2023 MAZDA CX5 warning light

▼Warning Light
The warning light turns on when the
system has a malfunction.
Refer to Brake System Warning
Indication/Warning Light on page
7-20.
▼Brake Pad Wear Indicator
When the disc brake pads become
worn, the built-in wear indicators
contact the disc plates. This causes a
screeching noise to warn that the pads
should be replaced.
When you hear this noise, consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer as soon as
possible.
WARNING
Do not drive with worn disc pads:
Driving with worn disc pads is
dangerous. The brakes could fail and
cause a serious accident. As soon as
you hear a screeching noise consult an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
NOTE
In high humidity weather conditions,
brake noises, such as brake squeak or
brake squeal can be heard. It does not
indicate a malfunction.
▼Brake Assist
During emergency braking situations
when it is necessary to depress the
brake pedal with greater force, the
brake assist system provides braking
assistance, thus enhancing braking
performance.

When the brake pedal is depressed
hard or depressed more quickly, the
brakes apply more firmly.
NOTE
When the brake pedal is depressed
hard or depressed more quickly, the
pedal will feel softer but the brakes
will apply more firmly. This is a
normal effect of the brake assist
operation and does not indicate a
malfunction.
When the brake pedal is depressed
hard or depressed more quickly, a
motor/pump operation noise may
be heard. This is a normal effect of
the brake assist and does not
indicate a malfunction.
The brake assist equipment does not
supersede the functionality of the
vehicle's main braking system.
▼
Brake Override System
The brake override system applies the
brake first for safety if the brake pedal
and accelerator pedal are depressed at
the same time.
NOTE
Operation of the brake override system
can be turned on or
off.
Refer to the Settings section in the
Mazda Connect Owner's Manual.
When Driving
Brake
4-72
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

AUTOHOLD
▼AUTOHOLD
The AUTOHOLD function automatically holds the vehicle stopped, even if you take
your foot
off the brake pedal. This function can be best used while stopped in
traffic
or at a traffic light. The brakes are released when you start driving the vehicle.
WARNING
Do not rely completely on the AUTOHOLD function:
The AUTOHOLD function is only designed to assist the brake operation while the
vehicle is stopped. Neglecting to operate the brakes and relying only on the
AUTOHOLD system is dangerous and could result in an unexpected accident if the
vehicle were to suddenly move. Operate the brakes appropriately in accordance
with the road and surrounding conditions.
Note that the vehicle may move suddenly de
pending on the vehicle's load or if it is
towing something.
Do not release your foot from the brake pedal while the vehicle is stopped on a
steep grade:
Because there is a possibility of the vehicl e not being held in the stopped position by
the AUTOHOLD function, the vehicle may move unexpectedly and result in an
accident.
Do not use the AUTOHOLD function on slippery roads such as icy or
snow-covered roads, or unpaved roads:
Even if the vehicle is held in the stopped position by the AUTOHOLD function, the
vehicle may move unexpectedly and result in an accident. Operate the accelerator
pedal, brakes, or steering wheel appropriately as necessary.
Immediately depress the brake pedal in the following cases:
Because the AUTOHOLD function is canceled forcibly, the vehicle may move
unexpectedly and result in an accident.
 “Depress Brake Pedal. Brake Hold Disabled” is displayed in the multi-information
display and the warning sound is activated at the same time.
Always apply the parking brake when parking the vehicle:
Not applying the parking brake when parking the vehicle is dangerous as the vehicle
may move unexpectedly and result in an accident. When parking the vehicle, shift
the selector lever to the P position and apply the parking brake.
When Driving
Brake
4-73
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

Hill Launch Assist (HLA)
▼Hill Launch Assist (HLA)
The HLA functions to assist in
accelerating the vehicle from a stop on
slopes. When releasing the brake pedal
and depressing the accelerator pedal
to accelerate the vehicle from a stop
while on a slope, the function prevents
the vehicle from rolling. The HLA also
operates when reversing on a slope.
The braking force is maintained
automatically after releasing the brake
pedal on a steep slope.
The HLA operates when the vehicle is
tilted rearward with the selector lever
in a forward gear, and operates when
the vehicle is tilted forward with the
selector lever in the R position.
WARNING
Do not rely completely on
HLA:
HLA is an auxiliary device for
accelerating from a stop on a slope.
The system only operates for about 2
seconds and therefore, relying only on
the system, when accelerating from a
stop is dangerous because the vehicle
may move (roll) unexpectedly and
cause an accident.
The vehicle could roll depending on
the vehicle's load or if it is towing
something.
Always confirm the safety around the
vehicle before starting to drive the
vehicle.
NOTE
HLA does not operate on a gentle
slope. In addition, the gradient of
the slope on which the system will
operate changes depending on the
vehicle's load.
HLA does not operate if the parking
brake is applied, or if the vehicle has
not stopped completely.
While HLA is operating, the brake
pedal may feel stiff and vibrate,
however, this does not indicate a
malfunction.
HLA does not operate while the
TCS/DSC indicator light is
illuminated.
Refer to TCS/DSC Indication/
Indicator Light (Turns on) on page
7-25.
HLA does not turn off even if the TCS
OFF switch is pressed to turn off the
TCS.
When Driving
Brake
4-77
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

Antilock Brake System(ABS)
▼Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The ABS control unit continuously
monitors the speed of each wheel. If
one wheel is about to lock up, the ABS
responds by automatically releasing
and reapplying that wheel's brake.

The driver will feel a slight vibration in
the brake pedal and may hear a
chattering noise from the brake system.
This is normal ABS system operation.
Continue to depress the brake pedal
without pumping the brakes.

The warning light turns on when the
system has a malfunction.
Refer to ABS Warning Indication/
Warning Light on page 7-23.
WARNING
Do not rely on ABS as a substitute for
safe driving:
The ABS cannot compensate for unsafe
and reckless driving, excessive speed,
tailgating (following another vehicle
too closely), driving on ice and snow,
and hydroplaning (reduced tire friction
and road contact because of water on
the road surface). You can still have an
accident.
NOTE
Braking distances may be longer on
loose surfaces (snow or gravel, for
example) which usually have a hard
foundation. A vehicle with a normal
braking system may require less
distance to stop under these
conditions because the tires will
build up a wedge of surface layer
when the wheels skid.
The sound of the ABS operating may
be heard when starting the engine or
immediately after starting the
vehicle, however, it does not indicate
a malfunction.
When Driving
ABS/TCS/DSC
4-78
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new
2022-1-6 14:55:18

Traction Control System(TCS)
▼Traction Control System (TCS)
The Traction Control System (TCS)
enhances traction and safety by
controlling engine torque and braking.
When the TCS detects driving wheel
slippage, it lowers engine torque and
operates the brakes to prevent loss of
traction.

This means that on a slick surface, the
engine adjusts automatically to provide
optimum power to the drive wheels,
limiting wheel spin and loss of traction.

The warning light turns on when the
system has a malfunction.
Refer to TCS/DSC Indication/
Indicator Light (Turns on) on page
7-25.
WARNING
Do not rely on the Traction Control
System (TCS) as a substitute for safe
driving:
The Traction Control System (TCS)
cannot compensate for unsafe and
reckless driving, excessive speed,
tailgating (following another vehicle
too closely), and hydroplaning
(reduced tire friction and road contact
because of water on the road surface).
You can still have an accident.
Use snow tires or tire chains and drive
at reduced speeds when roads are
covered with ice and/or snow:
Driving without proper traction devices
on snow and/or ice-covered roads is
dangerous. The Traction Control
System (TCS) alone cannot provide
adequate traction and you could still
have an accident.
NOTE
To turn off the TCS, press the TCS OFF
switch (page 4-80).
▼
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
flashes.

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
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
NOTE
In addition to the indicator light
flashing, a slight lugging sound will
come from the engine. This indicates
that the TCS/DSC is operating
properly.
On slippery surfaces, such as fresh
snow, it will be impossible to achieve
high rpm when the TCS is on.
When Driving
ABS/TCS/DSC
4-79
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

Dynamic Stability Control(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 maneuvering, enhancing
vehicle safety.

Refer to ABS (page 4-78) and TCS
(page 4-79).

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 TCS/DSC Indication/
Indicator Light (Turns on) on page
7-25.
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 tire 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 tires of the correct size
specified for your Mazda on all 4
wheels.
 Use tires of the same
manufacturer, brand and tread
pattern on all 4 wheels.
 Do not mix worn tires.
 The DSC may not operate correctly
when tire chains are used or a
temporary spare tire is installed
because the tire diameter changes.
NOTE
If there is a problem with the DSC, the
Hill Launch Assist (HLA) may not
operate.
Refer to Hill Launch Assist (HLA) on
page 4-77.
▼ 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 flashes.

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
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
When Driving
ABS/TCS/DSC
4-81
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new
2022-1-6 14:55:18

NOTE
If the Mi-Drive cannot be switched to
sport mode, the select mode indicator
light flashes to notify the driver.Mazda intelligent Drive
Select (Mi-Drive) (AWD)
*
▼ Mazda intelligent Drive Select
(Mi-Drive)
Mi-drive is a system that switches the
drive modes depending on the driving
conditions, road conditions and
vehicle conditions.
The mode can be switched from
normal to sport, off-road or towing.
Sport mode
This mode enhances vehicle
responsiveness when the accelerator
pedal is depressed.
This provides additional quick
acceleration which may be needed to
safely make maneuvers such as lane
changes, merging onto freeways, or
passing other vehicles.
Off-road mode
This mode helps prevent drive-wheel
spinning during off-road driving and
improves driving performance.
Use this mode to drive the vehicle on
slippery roads such as muddy, sandy,
or deep-snowy roads.
Towing mode (SKYACTIV-G 2.5T)
This mode suppresses the reduction of
driving performance due to increased
weight during trailer towing and
promotes vehicle stability.
Use this mode when towing a trailer.
Warnings and cautions when using
Mi-Drive
WARNING

Do not rely completely on the
Mi-Drive system.
When Driving
Mazda intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive)
*Some models.4-83
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18

i-ACTIV AWD Operation*
▼i-ACTIV AWD Operation
AWD provides excellent drivability on
snow-covered and ice-packed roads,
sand and mud, as well as on steep
slopes and other slippery surfaces.
A system malfunction or operation
conditions are indicated by a warning.
Refer to AWD Warning Indication/
Warning Light on page 7-24.
WARNING
Never spin a wheel that is off the
ground:
Spinning a wheel that
is off the ground
as a result of the vehicle being stuck or
in a ditch is dangerous. The drive
assembly could be seriously damaged
which could lead to an accident or
could even lead to overheating, oil
leakage, and a fire.
▼AWD Driving
WARNING
Avoid sharp turns, excessive speed
and abrupt maneuvers when driving
this vehicle:
Sharp turns, excessive speed and
abrupt maneuvering of this vehicle is
dangerous as it could result in the
increased risk of loss of vehicle control,
vehicle roll-over, personal injury or
death.
This vehicle has a higher center of
gravity. Vehicles with a higher center of
gravity such as utility and AWD vehicles
handle differently th
an vehicles with a
lower center of gravity.
Utility and AWD vehicles are not
designed for cornering at high speeds
any more than low profile sports cars
are designed to perform satisfactorily
under off-road conditions. In addition,
utility vehicles have a significantly
higher rollover rate than other types of
vehicles.
Drive carefully when the vehicle is
loaded by lowering vehicle speed and
applying the brakes earlier:
Abrupt maneuvering and sudden
braking when driving a loaded vehicle
is dangerous as the driving behavior of
a vehicle with a high center of gravity is
different when it is loaded compared
to when it is not, and could result in
the loss of vehicle control and an
accident.
▼ Tires and Tire Chains
The condition of the tires plays a large
role in the performance of the vehicle.
Moreover, to prevent adverse
effects to
the drive assembly, please note the
following:
Tires
When replacing tires, always replace
all front and rear tires at the same
time.
All tires must be of the same size,
manufacture, brand and tread
pattern. Pay particular attention
when equipping snow or other types
of winter tires.
Do not mix tread-worn tires with
normal tires.
Inspect tire inflation pressures at the specified periods adjust to the
specified pressures.
When Driving
i-ACTIV AWD
4-86*Some models.
CX-50_8KB8-EA-22A_Edition2_new 2022-1-6 14:55:18