2010 Mazda MAZDA3 Owner's Manual - Page 122

Knowing Your Mazda Doors and Locks Hood WARNING Always check that the hood is closed and securely locked: A hood that is not closed and securely locked is dangerous as it could fly open while the vehicle is moving and block the driver's vision which could result in a serious accident. 3. Grasp the support rod in the padded area and secure it in the stay hole indicated by the arrow to hold the hood open. Pad qOpening the Hood 1. With the vehicle parked, pull the release handle to unlock the hood. Clip Support rod qClosing the Hood WARNING Release handle 2. Insert your hand into the hood opening and slide the hood latch lever to the right and lift the hood. Do not leave items in the engine compartment: After you have finished checking or doing servicing in the engine compartment, do not forget and leave items such as tools or rags in the engine compartment. Tools or other items left in the engine compartment could cause engine damage or a fire leading to an unexpected accident. 1. Check under the hood area to make certain all filler caps are in place and all loose items (e.g. tools, oil containers, etc.) have been removed. 2. Insert the support rod in its clip while holding up the hood. Verify that the support rod is secured in the clip before closing the hood. 3. Close the hood so that it locks securely. 3-46