2004 Mazda RX-8 Owners Manual - MyMazda

J60E_8R65-EA-03C_Edition2.book Page 7 Saturday, April 26, 2003 1:48 PMMaintenance and CareOwner MaintenanceOwner Maintenance PrecautionsImproper or incomplete service may result in problems. This section gives instructionsonly for items that are easy to perform.As explained in the Introduction (page 8-2), several procedure can be done only by aqualified service technician with special tools.Improper owner maintenance during the warranty period may affect warranty coverage.For details, read the separate Mazda Warranty statement provided with the vehicle. Ifyou’re unsure about any servicing or maintenance procedure, have it done by anAuthorized Mazda Dealer.There are strict environmental laws regarding the disposal of waste oil and fluids. Pleasedispose of your waste properly and with due regard to the environment.We recommend that you entrust the oil and fluid changes of your vehicle to an AuthorizedMazda Dealer.WARNINGMaintenance Procedures:Performing maintenance work on a vehicle is dangerous if not done properly. You canbe seriously injured while performing some maintenance procedures. If you lacksufficient knowledge and experience or the proper tools and equipment to do thework, have it done by a qualified technician.Running the Engine:Working under the hood with the engine running is dangerous. It becomes even moredangerous when you wear jewelry or loose clothing.Either can become entangled in moving parts and result in injury.Therefore, if you must run the engine while working under the hood, make certainthat you remove all jewelry (especially rings, bracelets, watches, and necklaces) andall neckties, scarves, and similar loose clothing before getting near the engine orcooling fan which may turn on unexpectedly.Electrical Fan and Engine Inspection:Working near the electrical cooling fan when it is running is dangerous. You could behit by the fan and seriously injured. Turn off the ignition switch and make sure thefan is not running before attempting to work near the electrical cooling fan.NOTEOnce the engine coolant exceeds a preset temperature, an electrical cooling fan turns on.It will continue running for about 10 minutes after the ignition switch is turned to off.8-7Form No. 8R65-EA-03C