How to adjust the Mazda 3 steering wheel?
2 Answers
The Mazda 3 steering wheel can be adjusted by pulling a latch located approximately 50 centimeters below the center point of the steering wheel. Below are the correct hand positions for holding the Mazda 3 steering wheel: 1. If you imagine the steering wheel as a clock face, the correct hand position is to place your left hand between the 9 and 10 o'clock positions and your right hand between the 3 and 4 o'clock positions. This posture provides better support for your body in the event of a collision. 2. If you only grip the steering wheel with four fingers and place your thumbs on the wheel, there is a risk of thumb injury if the wheels hit a rock or a high curb. Below is an introduction to correct and incorrect steering wheel grip techniques: (1) Many beginners, due to poor spatial awareness, adjust their seats too far forward to see the hood, almost hugging the steering wheel while driving. Some experienced drivers also prefer reclining their seats during long-distance driving, adopting a semi-reclined posture, both of which are unsafe practices. (2) The correct approach is to first adjust the seat back to a reclining angle of approximately 110 degrees. (3) Scientific experiments have shown that this angle is the most ergonomic, minimizing body fatigue. Then, press your body firmly against the seat back, ensuring the seat is fully occupied and stable. Finally, rest your wrist joints on the top of the steering wheel and adjust the seat's forward and backward distance so that your elbow joints remain slightly bent.
I've always been a fan of the steering wheel adjustment feature, and I think the Mazda3 (Axela) does a particularly user-friendly job in this regard. There's a small adjustment lever under the steering wheel—just a gentle pull or push allows you to move it up, down, forward, or backward. The height adjustment helps keep your arms and shoulders at a comfortable angle, preventing fatigue from hunching over while driving. The telescopic adjustment controls how close or far the steering wheel is from your body; too close makes operation awkward, while too far makes steering laborious. I recommend fixing it in the optimal position once adjusted—this not only enhances control precision but also ensures the airbag functions correctly. This little feature proves especially useful during long drives or when drivers of different body types take turns, as readjustment is quick and effortless. Remember, the ideal position is when the top of the steering wheel aligns with your sternum, with the instrument cluster clearly visible, ensuring both visibility and reaction speed meet standards for safer driving.
