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Your car's transmission takes energy generated by the engine and send it to the wheels. When this happens right, you get smooth acceleration and gear shifts. That means transmission service at your Mazda dealer is part of proactively keeping things running the way they should. more What Happens During Service Transmission service can involve inspecting, cleaning, and replacing various components and fluids within your vehicle's transmission system. What will happen will always be determined by what exactly you need. Some of what we might do includes: Fluid Replacement or Exchange Transmission fluid lubricates, cools, and facilitates gear shifts. Over time, this fluid can degrade, get contaminated with debris, and lose its effectiveness. If we just change it out, we'll drain the old transmission fluid and replace it with new fluid. While this does refresh the system, some old fluid may remain in certain parts, like the torque converter. That means sometimes a fluid flush is the right thing. This is a more thorough method where a machine flushes out all the old fluid before new fluid is added. Filter Replacement The transmission filter traps contaminants and debris so they don't circulate through the system. Replacing the filter ensures that the new fluid remains clean and effective. Inspection We'll also do a thorough inspection to identify signs of wear, damage, or potential failure. We'll check seals, O-rings, and other parts that may need replacement. Signs You Might Need Service If you come get service as soon as you notice the early warning signs, you can prevent minor issues from becoming major, costly repairs: Delayed or Slipping Gears If you notice a delay when shifting gears, or if the transmission slips out of gear while driving, this could indicate low transmission fluid or worn components. Unusual Noises Grinding, humming, or clunking sounds coming from the transmission are not normal. They usually mean there are worn gears, bearings, or other internal issues. Burning Smell A burning odor, especially if you think you're smelling burnt toast, can indicate overheated transmission fluid. That shouldn't be happening, so come see us. Check Engine or Transmission Light Modern vehicles have sensors that detect irregularities in the transmission system, so if the light comes on, come see us. Rough Shifting Hard or abrupt gear shifts are never good. This might mean you have degraded fluid or mechanical issues. Having transmission issues? Come see us at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI today for help. Image via Mazda

Car batteries last for several years before they need to be replaced, and you should do everything you can to keep the battery in good condition so it doesn't need to be replaced sooner than expected. There are several types of battery maintenance that you can do at home to keep the battery in good health. Getting regular battery health checks from your local Mazda dealer is important, too. more Clean Your Battery Over time, grease and dirt can build up on your battery and cause corrosion. Corrosion leads to battery performance issues in some cases. So if you spot any dirt, grease, or corrosion on your battery, then you should clean it off. First, remove the negative cable and then the positive cable on your terminals. After that, scrub the terminals with a baking soda and water solution. You may also apply petroleum jelly to the formally corroded areas, as it may prevent corrosion in the future. Once done, attach the positive cable and then the negative cable to your battery. Drive Frequently Your car battery will die if you go a month or two without driving your vehicle at all. To make sure the battery doesn't die, drive your vehicle for at least 30 minutes every week. If you're going to be away for an extended period, then consider getting a friend to bring your vehicle out for a quick 30-minute drive every week. Check the Acid Bring your battery to the dealership every six months, so a mechanic can check the acid and electrolyte levels. This is especially important if you mainly drive short distances. If the mechanic finds your battery has low electrolyte levels and will no longer charge above 80 percent capacity, then they may be able to repair the problem without replacing the battery. Drive More Than 10 Miles If you exclusively drive very short distances, then your battery may not last as long as it could. Try to avoid driving less than 10 miles as much as possible, so your battery has time to recharge. Limit Electronic Use with No Engine Running It's not a good idea to use your car's electronic features when the vehicle isn't running. Doing so drains your battery. Occasionally leaving the radio on for your passengers while you run into a gas station to pay for fuel is fine, but avoid using the electronics for long periods while the engine is off. Want to check on your battery's health or get a new battery? Pay us a visit at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI. Image via Mazda

If you want to maintain your Mazda's astounding fuel economy, then you must make sure your fuel system is in good condition. A fuel system cleaning at your Mazda dealer is the best way to ensure every ounce of fuel is used efficiently. more Your Mazda's fuel system is one of the most essential systems in the vehicle and is largely responsible for ensuring you can enjoy the fuel-saving benefits of your car. When your vehicle's fuel system is clogged, it makes it harder for the fuel pump to deliver gas to the engine, which can affect the acceleration and reliability of your vehicle over time. Cleaning the fuel system can usually be done by using a special cleaner that breaks down deposits and contaminates. The cleaner is added to the fuel tank to flush through the entire fuel system and is followed by a second cleaner that removes lingering carbon deposits from the combustion chamber in your engine. A mechanic may have to clean parts of your fuel system by hand to remove stubborn deposits that disrupt the airflow of your fuel system. How Your Fuel System Works Whether you drive a Mazda sedan or SUV, your fuel system is likely composed of parts such as fuel lines, fuel filters, fuel injectors, a fuel pump, and a fuel pressure regulator. If you drive a Mazda with a traditional combustion engine, your vehicle is powered by injecting fuel into the combustion chamber. The fuel is then ignited by a spark plug to produce the power necessary to drive. How Often Should You Clean the Fuel System at Your Mazda Dealer? Cleaning the fuel system should be done every 15,000 miles, which is about once a year for most drivers. If you drive your vehicle daily and rack up high mileage, you may need to have your fuel system cleaned more often to protect the fuel efficiency and performance of your car. It's a good idea to visit your dealership for fuel system service if you notice your Mazda has sluggish acceleration or you are struggling to start your car. If you are fueling up the car more often, this can also be a sign that your fuel system is clogged. Whether your check engine light has turned on or it's been a year since your last routine service appointment, the best thing you can do to promote your vehicle's fuel efficiency is to regularly clean the fuel system. Get in touch with Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI to book a service appointment today. Image via Mazda

Your vehicle relies on a variety of fluids to keep your car running at peak performance level. When you need a fluid check to assess the level of certain fluids under the hood, the best place to schedule service is your local Mazda dealership. more 1. Comprehensive Fluid Check When you schedule fluid service at your local dealership, your Mazda mechanic will look at all the fluid in your vehicle as part of a comprehensive check-up. A comprehensive check may be important during bouts of extreme weather or if you frequently drive your car since some fluids may need to be replaced at the same time. The essential fluids in your vehicle include engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Among these fluids, engine oil should be checked and replaced most often to ensure the internal components of your engine are protected from friction. Even if you drive a hybrid Mazda, you should schedule a motor oil replacement service twice a year. 2. Genuine Fluid Replacement A major benefit of dealership fluid service is the fact that your Mazda mechanic will use genuine Mazda fluids to top-up or replace your vehicle's fluids. The use of genuine fluids can maintain your vehicle's iconic Mazda performance since these high-quality lubricants and chemicals are designed to meet the performance demand of your vehicle. 3. Bundled Routine Service Appointment Scheduling fluid service at your local dealership may also be beneficial since you can bundle other routine services at the same appointment. For example, it's common to check your engine oil and rotate your tires at the same time. This can save you time and money, while also ensuring that other components of your vehicle are in top performance condition. 4. Correct Leaks Finally, your Mazda mechanic will be able to discern if the low fluid levels in your vehicle are caused by leaks or other damage. If you notice that your vehicle is frequently overheating or there are large puddles beneath your car, the root cause could be an unaddressed leak. Your mechanic will easily be able to fix the damage causing the leak as part of your service appointment. Just like your body, the condition of your vehicle will suffer if the internal components don't have enough fluids. Your Mazda likely recommends checking essential vehicle fluids during every routine service appointment, particularly for fluids associated with the engine and brake system. Schedule your six-month routine service at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI today. Image via Mazda

Every driver looks forward to gusts of cold air when driving on a hot summer day. If you have an AC not working, this can make your driving experience very uncomfortable. At your Mazda dealership, we can fix any possible AC problem. These are a few examples of issues we can repair. more No Air Flow If you turn on the AC and no air blows into the cabin, you could have blocked air vents and ducts. Dirt and other debris are drawn into the AC in the air. This debris can block the external air vent the air passes through to reach the AC. Dirt can also build up in the ducts and prevent air from blowing through the cabin air vents. Other possible issues include broken blower fans that blow cold air produced by the AC in the cabin, a jammed AC pulley, which prevents the AC from receiving power, or a blown fuse or relay. Blown fuses can shut down critical AC components until the fuses are replaced. Our technicians will examine your AC and repair the problem. Noisy AC The only sound you should hear from the AC is the slight sound of cold air billowing into the cabin. If you listen closely, you can sometimes hear the click of the compressor clutch switching on and off in the air-chilling process. Weird and disturbing noises like rustling, rattling, clunking, or grinding are all signs that you have an AC problem. Rustling noises are usually caused by leaves, dirt, and other materials trapped in the ducts. Rattling noises could be caused by pebbles or other hard objects pulled in with the air. Clunking or grinding noises are more worrying, as they suggest mechanical issues like damaged AC bearings or other worn parts. We'll examine your AC, identify the problem, and repair it. Bad Smells If you smell a foul stench when you turn on the AC, mold or bacteria have found their way into the AC. These minute organisms enter the system through the external air vent. When the AC isn't used for a while, like in winter, the dark crevices and moisture in the ducts provide a perfect breeding ground. Breathing air containing mold spores or bacteria is unhealthy, but this situation is one of the quickest to solve. We add a powerful cleaning solution to the AC and let it blow through the system. This solution is harmless to humans but will quickly rid the AC of these organisms. If your AC isn't working as it should, contact us today at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI. Image via Mazda

Electrical problems can have many different causes. Damaged wiring, worn components, and blown fuses are just some of the issues that can develop over time. All these issues can be prevented by regular servicing, as our technicians can identify potential issues and repair them. As your Mazda dealer, we'd like you to know some signs that you need to visit us for an electrical system service. more Blown Fuses Every electrical system in your Mazda has a fuse. The fuses act as gatekeepers between the component and the electrical system. If an electrical short develops, current will flow through the system in unexpected directions. This can result in a larger-than-expected electrical charge reaching a component like the sound system. In this situation, the fuse attached to the sound system will absorb the rogue electrical charge and blow out. This prevents the current from damaging the sound system but cuts off its power supply until the fuse is replaced. We'll examine your fuses and replace any blown ones to fix this issue. Damaged Wiring Your Mazda has more than a mile of wiring inside which connects almost every component to the electrical system. The wiring is covered in plastic and rubber insulation to protect it against heat, dirt, and grease. Despite this protection, the wiring will still age. The continual flow of electricity through the wiring can eventually weaken it enough to break. A broken wire will cut off power to the system it connects to, but electricity will continue to flow into the wire. This causes the broken wire to heat up, and it can get hot enough to set its protective insulation on fire. Burning insulation produces a foul, burning plastic smell. Our technicians will test your wiring and replace any damaged sections. Worn Alternator The alternator's job is to produce electricity for your Mazda's systems. It does this by spinning at high speed to produce electricity, which is then supplied to all the systems that need it. It is a very efficient and robust component and will continue to produce power for at least eight years. As the alternator ages, it will slowly enter a downward spiral as the level of electricity it produces starts to fall. The drop in the electricity supply isn't immediately apparent, but it will become noticeable as random electrical issues will appear. The battery warning light on your dash will illuminate to warn that something is wrong in the electrical system. We'll test your alternator and install a new one if required. If you're experiencing any electrical issues, contact the experts today at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI. Image via Mazda

How's your car's exhaust system doing? The exhaust system directs harmful gases away from the engine and passenger cabin, reduces noise, and improves the overall efficiency of your vehicle, so exhaust maintenance isn't something you want to skip. Here's why you should schedule regular maintenance with your Mazda dealer. more Understanding the Exhaust System The exhaust system in your Mazda is composed of several components: key parts include the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, muffler, and exhaust pipes. Each component has a specific function, from reducing harmful emissions to muffling engine noise. Regular maintenance of these components keeps things running smoothly. If you ignore the issues we highlight below, they eventually lead to decreased performance, higher fuel consumption, and potential health hazards due to increased emissions. Common Signs of Exhaust System Problems Increased Engine Noise A failing exhaust system often results in louder engine noise. This can be due to a damaged muffler or exhaust pipes. Vibrations If you feel unusual vibrations coming from the engine or under the car, it could indicate a problem with the exhaust system. Vibrations can also be caused by tire issues, brake problems, alignment concerns and more, so be sure to talk to your dealer for help to pinpoint the problem. Decreased Fuel Efficiency A faulty exhaust system can reduce your vehicle's fuel efficiency, causing you to spend more on fuel. Check Engine Light The check engine light can be triggered by various exhaust system issues, such as a malfunctioning oxygen sensor or catalytic converter. Unpleasant Odors The smell of exhaust fumes inside the cabin is a serious issue that needs immediate attention, as it indicates a leak in the exhaust system and can be dangerous to anyone riding in the car. Routine Maintenance Tips Schedule regular inspections with your dealer. We can check for signs of wear and tear, such as rust or damage to the exhaust pipes and muffler. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations while driving. Early detection of these signs can prevent more severe issues. Finally, know that using high-quality fuel can reduce the buildup of harmful deposits in the exhaust system, prolonging the life of your catalytic converter and other components. Exhaust Maintenance and Repair at Your Mazda Dealer We have certified technicians who are trained to handle the specific needs of Mazda vehicles. We also have access to the latest diagnostic tools and genuine Mazda parts, ensuring that any repairs or replacements meet the highest standards. For professional care, visit us today at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI. Image via Mazda

Regular engine diagnostics have the power to flag up potential issues before they become major problems, and this means you can often prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Your Mazda dealer offers the most up-to-date diagnostics available for your vehicle. more Why Engine Diagnostics? Diagnostics use specialized tools and software to monitor the performance of your vehicle's engine. Modern Mazda vehicles are equipped with sophisticated onboard computer systems that can detect a wide range of issues, and these tools can read data from various sensors and components and translate that into important data points that show how the engine is performing and whether there are any red flags that could point to a growing issue. What Can My Mazda Dealer Discover? Diagnostics can identify or explain a variety of common problems, including: Misfires Engine misfires can be caused by issues such as faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. Diagnostics can pinpoint the exact cause of the misfire. Sensor Failures Modern engines rely on numerous sensors to monitor performance. Diagnostics can detect failures in sensors like the oxygen sensor, mass airflow sensor, and throttle position sensor. Fuel System Issues Problems with the fuel system, such as clogged fuel injectors or a malfunctioning fuel pump, can be identified through diagnostics. Emissions Control Problems Diagnostics can detect issues with the catalytic converter, EGR valve, or other emissions control components. Electrical Issues Electrical problems, including issues with the battery, alternator, or wiring, can be identified through comprehensive diagnostics. The Diagnostic Process When you take your Mazda to us for diagnostics, the technician will typically begin with a visual inspection of the engine and related components to check for obvious signs of wear or damage. Then, using a diagnostic scanner, the technician will read the trouble codes stored in your vehicle's onboard computer. These codes provide information about specific issues detected by the engine's sensors. The technician will analyze data from the scanner, including real-time readings from various sensors, to diagnose the problem accurately. In some cases, the technician may perform additional physical tests, such as checking fuel pressure or performing a compression test, to gather more information. After completing the diagnostics, the technician will provide a detailed report and recommend the necessary repairs or maintenance. Remember, preventive maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs and ensuring the longevity of your Mazda. If it's been a while since you had diagnostics, come see us at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI soon. Image via Mazda

Wheel alignment is an often overlooked aspect of vehicle maintenance that's nevertheless extremely important for any driver's road safety, handling, and overall driving pleasure. Let's examine exactly why you should periodically have your car's suspension, wheels, and tires realigned at your local Mazda dealership. more Optimize Your Vehicle Handling Cars are designed to have all four wheels in perfect alignment with each other and also with the road's surface. Over time, however, wheels become pushed and bumped slightly out of alignment by scrapes against curbs, potholes, parking stalls, and speed bumps. This can gradually affect the quality of a vehicle's handling, reducing the driver's precision of control. At its worst, wheel misalignment can even cause a car to pull to one side. Not only can this worsen your driving experience, but it also poses a safety hazard as your ability to corner carefully or drive in a straight line becomes inhibited. Reduce Road Noise and Vibrations When the wheels of a car come out of alignment, greater friction is generated and unusual pressures are applied to the suspension. This often results in excessive road noise, which you might hear if you're used to the usual sounds of your car. It also generates excessive vibrations, which you might feel through the steering wheel. Keep Your Tires Wearing Evenly Wheel misalignment can also cause the tires to wear down unnaturally and unevenly. When this occurs, the most worn-out tires will become damaged or lose their tread depths more rapidly, at which point you'll need to buy a whole new set of tires. This increased cost of tires can really add up over the lifespan of your car. Just as regular tire rotation saves on the cost of new tires, periodic wheel realignment also helps keep tires in good condition for longer. Reduce Your Maintenance Costs As cars are designed to have perfectly aligned wheels, misalignment puts unexpected pressure on various car parts, not only the tires. It thereby forces the suspension and other connected components to work harder than normal, accelerating wear and tear. This can amount to an increase in various costly repair jobs. Visit Your Local Mazda Dealer Once a Year to Check the Alignment of Your Wheels It's generally recommended to have the alignment of a car's wheels and suspension checked at least once a year. It's advisable to also check your owner's manual for the recommended interval for this service. The process of realigning wheels involves delicate adjustments and reconfiguration of various suspension components; a task best handled by a skilled and experienced technician. Visit Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI, today to have qualified professionals realign your car's wheels. We're a local award-winning full-service dealership with a commitment to providing excellent customer service, whatever your vehicle-related needs may be. Image via Pixabay

Regular service checks are crucial to ensure that your vehicle continues operating smoothly for years. Following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule can help your technician detect minor issues that could become more significant problems if ignored. At your local Mazda dealership, you can choose from various service packages and special offers designed to keep your car in top condition without breaking the bank. more Expert Technicians Mazda is committed to delivering every vehicle owner the best possible driving experience. To achieve this, Mazda invests in the expertise of mechanics and technicians at authorized dealerships. These experts undergo extensive factory training that equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to diagnose and fix any issue that may arise with your Mazda. Training is ongoing, ensuring that these experts stay up-to-date with industry changes and important news that may impact your Mazda's performance. With Mazda's commitment to quality and expertise, you can rest assured that your Mazda will always perform at its best capacity. State-of-the-Art Equipment and Facilities Mazda takes excellent care to oversee the service centers at their authorized dealerships to guarantee that they run efficiently and effectively. They go to great lengths to ensure that all equipment is kept up-to-date and meets strict safety and quality standards to provide customers with an exceptional service experience. Authorized Mazda Parts If you have your Mazda serviced at an authorized dealership, you can rest assured that the mechanics will only use original parts. You won't have to worry about cheap knockoffs. This guarantees that your vehicle will continue to perform at its best, giving you the reliability and performance you expect from your Mazda. It's important to note that the use of non-original parts may void warranties and cause engine damage. Fast Service and Convenient Hours of Operation We understand that our customers have busy schedules and may be unable to get their vehicles serviced during the week. That's why we have extended our service center timings to open at 7:30 a.m. daily, including Saturdays. We offer a complimentary pick-up and delivery service if you cannot bring your car to us due to your busy schedule. Our team of skilled professionals understands the importance of your time. It works diligently to ensure that your vehicle is serviced as quickly and efficiently as possible so you can get back on the road without any delay. Flood Mazda is committed to providing outstanding customer support. We offer loaner vehicles while your car is being serviced, free shuttle services, free vacuuming and sanitizing, and even free key replacement and other service discounts. Schedule an appointment with Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI today and let our team of experts take care of both you and your vehicle. Image via Pixabay

Maintenance is the key to your Mazda's long-term health. Most servicing is determined by miles traveled, but the seasons also play a role in maintenance. Each season affects your Mazda differently. As your Mazda dealership, we want to advise you on seasonal maintenance for your car here in Rhode Island. more Spring Spring brings a welcome relief from the winter snow and ice. Read on for a tip to start your driving year on a high note: Clean Your Car Cleaning up after winter also extends to your car. During winter, road salt can build up underneath your car. It will gradually cause rust and lead to unnecessary repair bills. Hose off the underside of your car to get rid of these pesky granules. After cleaning the underside, why not spruce up the rest of your car with a thorough clean? This pays numerous dividends as your car will be gleaming and fresh to enjoy through spring. Summer A Rhode Island summer is glorious, and this is a great tip to enjoy your driving experience even more. Check the Fluids Your Mazda contains many different fluids, most of which operate under high pressure. Pressure generates heat, and rising temperatures outside your car increase the fluid's temperatures. Brake fluid, for example, gets hot, and frequent braking can cause the fluid to overheat and start to boil. Maintaining adequate fluid levels and ensuring there are no leaks will give you a safer and smoother driving experience. Fall Cooler temperatures and a riot of colorful leaves on the trees signal fall has arrived. Fall maintenance is really about preparing your car for the dark and cold winter days. Check Your Battery The battery is crucial for your engine, as it powers the starter to get your engine running. On average, it will need replacement every three to five years under good conditions. Low winter temperatures cause your battery to work harder to supply the power. An older battery also suffers damage as the cold affects the electrolyte solution in the battery and can cause it to fail. Testing your battery and getting a replacement if necessary is essential before winter strikes.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Winter Winter can cause various problems if you're not prepared for them. This is one of the many ways to ensure your car is ready for the chilly weather. Replace your Tires Snow tires are scientifically designed to give a better grip on snowy and icy surfaces, which makes them essential for driving in a Rhode Island winter. If you don't change your tires, accidents and additional wear and tear on the brakes and other systems become very likely. Skip the stress of snow driving by fitting good-quality snow tires. If you'd like more tips, or to prepare your car for the new season, visit us today at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI. Image via Pixabay

Mazda models have different engines, each with its own fuel requirements. Your fuel choice can significantly impact your car's fuel efficiency and performance. Below, your Mazda dealer provides information on the various fuel types available and how to select the best one for your specific Mazda model. more Types of Fuel At gas stations, you can usually find three different fuel grades or types of fuel characterized by their octane level. This rating is determined by the fuel's ability to spontaneous combustion under pressure. The octane number is determined by taking the average of two distinct methods for rating octane levels: research octane rating (RON) and motor octane rating (MOR), which are primarily differentiated based on the particular operating conditions. Fuel becomes more stable as the octane number increases. Although some gasoline grades are named differently, such as unleaded, regular, midgrade, or premium, they all indicate the octane rating. Regular Regular has the lowest octane rating, is usually graded at 87, and is the most economical. It's okay for most cars and can be ideal unless your model explicitly needs a higher fuel grade. It's important to note that using gasoline with an octane rating lower than 87 can adversely affect the emission control system performance and lead to engine knocking and severe engine damage. Midgrade Midgrade gasoline, which typically has an octane rating of 89-90, offers a slightly higher stability level than regular gasoline, with an octane rating of 87. Premium For cars equipped with turbo engines, it is advisable to use premium gasoline, which typically has an octane rating of 91 to 94. Mazda Fuel Requirements Although lower-grade fuels work fine in most Mazda models, premium fuel can enhance your car's performance. If your Mazda has a catalytic converter or oxygen sensors, use unleaded fuel to minimize exhaust emissions and reduce spark plug fouling. Regular Unleaded Fuel Regular unleaded fuel with an 87-octane rating is ideal for most low-performance commuter models, especially in areas with low or moderate altitudes where fast combustion is beneficial. Higher Octane Fuel While most Mazda models do not necessarily require premium fuel, it is important to note that in some instances, you may only get the best performance from your car by using a higher octane fuel (typically 91 octane). Choosing the right fuel can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your car, be it a big and spacious CX-9 SUV or a zippy MX-5 Miata. Swing by Flood Mazda today for more information on the right fuel and expert maintenance services to ensure your Mazda stays fuel-efficient and running optimally. Image via Pixabay