2004 Mazda RX-8 Owners Manual - MyMazda

J60E_8R65-EA-03C_Edition2.book Page 7 Saturday, April 26, 2003 1:48 PMDriving Your MazdaStarting and Driving▼ Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)The ABS control unit continuouslymonitors the speed of each wheel. If oneis about to lock up, the ABS responds byautomatically releasing and reapplyingthat wheel’s brake.The driver will feel a slight vibration inthe brake pedal and may hear a chatteringnoise from the brake system. This isnormal when the ABS operates. Don’tpump the brakes, continue to press downon the brake pedal.ABS:The ABS cannot compensate forunsafe and reckless driving, excessivespeed, tailgating (following anothervehicle too closely), and hydroplaning(reduced tire friction and roadcontact because of water on the roadsurface). You can still have anaccident. So don’t rely on ABS as asubstitute for safe driving.NOTEWARNINGBraking distances may be longer onloose surfaces (snow or gravel, forexample) which usually have a hardfoundation. A vehicle with a normalbraking system may require lessdistance to stop under these conditionsbecause the tires will build up a wedgeof surface layer when the wheels skid.▼ ABS Warning LightThe warning light stays on for a fewseconds when the ignition switch is turnedto the ON position.If the ABS warning light stays on whileyou’re driving, the ABS control unit hasdetected a system malfunction. If thisoccurs, your brakes will functionnormally as if the vehicle had no ABS.Should this happen, consult an AuthorizedMazda Dealer as soon as possible.WARNINGABS Warning Light and BrakeWarning Light on at the Same Time:Driving when the brake systemwarning light and ABS warning lightare on at the same time is dangerous.When both lights are on, the rearwheels could lock more quickly in anemergency stop than under normalcircumstances.Don’t drive with both lights on, andcontact an Authorized Mazda Dealerto have the brakes inspected as soonas possible.5-7Form No. 8R65-EA-03C