2010 Mazda CX-7 Owner's Manual - Page 180

CX-7_8AS7-EA-09E_Edition2 Page180 Friday, June 5 2009 2:25 PM Black plate (180,1) Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving qDriving Tips Power Steering Power steering is only operable when the engine is running. If the engine is off or if the power steering system is inoperable, you can still steer, but it requires more physical effort. If the steering feels stiffer than usual during normal driving, consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer. WARNING Do not allow the vehicle to move in reverse on an up-slope while the selector lever is in a forward gear position, or move forward on a downslope while the selector lever is in the reverse position. Otherwise, the engine will stop, causing the loss of the power brake and power steering functions, and make it difficult to control the vehicle which could result in an accident. Passing For extra power when passing another vehicle or climbing steep grades, depress the accelerator fully. The transaxle will shift to a lower gear, depending on vehicle speed. Climbing steep grades from a stop To climb a steep grade from a stopped position: 1. Depress the brake pedal. 2. Shift to D or M1, depending on the load weight and grade steepness. 3. Release the brake pedal while gradually accelerating. Descending steep grades When descending a steep grade, shift to lower gears, depending on load weight and grade steepness. Descend slowly, using the brakes only occasionally to prevent them from overheating. CAUTION Never hold the steering wheel to the extreme left or right for more than 5 seconds with the engine running. This could damage the power steering system. 5-16 Form No.8AS7-EA-09E