2002 Mazda Protege Owner's Manual - Page 90

J39L(02MY).book Page 8 Thursday, November 1, 2001 10:49 AM Before Driving Your Mazda Driving Tips Winter Driving • Carry emergency gear, including tire chains, window scraper, flares, a small shovel, jumper cables, and a small bag of sand or salt. Ask a Mazda dealer to perform the following precautions: • Have the proper ratio of antifreeze in the radiator. • Inspect the battery and its cables. Cold reduces battery capacity. • Use only cold-weather engine oil (page 8-11). • Inspect the ignition system for damage and loose connections. • Use washer fluid made with antifreeze-but don't use engine coolant antifreeze for washer fluid (page 8-20). • Don't use the parking brake if it might freeze. Instead, shift to P with an automatic transaxle and to 1 or R with a manual transaxle. Block the rear wheels. M Snow Tires WARNING Mixing Tire Types: Using tires different in size or type is dangerous. Your vehicle's handling could be greatly affected and result in an accident. Use only the same size and type tires (snow, radial, or nonradial) on all four wheels. CAUTION Check local regulations before using studded tires. 1.6 and 2.0-liter engines Your vehicle is originally equipped with all season radials designed to be used all year around. In some extreme climates you may find it necessary to replace them with snow tires during the winter months to further improve traction on snow and ice covered roads. 1.8-liter engine Your vehicle is originally equipped with summer tires designed for optimum traction on wet and dry roads. If your vehicle is to be used on snow and ice covered roads, you may find it necessary to replace the original equipment tires with snow tires, during the winter months. 4-8 Form No. 8Q36-EA-01F