2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Owners Manual - MyMazda

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MX-5_8X49-EA-07F_Edition2 Page1Monday, June 25 2007 11:18 AM

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Thank you for choosing a Mazda. We at Mazda design and build vehicles with completecustomer satisfaction in mind.

To help ensure enjoyable and trouble-free operation of your Mazda, read this manualcarefully and follow its recommendations.

An Authorized Mazda Dealer knows your vehicle best. So when maintenance or service isnecessary, that's the place to go.

Our nationwide network of Mazda professionals is dedicated to providing you with the bestpossible service.

We assure you that all of us at Mazda have an ongoing interest in your motoring pleasureand in your full satisfaction with your Mazda product.

Mazda Motor CorporationHIROSHIMA, JAPAN

Important Notes About This ManualKeep this manual in the glove box as a handy reference for the safe and enjoyable use of your Mazda. Should youresell the vehicle, leave this manual with it for the next owner.

All specifications and descriptions are accurate at the time of printing. Because improvement is a constant goal atMazda, we reserve the right to make changes in specifications at any time without notice and without obligation.

Event Data RecorderThis vehicle is equipped with an event data recorder. In the event of a crash, this device records data related tovehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time. These data can help provide a betterunderstanding of the circumstances in which crashes and injuries occur and lead to the designing of safervehicles.

Air Conditioning and the EnvironmentYour Mazda's genuine air conditioner is filled with HFC134a (R134a), a refrigerant that has been found not todamage the earth's ozone layer. If the air conditioner does not operate properly, consult an Authorized MazdaDealer.

PerchlorateCertain components of this vehicle such as [air bag modules, seat belt pretensioners, lithium batteries, ...] maycontain Perchlorate Material Special handling may apply for service or vehicle end of life disposal. Seewww.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate.

Please be aware that this manual applies to all models, equipment and options. As a result, you may findsome explanations for equipment not installed on your vehicle.

2007 Mazda Motor CorporationPrinted in Japan Aug. 2007(Print2)

AWord to Mazda Owners


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We want to help you get the most drivingpleasure from your vehicle. Your owner'smanual, when read from cover to cover,can do that in many ways.

Illustrations complement the words of themanual to best explain how to enjoy yourMazda. By reading your manual, you canfind out about the features, importantsafety information, and driving undervarious road conditions.

The symbol below in this manual meansDo not do this or Do not let thishappen.

Index: A good place to start is the Index,an alphabetical listing of all informationin your manual.

You'll find several WARNINGs,CAUTIONs, and NOTEs in the manual.

WARNINGA WARNING indicates a situation inwhich serious injury or death couldresult if the warning is ignored.

CAUTIONA CAUTION indicates a situation inwhich bodily injury or damage toyour vehicle, or both, could result ifthe caution is ignored.

NOTEA NOTE provides information and sometimessuggests how to make better use of yourvehicle.

The symbol below, located on some partsof the vehicle, indicates that this manualcontains information related to the part.Please refer to the manual for a detailedexplanation.

How to Use This Manual


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Table of Contents

Your Vehicle at a GlanceInterior, exterior views and part identification of your Mazda.

1

Essential Safety EquipmentUse of safety equipment, including seats, seat belt system, child-restraintsystems and SRS air bags.

2

Knowing Your MazdaExplanation of basic operations and controls; opening/closing and adjustmentof various parts.

3

Before Driving Your MazdaImportant information about driving your Mazda.

4

Driving Your MazdaExplanation of instruments and controls.

5

Interior ComfortUse of various features for drive comfort, including air-conditioning and audiosystem.

6

In Case of an EmergencyHelpful information on what to do in an emergency.

7

Maintenance and CareHow to keep your Mazda in top condition.

8

Customer Information and Reporting Safety DefectsImportant consumer information including warranties and add-on equipment.

9

SpecificationsTechnical information about your Mazda.

10

Index 11

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1 Your Vehicle at a Glance

Interior, exterior views and part identification of your Mazda.

Dashboard and Interior Overview .............................................. 1-2

Exterior Overview ......................................................................... 1-4

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Your Vehicle at a Glance

The equipment and installation position varies by vehicle

Dashboard and Interior Overview


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Power door lock switch ..................................................................................... page 3-28Outside mirror switch ........................................................................................ page 3-74DSC OFF switch ............................................................................................... page 5-24Passenger airbag deactivation switch ................................................................ page 2-32Dashboard illumination ..................................................................................... page 5-38Lighting control/Turn signals ............................................................................ page 5-54Instrument cluster .............................................................................................. page 5-34Air bags ............................................................................................................. page 2-28Wiper and washer lever ..................................................................................... page 5-57Cruise control switches ...................................................................................... page 5-19Power retractable hardtop switches ................................................................... page 3-52Hazard warning flasher switch .......................................................................... page 5-59Climate control system ........................................................................................ page 6-2Audio system ....................................................................................................... page 6-9Parking brake ....................................................................................................... page 5-6Power window switches .................................................................................... page 3-33MT shift lever .................................................................................................... page 5-10AT shift lever (Sport AT) ................................................................................... page 5-12Accessory socket ............................................................................................... page 6-44Ignition switch ..................................................................................................... page 5-2Tilt wheel release lever ...................................................................................... page 3-74Audio control switch ......................................................................................... page 6-38Fog light switch ................................................................................................. page 5-56Hood release handle .......................................................................................... page 3-37Trunk release button .......................................................................................... page 3-30Fuse box ............................................................................................................ page 8-45Seat belt ............................................................................................................... page 2-5Seats ..................................................................................................................... page 2-2Sunvisor ............................................................................................................. page 6-41Rearview mirror ................................................................................................. page 3-75Interior light ....................................................................................................... page 6-41Vanity mirror ...................................................................................................... page 6-41Glove box .......................................................................................................... page 6-43Mesh Pocket ...................................................................................................... page 6-44Cup holder ......................................................................................................... page 6-42Bottle Holder ..................................................................................................... page 6-42Remote fuel-filler lid release ............................................................................. page 3-36


Dashboard and Interior Overview

1-3The equipment and installation position varies by vehicle


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The equipment and installation position varies by vehicle

Exterior Overview


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Trunk lid ............................................................................................................ page 3-29Rear window defroster ....................................................................................... page 5-58Antenna ............................................................................................................... page 6-9Doors and keys .................................................................................................. page 3-27Outside mirror .................................................................................................... page 3-74Tires ................................................................................................................... page 8-33Light bulbs ......................................................................................................... page 8-37Hood .................................................................................................................. page 3-37Windshield wiper blades .................................................................................... page 8-28Convertible top (Soft top) .................................................................................. page 3-39Detachable hardtop ............................................................................................ page 3-44Convertible top (Power retractable hardtop) ...................................................... page 3-52Power windows ................................................................................................. page 3-33Fuel-filler lid ...................................................................................................... page 3-36


Exterior Overview

1-5The equipment and installation position varies by vehicle


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2 Essential Safety Equipment

Use of safety equipment, including seats, seat belt system, child-restraintsystems and SRS air bags.

Seats ............................................................................................... 2-2Seats .......................................................................................... 2-2

Seat Belt Systems .......................................................................... 2-5Seat Belt Precautions ................................................................ 2-5Seat Belt .................................................................................... 2-9Seat Belt Pretensioner and Load Limiting Systems ................ 2-11Seat Belt Extender ................................................................... 2-13Seat Belt Warning Light/Beep ................................................ 2-15

Child Restraint ............................................................................ 2-17Child Restraint Precautions ..................................................... 2-17Installing a Child-Restraint System ......................................... 2-22LATCH Child-Restraint System ............................................. 2-25

SRS Air Bags ............................................................................... 2-28Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) Precautions ............... 2-28Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch .................................. 2-32Supplemental Restraint System Components ......................... 2-36How the Air Bags Work .......................................................... 2-38

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Seats

WARNINGDo not modify or replace the frontseats:

Modifying or replacing the front seatssuch as replacing the upholstery orloosening any bolts is dangerous. Thefront seats contain air bagcomponents essential to thesupplemental restraint system. Suchmodifications could damage thesupplemental restraint system andresult in serious injury. Consult anAuthorized Mazda Dealer if there isany need to remove or reinstall thefront seats.

Do not drive with damaged front seats:Driving with damaged front seats isdangerous. A collision, even one notstrong enough to inflate the air bags,could damage the front seats whichcontain essential air bagcomponents. If there was asubsequent collision, an air bag maynot deploy which could lead toinjuries. Always have an AuthorizedMazda Dealer inspect the front seats,front seat belt pretensioners and airbags after a collision.

Make sure the adjustable componentsof a seat are locked in place:

Adjustable seats and seatbacks thatare not securely locked aredangerous. In a sudden stop orcollision, the seat or seatback couldmove, causing injury. Make sure theadjustable components of the seatare locked in place by attempting toslide the seat forward and backwardand rocking the seatback.

qSeat Slide

WARNINGAdjust the driver seat only when thevehicle is stopped:

Adjusting the driver's seat while thevehicle is moving is dangerous. Thedriver could lose control of the vehicleand have an accident.

To move a seat forward or backward, raisethe lever and slide the seat to the desiredposition and release the lever.

Make sure the lever returns to its originalposition and the seat is locked in place byattempting to push it forward andbackward.

qSeat Recline

WARNINGDo not drive with the seats reclined:

Sitting in a reclined position while thevehicle is moving is dangerousbecause you don't get the fullprotection from seat belts. Duringsudden braking or a collision, youcan slide under the lap belt andsuffer serious internal injuries. Formaximum protection, sit well backand upright.

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Essential Safety Equipment

Seats


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Always sit in a passenger seat properlywith the seatback upright and feet onthe floor:

If your vehicle is equipped withpassenger seat weight sensors,sitting in the passenger seatimproperly out of position or with theseatback reclined too far while thevehicle is moving is dangerous as itcan take off weight from the seatbottom and affect the weightdetermination of the passengersensing system. As a result thepassenger will not have thesupplementary protection of the airbag and seat belt pretensioner, whichcould cause result in serious injury.Always sit upright against yourseatback, with your feet on the floor.

Do not drive with the seatbackunlocked:

The seatback plays an important rolein your protection in a vehicle.Leaving the seatback unlocked isdangerous as it can allow passengersto be ejected or thrown around andbaggage to strike occupants in asudden stop or collision, resulting insevere injury. After adjusting theseatback at any time, even whenthere are no other passengers, rockthe seatback to make sure it is lockedin place.

To change the seatback angle, leanforward slightly while raising the lever.Then lean back to the desired position andrelease the lever.

Make sure the lever returns to its originalposition and the seatback is locked inplace by attempting to push it forward andbackward.

CAUTIONWhen returning a rear-reclinedseatback to its upright position,make sure you hold onto theseatback with your other hand whileoperating the lever. If the seatback isnot supported, it will flip forwardsuddenly and could cause injury.


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qHeight Adjustment (Driver's Seat)

By moving the seat lever up or down, theseat bottom height can be adjusted.

Up

Down

qSeat Warmer

The seats are electrically heated. Theignition switch must be in the ONposition.

Press the switch to turn the seat warmeron or off. When the switch is in the ONposition, the indicator light will come on.

ON

OFF

NOTEThe seat temperature is regulatedautomatically by a thermostat. Other thanturning it on or off, it cannot be adjusted.

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Some models.

Seats


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Seat Belt PrecautionsSeat belts help to decrease the possibility of severe injury during accidents and suddenstops. Mazda recommends that the driver and passenger always wear seat belts.

All of the seat belt retractors are designed to keep the lap/shoulder belts out of the waywhen not in use.

The driver's seat belt has no provisions for child-restraint systems and has only anemergency locking mode. The driver may wear it comfortably, and it will lock during acollision.

However, the passenger's seat lap/shoulder belt retractors operate in two modes: emergencylocking mode, and for child-restraint systems, automatic locking mode.Your vehicle is equipped with LATCH lower anchors for securing the LATCH child-restraint system in the passenger seat but there is no child-restraint tether available. Asthere is no rear seat on this vehicle, the preferred location for children, following themanufacturer's instructions on the LATCH child restraint-system and this owner's manual isimportant (page 2-25).


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WARNINGAlways wear your seat belt and make sure all occupants are properly restrained:

Not wearing a seat belt is extremely dangerous. During a collision, occupants notwearing seat belts could hit someone or things inside the vehicle or even be thrownout of the vehicle. They could be seriously injured or even killed. In the samecollision, occupants wearing seat belts would be much safer.

Do not wear twisted seat belts:Twisted seat belts are dangerous. In a collision, the full width of the belt is notavailable to absorb the impact. This puts more force on the bones beneath the belt,which could cause serious injury or death.

Never use one seat belt on more than one person at a time:Using one seat belt for more than one person at a time is dangerous. A seat beltused in this way cannot spread the impact forces properly and the two passengerscould be crushed together and seriously injured or even killed. Never use one belt formore than one person at a time and always operate the vehicle with each occupantproperly restrained.

Do not operate a vehicle with a damaged seat belt:Using a damaged seat belt is dangerous. An accident could damage the beltwebbing of the seat belt in use. A damaged seat belt cannot provide adequateprotection in a collision. Have an Authorized Mazda Dealer inspect all seat beltsystems in use during an accident before they are used again.

Have your seat belts changed immediately if the pretensioner or load limiter hasbeen expended:

If the air bags deploy the corresponding pretensioner(s) may also deploy at the sametime. While it is safer to use a crash-used seat belt that was used in an accident thanno seat belt at all, using a seat belt with an expended pretensioner or load limiterloaded reduces the safety available to you. Like the air bags, the seat beltpretensioners will only function once. After they are expended, they will not functionagain and must be replaced immediately. If the seat belt pretensioners are notreplaced, the risk of injury in a collision will increase. Always have an AuthorizedMazda Dealer inspect the seat belt pretensioners and air bags after any collision.Expended seat belt pretensioners and air bags must be replaced after any collisionwhich caused them to deploy. Additionally, the load limiter will only limit loads onthe chest once in a collision and this is another reason to have the seat beltsinspected.

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CAUTIONBelt retraction may become difficult if the belts and seat belt guides are soiled, so tryto keep them clean. For more details about cleaning the seat belts, refer to Cleaningthe Lap/Shoulder Belt Webbing (page 8-56).

Seat belt guide

qPregnant Women and Persons with Serious Medical Conditions

Pregnant women should always wear seat belts. Ask your doctor for specificrecommendations.The lap belt should be worn SNUGLYAND AS LOWAS POSSIBLE OVER THE HIPS.The shoulder belt should be worn across your shoulder properly, but never across thestomach area.Persons with serious medical conditions also should wear seat belts. Check with yourdoctor for any special instructions regarding specific medical conditions.

qEmergency Locking Mode

In the emergency locking mode, the belt remains comfortable on the occupant and theretractor will lock in position during a collision. When the seat belt is fastened, it willalways be in the emergency locking mode until it is switched to automatic locking mode bypulling it all the way out to its full length. If the belt feels tight and hinders comfortablemovement while the vehicle is stopped or in motion, it may be in the automatic lockingmode because the belt has been pulled too far out. To return to the belt to the morecomfortable emergency locking mode, wait until the vehicle has stopped in a safe, levelarea, retract the belt fully to convert it back to emergency locking mode and then extend itaround you again.


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qAutomatic Locking Mode

To enable seat belt automatic locking mode, pull it all the way out and connect it asinstructed on the child-restraint system. It will retract down to the child-restraint systemand stay locked on it. If the LATCH lower anchors are not used alone for LATCH stylejunior seats and infant carriers without tethers, always use the automatic locking mode tokeep the child-restraint system from shifting to an unsafe position in the event of anaccident. See the section on child restraint (page 2-17).

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Seat Belt

WARNINGAlways wear the seat belt with itcorrectly routed in its guide:

Wearing a seat belt without the seatbelt routed in its guide is dangerousbecause the seat belt would not beable to provide adequate protectionin an accident, which could result inserious injury.

Seat belt guide

qFastening the Seat Belt

1. Grasp the tongue.

2. Slowly pull out the lap/shoulder belt.

Belt

Tongue

3. Insert the tongue into the buckle untilyou hear a click.

Tongue

Buckle

WARNINGPositioning the Shoulder Portion of theSeat Belt:

Improper positioning of the shoulderportion of the seat belt is dangerous.Always make sure the shoulderportion of the seat belt is positionedacross your shoulder and near yourneck, but never under your arm, onyour neck, or on your upper arm.

4. Position the lap belt as low as possible,not on the abdominal area, then adjustthe shoulder belt so that it fits snuglyagainst your body.

Too high

Take up slack Keep low on hip bone


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WARNINGPositioning the Lap Portion of the SeatBelt:

The lap portion of the seat belt worntoo high is dangerous. In a collision,this would concentrate the impactforce directly on the abdominal area,causing serious injury. Wear the lapportion of the belt snugly and as lowas possible.

qUnfastening the Seat Belt

Depress the button on the buckle. If thebelt does not fully retract, pull it out andcheck for kinks or twists. Then make sureit remains untwisted as it retracts.

Button

NOTEIf a belt does not fully retract, inspect it forkinks and twists. If it is still not retractingproperly, have it inspected at an AuthorizedMazda Dealer.

qSeat Belt Caution Label

A caution label has been placed inside thesleeve of the lap portion of the driver'sseat belt. When an accident occurs whilethe seat belt is in use, the resulting stresson the seat belt will cause an indicatorwith the words REPLACE BELTvisible on it to be pulled out of the sleevebelow the caution label. This indicatesthat THE SEAT BELT MUST BEREPLACED.Also note that if at any time the seat belthas undergone stress because of anaccident or other reason, damage to theseat belt's webbing, metal fittings, oranchor bolt may have occurred, eventhough nothing appears to be wrong withthe seat belt. For this reason werecommend that the seat belt be replacedafter it has undergone stress, whether ornot the indicator has been pulled out.

Caution label

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Seat Belt Pretensioner andLoad Limiting Systems

For optimum protection, the driver andpassenger seat belts are equipped withpretensioner and load limiting systems.For both these systems to work properlyyou must wear the seat belt properly.

Pretensioners:In moderate or severe frontal or near-frontal accidents, the air bag andpretensioner systems deploysimultaneously. The seat belt retractorsremove slack quickly as the air bags areexpanding.In addition, the pretensioner system forthe passenger, like the passenger air bag,is designed to only deploy in accordancewith the total seated weight on thepassenger seat (page 2-38) or when thepassenger air bag deactivation switchturned to the ON position (page 2-32).Any time the air bags and seat beltpretensioners have fired they must bereplaced.

Load limiter:The load limiting system releases beltwebbing in a controlled manner to reducebelt force on the occupant's chest. Whilethe most severe load on a seat belt occursin frontal collisions, the load limiter hasan automatic mechanical function and canactivate in any accident mode withsufficient occupant movement.Even if the pretensioners have not fired,the load limiting function must bechecked by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

WARNINGWear seat belts only as recommendedin this owner's manual:

Incorrect positioning of the driver andpassenger seat belts is dangerous.Without proper positioning, thepretensioner and load limitingsystems cannot provide adequateprotection in an accident and thiscould result in serious injury. Formore details about wearing seatbelts, refer to Fastening the seatbelts (page 2-9).


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Have your seat belts changedimmediately if the pretensioner or loadlimiter has been expended:

If the air bags deploy thecorresponding pretensioner(s) mayalso deploy at the same time. While itis safer to use a crash-used seat beltthat was used in an accident than noseat belt at all, using a seat belt withan expended pretensioner or loadlimiter loaded reduces the safetyavailable to you. Like the air bags,the seat belt pretensioners will onlyfunction once. After they areexpended, they will not functionagain and must be replacedimmediately. If the seat beltpretensioners are not replaced, therisk of injury in a collision willincrease. Always have an AuthorizedMazda Dealer inspect the seat beltpretensioners and air bags after anycollision. Expended seat beltpretensioners and air bags must bereplaced after any collision whichcaused them to deploy. Additionally,the load limiter will only limit loadson the chest once in a collision andthis is another reason to have theseat belts inspected.

Do not modify the components orwiring, or use electronic testing deviceson the pretensioner system:

Modifying the components or wiringof the pretensioner system, includingthe use of electronic testing devices isdangerous. You could accidentallyactivate it or make it inoperablewhich would prevent it fromactivating in an accident. Theoccupants or repairers could beseriously injured.

Properly dispose of the pretensionersystem:

Improper disposal of the pretensionersystem or a vehicle with non-deactivated pretensioners isdangerous. Unless all safetyprocedures are followed, injury couldresult. Ask an Authorized MazdaDealer how to safely dispose of thepretensioner system or how to scrapa pretensioner-equipped vehicle.

NOTEl The pretensioner system will activate in a

moderate or greater frontal or near-frontalcollision. The pretensioner system for thepassenger is designed to only deploy inaccordance with the total seated weight onthe passenger seat. It will not activate inmost rollovers, side or rear impacts.

l Some smoke (non-toxic gas) will bereleased when the air bags andpretensioners deploy. This does not indicatea fire. This gas normally has no effect onoccupants, however, those with sensitiveskin may experience light skin irritation. Ifresidue from the deployment of the air bagsor the pretensioner system gets on the skinor in the eyes, wash it off as soon aspossible.

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qAir Bag/Seat Belt PretensionerSystem Warning Light

If the air bag/seat belt pretensioner systemis working properly, the warning lightilluminates when the ignition switch isturned to the ON position or after theengine is cranked. The warning light turnsoff after a specified period of time.

A system malfunction is indicated if thewarning light constantly flashes,constantly illuminates or does notilluminate at all when the ignition switchis turned to the ON position. If any ofthese occur, consult an Authorized MazdaDealer as soon as possible. The systemmay not work in an accident.

WARNINGNever tamper with the air bag/pretensioner systems and always havean Authorized Mazda Dealer performall servicing and repairs:

Self-servicing or tampering with thesystems is dangerous. An air bag/pretensioner could accidentallyactivate or become disabled causingserious injury or death.

Seat Belt ExtenderIf your seat belt is not long enough, evenwhen fully extended, a seat belt extendermay be available to you at no charge fromyour Authorized Mazda Dealer.This extender will be only for you and forthe particular vehicle and seat. Even if itplugs into other seat belts, it may not holdin the critical moment of a crash.When ordering an extender, only orderone that provides the necessary additionallength to fasten the seat belt properly.Please contact your Authorized MazdaDealer for more information.


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WARNINGDo not use a seat belt extender unlessit is necessary:

Using a seat belt extender when notnecessary is dangerous. The seat beltwill be too long and not fit properly.In an accident, the seat belt will notprovide adequate protection and youcould be seriously injured. Only usethe extender when it is required tofasten the seat belt properly.

Do not use an improper extender:Using a seat belt extender that is foranother person or a different vehicleor seat is dangerous. The seat beltwill not provide adequate protectionand the user could be seriouslyinjured in an accident. Only use theextender provided for you and for theparticular vehicle and seat. NEVERuse the extender in a different vehicleor seat.

Do not use an extender that is toolong:

Using an extender that is too long isdangerous. The seat belt will not fitproperly. In an accident, the seat beltwill not provide adequate protectionand you could be seriously injured.Do not use the extender or chooseone shorter in length if the distancebetween the extender's buckle andthe center of the user's body is lessthan 15cm (6 in).

NOTEWhen not in use, remove the seat belt extenderand store it in the vehicle. If the seat beltextender is left connected, the seat beltextender might get damaged as it will notretract with the rest of the seat belt and caneasily fall out of the door when not in use andbe damaged. In addition, the seat belt warninglight will not illuminate and function properly.

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Seat Belt Warning Light/Beep

The seat belt warning light illuminatesand a beep sound will be heard if thedriver's seat belt is not fastened when theignition switch is turned to the ONposition.

Conditions of operation

Condition Result

The driver's seat belt is notfastened when the ignitionswitch is turned to the ONposition.

The warning lightflashes and a beepsound will be heardfor about 6 seconds.

The driver's seat belt isfastened while the warninglight and the beep sound areactivated.

The warning lightturns off and the beepsound stops.

The driver's seat belt isfastened before the ignitionswitch is turned to the ONposition.

The warning light willnot illuminate and thebeep sound will not beheard.

qBelt Minder

NOTEThe belt minder can be deactivated. Consult anAuthorized Mazda Dealer to deactivate andrestore the seat belt minder.

Driver seated/Passenger not seated

The belt minder is a supplementalwarning to the seat belt warning function.If the driver's seat belt is not fastenedwhen the ignition switch is turned to theON position, the warning light/beepoperates to give you further remindersaccording to the chart below.

Condition

Vehicle speed

Between 0 20km/h

(0 12 mph)

20 km/h(12 mph) or

more

Seat belt

Indicator

Beep

: Fastened: Unfastened: Illuminated: Flashing: Beep

Once the beep sound is heard, it continuessounding even if the vehicle speed lowersto 20 km/h (12 mph) or less until theseatbelt is fastened or the beep soundperiod has passed.


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Driver seated/Passenger seated

The seat belt warning function remindsthe passenger to fasten the seat beltaccording to the chart below.

Condition

Vehicle speed

Between 0 20km/h

(0 12 mph)

20 km/h(12 mph) or

more

Seat belt(Driver)

Seat belt(Passenger)

Indicator

Beep

: Fastened: Unfastened: Illuminated: Flashing: Beep

Placing heavy items on the passenger seatmay cause the passenger seat belt warningfunction to operate depending on theweight of the item.

Once the beep sound is heard, it continuessounding even if the vehicle speed lowersto 20 km/h (12 mph) or less until theseatbelt is fastened or the beep soundperiod has passed.

NOTEl To allow the passenger seat weight sensor

to function properly, do not place and sit onan additional seat cushion on the passengerseat. The sensor may not function properlybecause the additional seat cushion couldcause sensor interference.

l When a small child sits on the passengerseat, it is possible that neither the warninglight nor the warning beep operate.

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Child Restraint PrecautionsMazda strongly urges the use of child-restraint systems for children small enough to usethem.

You are required by law to use a child-restraint system for children in the U.S. and Canada.Check your local and state or provincial laws for specific requirements regarding the safetyof children riding in your vehicle.

Whatever child-restraint system you consider, please pick the appropriate one for the ageand size of the child, obey the law and follow the instructions that come with the individualchild-restraint system.

A child who has outgrown child-restraint systems should use seat belts, both lap andshoulder. If the shoulder belt crosses the neck or face, move the child closer to the center ofthe vehicle .

A rear-facing child-restraint system should NEVER be used on the passenger seat with theair bag system activated.If a small child or infant in the passenger seat particularly a child secured in a rear-facing child-restraint system it is critically important that you consciously deactivate thepassenger air bag and not simply rely on the passenger air bag deactivation indicator lightbeing turned on at all times. In a collision, the force of an air bag slamming the child-restraint system rearwards could result in death to the child even if the child is properlybelted. Be alert to the operation of the indicator light and BE SURE THE PASSENGERAIR BAG IS ALWAYS DEACTIVATED AS INDICATED BY PASSENGER AIR BAGDEACTIVATION INDICATOR LIGHT.Passenger air bag deactivation indicator light


Child Restraint

2-17


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (30,1)

To reduce the chance of injuries caused by the deployment of the passenger air bag, thereare two methods to deactivate the passenger air bag for a child's safety as follows however the surest way to avoid the passenger air bag not deploying is to use the key andturn off the passenger air bag and not rely on the passenger seat weight sensors, which willalso detect other loads or objects on and around the passenger seat;

Passenger air bag deactivation switchThis switch should be used to deactivate the passenger front and side air bags and also thepassenger seat belt pretensioner system if installing a child-restraint system is installed onthe passenger seat.Make sure the front passenger air bag deactivation switch is in the ON position exceptwhen a child-restraint system is installed on the front passenger seat.Refer to Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch on page 2-32.Passenger seat weight sensorsThese sensors deactivate the passenger front and side air bags and also the passenger seatbelt pretensioner system when the total seated weight on the passenger seat is less thanapproximately 30 kg (66 lb).When an infant or small child is seated on the passenger seat, the system shuts off thepassenger air bag, so make sure the passenger air bag deactivation indicator lightilluminates.Refer to Passenger seat weight sensors on page 2-38.

LATCH Child-Restraint SystemWe have installed lower LATCH anchor points for LATCH style junior seats and infantcarriers that work without tethers only. Any other child-restraint system that has an uppertether cannot be used in this vehicle because there is no tether anchor. A child-restraintsystem with a tether cannot be properly mounted in this vehicle unless the child restraintmanufacturer provides instructions on mounting the child-restraint system with only seatbelts in automatic locking mode. Even then, without a tether, the child-restraint system maymove forward more easily in seat belts, further degrading the safety provided if you were toput the child restraint in a tether anchor equipped rear seat of another vehicle. The seat andhead restraint is designed for maximum adult space utilization in this vehicle. Do not try tosecure the tether to something else in the vehicle, as too much slack will result and theserious risk of injury or death to the child. Use the seat belts to properly secure the non-tethered child-restraint systems other than the LATCH junior seats and non-tethered infantcarriers. Turn off the passenger air bag deactivation switch. To expose and use the lowerLATCH anchor points, which are affixed to the body and not the seat, slide the seat all theway rearward which is the optimal vehicle seat position for all children in this two seat car.

WARNINGUse the correct size child-restraint system:

For effective protection in vehicle accidents and sudden stops, a child must beproperly restrained using a seat belt or child-restraint system depending on age andsize. If not, the child could be seriously injured or even killed in an accident.

2-18


Child Restraint


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (31,1)

Follow the manufacturer's instructions and always keep the child-restraint systembuckled down:

An unsecured child-restraint system is dangerous. In a sudden stop or a collision itcould move causing serious injury or death to the child or other occupants. Makesure any child-restraint system is properly secured in place according to the child-restraint system manufacturer's instructions. When not in use, remove it from thevehicle or fasten it with a seat belt, or latch it down to BOTH LATCH lower anchorsfor LATCH child-restraint systems.

Always secure a child in a proper child-restraint system:Holding a child in your arms while the vehicle is moving is extremely dangerous. Nomatter how strong the person may be, he or she cannot hold onto a child in asudden stop or collision and it could result in serious injury or death to the child orother occupants. Even in a moderate accident, the child may be exposed to air bagforces that could result in serious injury or death to the child, or the child may beslammed into an adult, causing injury to both child and adult.

Always make sure the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light is illuminatedwhen using a rear-facing child-restraint system:

Seating a child in a rear-facing child-restraint system that is installed on thepassenger seat with the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light notilluminated is extremely dangerous. In an accident, a air bag could inflate and causeserious injuries or even death to the child seated in the rear-facing child-restraintsystem. Always make sure the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light isilluminated using the key to turn the passenger air bag off.Refer to Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch on page 2-32.Refer to Passenger seat weight sensors on page 2-38.


Child Restraint

2-19


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (32,1)

Seating a child in a child-restraint system on the front passenger seat is dangerous:This vehicle is equipped with both a passenger seat weight sensor and a passengerair bag deactivation indicator light (page 2-38). Even with the passenger seat weightsensors, seating a child in a child-restraint system on the passenger seat under thefollowing conditions increases the danger of the passenger air bag deploying andcould result in serious injury or death to the child. These are among the reasons whythe passenger air bag should be turned off using the key. The total seated weight of the child with the child-restraint system on the

passenger seat is approximately 30 kg (66 lb) or more with a child in the child-restraint system.

Luggage or other items are placed on the seat with the child in the child-restraintsystem.

The seat is washed. Liquids are spilled on the seat. The passenger seat is moved backward, and it is pushed into luggage or other

items placed behind it. Luggage or other items are placed between the passenger seat and center

console. Any accessories, which might increase the total seated weight on the passenger

seat, are attached to the passenger seat.

Do not allow a child to lean over or against the side window of a vehicle with side airbags:

Allowing anyone to lean over or against the door is dangerous. If the vehicle isequipped with side air bags, the impact of an inflating side air bag could causeserious injury or death to the person. Children are more likely to sleep in the vehicle;when they do, they are more at risk in the passenger's seat that has a side air bagbecause they may slump over into the path of the seatback-mounted air bag.Furthermore, leaning over or against the doors could block the side air bag andeliminate the advantages of supplemental protection. Because the side air bagdeploys from the outboard shoulder of the seat, do not allow the child to lean over oragainst the side window, even if the child is seated in a child-restraint system.

Never use one seat belt on more than one person at a time:Using one seat belt for more than one person at a time is dangerous. A seat beltused in this way cannot spread the impact forces properly and the two passengerscould be crushed together and seriously injured or even killed. Never use one belt formore than one person at a time and always operate the vehicle with each occupantproperly restrained.

Always use a child-restraint system designed for use without a tether:Using a child-restraint system that requires a tether is dangerous. Your Mazda doesnot have a child-restraint tether. The child-restraint system cannot be properlysecured. In a collision, it could move and injure other occupants as well as result inserious injuries or death to the child.

2-20


Child Restraint


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (33,1)

CAUTIONA seat belt or child-restraint system can become very hot when exposed to directsunlight during warm weather. To avoid burning yourself or a child, check thembefore you or your child touches them.

NOTEYour Mazda is equipped with LATCH lower anchors for attachment of specially designed LATCHchild-restraint systems behind the passenger seat that slide through the passenger seat when it is inthe fully rearward position. When using these anchors to secure a child-restraint system, refer toLATCH Child-Restraint Systems (page 2-25).


Child Restraint

2-21


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (34,1)

Installing a Child-Restraint System

The passenger lap/shoulder belt can easilybe converted into the automatic lockingmode, which must be done to hold thechild-restraint system.Some child-restraint systems also employspecially designed LATCH attachments;refer to LATCH Child-RestraintSystems (page 2-25).Follow these manufacturer's instructionswhen installing a child-restraint system onthe passenger's seat, unless you areattaching a LATCH-equipped child-restraint system to the LATCH loweranchors. Refer to LATCH Child-Restraint Systems (page 2-25).

NOTEFollow the child-restraint systemmanufacturer's instructions carefully. If youare not sure whether you have a LATCHsystem, check in the child-restraint systemmanufacturer's instructions and follow themaccordingly. Depending on the type of child-restraint system, it may not employ seat beltswhich are in automatic locking mode, howeverif it uses an upper tether, it may not bemounted properly in this vehicle as there is nosafe way to anchor the tether. Confirm whetherthe child-restraint system can be used with seatbelts by reading the child-restraint systemmanufacturer's instructions.

Before installing a child-restraint system,make sure the passenger air bagdeactivation indicator light illuminated byusing the key to turn the passenger air bagoff.Refer to Passenger seat weight sensors onpage 2-38.Refer to Passenger Air Bag DeactivationSwitch on page 2-32.

1. Make sure to remove articles frombehind the passenger seat that wouldprevent the seat from sliding back fully,and then slide the seat as far back aspossible.

2. Secure the child-restraint system withthe lap portion of the lap/shoulder belt.See the instructions on the child-restraint system for belt routinginstructions.

3. To get the retractor into the automaticlocking mode, pull the shoulder beltportion of the seat belt until the entirelength of the belt is out of the retractor.

2-22


Child Restraint


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (35,1)

4. Push the child-restraint system firmlyinto the vehicle seat. Be sure the beltretracts as snugly as possible. Clickingfrom the retractor will be heard duringretraction if the system is in automaticlocking mode. If the belt does not lockthe seat down tight, repeat this step.

5. Make sure the passenger air bagdeactivation indicator light illuminatesby using the key to turn the passengerair bag off after installing a child-restraint system on the passenger seat.

WARNINGAlways make sure the passenger airbag deactivation indicator light isilluminated when using a rear-facingchild-restraint system:

Seating a child in a rear-facing child-restraint system that is installed onthe passenger seat with thepassenger air bag deactivationindicator light not illuminated isextremely dangerous. In an accident,a air bag could inflate and causeserious injuries or even death to thechild seated in the rear-facing child-restraint system. Always make surethe passenger air bag deactivationindicator light is illuminated usingthe key to turn the passenger air bagoff.Refer to Passenger seat weightsensors on page 2-38.Refer to Passenger Air BagDeactivation Switch on page 2-32.


Child Restraint

2-23


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (36,1)

NOTEl Inspect this function before each use of the

child-restraint system. You should not beable to pull the shoulder belt out of theretractor while the system is in theautomatic locking mode. When you removethe child-restraint system, be sure the beltfully retracts to return the system toemergency locking mode before occupantsuse the seat belts.

l Follow the child-restraint systemmanufacturer's instructions carefully.Depending on the type of child-restraintsystem, it may not employ seat belts whichare in automatic locking mode, however ifit uses an upper tether, it may not bemounted properly in this vehicle as there isno safe way to anchor the tether. Confirmwhether the child-restraint system can beused with seat belts by reading the child-restraint system manufacturer'sinstructions.

2-24


Child Restraint


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (37,1)

LATCH Child-Restraint SystemYour Mazda is equipped with LATCH lower anchors for attachment of specially designedLATCH child-restraint systems behind the passenger seat that slide through the passengerseat when it is in the fully rearward position. Only LATCH junior seats and infant carrierswithout upper tethers can be used in this position, as there is no good place to anchor thetether due to this vehicle's design. Both anchors must be used when installing these loweranchor only child-restraint systems, otherwise the seat will bounce around and put the childin danger.

WARNINGFollow the manufacturer's instructions for the use of the child-restraint system:

An unsecured child-restraint system is dangerous. In a sudden stop or a collision itcould move causing serious injury or death to the child or other occupants. Makesure any child-restraint system does not rely on an upper tether and then properlysecure those non-tethered seats according to the child-restraint systemmanufacturer's instructions.

Make sure the child-restraint system is properly secured:An unsecured child-restraint system is dangerous. In a sudden stop or a collision itcould move causing serious injury or death to the child or other occupants. Followthe child-restraint system manufacturer's instructions on belt routing to secure theseat just as you would with a child in it so that nobody is tempted to put a child inan improperly secured seat later on. When not in use, remove it from the vehicle orfasten it with a seat belt, or latch it down to BOTH LATCH lower anchors for LATCHchild-restraint systems.

Make sure there are no seat belts or foreign objects near or around the LATCH child-restraint system:

Not following the child-restraint system manufacturer's instructions when installingthe child-restraint system is dangerous. If seat belts or a foreign object prevent thechild-restraint system from being securely attached to the LATCH lower anchors andthe child-restraint system is installed improperly, the child-restraint system couldmove in a sudden stop or collision causing serious injury or death to the child orother occupants. When installing the child-restraint system, make sure there are noseat belts or foreign objects near or around the LATCH lower anchors. Always followthe child-restraint system manufacturer's instructions.


Child Restraint

2-25


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (38,1)

qLATCH Child-Restraint SystemInstallation Procedure

Before installing a child-restraint system,make sure the passenger air bagdeactivation indicator light illuminated byusing the key to turn the passenger air bagoff.Refer to Passenger seat weight sensors onpage 2-38.Refer to Passenger Air Bag DeactivationSwitch on page 2-32.

1. Make sure to remove articles frombehind the passenger seat that wouldprevent the seat from sliding back fully,and then slide the seat as far back aspossible to insert the LATCH loweranchors between the seat bottom andthe seatback.

2. Expand the area between the seatbottom and the seatback slightly toverify the locations of the LATCHlower anchors.

NOTEThe markings above the LATCH lower anchorsindicate the locations of the LATCH loweranchors for the attachment of a child-restraintsystem.

3. Secure the child-restraint system usingBOTH LATCH lower anchors,following the child-restraint systemmanufacturer's instruction, however ifit uses an upper tether, it may not bemounted properly in this vehicle asthere is no safe way to anchor thetether. Confirm whether the child-restraint system can be used with seatbelts by reading the child-restraintsystem manufacturer's instructions.

4. Make sure the passenger air bagdeactivation indicator light illuminatesby using the key to turn the passengerair bag off after installing a child-restraint system on the passenger seat.

2-26


Child Restraint


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (39,1)

WARNINGAlways make sure the passenger airbag deactivation indicator light isilluminated when using a rear-facingchild-restraint system:

Seating a child in a rear-facing child-restraint system that is installed onthe passenger seat with thepassenger air bag deactivationindicator light not illuminated isextremely dangerous. In an accident,a air bag could inflate and causeserious injuries or even death to thechild seated in the rear-facing child-restraint system. Always make surethe passenger air bag deactivationindicator light is illuminated usingthe key to turn the passenger air bagoff.Refer to Passenger seat weightsensors on page 2-38.Refer to Passenger Air BagDeactivation Switch on page 2-32.


Child Restraint

2-27


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (40,1)

Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) PrecautionsThe front and side supplemental restraint systems (SRS) include up to 4 air bags. Pleaseverify which kinds of air bags are equipped on your vehicle by locating the SRSAIRBAG location indicators. These indicators are visible in the area where the air bagsare installed.The air bags are installed in the following locations:

l The steering wheel hub (driver air bag)l The passenger dashboard (passenger air bag)l The outboard sides of the seatbacks (side air bags)

These systems operate independently depending on the type of accident encountered; ifyou have side air bags, the side air bags are not likely to deploy on both sides in the sameaccident because a vehicle is not often hit from both sides. The side air bags and the frontalair bag system will not normally deploy during the same type of accident unless acombination of frontal and side impacts occur.

The air bag supplemental restraint systems are designed to provide supplemental protectionin certain situations, so seat belts are always important in the following ways:

Without seat belt usage, the air bags cannot provide adequate protection during an accident.Seat belt usage is necessary to:l Keep the occupant from being thrown into an inflating air bag.l Reduce the possibility of injuries during an accident that is not designed for air baginflation, such as roll-over or rear impact.

l Reduce the possibility of injuries in frontal or side collisions that are not severe enoughto activate the air bags.

l Reduce the possibility of being thrown from your vehicle.l Reduce the possibility of injuries to lower body and legs during an accident because theair bags provide no protection to these parts of the body.

l Hold the driver in a position which allows better control of the vehicle.

Small children must be protected by a child-restraint system as stipulated by law in everystate and province. In certain states and provinces, larger children must use a child-restraintsystem (page 2-17).Carefully consider which child-restraint system is necessary for your child and follow theinstallation directions in this Owner's Manual as well as the child-restraint systemmanufacturer's instructions.

Do not use a child-restraint system which employs an upper tether because there is noappropriate means to anchor the tether.

2-28


Some models.

SRS Air Bags


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (41,1)

WARNINGSeat belts must be worn in air bag equipped vehicles:

Depending only on the air bags for protection during an accident is dangerous.Alone, air bags may not prevent serious injuries. The appropriate air bags can beexpected to inflate only in the first collision with frontal, near frontal or side forcesthat are at least moderate. Vehicle occupants should always wear seat belts.

Always make sure the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light is illuminatedwhen using a rear-facing child-restraint system:

Seating a child in a rear-facing child-restraint system that is installed on thepassenger seat with the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light notilluminated is extremely dangerous. In an accident, a air bag could inflate and causeserious injuries or even death to the child seated in the rear-facing child-restraintsystem. Always make sure the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light isilluminated using the key to turn the passenger air bag off.Refer to Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch on page 2-32.Refer to Passenger seat weight sensors on page 2-38.

Do not sit too close to the driver and passenger air bags:Sitting too close to the driver and passenger air bag modules or placing hands orfeet on them is extremely dangerous. The driver and passenger air bags inflate withgreat force and speed. Serious injuries could occur if someone is too close. The drivershould always hold onto only the rim of the steering wheel. The seat passengershould keep both feet on the floor. Seat occupants should adjust their seats as farback as possible and always sit upright against the seatbacks with seat belts wornproperly.


SRS Air Bags

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Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (42,1)

Do not sit too close to a front door or lean against doors in vehicles with side airbags:

Sitting too close to the side air bag modules or placing hands on them is extremelydangerous. A side air bag inflates with great force and speed directly out of theoutboard shoulder of the seat and expands along the door on the side the car is hit.Serious injury could occur if someone is sitting too close to the door or leaningagainst a window in the seats. Furthermore, sleeping up against the door or hangingout the driver's-side window while driving could block the side air bag and eliminatethe advantages of supplemental protection. Give the side air bags room to work bysitting in the center of the seat while the vehicle is moving with seat belts wornproperly.

Do not attach objects on or around the area where driver and passenger air bagsdeploy:

Attaching an object to the driver and passenger air bag modules or placingsomething in front of them is dangerous. In an accident, an object could interferewith air bag inflation and injure the occupants.

Do not attach objects on or around the area where a side air bag deploys:Attaching things to the seat in such a way as to cover the outboard side of the seatin any way is dangerous. In an accident the object could interfere with the side airbag, which inflates from the outboard side of the seats, impeding the addedprotection of the side air bag system or redirecting the air bag in a way that isdangerous. Furthermore, the bag could be cut open releasing the gas.Never use seat covers on the seats. Always keep the side air bag modules in yourseats free to deploy in the event of a side collision.

Do not place luggage or other objects under the seats:Placing luggage or other objects under the seats is dangerous. The componentsessential to the supplemental restraint system could be damaged, and in the event ofa side collision, the appropriate air bags may not deploy, which could result in deathor serious injury. To prevent damage to the components essential to thesupplemental restraint system, do not place luggage or other objects under theseats.

Do not touch the components of the supplemental restraint system after the air bagshave inflated:

Touching the components of the supplemental restraint system after the air bagshave inflated is dangerous. Immediately after inflation, they are very hot. You couldget burned.

2-30


SRS Air Bags


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (43,1)

Never install any front-end equipment to your vehicle:Installation of front-end equipment, such as frontal protection bar (kangaroo bar,bull bar, push bar, or other similar devices), snowplow, or winches, is dangerous. Theair bag crash sensor system could be affected. This could cause air bags to inflateunexpectedly, or it could prevent the air bags from inflating during an accident.Occupants could be seriously injured.

Do not modify the suspension:Modifying the vehicle suspension is dangerous. If the vehicle's height or thesuspension is modified, the vehicle will be unable to accurately detect a collisionresulting in incorrect or unexpected air bag deployment and the possibility of seriousinjuries.

Do not modify the supplemental restraint system:Modifying the components or wiring of the supplemental restraint system isdangerous. You could accidentally activate it or make it inoperable. Do not makeany modifications to the supplemental restraint system. This includes installing trim,badges, or anything else over the air bag modules. It also includes installing extraelectrical equipment on or near system components or wiring. An Authorized MazdaDealer can provide the special care needed in the removal and installation of frontseats. It is important to protect the air bag wiring and connections to assure that thebags do not accidentally deploy, the driver seat slide position sensor and frontpassenger seat weight sensors are not damaged and that the seats retain anundamaged air bag connection.

NOTEl When an air bag deploys, a loud inflation noise can be heard and some smoke will be released.

Neither is likely to cause injury, however, the texture of the air bags may cause light skin injurieson body parts not covered with clothing through friction.

l Should you sell your Mazda, we urge you to tell the new owner of its air bag systems and thatfamiliarization with all instructions about them, from the Owner's Manual, is important.


SRS Air Bags

2-31


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (44,1)

Passenger Air Bag Deactivation Switch

WARNINGDo not deactivate the passenger air bag unnecessarily:

Unnecessary deactivation of the passenger air bag is dangerous. If turned offunnecessarily, the passenger will not receive the added protection of the air bag.Serious injuries or even death could occur. With the exception of passengers fittingthe categories described below, do not turn the air bag deactivation switch to theOFF position.

Your vehicle is equipped with a passenger air bag deactivation switch. The switch islocated in the position shown in the figure below. The switch must be used to deactivatethe passenger front and side air bags and also the passenger seat belt pretensioner systemwhen the occupant of the passenger seat fits into one of the following categories (asdescribed in the request form for the passenger air bag deactivation switch, the appendix Bto part 595 of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [NHTSA]):l Infants (less than one year old; for all types of restraint, but particularly the rear-facingchild restraint.)

l Children aged 1 to 12l People with certain medical conditions which, according to his/her physician, could beadversely affected by air-bag activation

For more government release information on air bag deactivation, contact an AuthorizedMazda Dealer for the occupant categories as described in the request form for the air bagdeactivation switch in the NHTSA rules.The air bag deactivation switch turns off the passenger front and side air bags and the alsoseat belt pretensioner system. Make sure the passenger air bag deactivation switch is in theON position except when a passenger fitting the previous categories occupies the frontpassenger seat.

2-32


SRS Air Bags


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (45,1)

Passenger Air BagDeactivation Switch

Passenger Air BagDeactivation Indicator Light

Passenger Front and SideAir Bag Operation

Passenger Seat BeltPretensioner System

OFF position

ON Deactivate Deactivate

ON position

OFF Ready Ready

When the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the passenger air bag deactivationindicator light comes on for a specified period of time.If the passenger air bag deactivation switch is in the OFF position, the indicator lightremains on to warn that the passenger front and side air bags and also the seat beltpretensioner system have been deactivated.In addition to using the key to deactivate the passenger front and side air bags and the alsoseat belt pretensioner system, the passenger front and side air bags and the also seat beltpretensioner system is also deactivated and the passenger air bag deactivation indicatorlight is illuminated automatically when the total seated weight on the passenger seat is lessthan 30 kg (66 lb).

NOTEHave the passenger air bag deactivation switch inspected by an Authorized Mazda Dealer if any ofthese conditions occur:l The indicator light does not illuminate for a specified period of time when the ignition switch is

turned to the ON position.l The indicator light does not remain on when the ignition switch is in the ON position and the

passenger air bag deactivation switch is in the OFF position.l The indicator remains on when the ignition switch is in the ON position and the passenger air bag

deactivation switch is in the ON position.


SRS Air Bags

2-33


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (46,1)

qTo Deactivate the Passenger Air Bag

Before driving, always confirm that the passenger air bag deactivation switch is in theappropriate position according to your requirements (page 2-32).

WARNINGDo not leave the key in the passenger air bag deactivation switch:

Unintentional deactivation of the passenger air bag is dangerous. In an accident, thepassenger will not be properly protected. Serious injuries or even death could occur.To avoid unintentional deactivation, always use the same key to operate thepassenger air bag deactivation switch and the ignition switch, that way you will notleave the key in the passenger air bag deactivation switch.

1. Insert the key into the passenger air bag deactivation switch and turn the key clockwiseuntil the key points to OFF.

2. Remove the key.

3. Make sure the air bag deactivation indicator light remains illuminated when the ignitionis in the ON position.

The passenger front and side air bags and also the seat belt pretensioner system will remaindeactivated until the passenger air bag deactivation switch is turned to the ON position.

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SRS Air Bags


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (47,1)

qTo Ready the Passenger Air Bag

Before driving, always confirm that the passenger air bag deactivation switch is in theappropriate position according to your requirements (page 2-32).

1. Insert the key into the passenger air bag deactivation switch and turn the keycounterclockwise until the key points to ON.

2. Remove the key.

3. Make sure the air bag deactivation indicator light turns off after the ignition switch isturned to the ON position.


SRS Air Bags

2-35


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (48,1)

Supplemental Restraint System ComponentsThe supplemental restraint systems (SRS) have two basic subsystems:l The air bag system with inflators and air bags.l The electrical system with crash sensors and diagnostic module.

The air bags are mounted in the following locations:l The steering wheel hubl The passenger dashboardl The outboard sides of the seatbacks

The air bags are out of sight until activated.

qFront Air Bag System Components

(4)

(8)

(7)

(5)

(2)

(9)

(3)

(1)

(6)

(5)

(1) Front dual stage inflators and air bags(2) Front crash sensor(3) Passenger air bag deactivation indicator light (page 2-38)(4) Crash sensor and diagnostic module (SAS unit)(5) Seat belt pretensioner and load limiting systems (page 2-11)(6) Passenger seat weight sensors (page 2-38)(7) Driver and passenger seat belt buckle switches (page 2-38)(8) Driver seat slide position sensor (page 2-38)(9) Seats

2-36


Some models.

SRS Air Bags


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (49,1)

qSide Air Bag System Components

(2)

(1)(3)

(4)

(1) Crash sensor and diagnostic module (SAS unit)(2) Side crash sensors(3) Side inflators and air bags(4) Seats


SRS Air Bags

2-37Some models.


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (50,1)

How the Air Bags Work

qHow the Front Air Bags Work

When air bag crash sensors detect a frontal impact of greater than moderate force, anelectrical current is sent to the inflators.Gases are produced to inflate the front air bags and after the inflation, the front air bagsquickly deflate.The front air bags will function only once. After that, the front air bags will not workagain and must be replaced.Only an Authorized Mazda Dealer can replace the system components.

The front, dual stage air bags control air bag inflation in two energy stages. During animpact of moderate severity the front air bags deploy with lesser energy, whereas duringmore severe impacts, they deploy with more energy. Deployment of the front air bags maydiffer between the driver and the front passenger depending on the driver seat position,front passenger weight and front seat belt usage, all of which provide data from each sensorto the air bag system.

The front air bags will deploy only in a frontal or frontal offset impact.

Driver seat slide position sensor

Your vehicle is equipped with a driver seat slide position sensor as a part of thesupplemental restraint system. The sensor is located under the driver seat. The sensordetermines whether the driver seat is fore or aft of a reference position and sends the seatposition to the diagnostic module (SAS unit). The sensor is also designed to control thedeployment of the driver air bag depending on how close the driver seat is to the steeringwheel.

The air bag/seat belt pretensioner system warning light flashes if the sensor has a possiblemalfunction (page 2-45).

2-38


SRS Air Bags


Form No.8X49-EA-07F

Black plate (51,1)

Passenger seat weight sensors

Your vehicle is also equipped with the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light. Thedeactivation indicator light illuminates when the key is used to turn the passenger air bagoff or the automatic function operates based on the passenger seat weight sensors. Thesesensors are located under both of the passenger seat rails. These sensors determine the totalseated weight on the passenger seat. The SAS unit is designed to prevent the passengerfront and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner system from deploying if the total seatedweight is less than approximately 30 kg (66 lb).

To reduce the chance of injuries caused by deployment of the passenger air bag, the systemdeactivates the passenger front and side air bags and also the seat belt pretensioner systemwhen:

l There is no passenger in the passenger seat. (The passenger air bag deactivationindicator light does not illuminate.)

l The total seated weight on the passenger seat is less than approximately 30 kg (66 lb).(The passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates.)

This system shuts off the passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensionersystem, so make sure the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminatesaccording to the following table.

The air bag/seat belt pretensioner system warning light flashes and the passenger air bagdeactivation indicator light illuminates if the sensors have a possible malfunction. If thishappens, the passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner system will notdeploy.

Passenger air bag deactivation indicator light

This indicator light illuminates to remind you that the passenger front and side air bags andseat belt pretensioner will not deploy during a collision.


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If the passenger weight sensors are working properly, the indicator light illuminates whenthe ignition switch is turned to the ON position. After a specified period of time it goes out.

The passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates or is off under the following conditions:

Total seated weight on thepassenger seat

Passenger air bagdeactivation indicator light

Passenger front and sideair bags

Passenger seat beltpretensioner system

Empty (Not occupied)* OFF OFF OFF

Less than approx. 30 kg(66 lb)

ON OFF OFF

Approx. 42 kg (93 lb) ormore

OFF ON ON

If the passenger air bag has been deactivated using the key, the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light willremain illuminated as long you leave the passenger air bag turned off, and the chart above no longer applies.Refer to Passenger air bag deactivation switch on page 2-32.* If the passenger seat belt is buckled, the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light illuminates, however thisdoes not indicate a malfunction.

If the passenger air bag deactivation indicator light does not illuminate when the ignitionswitch is turned to the ON position and does not illuminate as indicated in the above chart,do not allow a child to sit in the passenger seat and consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer assoon as possible. The system may not work properly in an accident. You must deactivatethe passenger air bag using the key (page 2-32) and consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer.

WARNINGDo not decrease the total seated weight on the front passenger seat:

When an adult or large child sits on the passenger seat, decreasing the total seatedweight on the passenger seat from the total seated weight of approximately 42 kg(93 lb) required for air bag deployment is dangerous. The passenger seat weightsensors will detect the reduced total seated weight condition and the passenger frontand side air bags and seat belt pretensioner system will not deploy during anaccident. The passenger will not have the supplementary protection of the air bag,which could result in serious injury. Decreasing the total seated weight on thepassenger seat from the total seated weight of approximately 42 kg (93 lb) couldresult in an air bag not deploying under the following conditions, for example: Luggage or other items placed under the passenger seat or between the passenger

seat and center console that push up the passenger seat bottom. The passenger seat occupant sits in a manner such that the occupant's entire

weight is not placed on the seat sitting too close to the door. Any accessories which might decrease the total seated weight on the passenger

seat are attached to the passenger seat.The passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner systems willdeactivate if the total seated weight on the passenger seat is close to 30 kg (66 lb)and they will reactivate before the weight exceeds 42 kg (93 lb).

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Do not increase the total seated weight on the front passenger seat:When an infant or small child sits on the passenger seat, increasing the total seatedweight on the passenger seat from the total seated weight of approximately 30 kg(66 lb) is dangerous. The passenger seat weight sensors will detect the increasedtotal seated weight, which could result in the unexpected deployment of thepassenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner system in an accidentand may cause serious injury. Increasing the total seated weight on the passengerseat beyond the total seated weight of approximately 30 kg (66 lb) could result inthe passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner system deploymentin an accident under the following conditions, for example: The total seated weight of the child with the child-restraint system on the

passenger seat is approximately 30 kg (66 lb) or more. Luggage or other items are placed on the seat with the child in the child-restraint

system. The seat is washed. Liquids are spilled on the seat. The passenger seat is moved backward, and it is pushed into luggage or other

items placed behind it. Luggage or other items are placed between the passenger seat and center

console. Any accessories which might increase the total seated weight on the passenger

seat are attached to the passenger seat.The passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner systems willdeactivate if the total seated weight on the passenger seat is less than approximately30 kg (66 lb) and they will reactivate when the weight exceeds approximately 42 kg(93 lb).

CAUTION To assure proper deployment of the front air bag and to prevent damage to the

sensors in the seat bottoms: Do not place sharp objects on the seat bottoms or leave heavy luggage on

them. Do not spill any liquids on the seats or under the seats.

To allow the sensors to function properly, always perform the following: Adjust the seats as far back as possible and always sit upright against the

seatbacks with seat belts worn properly. If you place your child on the passenger seat, secure the child-restraint system

properly and slide the passenger seat as far back as possible.


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NOTEl The system requires about 10 seconds to alternate between turning the passenger front and side

air bags and seat belt pretensioner system on or off.l The passenger air bag deactivation indicator light may illuminate repeatedly if luggage or other

items are put on the passenger seat, or if the temperature of the vehicle's interior changessuddenly.

l The passenger air bag deactivation indicator light may illuminate for 10 seconds if the totalseated weight on the passenger seat changes.

l You must deactivate the passenger air bag using the key (page 2-32) and consult an AuthorizedMazda Dealer.

Driver and passenger buckle switches

The buckle switches on the seat belts detect whether or not the seat belts are securelyfastened and further control the deployment of the air bags.

qHow the Side Air Bags Work

When air bag crash sensors detect a side impact of greater than moderate force, anelectrical current is sent to the inflators.Gases are produced to inflate the side air bags and after the inflation, the side air bagsquickly deflate. However, the side air bag system for the passenger is designed to onlydeploy in accordance with the total seated weight on the passenger seat.The side air bags will function only once. After that, the side air bags will not work againand must be replaced. Only an Authorized Mazda Dealer can replace the systems.

The side air bag will deploy only on the side the vehicle receives the force of the impact.

qAir Bag Activation/Deactivation

NOTEIf the passenger seat weight sensors detect a total seated weight on the passenger seat is less thanapproximately 42 kg (93 lb), the passenger front and side air bags and seat belt pretensioner may notdeploy (page 2-38).

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Front air bag activation

The front air bags will inflate if theseverity of impact is above the designedthreshold level.l Hitting a solid wall straight on atgreater than about 22 km/h (14 mph).

l Hitting a curb, pavement edge or hardobject.

l Landing hard or the vehicle falling.

l Frontal impact within about a 30degree range from head-on to thevehicle.

l Driving into a big hole or hitting the farside of a hole.

Limitations to front air bag activation

Depending on the severity of impact, thefront air bags may not inflate in thefollowing cases:l Impacts involving trees or poles causesevere cosmetic damage but may nothave enough stopping force to activatethe air bag.

l Frontal offset impact to the vehiclemay not provide the stopping forcenecessary for air bag deployment.


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l Rear-ending or running under a truck'stail gate may not provide the stoppingforce necessary for air bag deployment.

Non-activation of front air bags

Front air bags will not normally inflate inthe following cases:l Collision from the rear.

l Impact to the side, but it may deploythe side air bags.

l Vehicle roll-over, may deploy the sideair bags but not the front air bags.

Side air bag activation

The severity of impact above the designedthreshold level to one side of the vehicle(driver or passenger side areas) will causea side air bag o

Documents

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Owners Manual - MyMazda