Towing
Weight Limits
TTW and GCWR
The total trailer weight (TTW), gross combination weight rating (GCWR), gross axle weight rating (GAWR), trailer load, and trailer tongue load must be within the prescribed limits.
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The total trailer weight (TTW) is the sum of the weights of the trailer load (trailer weight plus cargo), trailer hitch, 2 passengers, and vehicle load (baggage, food, camp gear, etc.). Never allow the total trailer weight (TTW) to exceed specifications in the Trailer Towing-Load Table.
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The maximum GCWR is the combination weight of the trailer and load plus the towing vehicle (including trailer hitch, vehicle passengers, and load). It must not exceed specifications in the load table.
GAWR and GVWR
Do not exceed front and rear GAWR (gross axle weight rating) and GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating). If you do, vehicle handling, braking, and performance will be affected. These values are also on the Motor Vehicle Safety Certification Label posted on the driver's door frame.
High-altitude operation
Be aware of the towing load weight differences when towing at high altitudes. For altitudes exceeding 1,000 meter (3,280 ft 10 in), always reduce the towing load by 10 % for every 1,000 meter (3,280 ft 10 in) increase in altitude from the load indicated under the maximum GCWR heading in the trailer towing-load table. If the determined maximum total towing load weight is exceeded, the engine and other power-train parts may be damaged.
TRAILER TOWING-LOAD TABLE
Because vehicle weights vary, adjustments must be made to meet the requirements in this table.
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Item |
Model |
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|---|---|---|---|---|
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2WD |
AWD |
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|
MAX. FRONTAL AREA |
 |
2.97 m2 (32 ft2) |
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|
MAX. TTW |
 |
1,587.5 kg (3,500 lb) |
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|
MAX. GCWR |
 |
3,629 kg (8,000.4 lb) |
3,782 kg (8,337.7 lb) |
|
|
MAX. GAWR |
 |
Front |
1,225 kg (2,701 lb) |
1,241 kg (2,736 lb) |
|
Rear |
1,386 kg (3,056 lb) |
1,433 kg (3,159 lb) |
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|
MAX. GVWR |
 |
2,572 kg (5,670 lb) |
2,638 kg (5,816 lb) |
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TRAILER-TONGUE LOAD |
Tongue load |
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Tongue load/Trailer load × 100 = 10 % to 15 % |
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Trailer load |
 |
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DISTRIBUTION OF TRAILER LOAD |
 |
Front |
60 % |
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Rear |
40 % |
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Always keep tow loads within specified limits as indicated in the Trailer Towing-Load Table:
Attempting to tow loads greater than those specified is dangerous as it may cause serious handling and performance problems that could result in personal injury or vehicle damage, or both.
Load your trailer with the weight about 60 % toward the front and 40 % toward the rear:
Loading the trailer with more weight in the rear than in the front is dangerous. Doing so could cause you to lose control. The trailer tongue load must be 10 %―15 % of the total trailer load (sum of the weights of the trailer and cargo).
Always have the total trailer weight and tongue load determined prior to departure:
Attempting to tow loads without determining the total trailer weight and tongue load is dangerous. Trailer sway from crosswinds, rough roads or other causes could result in loss of control and a serious accident.
The total trailer weight and tongue load can be determined by weighing the trailer on platform scales at a highway weight station or a trucking company.
Trailer Hitch
Use only a hitch ball recommended by the trailer manufacturer that conforms to the gross trailer weight requirement.
When not towing a trailer, remove the trailer hitch (if detachable) to reduce the possibility of damage as a result of the vehicle being rear-ended.
Always make sure the trailer hitch is securely attached before departure:
An unsecured trailer hitch is dangerous as it causes greater trailer sway from crosswinds, rough roads or other causes, resulting in loss of control and a serious accident.
Examine all trailer-hitch mounting bolts regularly and tighten any that are loose. If the hitch is removed, seal any open mounting holes to prevent exhaust, dust, water, dirt and other foreign elements from filtering in, possibly endangering personal safety and damaging your vehicle.
Do not install a hitch that stiffens the bumper as it will reduce the bumper's performance.
Make sure there are no exhaust gas leaks into the passenger compartment if any mounting bolts are connected to the body:
Modifying your vehicle exhaust system is dangerous. Exhaust gas entering the vehicle could cause loss of consciousness or even death.
When mounting the trailer hitch, make no modifications to the vehicle exhaust system.
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Make all hitch adjustments with actual loads. Do not load and unload vehicle while adjusting hitch. This action will change the vehicle height.
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Do not use an axle-mounted hitch. This may damage the axle and related parts.
Trailer Lights
Trailer lights must comply with all federal, state, and local regulations. Equip your trailer as required before towing it day or night.
Do not connect a trailer lighting system directly to the lighting system of your Mazda. This may damage your vehicle's electrical system and lighting systems. Have a recreational vehicle dealer or trailer rental agency connect the system, and inspect the brake lights and turn signals yourself before each trip.
