P = Park; R = Reverse; N = Neutral- Page 5

I N T E R I O R   L I G H T S

Always check the Owner’s Manual for more operating information and safety features 

Interior

Lights

Transmission

Quick Tips

2003 Mazda

Miata

page 8
page 9

Revised September 23, 2002

1. Dome light 

On = Light always on
Off = Light always off
Center position = Light on
when a door is open

2. Instrument panel lighting

To brighten/dim instrument
panel lighting: Turn 
thumb-wheel right/left

Manual transmission

Depress clutch pedal to start
engine and change gears

Tip: Do not shift into 1st above
20 mph or clutch failure could
occur

2

ON

OFF

1

Automatic transmission*
P = Park

To move gearshift from Park: Press
firmly on brake pedal, then press
release button (

1

) on gearshift

R = Reverse

Do not engage Reverse when
vehicle is moving forward

N = Neutral

No gear engaged; vehicle can roll
freely, even on a slight incline,
unless the brakes are applied

Overdrive Switch

Press (

2

) to lockout/enable 

overdrive

D (Overdrive)

For normal driving: Shifts through
four forward gears automatically

D (Overdrive Off)

Shifts through three forward 
gears automatically
Provides extra power and
increased engine braking, 
stops 3rd-4th gear cycling in
stop/go driving and on steep
graded hills

2 = Second gear

Provides extra power and 
increased engine braking 
Use to reduce wheel spin when
starting on slippery surfaces

1 = First gear

Use for engine braking when 
second gear is not sufficient

Tip: Resting your foot on the
clutch pedal while driving 
and using the clutch to hold 
your vehicle at a standstill
while waiting on a hill may
reduce clutch life

1

2

5-speed

6-speed

*Denotes optional equipment