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There are a lot of additional problems that can arise when driving at night. It is important to drive with caution so that you can stay safe on the road. Here are five safety tips that you can use to reduce the risk of accident or injury on the road. more 1. Minimize Distractions Because your visual capabilities are reduced at night, you should minimize distractions. Music can help you focus, but you should avoid playing the radio too loud. Try to set up a playlist before your trip so that you are not messing around trying to find something to listen to. Refrain from using your phone, and try to keep the interior lights in the vehicle off. This will help you focus on the road. 2. Watch for Wildlife Animals can be harder to see in the dark, and they can dart out in front of your vehicle, catching you off guard. You should be prepared to handle encounters with wildlife on the road, especially driving through rural areas. If an animal runs out onto the road, you should try to avoid an impact by engaging your brakes instead of swerving. Although it may be your first reaction, swerving can cause you to lose control of your vehicle, making things much worse. 3. Know When to Quit Driving when you are tired is very hazardous. Although you may feel obligated to push through your exhaustion, it isn't worth risking your life over. If you feel like you are unable to stay awake on the road, then you should pull off and get some rest. When you know you will be taking a long trip, or you will have to drive late at night, make sure that you are adequately rested before the drive. 4. Watch for Reckless Drivers Other drivers on the road may be under the influence, tired, or just reckless. You may feel more tempted to speed when there are fewer people around, and you are in a hurry. Make sure that you are always aware of your surroundings, and watch out for other drivers who may not be acting responsibly. Also, be prepared for people to use their headlights improperly and cause visual disturbances too. 5. Drive Responsibly Ensure that you are mentally ready to get behind the wheel, especially at night. If you have been drinking, or you feel tired, then it isn't a good idea to drive. Otherwise, drive carefully, focusing on the road, and avoid the temptation to speed even if you are in a hurry. It's better to arrive at your destination safely than not at all. Remember, drive carefully at night to ensure your safety on the road. If you would like a reliable and safe vehicle, we can help you with that too. Contact us today at Flood Mazda of Wakefield, and we can help you with any of your automotive needs. When it comes to safety and quality, we have your back. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Transmissions are an integral component of your vehicle and are something that needs to be monitored and maintained on a regular basis. Your transmission is in constant use, so wear and tear are inevitable. There are certain things you might be able to do on your own like replacing transmission fluid and changing filters, but the best way to avoid transmission problems is to have it regularly serviced at the suggested milestones at your Mazda dealer. more 1. The Warning Light Is On Your ‘check engine' light could mean a number of things, including problems with your transmission. Newer vehicles may even have advanced technology that can alert you to specific problems such as your transmission. It's always a good idea to get a diagnostics test when this light comes on, and if it comes on with some of the other symptoms listed below, there's a good chance that there's a problem with your transmission and it's time for service. 2. It Is Leaking Fluid Your transmission fluid should remain constant. It does not burn off and decrease like motor oil, rather, it needs to be flushed sometimes. You can check your transmission levels with a dipstick to make sure that your level is not decreasing. If you notice that it's not reaching the correct line on the dipstick it could be a sign of a leak. Also, if you notice any bright red pooling on the road beneath your vehicle, it's most likely transmission fluid. 3. There Are Burning Smells Burning smells from your vehicle could be a variety of things including oil, tires, belts, and even transmission fluid. If the burning smell is a result of the transmission, you will notice a slightly sweet and distinct smell. This tends to happen when the fluid's consistency degrades to a thinner state and gets burnt up, which can cause more significant damage to your engine. You'll want to get this checked out at soon as possible. 4. It's Making Strange Noises Like most things on this list, strange noises can mean a few different things. If it's related to the transmission, it will usually occur when you are shifting gears. If you have a manual transmission this can happen over time if you change gears haphazardly. With an automatic, you might notice a grinding noise when the vehicle is shifting gears. The transition will not feel as smooth as it normally does, and you could feel a jolt. 5. Slow Response Time When Switching Gears If you notice anything out of the ordinary, such as lag time or slow response time, in regard to performance when changing gears, there could be a problem with a worn-out clutch or gear. You know your car best and if there is anything abnormal happening when your car switches gears, it's usually a tell-tale sign of a problem with the transmission. If you find any of the above symptoms familiar to your vehicle, don't hesitate, schedule an appointment today at Flood Mazda and let our certified professionals have a look.

Maintenance and regular service are the main pillars that will allow you to keep your vehicle performing at its absolute best. There are many reasons why it is so important that you maintain a regular Mazda service schedule. Here are the five key ones: more 1. Costs Savings Sometimes, people delay their vehicle service to save some money. However, this can have far-reaching consequences that will only make you spend more money in the long term. This is because small issues that could have been spotted during your regular service evolve and become major issues. For example, your brake pads might start to deteriorate. This is normal, and they can be replaced well before any damage reaches the brake discs. However, if you wait too long, the discs get damaged, and replacing them can be very expensive. 2. Engine Protection Your engine is the heart of your vehicle and regular maintenance ensures it is protected and functioning as it should be. When you bring your vehicle in, we take a look at your oil to see if it's clean, sufficient, or if it's time for a top-off or oil change. This is very important because dirty oil becomes thicker than usual, and it can produce clogging, which leads your engine to overstrain. This can end up in engine failure, which is not only expensive but potentially dangerous if you get stranded in the middle of nowhere. 3. Accident Prevention There are many systems that work in tandem to make your vehicle the superb machine that it is. During your scheduled service, we make sure all of these systems are working as they should be. This includes the brake system, the engine, the coolant system, and more. Plus, your tires are another essential part of your ride. They need to be in an optimal state to guarantee your safety and that of everyone inside the vehicle. We take a look at the tread of your tires and perform tire rotation to help you make them last for as long as possible. 4. Failure Protection As mentioned before, getting stranded is one of the worst outcomes of engine failure. However, this is not the only cause of car failure as different systems can fail without proper maintenance. For example, if your battery is too old, your vehicle might simply not start one day. At the dealer, we can check your battery and service it when needed. We want to help you avoid any issues while you are out on the road. 5. Preserving Your Vehicle's Value A well-maintained vehicle is a vehicle that will preserve most of its value. This is very important because you want to make sure you can get a good sum when it's time to say goodbye to your current ride. From keeping your vehicle's value to ensuring your safety and that of your loved ones, there are many benefits from following the service schedule your vehicle needs. Visit Flood Mazda and make an appointment with us right now!

You should always visit a dealership when you need a Mazda auto repair. Visiting the dealership comes with an array of benefits that you won't want to miss out on. These benefits will save you plenty of time and hardship, so let's discuss some of the main benefits now. more 1. We Work Quickly Most regular auto repair shops don't have many employees. They may have two or three mechanics employed at most, and that leads to long wait times. The mechanics are often overworked, so they won't be able to get to work on your vehicle as soon as you drop it off. Dealerships, thankfully, don't have this problem, as dealerships employ an average of 19 factory-trained technicians. We can almost always ensure that someone is free to work on your vehicle. If one technician gets busy elsewhere, then another will be free to work on your vehicle in no time. Having many technicians is an asset when it comes to timely repairs. 2. We Have Experts As we said, we employ factory-trained technicians. This ensures that your work is performed by true Mazda experts. Our technicians know exactly how to make a Mazda run and look its best. Regular mechanics are generalists, so they don't have the same touch as a Mazda expert does. You always want to ensure an expert is working on your vehicle, as you'll get the best quality job done that way. 3. We Have Parts Auto repairs often require us to replace parts of your vehicle, and general mechanics will almost certainly have to order the parts in specially. The parts could take days or weeks to arrive, so that adds wait times that are inconvenient and frustrating. As Mazda experts, our technicians work on Mazda vehicles all day long. There are lots of Mazda parts already in stock in our dealership, so there's a high likelihood that our technicians have instant access to the parts needed for repairing your vehicle. This saves you time and stress. 4. We Provide Warranties New parts typically come with a manufacturer warranty that covers you if something goes wrong with the part. However, you're rarely covered if your mechanic makes a mistake. Mechanics aren't legally obligated to provide a warranty on their labor, and most of them can't afford to provide one, anyway. However, dealerships can afford to provide a warranty on our labor, and we want to ensure you're covered from all angles. We'll provide a warranty where possible, so you know that if one of our technicians makes a mistake, then you won't have to pay for it. However, it's exceedingly rare that our technicians don't provide perfect work. They're well-practiced experts, after all, so fixing Mazda vehicles is pretty much second nature to them. Despite this, it can still bring you peace of mind to have a warranty on both parts and labor, so we try to provide that for you when we can. Visit us at Flood Mazda if you need an auto repair. We'll make sure your vehicle receives the best care available.

Many people overlook some of the different costs when considering the overall cost of owning a car. Here are six factors you should consider if you are thinking about buying a car. more 1. Insurance You will need insurance to legally operate a vehicle. The cost of insurance for drivers varies and depends on a variety of factors. These factors include things like your driving record and the length of time you have been driving. However, this is something you will want to consider when thinking about the cost of car ownership. You can get an idea about what your payments might be like by searching for quotes online. 2. Maintenance Your car is going to have regular maintenance costs, inspections costs, and repair costs too. The amount of maintenance and repairs your car might need will vary on factors like age and the type of car you are considering. However, you should research and consider these costs when you are considering the costs of owning your vehicle. It is important to keep your car properly maintained to avoid even bigger costs down the road. 3. Gas Gas will vary too based on your location, fuel efficiency, and how much you are planning to drive. However, unless you are considering an electric vehicle, you will need to account for gas in the overall cost of ownership too. You can get an idea of how much your monthly gas costs might be by looking at how much you typically drive, how much gas costs in your area, and the average fuel efficiency of the vehicle you are considering. 4. Parking If you live in a city, you may want to also consider the cost of parking too. Parking costs can really add up if you are consistently parking in places that are metered. If you live in a city or town that charges parking fees, consider budgeting in a monthly allowance for parking fees. 5. Fees and Taxes Many people don't realize that the final cost of the car will be over what you see in the window. In addition to the cost of the car, you will have other fees to consider too. Understand that you will be paying taxes, dealer fees, registration fees, and interest out the door. Be prepared for this when you are considering your next vehicle purchase. 6. Monthly Payments You will obviously want to factor in the monthly payments for your vehicle in your costs. This along with the other factors here can help you decide the budget you are comfortable with for your next vehicle. Understand that in addition to your monthly payments, you will need to ensure that you are financially prepared to handle the other costs on this list too. Now that you have a good idea about what it might cost you to own a car, you are ready to take the next step towards car ownership. Contact us today at Flood Mazda of Wakefield and we can help you find a car that meets your needs. We look forward to seeing you soon.

In the market for your next roadster? The 2021 Miata RF proves that Mazda knows the fine art of speed. Read on for your guide to the 2021 Mazda Miata RF. more Mazda Miata Delivers Performance When drivers are attacking their favorite backroad, performance isn't a luxury, it's a necessity! Mazda delivers a roadster that transforms into an extension of the driver's body. The heart of the new 2021 Miata is Mazda's flagship Skyactiv-G 2.0 engine, producing 181 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. Mazda also knows that the devil is in the details, positioning the engine to maintain a 50 / 50 weight distribution. With this level of performance, drivers can channel their inner speed demon on the twisties and on the straights! Who Needs a Motorcycle? Have you always wanted to experience open-air speed on your favorite desolate country road? Worried that you need to be on two wheels just to have this experience? The new Miata RF proves that drivers can get plenty of wind through their hair and still have space to carry luggage for that next weekend road trip! The 2021 Miata RF or "retractable fastback" is equipped with a rigid hardtop that automatically stows into the trunk in under 15-seconds. Plus, Miata ensured that the stowed top won't take up any extra space, leaving plenty of trunk space. With this much utility in a small package, the 2021 Miata RF can pull double duty as a sports car and grocery getter! Taking the Show on the Road Gone are the days when driving meant compromising. In the 2021 Miata RF, premium entertainment is baked into a fun-size package! The 2021 Miata returns with the critically acclaimed Mazda Connect Infotainment System, intuitively controlled from the Commander control knob positioned perfectly for the driver. Mazda Connect now includes Apple CarPlay as standard, allowing drivers to transform their Miata RF into their personalized smartphone. Combined with the 9-speaker Bose audio system that comes standard, drivers can listen to their playlist in crisp quality on their next Sunday drive! Not Your Grandpa's Miata! When speed is your style, safety is a must! The 2021 Miata RF comes equipped with state-of-the-art safety technology, encasing drivers in a shield of protection. The new Miata RF is armed with i-Activesense Safety Technology, a system designed to tackle the unexpected head-on! This safety suite includes a lane departure warning system, smart city brake support, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and an adaptive front-lighting system that pivots headlights on turns and automatically switches to low beams when it detects oncoming traffic. With this much safety technology, drivers can enjoy the open road and worry less! When drivers want performance, they pick the one roadster that has remained authentic over four generations. Choose the 2021 Miata RF and experience the speed that runs through the veins of all Miata owners! Visit Flood Mazda today to snag a one-of-a-kind deal on your brand new 2021 Miata RF and become part of the legend.

Car safety features are always a joy to have, but not every manufacturer goes to the same lengths to ensure your safety. Swinging by your local Mazda dealership will reveal that Mazdas are, thankfully, packed full of essential safety features. more 1. Blind Spot Monitoring For decades, having a blind spot was just an unfortunate part of driving that you had to accept. These days cars are much smarter, and they can detect objects in your blind spot. Mazda's blind-spot monitoring technology is among the best on the market. There's a light in your side mirrors that alerts you when there's an object in your blind spot. The object could be another motorist, a pedestrian, or a different obstacle. If there's an object coming towards you that could enter your blind spot, then the warning will let you know in advance. Again, your Mazda will alert you with the warning light in your side mirrors. You'll also see a warning on your Active Driving Display, if applicable. 2. Rear Cross Traffic Alert The cross-traffic alert feature makes you extra aware of any vehicles that are approaching you from the side. These are visible in the side mirror, yes, but you're not looking at your side mirror 100% of the time. The rear cross-traffic alert feature audibly warns you, so you'll be inclined to look into your side mirror when you hear the warning. You'll also be able to view the approaching vehicle in your rearview camera display. 3. Radar Cruise Control With Stop & Go Maintaining a safe following distance is often one of the most difficult parts of driving, especially if the driver in front of you is stopping, starting, and slowing at random. That sounds like a nightmare situation, but your Mazda vehicle can easily handle it. The cruise control feature lets your vehicle maintain a minimum following distance, and it automatically adjusts its speed to match the vehicle in front of you. It doesn't matter how much the motorist ahead of you slows down. You'll even be fine if the motorist stops before you can get ahead of them. Your vehicle will adjust your speed accordingly, and it'll bring you to a gentle stop as needed, too. Bad drivers are a hazard to everyone on the road, but your Mazda will keep you safe from other motorists' bad driving habits. 4. Smart Brake Support Your vehicle warns you if it detects a potential obstacle in your path, and it applies the brakes if you don't react in time. This is perfect for avoiding unexpected collisions. We all know the pain of an unexpected cyclist zipping out in front of you, and sometimes pedestrians seem to come out of nowhere. Your vehicle stops you from hitting these unexpected obstacles by bringing you to a stop. Visit us at Flood Mazda if you want to get your hands on a Mazda that's packed full of safety features. We're sure you'll find one that you love.

New car owners can find it daunting to think of doing their own car maintenance and repairs. However, it doesn't have to be a stressful process if you are adequately prepared. Keep reading to gain an understanding of the items that should be in your car tool kit! more 1. Socket Set You'll want to make sure your tool kit is outfitted with a sturdy, fully stocked socket set. Ensure that your socket set has sockets sized from at least 6mm to 19mm, a ratchet, an extender, and a hex (Allen) key. 2. Wire Cutters and Pliers Any electrical project on your vehicle will require pliers and wire cutters. So whether you are rewiring headlights or installing a new stereo system, you'll be glad you have these two handy tools available. 3. Wrench Set It's hard to get anything accomplished without a wrench set. Choosing wrenches with an open-ended side as well as a ratcheting side will make any task easier to complete, as you will not have to remove the wrench between turns. 4. Screwdrivers You may have a screwdriver or two already floating around your junk drawer. However, you'll want to make sure you have a variety of shapes and sizes easily accessible during your mechanical adventures. 5. Torque Wrench A torque wrench is a critical piece to have in your toolbox. This specialized ratchet is used to set nuts to the proper tightness. Using a torque wrench prevents damage to the bolt, prevents slippage, and makes it easier to remove the nut in the future. 6. Breaker Bar A breaker bar is a long-handled ratchet used to remove nuts and bolts. Those nuts you just tightened with your torque wrench? You'll need a breaker bar to remove them. 7. Impact Wrench An impact wrench is an optional tool you can have in your arsenal. This high-powered tool provides you with electric torque to replace or remove lug nuts quickly and easily. If you have arthritis in your hands or worry that you may have difficulty applying enough power to a standard wrench, an impact wrench can make working on your vehicle much more comfortable. 8. Rubber Mallet A rubber mallet is one of those tools you don't think about until you need one. A rubber mallet can get you through some sticky situations, from removing stuck bolts to straightening out bumpers. 9. Floor Jacks or Ramps If you plan on getting under your car to do repairs, having a way to elevate it is vital. If you are new to car maintenance, we recommend using ramps as they are safer. 10. Jack Stands Never lift your car on a jack or ramp without jack stands in use. Jack stands keep your ramp or jack from slipping or shifting while you are working beneath the vehicle. 11. Factory Service Manual One of the best ways to become comfortable with the inner workings of your engine is to read the factory service manual. This manual allows you to study how to do repairs and general services on your vehicle without worrying if you are receiving the correct information. A well-stocked tool kit allows you to feel prepared to handle the minor issues that are a normal part of car ownership. However, if you need professional help with your automobile, you are not alone! Give us a call at Flood Mazda and let our service center get you back on the road!

If it seems difficult to get a clear answer on synthetic oil vs conventional, you are not alone. Mechanics and auto parts stores seem to cloud their explanations in technical language and “consult your manual” caveats. There's the confusing part about synthetic oil being petroleum-based. How is that synthetic? Then we cringe at the price difference. more It is true both synthetic and conventional oil are petroleum at their core. Conventional oil is mixed with additives that keep the oil's viscosity consistent at temperature extremes. It stays thin when it's cold so your engine starts smoothly. It stays thick at high temperatures to properly lubricate your running engine. Synthetics are chemically engineered instead of blended with additives. This creates oil with very different properties. Synthetic's Major Advantage: Longevity The first major advantage synthetics have over conventional motor oils is lifespan. The additives in conventional oil break down in the intense heat and pressures of an engine, requiring they be replaced every 5,000 miles. Some synthetics can last as long as 20,000 miles between changes. (This varies by brand and vehicle, so check your manual.) Oil's secondary function is cleaning your engine. Even though synthetics retain viscosity past 20,000 miles, they become too dirty to be effective. Is Synthetic Motor Oil Better for My Engine? Independent reviews (including one by Consumer Reports) say yes. Synthetic oil provides better engine protection and performance. Synthetics can be engineered for the closer tolerances of modern high-performance engines. Additionally, the higher-quality synthetic production process eliminates impurities that are accepted in traditional oils. Synthetics are also less prone to engine-damaging oxidation and acidification. Some High-Performance Vehicles Require Synthetics Time to consult your vehicle's manual and/or your dealership's service technicians. Numerous car manufactures have designed high-performance engines specifically to take advantage of synthetic oil's higher tolerances. This is especially true for turbocharged engines, which tend to run at higher temperatures that quickly destroy conventional oils. Why Does Conventional Oil Still Exist? With so many synthetic advantages, it's natural to wonder why conventional oil still exists. Synthetics last longer, protect your engine better, and run cleaner than conventional oil. And when you add the cost of four 5,000-mile conventional oil changes to a single 20,000-mile synthetic oil change, the price seems the same. Just about the only reason to stick with conventional oil is that many older engines don't really gain an advantage from synthetics, so there's no reason for owners of these cars to spend more on synthetic. If you are considering synthetic oil for your vehicle, ask your service center technicians. Synthetics can vary widely between different producers. Your vehicle's manufacturer will have specific recommendations for you. They will also factor in the climate and season where you are driving, as well as your personal driving style. The right oil is a major factor in the longevity and resale value of your car. Contact Flood Mazda today to get advice from experts on which oil is best.

During the nighttime, your headlights increase the visibility of your vehicle and allow you to see dark objects on the road. If this part of your Mazda becomes damaged, you will need to receive repairs or get new headlights. If you are experiencing headlight problems, the technicians at our service department can fix this issue for you. more Before your headlights go out, you might experience certain warning signs. If you are developing any of these problems, you might need to replace your current set of headlights. Your Mazda's Headlights Have Become Dimmer Sometimes, the headlights in your Mazda will become dimmer before they burn out. Under some circumstances, you might be able to address this significant problem by removing debris from the outside of your headlights. If you continue to experience issues after you clean your headlights, you can ask the friendly experts at our service department to look at this part of your vehicle. Your Headlights Are Flickering Developing headlights that flicker on and off is another important warning sign. After this problem begins, both of your headlights could burn out. One of Your Mazda's Headlights Is Out If one of your headlights goes out, you might be tempted to ignore this issue. However, if you experience a problem with one of your headlights, your other light may develop a similar issue in the near future. If one of your lights is burnt out, you can ask our technicians to examine both of your headlights. If you need to get a new set of lights, we can recommend and install suitable replacements for you. How Long Will Your Headlights Last? The lifespan of your vehicle's headlights will depend on the type of bulbs that you have and your driving habits. For example, LED headlights may last for about 30,000 hours. If you frequently drive during the nighttime, your headlights could last for a shorter period of time. In addition, driving in extreme climates can decrease the longevity of your headlights. When we replace the headlights in your Mazda, we will use high-quality bulbs that are designed to last for a long time. Once the installation process is complete, we can give you more detailed information about the likely lifespan of your new highlights. Why Is It a Good Idea to Replace Your Headlights at a Professional Dealership? Since our professionals receive extensive training, they will understand your headlights and all of the other parts of your Mazda. In addition, they have access to useful technology that will help them analyze and repair your headlights. You can also ask our professionals to examine other aspects of your Mazda during the installation process. If you need to replace your Mazda's battery or get another service, our technicians can perform these tasks. When you decide to replace the headlights in your Mazda or get other types of car services, you may want to receive assistance from our skilled technicians. To schedule your initial service appointment, contact us at Flood Mazda.

Maintaining proper tire inflation is essential to the overall performance of your vehicle. Properly inflated tires provide a longer lifespan, quicker steering response, optimum fuel efficiency, and a more balanced ride than tires that are not adequately maintained. The best, and easiest, way to get the most out of your tires is to know how to check tire pressure. more 1. Gather Your Tools The items you will need to adequately check your tire pressure is a tire pressure gauge, air compressor, and a pen and paper. If you do not own an air compressor, the one found at most gas stations is more than capable of getting the job done. 2. Let Your Tires Cool Off PSI (pounds per square inch of pressure) is specified by vehicle manufacturers based on cold tires. When the car has been parked and turned off for three or more hours, then the tires are considered cold. Alternatively, if the vehicle has been driven at a moderate speed for less than a mile, then the tires are also considered cold at this stage. 3. Check the Recommended PSI for Your Vehicle Mazda vehicles all have varying PSI due to the size of the vehicle and the type of tires being used. Check your owner's manual for the PSI that is recommended for your vehicle's tires. If you cannot find the information you need, do not hesitate to call us and let us look it up for you. 4. Write Down the Recommended PSI Use your pen and paper to write down your findings of the recommended PSI levels. We recommend writing these on a separate sheet of paper from your owner's manual so you can use this paper to compare and write down the current values of each tire. 5. Use Your Gauge to Check the Tire Pressure Unscrew and remove the valve cap from one tire. Place the pressure gauge down on the valve stem and press it down hard enough to stop the hissing sound. Your gauge will provide a reading. Write down the reading and compare it to the recommended value. Repeat for all four tires. 6. Fill the Tire to the Recommended PSI If any tires are showing low readings, fill those tires with an air compressor by placing the end of the hose over the valve stem, then press on the lever. Check the PSI again once you have filled the tire. If you have overfilled, simply let some of the air back out. Overinflated tires can decrease traction, decrease impact absorption, and cause premature wear. Tire pressure gauge accuracy matters. If you feel that your gauge is possibly giving you an inaccurate reading, come to Flood Mazda today and let us double-check your tires and help get you the right gauge for the job. If you encounter an issue at any time, our team of expert technicians can check your tires, patch them, or replace them when needed.

With restrictions vanishing, more Mazda drivers are taking their cars out into the open air. But don't forget that your vehicle needs air too, and a dirty car air filter deprives it of that. If you can't remember when you last changed your filter, here are five tips to determine if it's time to. more 1. Your Owner's Manual Calls for a Filter Replacement A vehicle's Owner's Manual is one of the most valuable yet underutilized assets a vehicle owner has. Your manual contains a maintenance schedule for your Mazda that covers all the service intervals your car requires. Record your vehicle's odometer miles in the manual's service chart whenever you complete the respective service. Then your manual can help you keep track of when future services due. 2. Your Air Filter is Dirty If you need to know the condition of your current filter, you can remove it and visually inspect it. Your car's air filter is easily accessible, and in most cases, you can get to it with little or no tools. Once you retrieve your air filter, hold it up to a bright light source. If you can see the light from the other side of the filter, your filter is still useable. However, if you see little or no light from the other side of the filter, it's time to change it. 3. You're Experiencing Poor Performance Issues If your car filter gets significantly obstructed, you will feel, see, and hear it in your car's performance. A clogged filter deprives your vehicle of the air it needs to make combustion in the engine. As a result, your vehicle will lose horsepower, acceleration and will run roughly. The longer the filter remains in the car, the worse the symptoms will become. Eventually, the vehicle will struggle to accelerate and even start. In extreme cases, it will begin to backfire; you may see black smoke exit your tailpipe. If it gets bad enough, you may no longer be able to get your Mazda to start at all. 4. The Check Engine Light Illuminates When your air filter gets sufficiently clogged, it will cause your check engine light to illuminate on your dashboard. There are no specific indicators for a dirty air filter, but an expert mechanic can quickly troubleshoot the problem. However, if you're confident it's the filter, and you know your way around the engine, you could always change it yourself. 5. You Smell Fuel Inside the Vehicle When the Engine Runs The smell of fuel inside the vehicle results from the clogged air filter blocking air from the engine. This condition prevents all the gasoline from burning up in the combustion chamber of the motor. Instead, the unburned fuel passes through the exhaust system under the vehicle, which is what you smell. When you want to get service done right on your Mazda, visit us at Flood Mazda. Our knowledgeable technicians will take care of all your maintenance needs, no matter how big or small.