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It's time to start looking for another vehicle, but your budget asks you to consider a used one to save some cash. You can get an amazing family-friendly vehicle in a used Mazda CX-5. This top-rated small SUV is stylish, comfortable, and functional. Whether you're looking for a daily commuter, a vehicle for a new teen driver, or just another addition to your garage, look no further. Here are three tips when buying a used CX-5. more 1. Check Out the First Generation CX-5 The Mazda CX-5 is a relatively new addition to the automobile world. The first generation of the CX-5 was produced from 2013 to 2016 and offered spacious rear seating, easy access, excellent handling, and an impressive level of standard features. From the moment the CX-5 rolled onto the road, it proved itself as one of the best drives of any vehicle in the small SUV lineup. Powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic, the first generation CX-5 produces 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. In 2014, a 2.5-liter engine was introduced, upping the horsepower to 184 and offering 185 pound-feet of torque. The 2.5-liter only came paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. If you opted for all-wheel drive in any first-generation model, you also had to stick with the automatic transmission. 2. Consider a Second Generation CX-5 Mazda is currently producing the second generation of the CX-5, which started in 2017. While it may not seem like a lot changed with this second generation, the tweaks to the interior and exterior made a huge difference, making the CX-5 a standout in the small SUV lineup. Squinty headlights and a new front grille gave the second generation a distinctive, cutting-edge look. Interior upgrades made the CX-5 downright luxurious. The standard engine for the second generation is a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder that produces 187 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. A few months after the initial launch of the second-generation CX-5 in 2017, a second engine was added. That option is a 2.2-liter turbodiesel offering 147 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. In 2019, Mazda added a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that puts out 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Mazda abandoned the manual transmission in 2017, with a six-speed automatic standard on all second-generation models. 3. Know That the CX-5 Holds Value A used Mazda CX-5 still holds a lot of its original value because it's such a standout vehicle in its field. Depending on the condition, trim level, and mileage, you can expect to get a 2013 model between $7,695 to $16,995. A 2017 second-generation CX-5 costs between $14,989 and $26,999, while a 2019 can be available for $14,990 to $35,998. You can also expect to save money at the pump with a used CX-5 averaging 27 to 29 mpg combined. Overall, the CX-5 is an excellent value for a used vehicle. When you're ready to get into a used CX-5, contact your local Mazda dealer. A team member will be available to answer any questions and get you set up for a test drive. Image via Pixabay

The main benefit of ordering a custom car is getting exactly what you want. You may want a particular color that isn't in stock or an optional extra that can only be installed at the factory. In these cases, you place a special order with the manufacturer. As your Mazda dealer in Wakefield, RI, we'd like to tell you more about how this process works and the order times for your model. more How Do You Order a Custom Car? You have a choice between ordering from us or ordering from Mazda. Let's take a look at how the two options work. Order From Us Ordering a custom Mazda is now easier than ever. If you can't find exactly what you're looking for on the website, the next step is to contact your dealership by phone or email. One of our team will assist you with your selection and can advise you on any of the options you require. Once you're satisfied with your choices and have confirmed everything, we'll order our car from Mazda for you. Order From Mazda You can also order your car from Mazda directly. If you visit their website, you can select the model, trim, and make any other choices. The information will be sent to us once you complete the order on their website. We'll then contact you to assist you in completing the order. How Long Does the Process Take? Choosing the features you want and placing the order with Mazda is a quick and easy process and can efficiently be completed on the same day. Our next step is to check the current stock on order for delivery to the US. A model that matches your requirements may be already shipping or in the process of shipping. If an identical one is available, we can divert it to the dealership for you. If it isn't available immediately, once we place the order, your customized Mazda will be moved toward the top of the production process. Delivery time can vary, depending on whether the Mazda you've selected is manufactured in the US. If the model is made here, delivery time is much shorter. On average, your customized Mazda will take a few weeks to several months for delivery. Tracking your Mazda Once your car enters the production process, we can access information on its progress. We'll keep you regularly informed and advise you as soon as your car is ready for delivery to our dealership. We can then arrange a convenient time to deliver it to your home or office, or you can collect it from us. If you like more information on the process, or to order a new Mazda, contact us today at Flood Mazda. Image via Pixabay

Today, most people spend a large part of their day online sending and answering emails, updating social media, and working remotely. In a digital world, buying the car you want should be as easy as going online and ordering it. At your Mazda dealership in Wakefield, RI, we use Mazda Express to make your life simpler and easier. These are the steps to getting the car of your dreams. more Choose Your Car This is the most important step, which Mazda would you like? We have a range of vehicles for everyone for work, play, or a little of both. Visit our website and look over our available models. If you don't see exactly the right model and trim for you, you can design the perfect vehicle online in just a few clicks. On our website, you can choose the model and trim and then add the options you want. You can also ask questions online, and a personal concierge will answer them and guide you through the process. Once you've chosen your car, you move on to the next step. Pricing This is where you decide if you want to lease or buy. You choose the option you want, and the system will automatically compute the price. We'll email you a deal sheet with the details of the car you've chosen. If you've chosen a lease option, we'll include all the information on the lease terms and conditions. Trade-In This step only applies if you have a car you want to trade in. You email us the details of your car, including its make and model. We'll be back to you within three hours with a firm offer. Documentation This is the step where you upload your documents. We'll need a copy of your driver's license and proof of insurance. If you're arranging finance, we have an online credit application you'll need to complete. If you're paying cash, you'll complete a shorter form for legal requirements. Review Once we've received your documentation, we'll send you a deal sheet with all the information. If the deal is being financed, we'll include the payment details based on your credit approval. Once you've reviewed the deal and approved it, the next step is to take possession of your car. Collection If you'd like your car delivered to your home or work, send us the details. One of our specialists will deliver your car at a convenient time for you. The specialist will also explain any features you'd like to know about. If you have a trade-in, we'll collect it at the same time. Buying your car has never been easier. Contact us today at Flood Mazda. Image via Pixabay

Before you buy a new Mazda and sign on the dotted line, you should test-drive your potential new ride and assess the experience. When you test-drive a car, you shouldn't just focus on how good it feels--you should assess the car's features as well. Here are tips from your local Mazda dealer on what to check when test-driving a new Mazda. more 1. Comfort and Ergonomics Check how comfortable the Mazda is before driving it. After all, you will be spending a lot of time in it. As you slide into the driver's seat, take a moment to assess the seat comfort, legroom, and headroom. Make sure the seats provide sufficient lumbar support. Ergonomics is also an important factor that will affect your driving experience. Check whether the controls and infotainment system are easy to reach and intuitive to use. Make sure you can see the instrument panel clearly as well. 2. Handling and Performance Mazda cars are known for their impressive handling and performance. When test-driving, note how the car handles. Check whether it responds quickly to steering inputs. The car should accelerate smoothly and feel stable even when driving at higher speeds. Check how quickly and smoothly the car stops when you apply the brakes. Mazda has G-Vectoring Control Plus: a feature that subtly adjusts engine torque and braking pressure to improve handling. So be sure to feel for that seamless transition in your drive. 3. Safety Features Mazda boasts a variety of safety features as part of the i-Activesense suite. This includes technologies like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane monitoring, blind spot monitoring, and driver alertness. During your test drive, familiarize yourself with these features. You can even ask your dealer to explain how they work if you are unsure. 4. Noise and Vibration A quiet and smooth ride can significantly enhance our driving experience. Mazda cars are known for their excellent noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels, but it's still worth checking. Listen for any unusual noises when the car is running and feel for excess vibration. 5. Visibility Visibility can be affected by your height, sitting position, car design, and mirror adjustment. When you are in the driver's seat, check your visibility out of the front, sides, and rear of the car. Make sure there are no blind spots and the mirrors are easy to use. Mazda cars usually feature a heads-up display (HUD) that projects important information such as speed, navigation, and warning messages on the windshield. Test this feature and check whether you can see over the display. Test-driving a new Mazda is an enjoyable and thrilling experience. Make sure to check the above issues before signing on the dotted line. Stop by Flood Mazda today and take your favorite Mazda vehicle on a test drive. Image via Pixabay

Mazda cars have always been adored thanks to their clever designs, sprite handling, and affordability. And now, in 2023, there's even more to love as the company designs more vehicles with fuel efficiency in mind. Whether you're an eco-warrior, looking for a wallet-friendly option, or a bit of both, there are several high-quality Mazdas that will save you gallons of fuel. Here are just a few of our favorites, available now at your local Mazda Dealership. more Meet the 2023 Mazda 3 Sedan An entry-level 2.5-liter four-cylinder gets you 191 horsepower. And thanks to cylinder deactivation, an interesting technique that ensures your engine isn't firing on all cylinders if it's not necessary, the engine delivers impressive fuel efficiency. When paired with front-wheel drive, you'll be able to enjoy 28 miles per gallon in the city and 37 mpg highway. It's an agile drive that's even more delightful when equipped with six-speed manual transmission. There's so much more to love about this sedan. Its interior is fitted with premium materials, and there are plenty of options for upgrading and customization. Leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Bose stereo system, and heated front seats are available on the highest trims, while an 8.8-inch display comes standard. An impressive suite of driver-assistance technology includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Other Options: The 2023 Mazda 3 Hatchback The sibling of the sedan is another excellent choice for fuel efficiency if you opt for the front-wheel drive configuration. An impressive 36 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city will have you cruising for hours on end without needing a stop. Like the sedan, the interior is thoughtfully assembled and offers enjoyable amenities. And while it's a smaller model, it's still a pleasant one, providing you with comfortable seats and plenty of room for passengers. The 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata This zippy sports car is much-loved among those who like to turn heads with the top down. A four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower has earned itself an EPA fuel-economy rating of 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway; that's the beauty of a small, light car. This is also what makes it such a fun drive. Choose between a soft-top and a hard-top and upgrade for features like a nine-speaker stereo and heated seats. When it comes to fuel efficiency, Mazda has bountiful options for fantastic cars that don't break the bank. Whether you're after a sedan, a hatchback, or a convertible sports car, there's something for everyone. Are you feeling ready to take one for a test drive? Come check out our range at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI, today. Image via Pixabay

The all-new 2024 Mazda CX-90 is an effortless mix of style and performance, with three rows of seating that can comfortably seat eight adults and premium technology and features that will keep you connected and safe while on the go. Keep reading to learn more about what the CX-90 has to offer and why you should talk to your Mazda dealership about making it your next new vehicle. more Meet the 2024 Mazda CX-90 The CX-90 is offered with a 3.3L inline six-cylinder engine that is paired with an electric motor that generates 280 horsepower in most trims, and 340 horsepower in S-level trims. A distinct plug-in hybrid powertrain is also available, which clocks in at 323 horsepower and makes use of an inline-four instead. All models of the CX-90 come standard with AWD and are rated at an average combined fuel efficiency of 25 mpg. What's New for 2024? The Mazda CX-90 is new for the 2024 model year, so it's brand new across every feature it offers. It is designed to replace the popular CX-9 crossover that has long been a mainstay of the Mazda lineup since it was first introduced in 2007. The CX-90 builds on the design of the CX-9, but incorporates inspiration from other models within Mazda's SUV lineup, including the CX-50 and MX-30, to create a luxurious, modern and sleek aesthetic. Three Features to Ask About at the Mazda Dealership Modern Infotainment Technology The infotainment center comes with a massive standard 10.3-inch screen that is controlled with a click wheel, which can be upgraded to an even larger 12.3-inch screen. Wireless integration with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, as is a 7-inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel, which can also be upgraded to a 12.3-inch screen. Spacious and Luxurious Interior The second row of seats can be switched out for a pair of captain's chairs, and leather and Nappa leather upholstery for the entire interior are available on higher-level trims. There's also ample cargo space within the CX-90, with 14.9 cubic feet of storage in the trunk that can expand out to 40 cubic feet with the third row folded down. Standard Safety Features The CX-90 comes with Mazda's i-Activsense software suite, which includes standard pedestrian detection, forward-collision warning, automatic braking, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist and departure warning, and a theft-deterring engine immobilizer. Are you interested in checking out the Mazda CX-90 for yourself, or want to get a closer look at the rest of Mazda's 2024 lineup? Give us a call at Flood Mazda today and one of our team members will be more than happy to set up an appointment with you! Image via Mazda

Whether you're taking your kids to school on your way to work, going on a cross-country road trip, or roughing it in rugged environments, the Mazda CX-50 is the ideal compact crossover SUV.  Here's why the Preferred Plus is one of most popular trims at your local Mazda dealership! more 1. Strong, Efficient Performance This model's 2.5L Skyactiv-G inline-4 engine delivers a healthy 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with the Skyactiv-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission and its manual shifting mode to achieve smooth shifts and quick acceleration. Excellent fuel economy at an EPA-rated 30 MPG highway is a result of the engine's intelligent use of its cylinder deactivation technology, which shuts off half of the cylinders when the extra power isn't needed. The CX-50 is also equipped with Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus system, helping you to navigate through turns more quickly and smoothly by making subtle braking adjustments and varying torque to optimize suspension load. 2. Plush Interior While the CX-50's base model already boasts a beautiful and spacious passenger cabin that accommodates five occupants, the Preferred Plus trim adds even more luxurious touches and creature comforts. These include half-leatherette upholstery, an 8-way power driver's seat with power lumbar support, and heated seats with varying heat levels. It also features a panoramic power moonroof that opens or closes with a single touch. Like other CX-50 models, this trim has an exceptional amount of rear legroom at 39.8 inches and passenger volume at close to 100 cubic feet. 3. Advanced Infotainment and Connectivity Coming standard with a 10.25-inch display, the Mazda Connect infotainment system in the Preferred Plus model offers support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth hands-free technology, and HD Radio. For wired connections, there are two USB audio ports in front and two USB charging ports for rear passengers. Available Mazda Connected Services add even more convenience with remote engine ignition, regular vehicle status reports, roadside assistance, and automatic 911 calling in case the vehicle becomes involved in an accident. 4. Comprehensive Safety and Driver-Assist Technology Suite You'll be driving with confidence and a peace of mind knowing that the CX-50 Preferred Plus provides a plethora of technologies to help keep you and your passengers safe on the road. Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, lane departure warnings, and a driver attention monitor are all included as standard features. The stop-and-go system included with the vehicle's adaptive cruise control aids in avoiding collisions by slowing the CX-50 to a stop when it detects the vehicle ahead stopping. When the vehicle in front of you starts moving again, the system automatically accelerates to a preset speed. Don't be surprised if you end up falling in love with the CX-50 Preferred Plus after trying out these amazing features! Visit Flood Mazda today and take the exciting 2023 model out for a spin! Image via Mazda

If you are in the market for a reliable and durable vehicle, Mazda should definitely be on your radar. With the brand's reputation for longevity and performance, it's no wonder that Mazda cars are popular among vehicle enthusiasts. Here are some insights from your local Mazda dealer on the durability of these vehicles. more Mazdas have a long lifespan and typically go between 200,000 and 250,000 miles without having severe mechanical or performance issues. This translates into up to 15 years on the road, compared to the 12-year average in most standard cars. Some Mazdas can clock 300,000 to 350,000 miles when diligently maintained. How Many Miles Can You Drive a Mazda? How long you can drive a Mazda depends on whether you buy a new or used model. New models will easily hit the 15-year mark with proper maintenance. If you buy a preowned Mazda, you need to consider the mileage at the time of purchase. For example, if the previous owner put in around 50,000 miles, you can expect the car to last another 200,000 miles. By taking into account the national average of 15, 000 miles a year, you can expect to drive the vehicle for around 13 years with diligent servicing. Can a Mazda Dealer Guarantee Longevity? Although Mazdas are built to last, choosing the right seller can greatly contribute to the longevity of the vehicle. Buying used Mazdas from an authorized dealer ensures that you are purchasing a certified pre-owned car. Certified pre-owned Mazdas are gently used, low-mileage vehicles that have undergone rigorous inspections to guarantee their quality and reliability. By obtaining your vehicle from a dealer, you can have confidence in the longevity and performance of the car. What's more, you can access used car financing at competitive rates, allowing you to actualize your car ownership dream faster. You will also get excellent after-sale services and service packages, which contribute to the longevity of your car. How Can You Make Your Mazda Last Longer? Whether you are buying a new or used Mazda, you should take the right measures to ensure the vehicle's longevity. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in the owner's manual. Perform oil changes every 7,500 miles or sooner if you love off-roading, racing, or towing. Below are additional maintenance tips for your Mazda: Rotate and balance tires regularly Regularly check and replace the coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid Clean and replace the air filter Practice responsible driving habits Use genuine Mazda parts You can never go wrong with Mazdas, as they are known for their durability and reliability. Visit us at Flood Mazda and check out our broad inventory of new and certified pre-owned Mazda vehicles. Image via Pixabay

If you're in the market for an electric vehicle, the Mazda MX-30 is the first one you should look at! This vehicle is comfortable, safe, and reasonably priced. We've got even more reasons for you to head down to your Mazda dealer today to check out the MX-30. more Sustainable Style Mazda makes a strong commitment to the environment by crafting the interior of its EVs with sustainable materials such as cork and recycled threads. The result is a quality, sustainable, comfortable, elegant interior. A floating center console and digital screen create more room in the passenger cabin. The exterior of this EV is just as elegant. Using Mazda's new “Human Modern” design concept, this vehicle is perfectly designed to give greater driving pleasure and performance. The freestyle doors mean the back doors open outward from the center, creating an easier way to load the vehicle. Enhanced Battery Technology The MX-30 has a 35.5 kWh Lithium-ion battery mounted under its cabin floor to provide quick response. The EPA-estimated range is 100 miles on a single charge, and the DC fast charge will get you back on the road in just over 30 minutes. Plus, Mazda has partnered with ChargePoint to provide a powerful charging network, with several locations nationwide. MX-30 purchasers will also receive a $500 credit towards public charging or the purchase of a ChargePoint home charger. Superior Safety As with all Mazda vehicles, the MX-30 comes with the i-Activsense safety technology to help prevent accidents, and protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians if there is an accident. Radar cruise control, driver attention alert, smart brake support, and a lane departure warning system help to make your driving experience safer and more comfortable. Peace of Mind From Your Mazda Dealer In addition to the safety aspects of the MX-30 you'll have peace of mind with a battery warranty of 8-years/100,000 miles. You'll also have access to many rebates and other savings by being an EV driver. And there's no worries if you are planning a longer car trip because you can access non-EV Mazda vehicles through the MX-30 Elite Access Loaner Program for up to 10 days per year on the first 3 years of ownership. The MyMazda App offers you a convenient, easy way to search for charging stations, remote charges, pre-setting your climate control, and accessing your car's conditions and battery levels without being in your vehicle. The award-winning team at Flood Mazda is happy to provide you with all the information you need to help you with your vehicle purchase. We have a large selection of new and used inventory and a stellar service department. Call or visit Flood Mazda today to ask any questions or take a test drive. Image via Mazda

When you think of celebrities, you probably think of expensive luxury cars. Scrolling through Instagram, you're likely to find your favorite celebrities driving their latest high-end vehicle purchases. However, not all celebrities drive rare, exclusive sports cars. Here are some celebrities who drive a Mazda: more 1. Alfred Morris Alfred Morris is an American football player. He was drafted by the Washington Football Team in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft. He has also played for the New York Giants, Arizona Cardinals, Dallas Cowboys, and San Francisco 49ers. When he isn't on the field, he's getting around town in his tried-and-true 1991 Mazda 626. Even though he's brought home big paychecks playing as a running back for some of the top NFL teams, he spent just $2 on his 626 and has driven it for the majority of his career. Mazda even went as far as to refurbish his vehicle as a way of saying thank you for this loyalty to the brand. 2. Patrick Dempsey If you're a fan of television and moves, you're probably already familiar with Patrick Dempsey. He is an American actor most well-known for his role as neurosurgeon Derek Shepherd in "Grey's Anatomy." In addition to his role as "McDreamy," Dempsey has acted in movies such as "Can't Buy Me Love," "Loverboy," "Scream 3," and "Sweet Home Alabama." Dempsey isn't just an actor — he also loves race car driving. It only makes sense that Dempsey has driven a Mazda 787B race car. Mazda manufactures incredibly athletic race cars that are capable of remarkable performance abilities. One of those cars is the Mazda 787B, which Dempsey drove during an exhibition run. 3. Jessica Gomes Jessica Gomes is an Australian model. You may have seen her work in the swimsuit issue of Sports Illustrated. Gomes has also modeled for Levi's, Urban Outfitters, Victoria's Secret, Garnier, and DKNY Jeans. She's additionally appeared in Glamour, Vogue, and Teen Vogue. Gomes has driven a variety of vehicles during her time in the spotlight, including a Mazda2. "I always drive Mazdas," she said in a Car Sales article in 2013 after driving the Mazda6 in a celebrity race. 4. Jay Leno Jay Leno is most well-known for his career as a talk show host. He was the host of NBC's "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" from 1992 to 2009. He also hosted his own show, "The Jay Leno Show," for one season. In more recent years, Leno has moved from hosting talk shows to hosting his own series about cars and motorbikes. Leno is an avid car collector. One of his prized possessions is his 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In an episode of "Jay Leno's Garage," Leno praises the Miata, saying, "Very few times do you get something right the first time, but (the Mazda MX-5 Miata) is a classic case of that." Even with a notable amount of wealth, many celebrities choose to drive an affordable Mazda over rare and expensive luxury cars. If you're interested in driving a Mazda just like these celebrities, consider a vehicle from Mazda's stylish, fun-to-drive, and accommodating lineup. Image via Pixabay

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 is a crossover with a rugged exterior paired with an upscale high-class interior. In addition, every model of the CX-50 comes with an impressive six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive for excellent performance. Read on to learn more about the incredible features available on the '23 CX-50. more The '23 CX-50 comes standard with a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that offers 187 horsepower. However, you can opt for the powerful acceleration of the turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine, which delivers an incredible 256 horsepower. These engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that gives you snappy acceleration and smooth shifts. Interior The interior of the'23 CX-50 features seating for five passengers across its two rows. You will also find a large square dashboard inside the CX-50, which give it a style that is reminiscent of a truck. In addition, the front and rear seats inside this crossover feature plenty of space for passengers, so no one is left feeling cramped. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel of this crossover ensures that drivers of all heights and sizes can drive comfortably. If you are looking for high-class design, the most upscale interior of the CX-50 models is found in the loaded Premium Plus Trim. Connectivity The base model of the '23 CX-50 features an 8.8-inch infotainment display. However, the other models boast a massive 10.3-inch multicolor display. These screens feature the newest Mazda Connect interface and have a click wheel mounted on your center console for easy control. Additionally, every model of the CX-50 comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and easily connects to your compatible smartphone devices. Audio The '23 CX-50 from Mazda boasts an incredible audio system. The standard system is an eight-speaker stereo that provides listeners with crisp music. Alternatively, when you choose a Premium or Premium Plus model, you can listen to your music via a 12-speaker Bose stereo system that provides concert-quality music. Driver Assistance and Safety Every model of the '23 CX-50 features a suite of standard driver assistance and safety features that work to keep you and your family safe on the road. For example, lane-keeping assist alerts you when you are drifting in your lane, and adaptive cruise control helps you keep distance between you and cars ahead. The CX-50 also features automatic high-beam headlamps that cut a path through the dark so you can see clearly at night. If you are looking for a crossover SUV with plenty of space for cargo and passengers, you need to ensure that the '23 CX-50 from Mazda is on your list. Come visit us at Flood Mazda and check out our new and used inventory, including our certified pre-owned vehicles, today. Image via Pixabay

Gifting a car to a family member is great for two people. It helps you to get rid of a car you don't want, and it helps a relative out at the same time. In Rhode Island, you must inform the Department of Motor Vehicles - Rhode Island (DMV-RI) of the transfer. All vehicles in Rhode Island must have an identifiable owner. As your Mazda dealer, we'd like to tell you about some of the things you need to know about gifting. more Gifting Requires Paperwork When you sell a car, you need to complete a bill of sale, the certificate of title, and an odometer disclosure statement. When you gift a car, you have to complete the same paperwork and several additional forms. The reason for this paperwork is that you're transferring ownership of the car to someone else, and the DMV-Ri must have the updated information for their records. You fill in the certificate of title and the bill of sale as the seller, and your family member completes the form as the buyer. You'll need to mark the purchase price as "Gift". You might also need to complete a certificate of inspection unless you're gifting the car to your spouse or one of your children. Not Everyone Is a Family Member The DMV-RI has strict requirements for who is considered a family member when you're gifting a car. Their list includes: Spouses Parents/Step Parents Grandparents Grandchildren Children, including stepchildren and adopted children Siblings, including half-siblings In-laws (including mother, father, son, and daughter) Anyone not on this list uses the procedure for gifting to a non-family member. When you gift a car to a family member, they don't have to pay the 7% Excise Tax for transferring a car. You Have to Return the License Plates Once you and your family member have completed the necessary paperwork, you'll need to remove the license plates. You should accompany your family member to the closest DMV-RI office. Once there you'll need to surrender the license plates to the DMV-RI. They will issue a new set of plates to your family member that can be attached to the car. There are two exceptions to this rule. The first involves a car becoming the joint property of a partner and child or two spouses when it was previously owned by one of the parties only. The second exception involves a car that was the joint property of two family members being transferred to one of the family members only. If you'd like to know more about gifting, or you're looking for a great replacement for the car you gifted, come and see us at Flood Mazda. Image via Pixabay