2002 Mazda Tribute Owner's Manual - Page 137

Driving The BRAKE warning lamp in the instrument cluster illuminates and remains illuminated (when the ignition is turned ON) until the parking brake is released. ! BRAKE WARNING: Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transmission) or in 1 (First Gear) (manual transmission). NOTE: The parking brake is not recommended to stop a moving vehicle. However, if the normal brakes fail, the parking brake can be used to stop your vehicle in an emergency. Since the parking brake applies only the rear brakes, the vehicle's stopping distance will increase greatly and the handling of your vehicle will be adversely affected. To release the parking brake, the brake handle may need to be pulled up slightly to release pressure before pushing in the button. Push the button on the end of the parking brake handle and push the handle down as far as possible. Driving with the parking brake applied will cause the brakes to wear out quickly and reduce fuel economy. STEERING Your vehicle is equipped with power steering. Power steering uses energy from the engine to decrease the driver's effort in steering the vehicle. To prevent damage to the power steering pump: • Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme right or the extreme left for more than a few seconds when the engine is running. • Do not operate the vehicle with the power steering pump fluid level below the MIN mark on the reservoir. If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort. If the steering wanders or pulls, the condition could be caused by any of the following: • Underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s) 137