2004 Mazda RX-8 Owner's Manual - Page 89

J60E_8R65-EA-03C_Edition2.book Page 10 Saturday, April 26, 2003 1:48 PM Before Driving Your Mazda Driving Tips M Tire Chains Check local regulations before using tire chains. Driving In Flooded Area 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. Your vehicle is not equipped with a factory installed temporary spare tire. • Don't use chains on roads that are free of snow or ice. The tires and chains could be damaged. NOTE WARNING Driving with Wet Brakes: Driving with wet brakes is dangerous. Increased stopping distance or the vehicle pulling to one side when braking could result in a serious accident. Light braking will indicate whether the brakes have been affected. Dry the brakes by driving very slowly and applying the brakes lightly until brake performance returns to normal. CAUTION Make sure water does not enter the vehicle interior or the engine area. The vehicle interior could become wet or the engine could be damaged. If your vehicle is equipped with the tire pressure monitoring system, the system may not function correctly when using tire chains. Install the chains on the rear tires. Don't use chains on the front tires. Use only SAE Class "S" chains, and make sure they fit. Installing the chains 1. Secure the chains on the rear tires as tightly as possible. Always follow the chain manufacturer's instructions. 2. Retighten the chains after driving 1/2- 1 km (1/4-1/2 mile). 4-10 Form No. 8R65-EA-03C