Before Driving; Lane changes and turning- Page 134

Before driving



Have your cooling and braking system checked by an Authorized Mazda Dealer.



Before starting out, inspect the operation of all vehicle and trailer lights and all
vehicle-to-trailer connections. Stop and re-inspect all lights and connections after driving
a short distance.

Driving



Your Mazda will handle differently with a trailer in tow, so practice turning, backing, and
stopping in a traffic-free area.



Take time to get accustomed to the extra weight and length.



Allow more room between your vehicle and the one in front because braking distance
increases with a trailer. For each 16 km/h (10 mph) of speed, allow at least one vehicle
and trailer length between your Mazda and the vehicle ahead.



Avoid jerky starts or sudden acceleration.



Avoid sudden braking. It may cause loss of control and result in jackknifing, especially so
on wet or slippery roads.



Shift the selector lever to the D position when towing a trailer in hilly terrain or when
heavily loaded.

The D position will allow operating the vehicle without frequent shifting.

Lane changes and turning

Avoid quick lane changes, sudden turns, and tight turns. Slow down before turning to avoid
the need of sudden braking.
A turning trailer will make a tighter arc than the tow vehicle. Compensate with turns that are
larger than normal.

Passing

Plan well ahead to pass other vehicles, and provide plenty of room before changing lanes.
Crosswinds from passing vehicles, especially larger ones, and the effects of rough roads will
affect handling.
If swaying occurs, firmly grip the steering wheel and reduce speed immediately, but
gradually.
Steer straight ahead. If no extreme correction of steering or braking is made, the
combination of less speed and firm steering will result in stability.

Backing up

Backing a vehicle with a trailer requires practice and patience. Back slowly, and have a
helper outside at the rear of the trailer to reduce the risk of an accident.

Before Driving

Towing

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