2003 Mazda Protege Owner's Manual - Page 113

J39L_EA.book Page 18 Saturday, June 8, 2002 5:35 PM Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving M Driving Tips Passing For extra power when passing another vehicle or climbing steep grades, depress the accelerator fully (D range). The transaxle will shift to a lower gear, depending on vehicle speed. Climbing steep grades from a stop To climb a steep grade from a stopped position: 1. Depress the brake pedal. 2. Shift to D or M1, depending on the load weight and grade steepness. 3. Release all brakes while gradually accelerating. Descending steep grades When descending a steep grade, shift to lower gears, depending on load weight and grade steepness. Descend slowly, using the brakes only occasionally to prevent them from overheating. Power steering is only operable when the engine is running. If the engine is off or if the power steering system is inoperable, you can still steer, but it requires more physical effort. If the steering feels rigid during normal driving, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer. Power Steering CAUTION Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme left or right for more than five seconds with the engine running. This could damage the power steering system. 5-18 Form No. 8Q94-EA-02G