Getting to know your Mazda

Driving in difficult conditions

~1min read

WARNING

Be very careful when downshifting on slippery road surfaces: Downshifting on slippery road surfaces endangers safety.

A sudden change in wheel speed may cause the tires to skid. This situation may lead to loss of control of the vehicle and, consequently, to an accident.

When driving through water, ice, snow, mud, sand, or similar difficult conditions:

  • Be careful and keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead in case you need to brake suddenly.
  • Avoid sudden braking and abrupt maneuvers.
  • Do not pump the brakes.

Apply the brake pedal steadily.

See "Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)" on page 4-86.
  • If you cannot move off, select a lower gear and gently press the accelerator pedal. Do not let the front wheels spin in place.
  • To move off on slippery surfaces such as ice or packed snow, place sand, salt, chains, floor mats, or other anti-skid materials under the front wheels.
  • CAUTION

    Use anti-skid chains on the front wheels only.

    Test yourself

    A quick Mazda 2 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.