2004 Mazda MPV Owner's Manual - Page 131

Before Driving Your Mazda Towing Trailer Towing Your Mazda was designed and built primarily to carry passengers and cargo. If you must tow a trailer, follow these instructions because driver and passenger safety depends on proper equipment and safe driving habits. Towing a trailer will affect handling, braking, durability, performance, and economy. Never overload vehicle or trailer. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer if you need further details. CAUTION Don't tow a trailer during the first 1,000 km (600 miles) of your new Mazda. If you do, you may damage the engine, transaxle, differential, wheel bearings, and other power train components. M Weight Limits TTW and GCWR The total trailer weight (TTW), gross combined weight rating (GCWR), gross axle weight rating (GAWR), trailer load, and trailer tongue load must be within the prescribed limits. • The total trailer weight (TTW) is the sum of the weights of the trailer load (trailer weight plus cargo), trailer hitch, vehicle passengers, and vehicle load. Never allow the total trailer weight (TTW) to exceed specifications in the Trailer Towing-Load Table. • The maximum GCWR is the combined weight of the trailer and load plus the towing vehicle (including trailer hitch, vehicle passengers, and load). It must not exceed specifications in the load table. GAWR and GVWR Don't exceed front and rear GAWR (gross axle weight rating) and GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating). If you do, vehicle handling, braking, and performance will be affected. These values are also on the Motor Vehicle Safety Certification Label posted on the driver's door. High-altitude operation In a high-altitude operating environment, a gasoline engine loses power at a rate of 3% to 4% per 304 m (1,000 ft) of elevation. In these conditions, a reduction in gross vehicle weight and gross combined weight is recommended. 4-12