2004 Mazda MPV Owner's Manual - Page 134

Before Driving Your Mazda Towing WARNING Unsecured Hitch: An unsecured trailer hitch is dangerous as it causes greater trailer sway from crosswinds, rough roads or other causes, resulting in loss of control and a serious accident. Examine all trailer-hitch mounting bolts regularly and tighten any that are loose. If the hitch is removed, seal any open mounting holes to prevent exhaust, dust, water, dirt and other foreign elements from filtering in, possibly endangering personal safety and damaging your vehicle. Don't install a hitch that stiffens the bumper as it will reduce the bumper's performance. Always make sure the hitch is securely attached before departure. Exhaust System Modifications: Modifying your vehicle exhaust system is dangerous. Exhaust gas entering the vehicle could kill you. When mounting the trailer hitch, make no modifications to the vehicle exhaust system. Make sure there are no exhaust gas leaks into the passenger compartment if any mounting bolts are connected to the body. CAUTION • Make all hitch adjustments with actual loads. Don't load and unload vehicle while adjusting hitch. This action will change the vehicle height. • Don't use an axle-mounted hitch. This may damage the axle and related parts. M Tires When towing a trailer, make sure all tires are inflated to the recommended cold-tire pressure, as indicated on the tire pressure chart on the driver's door. Trailer tire size, load rating, and inflation pressures should conform to tire manufacturer specifications. WARNING Using a Temporary Spare Tire when Towing: Using a temporary spare tire on your vehicle when towing a trailer is dangerous as it could result in tire failure, loss of control, and injury to vehicle occupants. Never use a temporary spare when towing. 4-15