2004 Mazda Tribute Owner's Manual - Page 143

Driving Sand When driving over sand, try to keep all four wheels on the most solid area of the trail. Avoid reducing the tire pressures but shift to a lower gear and drive steadily through the terrain. Apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning the wheels. If you must reduce the tire pressure for whatever reason in sand, make sure you re-inflate the tires as soon as possible. Avoid excessive speed because vehicle momentum can work against you and cause the vehicle to become stuck to the point that assistance may be required from another vehicle. Remember, you may be able to back out the way you came if you proceed with caution. Mud and water NOTE: • If you must drive through high water, drive slowly. Traction or brake capability may be limited. • When driving through water, determine the depth; avoid water higher than the bottom of the hubs (if possible) and proceed slowly. If the ignition system gets wet, the vehicle may stall. • Once through water, always try the brakes. Wet brakes do not stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be improved by moving your vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake pedal. Be cautious of sudden changes in vehicle speed or direction when you are driving in mud. Even 4x4 vehicles can lose traction in slick mud. As when you are driving over sand, apply the accelerator slowly and avoid spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of the slide until you regain control of the vehicle. After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts, halfshafts and tires. Excess mud on tires and rotating driveshafts causes an imbalance that could damage drive components. NOTE: If the transaxle Power Take Off unit or rear axle are submerged in water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary. Driving through deep water may damage the transmission. If the rear axle is submerged in water, the axle lubricant should be checked and changed, if necessary. The rear axle is filled with a lubricant 143