govern ment regulations. If they do not, install
required rear view mirrors appropriate for towing purposes.
The three main causes of vehicle-trailer accidents are driver error, excessive speed,
and improper trailer loading.
Before driving
Have your cooling and braking system checked by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.Before starting out, inspect the operation of all vehicle and trailer lights and all
vehicle-to-trailer connections. Stop and re-inspect all lights and connections after
driving a short distance.
Driving
Your Mazda will handle differently with a trailer in tow, so practice turning,
backing, and stopping in a traffic-free area.
Take time to get accustomed to the extra weight and length.Allow more room between your vehicle and the one in front because braking
distance increases with a trailer. For each 16 km/h (10 mph) of speed, allow at
least one vehicle and trailer length between your Mazda and the vehicle ahead.
Avoid jerky starts or sudden acceleration.Avoid sudden braking. It may cause loss of control and result in jackknifing ,
especially so on wet or slippery roads.
Shift the selector lever to the D position when towing a trailer in hilly terrain or
when heavily loaded.
The D position will allow operating the vehicle without frequent shifting.
Lane changes and turning
Avoid quick lane changes, su dden turns, and tight turns. Slow down before turning
to avoid the need of sudden braking.
A turning trailer will make a tighter arc than the tow vehicle. Compensate with turns
that are larger than normal.
Pa s s i n g
Plan well ahead to pass other vehicles, and provide plenty of room before changing
lanes. Crosswinds from passing vehicles, especially larger ones, and the effects of
rough roads will affect handling.
If swaying occurs, firmly grip the steering wheel and reduce speed immediately, but
gradually.
Before Driving
To w i n g
3-58
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

Steer straight ahead. If no extreme correction of steering or braking is made, the
combination of less speed and firm steering will result in stability.
Backing up
Backing a vehicle with a trailer requires practice and patience. Back slowly, and have
a helper outside at the rear of the trai ler to reduce the risk of an accident.
To turn the trailer, place your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel and turn it in
the direction you want the trailer to go. Make only slight movements to prevent
sharp or prolonged turning.
Ascending a hill
Shift into a lower gear to reduce the possibility of overloading or overheating the
engine, or both.
Descending a hill
Shift into a lower gear and use engine compression as a braking effect.
WARNING
Always use lower gears to reduce speed:
Holding the brake pedal down too long or too frequently is dangerous as it could
cause the brakes to overheat and lose power, resulting in loss of control and a
serious accident. Use lower gears to help reduce speed. Pull off the road and allow
brakes to cool down whenever braking performance feels reduced.
Overheated engine
The extra weight of the trailer may strain the engine on hot days and on long or
steep upgrades.
If the temperature gauge indicates overheating, turn off the air conditioner, drive
safely to the side of the road, park off the right-of-way and wait for engine to cool.
Refer to Overheating on page 7-15.
Pa r k i n g
Always make sure the tires of the trailer and the tow vehicle are blocked while
parked.
Apply the parking brake firmly and put the transmission in P.
Avoid parking on an incline, but if you must, follow these instructions:
1. Depress and hold down the brake pedal.
2. Have a helper put wheel blocks against the downhill side of all vehicle and trailer tires.
3. Then release the brake pedal slowly until the blocks bear the load.
If the grade is downhill, turn the steering wheel so that the front of the front
tires face the curb.
If it is uphill, face the rear of the front tires against the curb.
Before Driving
Towing
3-59
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

4. Firmly apply the parking brake.
5. Shift the transmission into P, and stop the engine.
To restart after parking on an incline:
1. With the transmission in P, start the engine. (Be sure to depress and hold thebrake pedal.)
2. Shift into gear.
3. Release the parking brake (also the foot brake) and pull away from the wheel blocks. Stop; apply the parking brake and shift into P.
4. Have a helper retrieve the wheel blocks.
Fuel consumption
Trailer towing causes higher fuel consumption.
Maintenance
If you tow a trailer frequently, have your vehicle serviced as shown in Scheduled
Maintenance (page 6-4).
Before Driving
To w i n g
3-60
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

Recreational Towing
▼Recreational Towing
An example of "recreational towing" is
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 7-17)
and "Tiedown Hooks" (page 7-18)
and carefully follow the instructions.
Before Driving
Towing
3-61
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new
2022-1-6 14:55:18