2004 Mazda MPV Owner's Manual - Page 129

Before Driving Your Mazda Driving Tips M Snow Tires M Tire Chains Check local regulations before using tire chains. WARNING Mixing Tire Types: Using tires different in size or type is dangerous. Your vehicle's handling could be greatly affected and result in an accident. Use only the same size and type tires (snow, radial, or nonradial) on all four wheels. CAUTION • Chains may scratch or chip aluminum wheels. Install tire chains on steel wheels only. • Chains may affect handling. • Don't go faster than 50 km/h (30 mph) or the chain manufacturer's recommended limit, whichever is lower. • Drive carefully and avoid bumps, holes, and sharp turns. • Avoid locked-wheel braking. • Don't use chains on a temporary spare tire; it may result in damage to the vehicle and to the tire. • Don't use chains on roads that are free of snow or ice. The tires and chains could be damaged. Install the chains on the front tires. Don't use chains on the rear tires. Use only SAE Class "S" chains, and make sure they fit. Installing the chains 1. Remove the wheel covers, or the chain bands will scratch them. 2. Secure the chains on the front tires as tightly as possible. Always follow the chain manufacturer's instructions. 3. Retighten the chains after driving 1/2-1 km (1/4-1/2 mile). CAUTION Check local regulations before using studded tires. Use snow tires on all four wheels Don't go faster than 120 km/h (75 mph) while driving with snow tires. Inflate snow tires 30 kPa (0.3 kgf/cm2, 4.3 psi) more than recommended on the tire pressure label (driver's door), but never more than the maximum cold-tire pressure shown on the tires. Your vehicle is originally equipped with all season radials designed to be used all year around. In some extreme climates you may find it necessary to replace them with snow tires during the winter months to further improve traction on snow and ice covered roads. 4-10