Owner Maintenance
Hood
Always check that the hood is closed and securely locked:
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.
Opening the Hood
Inspecting Brake Fluid Level
If the brake fluid level is low, have the brakes inspected:
A low brake fluid level is dangerous.
A low level could indicate brake lining wear or a brake system leak which could cause the brakes to fail and lead to an accident.
Inspect the fluid level in the reservoir regularly. It should be kept between the MAX and MIN lines.
The level normally drops with accumulated distance, a condition associated with wear of brake linings. If it is excessively low, have the brake system inspected by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
Temporary Spare Tire
Inspect the temporary spare tire at least monthly to make sure it is properly inflated and stored.
The temporary spare tire condition gradually deteriorates even if it has not been used.
The temporary spare tire is easier to handle because of its construction which is lighter and smaller than a conventional tire. This tire should be used only for an emergency and only for a short distance.
Use the temporary spare tire only until the conventional tire is repaired, which should be as soon as possible.
Refer to Tires (Search).
-
Do not use your temporary spare tire rim with a snow tire or a conventional tire. Neither will properly fit and could damage both tire and rim.
-
The temporary spare tire has a tread life of less than 5,000 km (3,000 miles). The tread life may be shorter depending on driving conditions.
-
The temporary spare tire is for limited use, however, if the tread wear solid-band indicator appears, replace the tire with the same type of temporary spare (Search).
Tires degrade over time, even when they are not being used on the road. It is recommended that tires generally be replaced when they are 6 years or older. Heat caused by hot climates or frequent high loading conditions can accelerate the aging process. You should replace the spare tire when you replace the other road tires due to the aging of the spare tire. The period in which the tire was manufactured (both week and year) is indicated by a 4-digit number.
Refer to Tire Labeling (Search).
Fuse Replacement
Replacing the fuses on the vehicle's left side
If the electrical system does not work, first inspect the fuses on the vehicle's left side.
-
Make sure the ignition is switched off, and other switches are off.
-
Open the fuse panel cover.
-
Pull the fuse straight out with the fuse puller provided on the fuse block located in the engine compartment.
-
Inspect the fuse and replace it if it is blown.
-
Insert a new fuse of the same amperage rating, and make sure it fits tightly. If it does not fit tightly, have an expert install it. We recommend an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
If you have no spare fuses, borrow one of the same rating from a circuit not essential to vehicle operation, such as the AUDIO or OUTLET circuit.
Always replace a fuse with a genuine Mazda fuse or equivalent of the same rating. Otherwise you may damage the electric system.
-
Reinstall the cover and make sure that it is securely installed.
Replacing the fuses under the hood
If the headlights or other electrical components do not work and the fuses in the cabin are normal, inspect the fuse block under the hood.
If a fuse is blown, it must be replaced. Follow these steps:
-
Make sure the ignition is switched off, and other switches are off.
-
Remove the fuse block cover.
-
If any fuse but the MAIN fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage rating.
Do not replace the main fuse by yourself. Have an Authorized Mazda Dealer perform the replacement:
Replacing the fuse by yourself is dangerous because the MAIN fuse is a high current fuse. Incorrect replacement could cause an electrical shock or a short circuit resulting in a fire.
-
Reinstall the cover and make sure that it is securely installed.
