Overheating

If the engine coolant temperature warning light comes on, vehicle power is reduced, or a knocking or pinging noise is clearly audible, the engine is likely overheating.

WARNING

Turn the
ignition switch to the OFF position and make sure the cooling fan is not running before working near the cooling fan:

It is dangerous to work near the cooling fan while it is operating. The fan may continue to run indefinitely, even after the engine has stopped and the engine compartment temperature is high. You may be seriously injured by the rotating fan blades.

Do not remove
the cooling system cap while the engine and radiator are hot:

When the engine and radiator are hot, scalding coolant and steam may be forced out under pressure and cause serious injury.

Open the hood ONLY when steam no longer escapes from the engine:

Steam from an overheating engine is dangerous. You can be scalded by the escaping steam.

If the engine coolant temperature warning light comes on:

1. 1
   Carefully pull over to the side of the road.
2. 2
   With an automatic transmission, shift to P. With a manual transmission, shift to neutral.
3. 3
   Apply the parking brake.
4. 4
   Turn off the air conditioner.
5. 5
   Check whether coolant or steam is coming from the engine compartment.

If steam is coming from the engine compartment: Do not approach the front of the vehicle. Stop the engine.

Wait for the steam to dissipate, then open the hood and start the engine.

If neither coolant nor steam is coming out: Open the hood and let the engine idle until it cools down.

WARNING

If the cooling fan does not operate while the engine is running, the engine temperature will rise. Stop the engine and contact an authorized Mazda dealer.

1. 1
   Make sure the cooling fan is operating, then stop the engine once the temperature has dropped.
2. 2
   Once the engine has cooled, check the coolant level.

If the coolant level is low, check for coolant leaks at the radiator and hoses.

If a leak or other damage is found, or coolant is still leaking: Stop the engine and contact an authorized Mazda dealer.

If no problem is found, the engine has cooled and no leak is apparent:

Carefully add coolant if necessary (page 6-23).

WARNING

If the engine continues to overheat or overheats frequently, have the cooling system inspected.

The engine may be seriously damaged if the necessary repairs are not carried out.

See an authorized Mazda dealer.