2004 Mazda MPV Owner's Manual - Page 135

Before Driving Your Mazda Towing M Safety Chains Safety chains must be used as a precautionary measure should the trailer become unintentionally unhitched. They should cross under the trailer tongue and attach to the hitch. Leave enough slack to allow full turns. Consult literature published by your trailer or hitch manufacturer for more details. WARNING Towing Without Safety Chain: Towing a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle is dangerous. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch ball, the trailer could wander into another lane and cause a collision. Make sure the safety chain is securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle prior to departure. M Trailer Lights Trailer lights must comply with all federal, state, and local regulations. Equip your trailer as required before towing it day or night. CAUTION Don't connect a trailer lighting system directly to the lighting system of your Mazda. This may damage your vehicle's electrical system and lighting systems. Have a recreational vehicle dealer or trailer rental agency connect the system, and inspect the brake lights and turn signals yourself before each trip. M Trailer Brakes If the total trailer weight exceeds 450 kg (1,000 lb), trailer brakes are required. If your trailer has brakes, make sure they comply with all federal, state, and local regulations. WARNING Hydraulic Trailer-Brake System: Connecting a hydraulic trailer-brake system directly to the vehicle brake system is dangerous and will result in inadequate braking and possible injury. Don't connect a hydraulic trailer-brake system to your vehicle's brake system. 4-16