2001 Mazda Tribute Owner's Manual - Page 122

Driving • Maintain steering wheel control at all times, especially in rough terrain. Since sudden changes in terrain can result in abrupt steering wheel motion, make sure you grip the steering wheel from the outside. Do not grip the spokes. • Drive cautiously to avoid vehicle damage from concealed objects such as rocks and stumps. You should either know the terrain or examine maps of the area before driving. Map out your route before driving in the area. If your vehicle gets stuck If the vehicle is stuck in mud or snow select the 4x4 ON operating mode. It may be rocked out by shifting from forward and reverse gears, stopping between shifts, in a steady pattern. Press lightly on the accelerator in each gear. • Do not rock the vehicle if the engine is not at normal operating temperature or damage to the transaxle may occur. • Do not rock the vehicle for more than a few minutes or damage to the transaxle and tires may occur or the engine may overheat. WARNING: Do not spin the wheels at over 56 km/h (35 mph). The tires may fail and injure a passenger or bystander. Sand When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels on the most solid area of the trail. Do not reduce the tire pressures but shift to a lower gear and drive steadily through the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning the wheels. Mud and water NOTE: • If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. Traction or brake capability may be limited. • When driving through water, determine the depth; avoid water higher than the bottom of the hubs (if possible) and proceed slowly. If the ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall. • Once through water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. 122