2004 Mazda RX-8 Owners Manual - MyMazda

J60E_8R65-EA-03C_Edition2.book Page 7 Saturday, April 26, 2003 1:48 PMBefore Driving Your MazdaDriving TipsBreak-In PeriodNo special break-in is necessary, but afew precautions in the first 1,000 km(600 miles) may add to the performance,economy, and life of your Mazda.• Don’t race the engine.• Don’t maintain one constant speed forlong.• Don’t drive constantly at full-throttle orhigh engine rpm (over 7,000 rpm) forextended periods of time.• Avoid unnecessary hard stops.• Avoid full-throttle starts.Money-Saving SuggestionsHow you operate your Mazda determineshow far it will travel on a tank of fuel. Usethese suggestions to help save money onfuel and repairs.• Avoid long warm-ups. Once the engineruns smoothly, begin driving.• Avoid fast starts.• Keep the engine tuned. Follow themaintenance schedule (page 8-3) andhave an Authorized Mazda Dealerperform inspections and servicing.• Use the air conditioner only whennecessary.• Slow down on rough roads.• Keep the tires properly inflated.• Don’t carry unnecessary weight.• Don’t rest your foot on the brake pedalwhile driving.• Keep the wheels in correct alignment.• Keep windows closed at high speeds.• Slow down when driving in crosswindsand headwinds.WARNINGCoasting:Stopping the engine when going downa hill is dangerous. This causes theloss of power steering and powerbrake control, and may cause damageto the drivetrain. Any loss of steeringor braking control could cause anaccident. Never stop the engine whengoing down a hill.4-7Form No. 8R65-EA-03C