Mazda 3 2020 - Page 157

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Trailer Towing Tips
Before driving

Verify that your Mazda maintains a
near-normal attitude when a loaded
or unloaded trailer is connected. Do
not drive if it has an abnormal
front-up or front-down position.
Inspect for incorrect nose weight,
worn suspension parts, and trailer
overloading. Have the vehicle
inspected by an expert repairer (we
recommend an Authorised Mazda
Repairer).

Make sure the trailer cargo is secure
to prevent it from shifting.

Make sure the mirrors meet all
government regulations. Inspect
them.

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 dierently
with a trailer in tow, so practice
turning, backing, and stopping in a
trac-free area.

Take time to get accustomed to the
extra weight and length.

Do not exceed 100 km/h (62 mph)
with a trailer in tow. If the local legal
maximum speed with a trailer in tow
is less than 100 km/h (62 mph), do
not exceed the legal speed.
CAUTION
If the vehicle exceeds 100 km/h (62
mph) with a trailer in tow, the
vehicle could be damaged.

When ascending a hill, shift into a
lower gear to reduce the possibility
of overloading or overheating the
engine, or both.

When descending a hill, shift into a
lower gear and use engine
compression as a braking eect. Pay
constant attention to speed and use
the brakes only as needed. Holding
the brake pedal down for a
prolonged period may cause the
brakes to overheat and lose power.
Parking
Avoid parking on an incline with a
trailer. If this must be done, follow
these instructions.
Parking on an Incline
1. Set the parking brake and the
brakes.
2. Have someone block the wheels of
the vehicle and trailer while you
apply the brakes.
3. After the wheels are blocked,
release the parking brake and the
brakes slowly, allowing the blocks
to bear the load.
4. Set the parking brake firmly.
5. If the vehicle has an automatic
transmission, put the selector lever
in P position. If it has a manual
transmission, place the gear shift in
1 or R position.
Before Driving
Towing
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