Mazda 3 Hatchback 2005 Owners Manual

A Word 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.

Event Data Recorder

This vehicle is equipped with an event data recorder. In the event of a crash, this device records data related to
vehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time. These data can help provide a better
understanding of the circumstances in which crashes and injuries occur and lead to the designing of safer
vehicles.

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 Oct. 2004(Print1)

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.

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 in this manual means
“Do not do this” or “Do not let this
happen”.

Index: A good place to start is the Index,
an alphabetical listing of all information
in your manual.

NOTE

A NOTE provides informat ion and
sometimes suggests how to make better
use of your vehicle.

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.

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 ignor ed.

Table of Contents

Your Vehicle at a Glance

Interior, exterior views and part identification of your Mazda.

Essential Safety Equipment

Use of safety equipment, including seats, seat belt system, SRS air bags and
child-restraint systems.

Knowing Your Mazda

Explanation of basic operations and controls; opening/closing and adjustment
of various parts.

Before Driving Your Mazda

Important information about driving your Mazda.

Driving Your Mazda

Explanation of instruments and controls.

Interior Comfort

Use of various features for drive comfort, including air-conditioning and audio
system.

In Case of an Emergency

Helpful information on what to do in an emergency.

Maintenance and Care

How to keep your Mazda in top condition.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Customer Information and Reporting Safety Defects

Important consumer information including warranties and add-on equipment.

Specifications

Technical information about your Mazda.

Index

Navigation System

9

10

11

1

Your Vehicle at a Glance

Interior, exterior views and part identification of your Mazda.

Dashboard and Interior Overview .............................................. 1-2

Exterior Overview ......................................................................... 1-4

1-1

Your Vehicle at a Glance

Dashboard and Interior Overview

1-2

The equipment and installation position varies according to model and grade.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

Dashboard and Interior Overview

Rear seat .............................................................................................................. page 2-5

Front seats ............................................................................................................ page 2-2

Seat belt ............................................................................................................... page 2-9

Air bags ............................................................................................................. page 2-36

Power door lock switch ....................................................................................... page 3-8

Power window lock switch ................................................................................ page 3-18

Power window switches .................................................................................... page 3-17

Hood release handle .......................................................................................... page 3-20

Steering column release lever ............................................................................ page 3-28

Outside mirror switch ........................................................................................ page 3-28

Rearview mirror .............................. ................................................................... page 3-29

Ignition switch ..................................................................................................... page 5-2

Parking brake ....................................................................................................... page 5-5

MT shift lever ...................................................................................................... page 5-8

AT shift lever (Sport AT) ................................................................................... page 5-10

Instrument cluster .............................................................................................. page 5-25

Lighting control/Turn signals ............................................................................ page 5-42

Fog light switch ................................................................................................. page 5-46

Wiper and washer lever ..................................................................................... page 5-46

Hazard warning flasher switch .......................................................................... page 5-51

Climate control system ........................................... ............................................. page 6-2

Audio system ..................................................................................................... page 6-10

Audio control switch ......................................................................................... page 6-32

Interior light ....................................................................................................... page 6-35

Map light ........................................................................................................... page 6-36

Glove box .............................................................. ............................................ page 6-42

Center console ................................................................................................... page 6-43

Sunvisor ............................................................................................................. page 6-35

Vanity mirror ...................................................................................................... page 6-35

Lighter ............................................................................................................... page 6-40

Ashtray ............................................................................................................... page 6-40

Cup holder ......................................................................................................... page 6-41

Information display ............................................................................................ page 6-38

1-3

Your Vehicle at a Glance

Exterior Overview

4 Door

1-4

The equipment and installation position varies according to model and grade.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

Exterior Overview

Doors and keys .................................................................................................... page 3-2

Child safety locks ................................................................................................ page 3-9

Power windows ................................................................................................. page 3-16

Hood .................................................................................................................. page 3-20

Trunk lid ............................................................................................................ page 3-12

Fuel-filler lid ...................................................................................................... page 3-18

Moonroof ........................................................................................................... page 3-22

Outside mirror .................................................................................................... page 3-28

Rear window defroster ....................................................................................... page 5-50

Antenna ............................................................................................................. page 6-10

Windshield wiper blades .................................................................................... page 8-24

Tires ................................................................................................................... page 8-30

Light bulbs ......................................................................................................... page 8-35

1-5

Your Vehicle at a Glance

Exterior Overview

5 Door

1-6

The equipment and installation position varies according to model and grade.

Your Vehicle at a Glance

Exterior Overview

Doors and keys .................................................................................................... page 3-2

Child safety locks ................................................................................................ page 3-9

Power windows ................................................................................................. page 3-16

Hood .................................................................................................................. page 3-20

Fuel-filler lid ...................................................................................................... page 3-18

Moonroof ........................................................................................................... page 3-22

Liftgate ................................................................................................................ page 3-9

Outside mirror .................................................................................................... page 3-28

Rear window defroster ....................................................................................... page 5-50

Antenna ............................................................................................................. page 6-10

Windshield wiper blades .................................................................................... page 8-24

Rear wiper blade ................................................................................................ page 8-26

Tires ................................................................................................................... page 8-30

Light bulbs ......................................................................................................... page 8-35

1-7

1-8

2

Essential Safety Equipment

Use of safety equipment, including seats, seat belt system, SRS air bags and
child-restraint systems.

Seats ............................................................................................... 2-2

Front Seats ................................................................................ 2-2

Rear Seat ................................................................................... 2-5

Seat Belt Systems .......................................................................... 2-9

Seat Belt Precautions ................................................................ 2-9

3-Point Type Seat Belt ............................................................ 2-12

Front Seat Belt Pretensione r and Load Limiting Systems ....... 2-14

Rear Center Position Seat Belt ................................................ 2-16

Seat Belt Extender ................................................................... 2-18

Seat Belt Warning Light/Beep ................................................ 2-19

Child Restraint ............................................................................ 2-21

Child Restraint Precautions ..................................................... 2-21

Installing Child-Restraint Systems .......................................... 2-25

LATCH Child-Restraint Systems ............................................ 2-31

SRS Air Bags ............................................................................... 2-36

Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) Precautions ............... 2-36

Supplemental Restraint System Components ......................... 2-40

How the Air Bags Work .......................................................... 2-43

2-1

Essential Safety Equipment

Seats

Front Seats

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 seriou s injury. Consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer if there is
any need to remove or reinstall the
front seats.

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.

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.

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 on ly when the vehicle is
stopped.

To move a seat forward or backward, raise
the lever and slide the seat to the desired
position and release the lever.

Make sure the lever returns to its original
position and the seat is locked in place by
attempting to push it forward and
backward.

2-2

Essential Safety Equipment

Seats

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.

Unlocked Seatback:
The seatback plays an important role
in your protectio n 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.

To change the seatback angle, lean
forward slightly while raising the lever.
Then lean back to the desired position and
release the lever.

Make sure the lever returns to its original
position and the seatback is locked in
place by attempting to push it forward and
backward.

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

Essential Safety Equipment

Seats

qHeight Adjustment (Driver's

Seat)

í

By moving the seat lever up or down, the
seat bottom height can be adjusted.

Up

Down

qLumbar Support Adjustment

(Driver's Seat)

í

To adjust the lum bar support, pull the
lever forward.

qHead Restraint

WARNING

Head Restraints Adjustment:
Driving with the head restraints
adjusted too low or removed is
dangerous. With no support behind
your head, your neck could be
seriously injured in a collision. Always
drive with the head restraints inserted
when seats are being used and make
sure they are properly adjusted.

To raise a head restraint, pull it up to the
desired position.
To lower the head restraint, press the stop­catch release, then push the head restraint
down.

2-4

í

Some models.

Adjust the head restraint so that the top is
parallel with the top of the passenger's
ears, never the passenger's neck.

Essential Safety Equipment

Seats

qSeat Warmer

The front seats are electrically heated. The
ignition switch must be in the ON
position.

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.

NOTE

The thermostat regulates seat
temperature by turning the current on
and off.

í

Rear Seat

WARNING

Stacking Cargo:
Stacking luggage or other cargo
higher than the seatbacks, and placing
articles on the rear package tray or on
the luggage compartment cover 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 on the
luggage compartment cover.

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.

Securing Seats:
Adjustable seats 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.

í

Some models.

2-5

Essential Safety Equipment

Seats

WARNING

Unlocked Seatback:
The seatback plays an important role
in your protectio n 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 returning the
seatback at any time, even when there
are no other passengers, rock the
seatback to make sure it is locked in
place.

Passenger on the Folded Seatback:
Driving with a passenger on the folded
seatback is dangerous . Allowing a
child to sit up on the folded seatback
while the vehicle is moving is
particularly dangerous. In a sudden
stop or even a minor collision, a child
not in a proper seat or child-restraint
system and seat belt could be thrown
forward, back or even out of the
vehicle resulting in serious injuries or
death. The child or other objects in the
baggage area could be thrown into
other occupants and cause serious
injury. Never allow a passenger to sit
or stand on the folded seatback while
the vehicle is moving.

Children and the Folding Rear Seats:
Playing with the folding rear seats is
dangerous. Do not give the car keys to
children and do not allow them to play
in the vehicle.

NOTE

When returning a rear seat to its
original position, also replace the seat
belt to its normal position. Verify that
the seat belt pulls and retracts.

qSplit-Folding Rear Seatback

To fold the seatbacks

CAUTION

When operating the rear seatback knob,
make sure you support the seatback
with your hand. If the seatback is not
supported with your hand, it will flip
forward suddenly and could cause
injury to the finger that pushes the rear
seatback knob down.

1. Unfasten the lap portion of the rear
center seat belt (page 2-16).

CAUTION

Always unfasten the lap portion of the
belt before folding the rear-left
seatback. Leaving the lap portion of the
belt fastened could cause damage to the
seat belt, buckle and seatback.

2. Position the outboard seat belts to the
side when folding the seatbacks down.

3. Support the seatback with your hand.

2-6

4. Push the rear seatback knob down.

Essential Safety Equipment

Seats

WARNING

Seat Belts Caught Under Seatbacks:
A seat belt caught under a seatback
after the seatback is returned to its
upright position is dangerous. In a
collision or sudden stop, the seat belt
cannot provide adequate protection.
Always make sure the seat belts are
fully pulled out from under the
seatbacks.

To return the seatbacks to the upright
position

1. Position the outboard seat belts to the
side.

2. Lift the seatbacks upright.

3. Make sure the seat belts are fully
pulled out from under the seatbacks.

4. Pull on the top of the seatbacks from
inside the vehicle to make sure they are
locked.

5. Fasten the rear-center lap/shoulder belt
and check that all seat belts are routed
properly for passenger use (page 2-16).

Returning Rear Seatbacks to the
Upright Position:
A rear seatback not fully returned and
locked in the upright position is
dangerous. Sudden stops or
maneuvering could cause a seatback
to flip forward suddenly resulting in
injury. If the red indicator is visible on
the back of the rear seatback knob, the
seatback is not locked in the upright
position. When returning the seatback
to the upright position, make sure
there is no red indication.

Locked position

Unlocked position

Red indicator

2-7

Essential Safety Equipment

Seats

qRear Seatback Lock (4 Door)

To lock or unlock a seatback, move the
lever.

NOTE

The seatback locks are part of the trunk
security system (page 3-14).

qHead Restraint

WARNING

Head Restraints Adjustment:
Driving with the head restraints
adjusted too low or removed is
dangerous. With no support behind
your head, your neck could be
seriously injured in a collision. Always
drive with the head restraints inserted
when seats are being used and make
sure they are properly adjusted.

Height adjustment

To raise a head restraint, pull it up to the
locked position.
To lower the head restraint, press the stop­catch release, then push the head restraint
down.

Adjust the head restraint so that the top is
parallel with the top of the passenger's
ears, never the passenger's neck.

Removal

To remove the head restraint, press the
stop-catch release, then pull up on the
head restraint.

2-8

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 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 proper ly.

2-9

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

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 preten sioners 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.

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

Belt retraction may become difficult if the belts and rings are soiled, so try to keep them
clean.

2-10

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 LOW AS POSSIBLE OVER THE HIPS.
The shoulder belt should be worn across your shoulder properly, but never across the
stomach area.
Persons with serious medical condit ions 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 2-21).

2-11

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

3-Point Type Seat Belt

NOTE

When using the rear center seat belt,
refer to “Rear Center Position Seat
Belt” (page 2-16).

qFastening the Seat Belts

1. Grasp the buckle and tongue.

2. Slowly pull out the lap/shoulder belt.

Belt

Tongue

3. Insert the tongue into the buckle until
you hear a click.

WARNING

Positioning the Shoulder Portion of
the Seat 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 an d near your
neck, but never under your arm, on
your neck, or on your upper arm.

4. Make sure the shoulder belt is snugly
fitted against your body.

Take up slack
Keep low on
hip bone

Too high

2-12

Buckle

WARNING

Tongue

Positioning the Lap Portion of the
Seat Belt:
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.

qUnfastening the Seat Belts

Depress the button on the buckle.

Button

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.

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

WARNING

Positioning the Shoulder Portion of
the Seat 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 an d near your
neck, but never under your arm, on
your neck, or on your upper arm.

qShoulder Belt Adjuster

Adjust the height of the shoulder belt if
the seat belt touches your neck, or if it
crosses your arm instead of your shoulder.
To raise the shoulder belt adjuster, push
the adjuster up. To lower the shoulder belt
adjuster, pull the button and slide it down.
Make sure the adjuster is locked.

2-13

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

Front Seat Belt Pretensioner and Load Limiting Systems

For optimum protection, the driver and
front passenger seat belts are equipped
with pretensioner and load limiting
systems.
In moderate or greater frontal or near­frontal 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 syst em
releases belt webbing in a controlled
manner to reduce belt force on the
occupant's chest.

WARNING

Incorrect Positioning of the Driver
and Front Passenger Se at 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.

WARNING

Expended Seat Belt Pretensioners:
Use of front seat belts with the
pretensioner system expended is
dangerous.
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.
Always have an Authorized Mazda
Dealer inspect the seat belt
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.

Modification or Testing of the
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 compo nents or wiring, or
use electronic testing device s on the
pretensioner system.

2-14

WARNING

Pretensioner System Disposal:
Improper disposal of the pretensioner
system or a vehicle with non­deactivated pretensioners is
dangerous. Unless all safety
procedures are followed, injur y could
result. Ask an Authorized Mazda
Dealer how to safely dispose of the
pretensioner system or how to scrap a
pretensioner-equipped vehicle.

NOTE

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
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.

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

qAir Bag/Front Seat Belt

Pretensioner System Warning
Light

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.

A system malfunction is indicated when
the warning light illuminate s 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

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
perform all servicing and repairs.

2-15

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

qAir Bag/Front Seat Belt

Pretensioner System Warning
Beep

If a malfunction is detected in the air bag/
front seat belt pretensioner systems and
the warning light, a warning beep sound
will be heard for about 5 seconds every
minute.

The air bag and seat belt pretensioner
system warning beep sound will continue
to be heard for approximately 35 minutes.
Have your vehicle inspected at an
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as
possible.

WARNING

Air Bag/Front Seat Belt Pretensioner
System Warning Beep:
Driving the vehicle with the air bag/
front seat belt pretensioner system
warning beep sounding is dangerous.
In a collision, the air bags and the
front seat belt pretensioner system will
not deploy and this could result in
death or serious injury.
Do not drive the vehicle with the air
bag/front seat belt pretensioner system
warning beep sounding. Contact an
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the
vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

Rear Center Position Seat Belt

Before using the rear-center lap/shoulder
belt make sure tongue (A) and anchor
buckle (B) are fastened.

(A)

(B)

qFastening the Seat Belt

1. Grasp the buckle (D) and tongue (C).

2. Slowly pull out the lap/shoulder belt.

3. Insert the tongue (C) into the buckle
(D) until you hear a click.

(C)

(A)

2-16

(D)

(B)

WARNING

Fastening the Rear-Center Seat Belt
with Only One Buckle:
Fastening the rear-center seat belt
with only one buckle is dangerous. If
only one pair of seat belt tongue and
buckle, either tongue (A) and anchor
buckle (B) or tongue (C) and anchor
buckle (D), is fastened, the seat belt
cannot provide full protection. In a
sudden stop or collision, the user
could slide under the belt and suffer
serious injuries. Always make sure
that both pairs of seat belt tongues and
buckles are fastened properly.

Positioning the Shoulder Portion of
the Seat 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 an d near your
neck, but never under your arm, on
your neck, or on your upper arm.

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

qUnfastening the Seat Belt

Depress the button on the buckle.

Button

qUnfastening the Lap Portion of

the Seat Belt

Insert a smal l object such as a key in the
anchor buckle (B) slot.

(A)

(B)

4. Make sure the shoulder belt is snugly
fitted against your body.

WARNING

Positioning the Lap Portion of the
Seat Belt:
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.

CAUTION

Always unfasten the lap portion of the
belt before folding the rear-left
seatback. Leaving the lap portion of the
belt fastened could cause damage to the
seat belt, buckle and seatback.

2-17

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

NOTE

To encourage rear seat passengers to
wear their seat belts, we suggest leaving
the rear center lap position of the belt
fastened at all times except when
folding the rear seat forward.

qFastening the Lap Portion of the

Seat Belt

Grasp tongue (A) and insert it into the
anchor buckle (B) until you hear a click. It
is now secure for passenger use.

NOTE

After returning the rear-left seatback to
its upright position, fasten the lap
portion of the belt.

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.

WARNING

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.

2-18

Using an Improper Extender:
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.

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

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).

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 seat belt warning light will not
illuminate and function properly.

Seat Belt Warning Light/ Beep

The seat belt warning light illuminates
and a beep sound will be heard if the
driver's seat belt is not fastened when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON
position.

Conditions of operation

Condition Result

The driver's seat belt is not
fastened when the ignition
switch is turned to the ON
position.

The driver's seat belt is
fastened while the warning
light and the beep sound are
activated.

The driver's seat belt is
fastened before the ignition
switch is turned to the ON
position.

The warning light
illuminates for about 1
minute and a beep
sound will be heard
for about 6 seconds.

The warning light
turns off and the beep
sound stops.

The warning light will
not illuminate and the
beep sound will not be
heard.

2-19

Essential Safety Equipment

Seat Belt Systems

qBelt Minder

The belt minder is a supplemental
warning to the seat belt warning function.
This feature provides additional reminders
to the driver that the driver's seat belt is
not fastened by intermittently sounding a
beep sound and flashing the seat belt
warning light in the instrument cluster.

Condition Result

The driver's seat belt is not
fastened when the vehicle
speed reaches 8 km/h
(5 mph) and about 1 minute
has elapsed since the
ignition switch was turned
to the ON position.

The driver's seat belt is
fastened while the warning
light and the beep sound are
activated.

The driver's seat belt is
fastened before the ignition
switch is turned to the ON
position.

The warning light
flashes and the beep
sound will be heard
for about 6 seconds
every 30 seconds, for
a period of about 5
minutes.

The warning light
turns off and the beep
sound stops.

The warning light will
not illuminate and the
beep sound will not be
heard.

NOTE

The belt minder can be deactivated by
the following methods.

l

(Temporary deactivation)

To temporarily deactivate the belt
minder, turn the ignition switch to
the ON position , fasten the driver's
seat belt for about 2 seconds or
longer, and then unfasten it within 20
seconds. The belt minder will be
deactivated until the ignition switch
is turned to the ON position again.

l

(Long-term deactivation)

To deactivate the belt minder over
the long term, consult an Authorized
Mazda Dealer. If the belt minder is
long-term deactivated, the belt
minder will not activate until it is
restored at the Authorized Mazda
Dealer.

2-20

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 in the outboard seats, and towards the buckle on the right if the
child is seated on the center seat.

Statistics confirm that the rear seat is the best place for all chil dren up to 12 years of age,
and more so with a supplemental restraint system (air bags).

A rear-facing child-res traint 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.

To reduce the chance of injuries caused by deployment of the front passenger air bag, the
front passenger seat weight sensors work as a part of the supplemental restraint system.
This system deactivates the front passenger front and side air bags and also the front
passenger seat belt pretensioner system when the total seated weight on the front passenger
seat is less than approximately 30 kg (66 lb).

When an infant or small child sits on the front passenger seat, the system shuts off the front
passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner system, so make sure the front
passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates.

Even if the front passenger air bag is shut off, Mazda strongly recommends that children be
properly restrained and child-restraint systems of all kinds are properly secured on the rear
seats which are the best place for children.

For more details, refer to “Front passenger seat weight sensors (page 2-43)”.

2-21

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

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.

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. Even though you may feel
assured that the front passenger air bag will not deploy based on the fact that the front
passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates, NEVER use a rear-facing
child-restraint system in the front seat with an air bag that could deploy even in a
moderate collision.

2-22

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

WARNING

Seating Children in a Child-Restraint System on the Front Passenger Seat:
If your vehicle is equipped with front passenger seat weight sensors, a front passenger
air bag deactivation indicator light is also equipped (page 2-29). Even with the front
passenger seat weight sensors, if you must use the front passenger seat for children,
seating a child in a child-restraint system on the front passenger seat under the
following conditions increases the danger of the front passenger air bag deploying
and could result in serious injury or death to the child.

l

The total seate d weight of the child with the child-restraint system on the front
passenger seat is approximately 30 kg (66 lb) or more.

l

Luggage or other items are placed on the seat with the child in the child-restraint
system.

l

A rear passenger or luggage push or pull down on the front passenger seatback.

l

A rear passenger steps on the front passenger seat rails with the feet.

l

Luggage or other items are placed on the seatback or hung on the head restraint.

l

The seat is washed.

l

Liquids are spilled on the seat.

l

The front passenger seat is moved backward, pushing into luggage or other items
placed behind it.

l

The front passenger seatback contacts the rear seat.

l

Luggage or other items are placed between the front passenger seat and driver seat.

l

Any accessories which might increa se the total seated weight on the front passenger

seat are attached to the front passenger seat.
The designated positions with seat belts on the rear seats are the safes t places for
children. Always use seat belts and child restraints.

Children and Seating Position with Side and Curtain Air Bags:
Allowing anyone to lean over or against the front door, the area of the front seat, front
and rear window pillars and the roof edge along both sides from 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 cou ld 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.

2-23

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

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.

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 2-31).

2-24

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

Installing Child-Restraint Systems

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 child­restraint systems it is clearly unsafe due to
air bags.

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 three positions on
the rear seat.

Some child-restraint systems also employ
specially designed LATCH attachments;
refer to “LATCH Child-Restraint
Systems” (page 2-31).

WARNING

Tethered Child-Restraint Systems
Work Only on Tether-Equipped Rear
Seats:
Installation of a tether equipped child­restraint 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 equ ipped child-restraint
systems where there are tether
anchors.

qRear Seat Child-Restraint System

Installation

Follow these instructions when using a
child-restraint system, unless you are
attaching a LATCH-equipped child­restraint system to the rear LATCH lower
anchors. Refer to “LATCH Child­Restraint Systems” (page 2-31).

NOTE

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
automatic locking mode.

1. Make sure the seatback is securely
latched by pushing it back until it is
fully locked.

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.

2-25

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

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 vehicl e seat. Be sure the belt
retracts as snugly as possible. Clicking
from the retr actor 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.

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 chil d-restraint system, be
sure the belt fully retracts to return the
system to emergency locking mode
before occupants use the seat belts.

5. If your child-restraint system requires
the use of a tether strap, hook and
tighten the tether strap by following the
manufacturer's instructions.

Anchor bracket location (4 Door)

2-26

Anchor bracket

Tether strap position (4 Door)

Tether
strap

Anchor bracket

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

Anchor bracket location (5 Door
outboard position)

Tether strap position (5 Door outboard
position)

Tether strap

Tether strap position (5 Door center
position)

Tether
strap

WARNING

Child-Restraint Tether Usage:
Using the tethe r 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.

Anchor bracket location (5 Door center
position)

Incorrect Attachment of the Tether
Strap:
Attaching the tether strap on top of the
head restraint is dangerous. In a
collision, the tether strap could slide
off the head restraint, and loosen the
child-restraint system. The child­restraint system could move and injure
the child or someone else. Always
attach the tether strap between the
head restraint and the seatback.

2-27

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

qIf You Must Use the Front Seat

for Children

WARNING

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.
Likewise the LATCH child-restraint
system cannot be secured in the front
passenger's seat and should be used in the
rear seat.
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 install ing the child-restraint system
on the front seat is unavoidable, follow
these instructions when using a front­facing child-restraint system in the front
passenger's seat.

NOTE

Front Passenger's Seat Position:
As your vehicle has front air bags and
doubly so if your vehicle has side air
bags, a front-faci ng child-restraint
system should be put on the front seat
only when it is unavoidable.
Even if the front passenger air bag
deactivation indicator light
illuminates, 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.

Rear-Facing Child-Restraint System:
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. Even
though you may feel assured that the
front passenger air bag will not deploy
based on the fact that the front
passenger air bag deactivation
indicator light illuminates, NEVER
use a rear-facing child-restraint
system in the front seat with an air bag
that could deploy even in a moderate
collision.

l

To check if your front seats have side
air bags:
Every Mazda side air bag will have a
“SRS AIRBAG”tag 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 AIRBAG” marking on
the front and rear window pillars
along the roof edge.

2-28

WARNING

Children and Seating Position with
Side and Curtain Air Bags:
Allowing anyone to lean over or
against the front door, the area of the
front seat, front and rear window
pillars and the roof edge along both
sides from 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 seriou s 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 child­restraint system.

qFront Passenger's Seat Child-

Restraint System Installation

1. Slide the seat as far back as possible.

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.

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 vehicl e seat. Be sure the belt
retracts as snugly as possible. Clicking
from the retr actor 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.

l

Follow the child-restraint system
manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Depending on the type of child­restraint system, it may not employ
seat belts which are in automatic
locking mode.

2-29

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

5. Make sure the front passenger air bag
deactivation indicator light illuminates
after installing a child-restraint system
on the front passenger seat.

WARNING

Seating a Child in a Child-Restraint
System on the Front Passenger Seat
With the Front Passenger Air Bag
Deactivation Indicator Light Not
Illuminated:
Seating a child in a child-restraint
system installed on the front passenger
seat with the front passenger air bag
deactivation indicator light not
illuminated is dangerous. If this
indicator light does not illuminate
even when the total seated weight is
less than approximately 30 kg (66 lb),
this means that the front passenger
front and side air bags, and seat belt
pretensioner are ready for deployment.
If an accident were to deploy an air
bag, a child sitting in the front
passenger seat could be seriously
injured or killed. If the indicator light
does not illuminate after installing a
child-restraint system on the front
passenger seat, install the child­restraint system on the rear seat and
consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer
as soon as possible. While it is always
better to install any child-restraint
system on the rear seat, it is essential
to do so if the front passenger air bag
deactivation indicator light does not
illuminate (page 2-43).

2-30

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 outboard seats . Both anchors must be used,
otherwise the seat will bounce around and put the child in danger. Some LATCH child­restraint 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.

Attaching Two Child-Restraint Systems to the Same LATCH Lower Anchor:
Attaching two child-restraint systems to the same LATCH lower anchor is dangerous.
In a collision, one anchor may not be strong enough to hold two child-restraint system
attachments and may break, causing serious injury or death. If you use the seat
position for another child-restraint system when an outboard LATCH position is
occupied, use the center seat belts instead, and the tether if tether-equipped.

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 late r 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 child­restraint 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.

2-31

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

qChild-Restraint System

Installation Procedure (Rear
Outboard Seats)

1. Make sure the seatback is securely
latched by pushing it back until it is
fully locked.

2. Expand the area between the seat
bottom and the seatback slightly to
verify the locations of the LATCH
lower anchors.

NOTE

The markings above the LATCH lower
anchors indicate the locations of
LATCH lower anchors for the
attachment of a child-restraint system.

Anchor bracket location (4 Door)

Anchor bracket

Tether strap position (4 Door)

Tether
strap

Anchor bracket

Anchor bracket location (5 Door)

3. Secure the child-restraint system using
BOTH LATCH lower anchors,
following the child-restraint system
manufacturer's instruction.

4. 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.

2-32

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

Tether strap position (5 Door)

Tether strap

WARNING

Child-Restraint Tether Usage:
Using the tethe r 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.

Incorrect Attachment of the Tether
Strap:
Attaching the tether strap on top of the
head restraint is dangerous. In a
collision, the tether strap could slide
off the head restraint, and loosen the
child-restraint system. The child­restraint system could move and injure
the child or someone else. Always
attach the tether strap between the
head restraint and the seatback.

qChild-Restraint System

Installation Procedure (Rear
Center Seat)

The LATCH lower anchors at the center
of the rear seat are much further apart than
the sets of LATCH lower anchors for
child-restraint system installation at other
seating positions. Child-restraint systems
with rigid LATCH attachments cannot be
installed on the center seating position.
Some LATCH equipped child-restraint
systems can be placed in the center
position and will reach the nearest
LATCH lower anchors which are 400 mm
(15.75 in) apart. LATCH compatible
child-restraint systems (with attachments
on belt webbing) can be used at this
seating position only if the child-restraint
system manufacturer's instructions state
that the child-restraint system can be
installed to LATCH lower anchors that are
400 mm (15.75 in) apart. Do not attach
two child-restraint systems to the same
LATCH lower anchor. If your child­restraint system has a tether, it must also
be used for your child's optimum safety.

1. Make sure the seatback is securely
latched by pushing it back until it is
fully locked.

2-33

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

2. Expand the area between the seat
bottom and the seatback slightly to
verify the locations of the LATCH
lower anchors.

NOTE

The markings above the LATCH lower
anchors indicate the locations of
LATCH lower anchors for the
attachment of a child-restraint system.

3. Secure the child-restraint system using
BOTH LATCH lower anchors,
following the child-restraint system
manufacturer's instructions.

4. 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.

Anchor bracket location (4 Door)

Anchor bracket

Tether strap position (4 Door)

Tether
strap

Anchor bracket

Anchor bracket location (5 Door)

2-34

Tether strap position (5 Door)

Tether
strap

WARNING

Child-Restraint Tether Usage:
Using the tethe r 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.

Essential Safety Equipment

Child Restraint

2-35

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 AIRBAG” location 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 passen ger positions only in
same-side collisions, so seat belts are always important in the following ways:

í

í

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.

Small children should be protected by a child-restraint system. In certain regions, larger
children must use a child-restraint system (page 2-21).
Carefully consider which child-restraint system is necess ary for your child and follow the
installation directions in this Owner's Manual as well as the child-restraint system
manufacturer's instructions.

2-36

í

Some models.

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. Even if the front
passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates, always move the front
passenger seat as far back as possible. 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. Even though you may feel
assured that the front passenger air bag will not deploy based on the fact that the front
passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates, 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.

2-37

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 agains t 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 located in the steering wheel hub and the dashboard:
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 inter fere 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.

2-38

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 unexpecte dly, 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 anythi ng 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 air bag wiring and connections to assure that the
bags do not accidentally deploy, the driver seat slide position sensor and front
passenger seat weight sensors are not damaged and that the seats retain an
undamaged air bag connection.

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.

2-39

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

Supplemental Restraint System Components

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:

l

The steering wheel hub

l

The front passenger dashboard

l

The outboard sides of the front seatbacks

l

The front and rear window pillars, and the roof edge along both sides

The air bags are out of sight until activated.

í

í

2-40

í

Some models.

qFront Air Bag System Components

(4)

(8)

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

(1)(6)

(3)

(7)

(2)

(5)

(8)

(1) Front dual stage inflators and air bags
(2) Crash sensors and diagnostic module (SAS unit)
(3) Front air bag sensor
(4) Driver seat slide position sensor (page 2-43)
(5) Front passenger seat weight sensors (page 2-43)
(6) Front seats
(7) Driver and front passenger seat belt buckle switches (page 2-43)
(8) Front seat belt pretensioner and load limiting systems (page 2-14)
(9) Front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light (page 2-43)

(9)

2-41

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

qSide and Curtain Air Bag System Components

í

Put children in the rear seats, they do not have side air bag systems.

4 Door

5 Door

(1)

(1)

(2)

(2)

(3)

(3)

(4)

(4)

(1) Inflators and air bags
(2) Side crash sensor
(3) Crash sensors and diagnostic module (SAS unit)
(4) Front seats

(1)

(1)

2-42

í

Some models.

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

How the Air Bags Work

qHow the Front Air Bags Work

When air bag crash sensors detect a frontal impact of greater than moderate force, an
electrical current is sent to the inflators.
Gases are produce d to inflate the front air bags and after the inflation, the front air bags
quickly deflate.
The front air bags will function only once. After that, the front air bags will not work

again and must be replaced.

Only an Authorized Mazda Dealer can replace the system components.

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 betw een the driver and the front passenger depending on the driver seat position,
front passenger weight and front seat belt usage, which allow for further controlling of the
system.

The front air bags will deploy only
in a frontal or frontal offset impact.

Driver seat slide position sensor

Your vehicle is equipped with a driver seat slide sensor as a part of the supplemental
restraint system. The sensor is located under the driver seat. The sensor determines whether
the driver seat is fore or aft of a reference position and sends the seat position to the crash
sensors and diagnostic module (SAS unit). The sensor is also designed to control the
deployment of the driver air bag depending on how close the driver seat is to the steering
wheel.

The air bag/front seat belt pretensioner system warning light flashes if the sensor has a
possible malfunction (page 2-51).

2-43

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

Front passenger seat weight sensors

If your vehicle is equipped with front passenger seat weight sensors, a front passenger air
bag deactivation indicator light is also equipped (page 2-29). These sensors are located
under both of the front passenger seat rails. These sensors determine the total seated weight
on the front passenger seat. The sensors are also designed to prevent the front passenger
front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner system from inflating if the total seated
weight is less than approximately 30 kg (66 lb).

To reduce the chance of injuries caused by deployment of the front passenger air bag, the
system deactivates the front passenger front and side air bags and also the seat belt
pretensioner system when:

l

There is no passenger in the front passenger seat. (The front passenger air bag
deactivation indicator light does not illuminate.)

l

The total seated weight on the front passenger seat is less than approximately 30 kg (66
lb). (The front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates.)

This system shuts off the front passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner
system, so make sure the front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates
according to the chart below.

The air bag/front seat belt pretensioner system warning light flashes and the front
passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates if the sensors have a possible
malfunction. If this happens, the front passenger front and side air bags and seat belt
pretensioner system will not deploy.

Front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light

This indicator light illuminates to remind you that the front passenger front and side air
bags and seat belt pretensioner will not deploy during a collision.

If the front passenger weight sensors are normal, the indicator light illuminates when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON position. After about 6 seconds it goes out.

2-44

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

The front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates or is off under the following conditions:

Total seated weight on the

front passenger seat

Empty (Not occupied)

Less than approx. 30 kg
(66 lb)

Approx. 42 kg (93 lb) or
more

* If the front passenger seat belt is buckled, the front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates,

however this does not indicate a malfunction.

Front passenger air bag

deactivation indicator light

*

Front passenger front and

side air bags

OFF OFF OFF

ON OFF OFF

OFF ON ON

Seat belt pretensioner

system

If the front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light does not illuminate when the
ignition switch is turned to the ON position and does not illuminate as indicated in the
above chart, do not allow a child to sit in the front passenger seat and consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible. The system may not work properly in an
accident.

WARNING

Decreasing the Total Seated Weight on the Front Passenger Seat:
When an adult or large child sits on the front pa ssenger seat, decreasing the total
seated weight on the front passenger seat from the total seated weight of
approximately 42 kg (93 lb) required for air bag deployment is dangerous. The front
passenger seat weight sensors will detect the reduced total seated weight condition and
the front passenger front and side air bags and seat belt prete nsioner system will not
deploy during an accident. The front passenger will not have the supplementary
protection of the air bag, which could result in serious injury. Decreasing the total
seated weight on the front passenger seat from the total seated weight of
approximately 42 kg (93 lb) could result in an air bag not deploying under the
following conditions, for example:

l

A rear passenger pushes up on the front passenger seat with the feet.

l

Luggage or other items placed under the front passenger seat or between the front
passenger seat an d driver seat that push up the front passenger seat bottom.

l

The front passenger seat occupant sits in a manner that does not place the entire
weight of the occupant on the seat such as by sitting too close to the door, grasping
the rim of the moonroof.

l

The front passenger seatback contacts the rear seat.

l

Any accessories which might decreas e the total seated weight on the front
passenger seat are attached to the front passenger seat.

2-45

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

WARNING

Increasing the Total Seated Weight on the Front Passenger Seat:
When an infant or small child sits on the front passenger seat, increasing the total
seated weight on the front passenger seat from the total seated weight of
approximately 30 kg (66 lb) is dangerous. The front passenger seat weight sensors will
detect the increa sed total seated weight, which could result in the unexpected
deployment of the front passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner
system in an accident and serious injury. Increasing the total seated weight on the
front passenger seat from the total seated weight of approximately 30 kg (66 lb) could
result in the front passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner system
deployment in an accident under the following conditions, for example:

l

Luggage or other items are placed on the seat with the child in the child-restraint
system.

l

A rear passenger or luggage push or pull down on the front passenger seatback.

l

A rear passenger steps on the front passenger seat rails with the feet.

l

Luggage or other items are placed on the seatback or hung on the head restraint.

l

The seat is washed.

l

Liquids are spilled on the seat.

l

The front passenger seat is moved backward, pushing into luggage or other items
placed behind it.

l

The front passenger seatback contacts the rear seat.

l

Luggage or other items are placed between the front passenger seat and driver seat.

l

Any accessories which might increa se the total seated weight on the front passenger
seat are attached to the front passenger seat.

CAUTION

l

To assure proper deployment of the front air bag and to prevent damage to the sensors
in the front seat bottoms:

l

Do not place sharp objects on the front seat bottoms or leave heavy luggage on
them.

l

Do not spill any liquids on the front seats or under the front seats.

l

To allow the sensors to function properly, always perform the following:

l

Adjust the front seats as far back as possible and always sit upright against the
seatbacks with seat belts worn properly.

l

If you place your child on the front passenger seat, secure the child-restraint system
properly and slide the front passenger seat as far back as possible (page 2-29).

2-46

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

NOTE

l

The system requires about 10 seconds to alternate between turning the front passenger
front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner system on or off.

l

The front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light may illuminate repeatedly if
luggage or other items are put on the front passenger seat, or if the temperature of the
vehicle's interior changes suddenly.

l

The front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light may illuminate for 10 seconds
if the total seated weight on the front passenger seat changes.

l

If the front passenger air bag deactivation indicator light does not illuminate after
installing a child-restraint system on the front passenger seat, install the child-restraint
system on the rear seat and consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as possible.

Driver and front passenger buckle switches

The buckle switches on the front seat belts detect whether or not the front seat belts are
securely fastened and further control the deployment of the air bags on the front seats.

qHow the Side and Curtain Air Bags Work

í

When air bag crash sensors detect a side impact of greater than moderate force, an
electrical current is sent to the inflators.
Gases are produce d to inflate the side and curtain air bags and after the inflation, the side
and curtain air bags quickly deflate.
The side and curtain air bags will function only once. After that, the side and curtain air
bags will not work again and must be replaced. Only an Authorized Mazda Dealer can
replace the syst ems.

The curtain air bag will deploy only on the side
the vehicle receives the force of the impact.

The side air bag will deploy only on the side
the vehicle receives the force of the impact.

í

Some models.

2-47

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

CAUTION

To prevent damage to the side and curtain air bag wiring, don't place luggage or other
objects under the front seats.

qAir Bag Activation/Deactivation

CAUTION

If the front passenger seat weight sensors detect a total seated weight on the front
passenger seat of less than approximately 42 kg (93 lb), the front passenger front and
side air bags and seat belt pretensioner may not inflate (page 2-43).

Front air bag activation

A greater than moderate impact will cause
the front air bags to inflate in the
following cases:

l

Hitting a soli d wall straight on at
greater than about 22 km/h (14 mph).

l

Hitting a curb, pavement edge or hard
object.

l

Landing hard or the vehicle falling.

l

Frontal impact within about a 30
degree range from head-on to the
vehicle.

l

Driving into a big hole or hitting the far
side of a hole.

2-48

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

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

Frontal offset impact to the vehicle
may not provide the stopping force
necessary for air bag deployment.

Non-activation of front air bags

Front air bags will not normally inflate in
the following cases:

l

Collision from the rear.

l

Impact to the side, but it may deploy
the side and curtain air bags.

l

Vehicle roll-over, may deploy the side
and curtain air bags but not the front air
bags.

l

Rear-ending or running under a truck's
tail gate may not provide the stopping
force necessary for air bag deployment.

2-49

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

Side and curtain air bag activation

í

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.

Limitations to side and curtain air bag
activation

í

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

Vehicle roll-over may not provide
enough side force to deploy the side
and curtain air bags.

l

Side impacts with two-wheeled
vehicles may not provide enough force
to deploy the side and curtain air bags.

Non-activation of side and curtain air

í

bag

The side and curtain air bags will not
normally inflate in the following cases:

l

Collision from the rear.

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.

2-50

í

Some models.

l

Collision from the front, but it may
deploy the front air bags.

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS 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 crash sensor

l

Front seat belt pretensioners

l

Related wiring

l

Driver seat slide position sensor

l

Front passenger seat weight sensors

l

Driver and front passenger seat belt

í

buckle switches

The diagnostic module continuously
monitors the system's readiness. This
begins when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON position and continues while
the vehicle is being driven.

qAir Bag/Front Seat Belt

Pretensioner System Warning
Light

A system malfunction is indicated when
the warning light illuminate s 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

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
perform all servicing and repairs.

qAir Bag/Front Seat Belt

Pretensioner System Warning
Beep

If a malfunction is detected in the air bag/
front seat belt pretensioner systems and
the warning light, a warning beep sound
will be heard for about 5 seconds every
minute.

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.

The air bag and seat belt pretensioner
system warning beep sound will continue
to be heard for approximately 35 minutes.
Have your vehicle inspected at an
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as
possible.

í

Some models.

2-51

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

WARNING

Air Bag/Front Seat Belt Pretensioner
System Warning Beep:
Driving the vehicle with the air bag/
front seat belt pretensioner system
warning beep sounding is dangerous.
In a collision, the air bags and the
front seat belt pretensioner system will
not deploy and this could result in
death or serious injury.
Do not drive the vehicle with the air
bag/front seat belt pretensioner system
warning beep sounding. Contact an
Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the
vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

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:

l

The air bag system warning light
flashes.

l

The air bag system warning light
remains illuminated.

l

The air bag system warning light does
not illuminate when the ignition switch
is turned to the ON position.

l

The air bags inflate.

l

Front passenger air bag deactivation
indicator light does not illuminate
when the ignition switch is turned to
the ON position or does not illuminate
as indicated in the chart. For more
details about this indicator light and
this chart, refer to “Front passenger
seat weight sensors (page 2-43)”.

WARNING

Damaged Air Bag System
Components:
Driving with damaged air bag system
components is dangerous. A collision,
even one not strong enough to inflate
the air bags, could damage the system
components. If there was a subsequent
collision, a damaged component
would not inflate the air bags. Always
have an Authorized Mazda Dealer
inspect the air bag systems after a
collision.

Removing Interior Parts:
Removing any components such as the
front seats (if side air bags are
equipped), 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 components.
The air bag could accidentally activate
and cause serious injuries. Always
have an Authorized Mazda Dealer
remove these parts.

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, injur y can
result. Ask an Authorized Mazda
Dealer how to safely dispose of an air
bag or how to scrap an air bag
equipped vehicle.

2-52

NOTE

If it becomes necessary to have the
components or wiring system for the
supplementary restraint system
modified to accommodate a person with
certain medical conditions in
accordance with a certifie d physician,
contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer,
refer to “Customer Assistance
(U.S.A.) ” (page 9-2).

Essential Safety Equipment

SRS Air Bags

2-53

2-54

3

Knowing Your Mazda

Explanation of basic operations and controls; opening/closing and adjustment
of various parts.

Doors and Locks ........................................................................... 3-2

Keys .......................................................................................... 3-2

Keyless Entry System

Door Locks ............................................................................... 3-7

Liftgate (5 Door) ....................................................................... 3-9

Trunk Lid (4 Door) ................................................................. 3-12

Inside Trunk Release Slide Lever (4 Door) ............................. 3-15

Power Windows

Fuel-Filler Lid and Cap ........................................................... 3-18

Hood ....................................................................................... 3-20

Moonroof

Security System ........................................................................... 3-23

Immobilizer System ................................................................ 3-23

Theft-Deterrent System

Steering Wheel and Mirrors ...................................................... 3-28

Steering Wheel ........................................................................ 3-28

Mirrors .................................................................................... 3-28

í

............................................................................. 3-21

í

............................................................ 3-3

í

................................................................... 3-16

í

........................................................ 3-26

í

Some models.

3-1

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

Keys

WARNING

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.

NOTE

(With immobilizer system)

Refer to Immobilizer System (page
3-23) for information regarding keys
and engine starting on vehicles
equipped with the immobilizer system.

The keys operate all locks.

Also write down the code number and
keep it in another safe and handy place,
but not in the vehicle.

If your key is lost, consult your
Authorized Mazda Dealer with the code
number ready.

Key code number plate

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.

3-2

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

Keyless Entry System

í

This system locks and unlocks the doors
and the liftgate.
It can also help you signal for attention in
an emergency.
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.

NOTE

l

The keyless entry system is designed
to operate up to about 2.5 m (8 ft)
from the center of the vehicle, but
this may vary due to local
conditions.

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.

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 3-5).

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. Br ing all transmitters to
an Authorized Mazda Dealer when
the electronic codes need to be reset.

í

Some models.

3-3

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qTransmitter

Lock button

Unlock button

Panic button

NOTE

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

(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.

Lock button

To lock the doors and the liftgate, press
the lock button and the hazard warning
lights will flash once.

To confirm that all the doors and the
liftgate 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.

NOTE

l

All doors and the liftgate cannot be
locked when eith er front door is
open and the key is in the ignition
switch.

l

Confirm that all the doors and the
liftgate are locked visually or audibly
by use of the double click.

Unlock button

To unlock the driver's door, press the
unlock button and the hazard warning
lights will flash twice.

To unlock all the doors and the liftgate,
press the unlock button again within 5
seconds and the hazard warning lights
will flash twice.

NOTE

NOTE

If the lock and unlock buttons are
pressed sequentially, the hazard
warning lights may not flash correctly.

3-4

After unlocking with the transmitter, all
doors and the liftgate will automatically
lock if one of the doors or the liftgate is
not opened within about 30 seconds.

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

Panic button

You can use the panic button to turn on
the alarm, which allows you to signal for
attention in an emergency.

NOTE

The alarm will work whether any door
or the liftgate is open or closed.

Turning on the alarm

Pressing the panic button once will trigger
the alarm for about 2 minutes and 30
seconds, and the following will occur:

l

The horn sounds intermittently.

l

The hazard warning lights flash.

Turning off the alarm

Press any button on the transmitter.

qTransmitter Maintenance

CAUTION

l

Make sure the battery is installed
with the correct pole facing upward.
Battery leakage could occur if it is
not installed correctly.

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 be damaged.

l

There is the danger of explosion if
the battery is not correctly replaced.

l

Replace only with the same type
battery (CR2025 or equivalent).

l

Dispose of used batteries according
to the following inst ructions.

l

Insulate the plus and minus
terminals of the battery using
cellophane or equivalent tape.

l

Never disassemble.

l

Never throw the battery into fire
and/or water.

l

Never deform or crush.

3-5

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

Replacing the transmitter battery

1. Insert a small screwdriver into the slot
and gently pry open the transmitter.

Slot

Back cover

2. Press the portion of the battery
indicated by A and remove the battery.

A

3. Install a new battery (CR2025 or
equivalent) into the front portion of the
holder with the positive pole (

)
facing up. Press on the B portion of the
battery to set the battery.

Back cover

B

Front
cover

Front of
holder

4. Align the front and back covers and
snap the transmitter shut.

qService

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.

3-6

CAUTION

Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user's
authority to operate the equipment.

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

Door Locks

WARNING

Unattended Children and Pets:
Leaving a child or an animal
unattended in a parked vehicle is
dangerous. In hot weather,
temperatures inside a vehicl e can
become high enough to cause brain
damage or even death. Always take all
children and animals with you or
leave a responsibl e person with them.

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.

Unlocked Doors:
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.

qLocking, Unlocking with Key

The driver's door can be locked/unlocked
with the key.
Turn the key toward the front to unlock,
toward the back to lock.

Unlock

Lock

NOTE

If your vehicle is equipped with a front
passenger door key slot, the door can be
locked/unlocked with the key.

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).

í

NOTE

Always remove the key from the
ignition switch, close all windows, and
lock all doors and the trunk lid/liftgate
when leaving your vehicle unattended.
This discourages intruders and thieves.

í

Some models.

3-7

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qLocking, Unlocking with Door-

Lock Knob

To lock any door from the inside, push the
door-lock knob.
To unlock, pull it out.
This does not operate the other door
locks.

Lock

Unlock

To lock any door with the door-lock knob
from the outside, push the door-lock knob
to the lock position and close the door.
This does not operate the other door
locks.

Door-lock knob
(Lock position)

qPower Door Locks

NOTE

All doors and the liftgate cannot be
locked when eith er front door is open
and the key is in the ignition switch.

Locking, unlocking with key

All doors and the liftgate lock
automatically when the driver's door is
locked with the key. All doors and the
liftgate unlock when the driver's door is
unlocked and the key is held in the unlock
position a second longer.

Unlock

Lock

NOTE

When locking the doors this way, be
careful not to leave the key inside the
vehicle.

3-8

NOTE

Holding the key in the unlocked
position in the driver's door lock for
about a second unlocks all doors and
the liftgate. 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.

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

Locking, unlocking with door-lock
switch

All doors and the liftgate lock
automatically when LOCK is pushed.
They all unlock when the unmarked part
of the door-lock switch is pushed.

Unlock

Lock

qRear Door Child Safety Locks

These locks are intended to help prevent
children from accidentally opening the
rear doors. Use them both whenever a
child rides in the vehicle.

If you insert the key and turn the child
safety lock to the lock position before
closing that door, the door cannot be
opened from the inside.
The door can be opened only by lifting
the outside handle.

Unlock

Liftgate (5 Door)

WARNING

Open Liftgate and Exhaust Gas:
Exhaust gas in the cabin of a vehicle
is dangerous. An open liftgate in a
moving vehicle will cause exhaust gas
to be drawn into the cabin. This gas
contains CO (carbo n monoxide),
which is colorless, odorless, and
highly poisonous, and it can cause
loss of consciousness and death.
Moreover, an open liftgate could cause
occupants to fall out in an accident.
Do not drive with the liftgate open.

qLocking, Unlocking with

Transmitter

The liftgate can be locked/unlocked by
operating the keyless entry system
transmitter, refer to Keyless Entry System
(page 3-3).

qLocking, Unlocking with Door-

Lock Switch

The liftgate can be locked/unlocked by
operating the door-lock switch, refer to
Power Door Locks (page 3-8).

Lock

3-9

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qOpening and Closing the Liftgate

Opening the liftgate

Pull the handle and lift up the liftgate.

NOTE

If the vehicle battery is dead or there is
a malfunction in the electrical system
and the liftgate cannot be unlocked,
perform the following manual
procedure as an emergency measure to
unlock it:

1. Remove the cap on the interior
surface of the liftgate with a flathead
screwdriver.

Cap

2. Turn the lever to the right to unlock
the liftgate.

3-10

Lever

After performing this emergency
measure, have the vehicle inspected at
an Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as
possible.

Closing the liftgate

Use both hands to push the liftgate down
until the lock snaps shut. Do not slam it.
Pull up on the liftgate to make sure it is
secure.

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qLuggage Compartment

WARNING

Placing Cargo on the Cover:
Placing luggage or other cargo on top
of the luggage compartment cover is
dangerous. During sudden braking or
a collision, the cargo could become a
projectile that could hit and injure
someone. The vehicle has a light
weight luggage compartment cover to
keep the content s of your luggage area
out of sight; it will not retain heavy
objects that are not tied down in an
accident like a rollover. Tie down all
heavy objects, whether luggage or
cargo, using the tie down hooks. Don't
place anything on top of the cover.

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.

Luggage compartment cover strap

The luggage compartment can be
accessed by opening the liftgate when the
straps are attached to the sides of the
liftgate.

Strap

Luggage compartment cover

The luggage compartment can be
accessed by opening the luggage
compartment cover from the inside of the
vehicle.

Latch

Latch

CAUTION

Make sure the luggage compartment
cover is firmly secured . If it is not
firmly secured, it could unexpectedly
disengage resulting in injury.

3-11

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

CAUTION

To prevent cargo from shifting while
driving or during sudden deceleration,
be careful of the following:

l

Do not open the luggage
compartment cover while the vehicle
is moving.

l

Do not overload the luggage
compartment so that the cover
cannot be close d.

l

Do not allow cargo to interfere with
the luggage compartment cover
latch.

This cover can be removed for more
room. To do this, just unfasten the straps;
then lift and pull it out.

Trunk Lid (4 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

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qOpening and Closing the Trunk

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, lock the
rear seatbacks and do not allow
children to play inside the vehicle.

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, the rear folding
seats or the trunk unlocked. Always
keep the car from being a tempting
place to play by locking rear seats,
doors and the trunk, and keeping the
keys where child ren won't play with
them.

Opening the trunk lid with the key

Insert the key into the slot and turn it
clockwise.

Open

Opening the trunk lid with the remote
release lever

Pull up the release lever next to the
driver's seat.

Release lever

CAUTION

For vehicles equipped with a rear
spoiler, do not lift the trunk lid by the
spoiler. Lifting up the trunk lid by the
rear spoiler could cause damage to the
rear spoiler and the trunk lid.

Closing the trunk lid

Use both hands to push the trunk lid down
until the lock snaps shut. Do not slam it.
Pull up on the trunk lid to make sure it is
secure.

3-13

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qTrunk Security

In some situations you may want to
prevent the trunk from being opened with
the remote trunk lid release lever.

Give your key only to someone you trust.

To secure the trunk lid, lock the rear
seatbacks (page 2-8), push the trunk lock
lever up, and close the trunk.

To cancel the security feature, insert the
key into the lock, turn the key clockwise,
and pull the trunk lock lever down.

Unlock

Lock

Trunk lock lever

NOTE

To prevent the battery from being
discharged, do not leave the trunk open
for a long period when the engine is not
running.

qTrunk Light

The trunk light is on when the lid is open
and off when it's closed.

3-14

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

Inside Trunk Release Slide Lever (4 Door)

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.

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.

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.

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, lock the
rear seatbacks and do not allow
children to play inside the vehicle.

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, the rear folding
seats or the trunk unlocked. Always
keep the car from being a tempting
place to play by locking rear seats,
doors and the trunk, and keeping the
keys where child ren won't play with
them.

3-15

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qOpening the Trunk Lid from the

Inside

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.

The inside trunk release slide lever is
located on the inside of the trunk lid.

Power Windows

The ignition switch must be in the ON
position for the power windows to
operate.

í

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.
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 operat e 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

í

Some models.

CAUTION

To prevent burning out the fuse and
damaging the power window system,
don't open or close more than three
windows at once.

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qOperating the Driver's Side

Power Window

Manual opening/closing

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.

Left front window

Auto-opening

To fully open the window automatically,
press the switch completely down.

To stop the window partway, lightly pull
up the switch and then release it.

Close

Open

qOperating the Passenger Power

Windows

The power windows may be operated
when the power window lock switch on
the driver's door is in the unlocked
position.

The passenger windows may be opened or
closed by the power window master
control switches on the driver's door.

Left rear window

Right front window

Right rear window

Power window lock switch

To open the window to the desired
position, hold down the switch.
To close the window to the desired
position, pull up the switch.

Close

Open

3-17

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qPower Window Lock Switch

With the lock switch in the unlocked
position, all power windows on each door
can be operated.

With the lock switch in the locked
position, only the driver's side power
window can be operated.

Locked position

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.

Fuel-Filler Lid and Cap

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.

3-18

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

qFuel-Filler Lid

To open, pull up the remote fuel-filler lid
release.

4 Door

Remote fuel-filler
lid release

5 Door

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.

Close

Open

CAUTION

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.

3-19

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

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.

qOpening the Hood

1. With the vehicle parked, pull the
release handle to unlock the hood.

5 Door

3. Grasp the support rod in the padded
area indicated by the arrow.

Clip

Pad

Support rod

2. Slide the hood latch and lift the hood.

4 Door

3-20

4. Use the support rod to hold the hood
open.

Clip

Support rod

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

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.

Moonroof

The moonroof can be opened or closed
electrically only when the ignition switch
is in the ON position.

Slide switch

í

Tilt 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.

Closing the Moonroof:
A closing moonroof is dangerous. The
hands, head, or even neck of a person
―especially a child― could be caught
in it as it closes, causing serious injury
or even death. Make sure the opening
is clear before closing the moonroof.

í

Some models.

3-21

Knowing Your Mazda

Doors and Locks

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.

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.

To close to the desired position, push the
front of the tilt or slide switch.

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

Tilt up

Close

Close

qSlide Operation

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

CAUTION

The sunshade doesn't tilt. To avoid
damaging the sunshade, don't push up
on it.

Knowing Your Mazda

Security System

Immobilizer System

The immobilizer system allows the engine
to start only with a key the system
recognizes.

If someone atte mpts to start the engine
with an unrecognized key, the engine will
not start, thereby helping to prevent the
theft of your vehicle.

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

To avoid damage to the key, do not:

l

Drop the key.

l

Get the key wet.

l

Expose the ke y to any kind of
magnetic field.

l

Expose the ke y to high
temperatures on places such as the
dashboard or hood, under direct
sunlight.

CAUTION

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.

l

A key ring rests on the key grip.

l

Metal parts of other keys or metal
objects touch the key grip.

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.

3-23

Knowing Your Mazda

Security System

NOTE

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

(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.

Disarming

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.

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.

3-24

Knowing Your Mazda

Security System

NOTE

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.

l

Signals from a TV or radio station, or
from a transceiver or a mobile
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 reins ert it and try starting
the engine again. If it doesn't start
after 3 or more tries, contact an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.

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.

l

Since the electronic codes are reset
when repairing the immobilizer
system, the keys are needed. Bring
all the existing keys to an Authorized
Mazda Dealer.

qMaintenance

If you have a problem with the
immobilizer system or the key, consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.

NOTE

l

The keys carry a unique electronic
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.

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If you lose a key, an Authorized
Mazda Dealer will reset the
electronic codes of your remaining
keys and immobi lizer system. Bring
all the remaining keys to an
Authorized Mazda Dealer to reset.
Starting the vehicle with a key that
has not been reset is not possible.

qModification and Add-On

Equipment

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.

3-25

Knowing Your Mazda

Security System

Theft-Deterrent System

í

The theft-deterrent system is designed to
prevent your vehicle or its contents from
being stolen when all the doors, hood, and
trunk lid/liftgate are locked.

If forcible entry is attempted, the system
sounds the horn and flashes the hazard
warning lights.

NOTE

l

The theft-deterrent system operates
with the key or the keyless entry
system transmitter.

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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/liftgate are locked before leaving
the vehicle. Remember to take your
key and transmitter.

qOperation

System triggering conditions

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:

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Forcing open a door, the hood or the
trunk lid/liftgate.

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Opening a door, the hood or the trunk
lid by operating an inside door-lock
knob, the hood release handle or the
trunk lid relea se lever.

If the system is triggered again, the lights
and horn will activate until a door or the
trunk lid is unlocked with the key or with
the transmitter.

qHow to Arm the System

1. Remove the key from the ignition
switch.

2. Close the hood. Then close and lock all
doors and the trunk lid/liftgate from the
outside using the key. If you have the
keyless entry system, press the lock
button on the transmitter. The hazard
warning lights will flash once to
indicate that the system is armed.

The following method will also arm the
theft-deterrent system:
Close the hood and the trunk lid/
liftgate . Press the area on the door-lock
switch marked “LOCK” once. Close all
doors.

NOTE

Locking the doors with the inside door­lock 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:

l

Unlock a door or the trunk lid with the
key.

l

Press the unlock button on the keyless
entry system transmitter.

l

Insert the key into the ignition switch
and turn it to the ON position.

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.

3-26

í

Some models.

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Press the unlock button on the keyless
entry system transmitter.

NOTE

If you have any problem with the theft­deterrent system, consult an Authorized
Mazda Dealer.

qTheft-Deterrent Labels

Knowing Your Mazda

Security System

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.

3-27

Knowing Your Mazda

Steering Wheel and Mirrors

Steering Wheel

WARNING

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.

qSteering Wheel Adjustment

To change the angle or length of the
steering wheel:

1. Stop the vehicle, pull down the lock
release lever under the steering
column.

Lock release lever

Mirrors

qOutside Mirrors

Check the mirrors' angles before driving.

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.

Manual control mirror

To adjust, move the mirror's control lever,
just inside the door.

2. Tilt the steering wheel and/or adjust the
steering column length to the desired
positions, push the lever up to lock the
column.

3. Push the wheel up and down to be
certain it's locked before driving.

3-28

Control lever

Power control mirror

The ignition switch must be in the ACC
or ON position.

To adjust:

1. Move the selector switch to the left or
right to choose the left or right side
mirror.

2. Depress the mirror switch in the
appropriate direction.

Selector switch

Outside mirror

Knowing Your Mazda

Steering Wheel and Mirrors

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.

Mirror switch

After adjusting the mirror, lock the control
by moving the selector switch to the
middle position.

Folding the mirror

Fold the outside mirror rearward until it is
flush with the vehicle.

Mirror defroster

í

To turn on the mirror defrosters, turn the
ignition switch to the ON position and
push the rear window defroster switch
(page 5-50).

qRearview Mirror (With Day/

Night Function)

Before driving, adjust the rearview mirror
to center on the scene through the rear
window.
Do this with the day/night lever in the day
position.

Push the lever forward for day driving.
Pull it back to reduce glare from
headlights.

Day/Night lever

Day

Night

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Some models.

3-29

Knowing Your Mazda

Steering Wheel and Mirrors

WARNING

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.

3-30

4

Before Driving Your Mazda

Important information about driving your Mazda.

Fuel and Engine Exhaust Precautions ........................................ 4-2

Fuel Requirements .................................................................... 4-2

Emission Control System .......................................................... 4-3

Engine Exhaust (Carbon Monoxi de) ......................................... 4-5

Before Starting the Engine ........................................................... 4-6

Before Getting In ...................................................................... 4-6

After Getting In ......................................................................... 4-6

Driving Tips ................................................................................... 4-7

Break-In Period ......................................................................... 4-7

Money-Saving Suggestions ...................................................... 4-7

Hazardous Driving .................................................................... 4-8

Rocking the Vehicle .................................................................. 4-8

Winter Driving .......................................................................... 4-9

Driving In Flooded Area ......................................................... 4-11

Overloading ............................................................................. 4-11

Towing ......................................................................................... 4-12

Trailer Towing ......................................................................... 4-12

4-1

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)

Regular unleaded fuel 87 [ (R+M)/2 method] or above (91 RON or above)

* U.S. federal law requires that octane ratings be posted on gasoline station pumps.

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

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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.

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Gasohol containing more than 10% ethanol.

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Gasoline or gasohol containing methanol.

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Leaded fuel or leaded gasohol.

4-2