Driving Your Mazda; If Brakes Pull; Stopping Distances- Page 174

Driving Your Mazda

5-38

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If Brakes Do Not Grip Well or
Pedal is ‘‘Low’’

If brakes do not grip well, it may indicate
the rear drum brakes need adjustment.

Drive the vehicle in reverse at 5 mph
(8 km/h) on level, dry pavement. Stop the
vehicle by firmly applying the brakes.
Repeat this procedure four or five times.

If the brakes seem low or do not grip well
during normal operation, it may indicate
the need for a brake system inspection
and/or service. You should have your
vehicle checked as soon as possible.

It is not an indication of brake problems
to have an occasional brake squeal dur-
ing light to moderate brake applications.
However, if the squeal becomes louder
or more frequent, have your brakes

inspected by your dealer or a qualified
service technician.

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If Brakes Pull

S

Check tire pressure.

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Perform the self-adjustment proce-
dure described under If Brakes Do
Not Grip Well or Pedal is ‘‘Low.’’

If pull occurs during the first 500 miles
(800 km), make 10 moderately fast stops
from 40 mph (64 km/h) and perform
the self-adjustment procedure above. It
may be necessary to repeat this operation
to properly seat new brake linings and
pads.

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Stopping Distances

Stopping distances vary with different
loads and driving conditions. Use cau-
tion when encountering new conditions
and acquaint yourself with vehicle per-
formance. Take full advantage of engine
braking power when slowing down.