3–54
Before Driving
Driving Tips
Snow Tyres
WARNING
Use only the same size and type tyres
(snow, radial, or non-radial) on all four
wheels:
Using tyres 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 tyres.
Use snow tyres on all four wheels
Do not exceed the maximum permissible
speed for your snow tyres or legal speed
limits.
E u r o p e
When snow tyres are used, select the
speci ¿ ed size and pressure (page 9-9 ).
Tyre Chains
Check local regulations before using tyre
chains.
CAUTION
Chains may affect handling.
Do not go faster than 50 km/h
(30 mph) or the chain manufacturer's
recommended limit, whichever is
lower.
Drive carefully and avoid bumps,
holes, and sharp turns.
Avoid locked-wheel braking.
Do not use chains on a temporary
spare tyre; it may result in damage to
the vehicle and to the tyre. In some
models, the vehicle is not equipped
with a factory installed temporary
spare tyre.
Do not use chains on roads that are
free of snow or ice. The tyres and
chains could be damaged.
Chains may scratch or chip
aluminium wheels.
NOTE
If your vehicle is equipped with the tyre
pressure monitoring system, the system
may not function correctly when using
tyre chains.
Install the chains on the front tyres only.
Do not use chains on the rear tyres.
4–87
When Driving
ABS/TCS/DSC
Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC)
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
automatically controls braking and engine
torque in conjunction with systems such
as ABS and TCS to help control side slip
when driving on slippery surfaces, or
during sudden or evasive manoeuvring,
enhancing vehicle safety.
Refer to ABS (page 4-84 ) and TCS
(page 4-85 ).
DSC operation is possible at speeds
greater than 20 km/h (12 mph).
The warning light turns on when the
system has a malfunction.
Refer to Warning Lights on page 4-36 .
WARNING
Do not rely on the Dynamic Stability
Control as a substitute for safe driving:
The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
cannot compensate for unsafe and
reckless driving, excessive speed,
tailgating (following another vehicle
too closely), and hydroplaning (reduced
tyre friction and road contact because
of water on the road surface). You can
still have an accident.
CAUTION
The DSC may not operate correctly
unless the following are observed:
Use tyres of the correct size
speci ¿ ed for your Mazda on all
four wheels.
Use tyres of the same
manufacturer, brand and tread
pattern on all four wheels.
Do not mix worn tyres.
The DSC may not operate correctly
when tyre chains are used or a
temporary spare tyre is installed
because the tyre diameter changes.
TCS/DSC Indicator Light
This indicator light stays on for a few
seconds when the ignition is switched
ON. If the TCS or DSC is operating, the
indicator light À ashes.
If the light stays on, the TCS, DSC
or the brake assist system may have a
malfunction and they may not operate
correctly. Take your vehicle to an expert
repairer, we recommend an Authorised
Mazda Repairer.