2003 Mazda MAZDA6 Owner's Manual - Page 101

shuseizumi_J56J_8R29_EA_02I.book Page 7 Wednesday, October 16, 2002 9:51 AM Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving M Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) The ABS control unit continuously monitors the speed of each wheel. If one is about to lock up, the ABS responds by automatically releasing and reapplying that wheel's brake. The driver will feel a slight vibration in the brake pedal and may hear a chattering noise from the brake system. This is normal when the ABS operates. Don't pump the brakes, continue to press down on the brake pedal. WARNING Brake Warning Light: Driving with the brake system warning light on is dangerous. It indicates that your brakes may not work at all or that they could completely fail at any time. If this light remains on, after checking that the parking brake is released, have the brakes inspected immediately. Don't drive with this light on, and contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the brakes inspected as soon as possible. ABS Warning Light and Brake Warning Light on at the Same Time: Driving when the brake system warning light and ABS warning light are on at the same time is dangerous. When both lights are on, the rear wheels could lock more quickly in an emergency stop than under normal circumstances. Don't drive with both lights on, and contact an Authorized Mazda Dealer to have the brakes inspected as soon as possible. WARNING ABS: The ABS cannot compensate for unsafe and reckless driving, excessive speed, tailgating (following another vehicle too closely), and hydroplaning (reduced tire friction and road contact because of water on the road surface). You can still have an accident. So don't rely on ABS as a substitute for safe driving. NOTE Braking distances may be longer on loose surfaces (snow or gravel, for example) which usually have a hard foundation. A vehicle with a normal braking system may require less distance to stop under these conditions because the tires will build up a wedge of surface layer when the wheels skid. 5-7 Form No. 8R29-EA-02I