Towing

Before driving

• Verify that your Mazda maintains a near-normal attitude when a loaded or unloaded trailer is connected. Do not drive if it has an abnormal front-up or front-down position. Inspect for incorrect nose weight, worn suspension parts, and trailer overloading. Have the vehicle inspected by an expert repairer, we recommend an Authorised Mazda Repairer.

• Make sure the trailer cargo is secure to prevent it from shifting.

• Make sure the mirrors meet all government regulations. Inspect them.

• Before starting out, inspect the operation of all vehicle and trailer lights and all vehicle-to-trailer connections. Stop and re-inspect all lights and connections after driving a short distance.

Driving

• Your Mazda will handle differently with a trailer in tow, so practice turning, backing, and stopping in a traffic-free area.

• Take time to get accustomed to the extra weight and length.

• Do not exceed 100 km/h (62 mph) with a trailer in tow. If the local legal maximum speed with a trailer in tow is less than 100 km/h (62 mph), do not exceed the legal speed.

   

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  If the vehicle exceeds 100 km/h (62 mph) with a trailer in tow, the vehicle could be damaged.

  Close Caution

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• When ascending a hill, shift into a lower gear to reduce the possibility of overloading or overheating the engine, or both.

• When descending a hill, shift into a lower gear and use engine compression as a braking effect. Pay constant attention to speed and use the brakes only as needed. Holding the brake pedal down for a prolonged period may cause the brakes to overheat and lose power.

Parking

Avoid parking on an incline with a trailer. If this must be done, follow these instructions.

Parking on an Incline

1. Set the parking brake and the brakes.

2. Have someone block the wheels of the vehicle and trailer while you apply the brakes.

3. After the wheels are blocked, release the parking brake and the brakes slowly, allowing the blocks to bear the load.

4. Set the parking brake firmly.

5. If the vehicle has an automatic transaxle, put the selector lever in P position. If it has a manual transaxle, place the gear shift in 1 or R position.

Starting on an Incline

1. Start the engine (Search).

2. Release the parking brake and slowly pull away a short distance from the wheel blocks.

3. Stop on the nearest level ground, set the parking brake, and pick up the wheel blocks.