Winter Driving

- Carry emergency gear, including tire chains, window scraper, flares, a small shovel, jumper cables, and a small bag of sand or salt.

Ask an Authorized Mazda Dealer to perform the following precautions: - Have the proper ratio of antifreeze in the radiator.

Refer to Engine Coolant.

- Inspect the battery and its cables. Cold reduces battery capacity.

- Inspect the ignition system for damage and loose connections.

- Use washer fluid made with antifreeze―but don't use engine coolant antifreeze for washer fluid.

- Don't use the parking brake in freezing weather as the parking brake may freeze. Instead, shift to P and block the rear wheels.

Snow Tires

Use snow tires on all four wheels

Don't go faster than 120 km/h (75 mph) while driving with snow tires. Inflate snow tires 30 kPa (0.3 kgf/cm2, 4.3 psi) more than recommended on the tire pressure label (driver's door frame), but never more than the maximum cold-tire pressure shown on the tires.

WARNING:
Use only the same size and type tires (snow, radial, or non-radial) on all four wheels:
Using tires different in size or type is dangerous. Your vehicle's handling could be greatly affected and result in an accident.

CAUTION:
Check local regulations before using studded tires.

NOTE:
If your vehicle is equipped with the tire pressure monitoring system, the system may not function correctly when using tires with steel wire reinforcement in the sidewalls.

Tire Chains

Check local regulations before using tire chains.

CAUTION:
Do not go faster than 50 km/h (30 Chains may affect handling.


mph) or the chain manufacturer's Do not go faster than 50 km/h (30
mph) or the chain manufacturer's recommended limit, whichever is lower.

holes, and sharp turns. Drive carefully and avoid bumps,
holes, and sharp turns.

Do not use chains on a temporary Avoid locked-wheel braking.


spare tire; it may result in damage Do not use chains on a temporary
spare tire; it may result in damage to the vehicle and to the tire.

are free of snow or ice. The tires Do not use chains on roads that
are free of snow or ice. The tires and chains could be damaged.

aluminum wheels. Chains may scratch or chip
aluminum wheels.

NOTE:
If your vehicle is equipped with the tire pressure monitoring system, the system may not function correctly when using tire chains.

Install the chains on the front tires.

Do not use chains on the rear tires.

Please consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

Installing the chains

1. Secure the chains on the front tires as tightly as possible. Always follow the chain manufacturer's instructions.

2. Retighten the chains after driving 1/2 ―1 km (1/4―1/2 mile).

    See also:

    Operating Tips for Audio System
    WARNING: Do not adjust the audio control switches while driving the vehicle: Adjusting the audio while driving the vehicle is dangerous as it could distract your attention from the vehicle opera ...

    Trailer Towing
    The Mazda3 is not designed for towing. Never tow a trailer with your Mazda3. ...

    Before Driving Your Mazda
    Important information about driving your Mazda. ...