2010 Mazda RX-8 Owner's Manual - Page 163

RX-8_8AT5-EA-09E_Edition1 Page163 Wednesday, April 15 2009 10:33 AM Black plate (163,1) Driving Your Mazda Starting and Driving 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. NOTE l l qPower Steering Malfunction Indicator Light The power steering system is inoperable when the power steering malfunction indicator light illuminates. Steering is possible, but requires more physical effort. Repeatedly jerking the steering wheel left and right while the vehicle is stopped or moving extremely slowly will cause the power steering system to go into protective mode which will make the steering feel heavy, but this does not indicate a malfunction. If this occurs, park the vehicle safely and wait a few minutes for the system to return to normal. This indicator light illuminates when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, and turns off when the engine is started. If the light remains illuminated after the engine is started, or illuminates while driving, turn off the engine after parking in a safe place, and then start the engine again. If the light does not illuminate after restarting the engine, this indicates that the power steering is restored and normal steering is possible. If the light remains illuminated, the power steering is still inoperable. Consult an Authorized Mazda Dealer. 5-21 Form No.8AT5-EA-09E