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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

Low tire pressure increases wear and tear on your tires and will cause your tires to fail sooner than they should. The key to keeping your tire pressure constant is to check it regularly. As your Mazda dealer in Wakefield, RI, we want to tell you more about how to test for a tire pressure problem and fix it. more How Do You Know You Have Low Pressure? Your Mazda has a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Sensors in the tires will detect low pressure, and this information will be sent to your car's computer. The computer then illuminates the TPMS light on your dash. It's unlikely that you'll identify a low-pressure tire simply by looking at it. If the TPMS light illuminates, or you want to test the pressure in your tires, these are the easy steps to follow: Buy a Tire Pressure Gauge A tire pressure gauge allows you to check the pressure in your tires. You can use the pressure gauges in a gas station, but they can be unreliable as they are not regularly calibrated. There are two main types of tire pressure gauges: digital and manual. They will both give you an accurate reading, and the choice between pressure gauges depends solely on personal preference. Check Your Correct Tire Pressure The correct tire pressure for your tires is marked in two places. You can find this information in your car manual, and it is also on a plate inside the front passenger door jamb. Your tire pressure will usually vary between the front and rear wheels, depending on whether your car is FWD, RWD, or AWD. Once you have the correct tire pressure for all your tires, write them down to make it easier to determine if one or more of the tires is low. Check the First Tire Choose one of the tires and remove the tire nozzle cap. This cap can be easy to lose, so put it in a safe place. Connect your tire pressure usage to the nozzle, and the gauge will display the tire pressure on a metal slide of a digital readout. Write the tire pressure down and replace the cap. Check Remaining Tires Repeat this procedure for your remaining tires. It's also advisable to check the pressure in your spare tire to ensure it's correctly inflated if you need it. Once you've checked all your tires, you'll need an air pump to correct the low pressure in your tires. A tire could be low for several reasons, including a damaged tire nozzle, a crack in the tire, or a pressure equalization between the tire and the air surrounding it. We can test your tire pressure for you, and repair a leaking tire or replace it. Call our service department today at Flood Mazda. 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

With a range of standard features that seamlessly blend style, performance, and safety, the Mazda CX-5 stands out as an excellent compact SUV choice for discerning drivers. From elegant curves and a dynamic design, to a meticulously crafted interior and responsive engine, you'll feel confident when you slide behind the wheel of this remarkable vehicle at your local Mazda dealer. more Basics About the Mazda CX-5 Making use of Mazda's signature KODO design style, the CX-5 boasts sleek lines, incredibly sculpted curves, and a bold front grille to create a sophisticated yet aerodynamic shape. Under the hood, you'll find an impressive 2.5L Dynamic Pressure Turbo engine offering up to 256 horsepower that provides plenty of get-up-and-go for adventurous drivers! Inside, the CX-5 is made for comfort with ergonomic seating, high-quality materials, and refined finishes to create a premium ambiance. With plenty of legroom and headroom, the spacious cabin is perfect for up to 5 passengers. If that wasn't enough, staying connected to the world of technology is made simple with an intuitive infotainment system, smartphone integration, and Bluetooth connectivity throughout. New and Unique Features That Set It Apart While the 2023 doesn't offer any noteworthy new additions that you can't find standard in older models, it does offer a unique new exterior coloration to help set it apart from the crowd. Previous versions of the CX-5 made use of the Snowflake White Pearl Mica paint job, while the 2023 model brings the delicate and pure Rhodium White Metallic to the table. Other features that help set the CX-5 apart from other vehicles in its class include the innovative Skyactiv-Vehicle Dynamics system. This provides enhanced handling and stability when shifting and cornering to create a more controlled driving experience. You can also find an Off-Road Traction Assist feature to optimize torque distribution and provide better handling on slick, wet, or uneven terrain. Driver Assistance Technologies In addition to the Skyactive system, the CX-5 is also equipped with i-Activesense that provides a wide range of features to help improve your safety on the road. Whether you are dealing with stop-and-go traffic or enjoying a multi-hour adventure on the wide open road, you'll find valuable features like lane-keeping assistance to help with driving fatigue. The CX-5 also offers safety-focused features such as City Brake Support and Pedestrian Detection! When you're ready to slide behind the wheel and feel the exhilaration of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 firsthand, schedule a test drive with us today! At Flood Mazda, you'll be given the opportunity to explore the wide range of remarkable features the CX-5 can offer, while also being able to admire the enhanced performance, eye-catching style, and supreme practicality. When you're ready to elevate your driving experience, we'll be here for you! 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

Tire damage may feel stressful, but it doesn't have to be. If your Mazda has a damaged tire, we have options to help you repair it until you can get it replaced at your local Mazda dealer. more 1. Assess the Damaged Tire If your tire has been damaged and is slowly leaking air, you may just need to add some air to the tire to stabilize the pressure. However, if there are tears or holes and the tire is not holding air, you'll need to get it replaced. Do not drive on a tire that is consistently losing air. If you do not feel comfortable making that decision, it is always best to stop driving the car until it can be seen by a professional mechanic at our dealerships. That way, there is no risk to you or your vehicle. With our roadside assistance, you're never far from a friendly professional who can assess your vehicle. 2. Seal the Leak or Change the Tire Your new Mazda came with an emergency flat tire repair kit or a spare tire. You can use the kit to patch small holes in your tire and to refill any lost air. To use this kit, follow all included instructions. Please use caution when adding sealant and air to your tire. Whether you brought home the new 2023 Mazda CX-30 or any of our other comfortable and reliable vehicles, it's easy to find the spare or repair kit. It'll be located in the back of your vehicle. What the Kit Includes These kits include everything you need to temporarily seal a damaged tire, including a sealant bottle, an air compressor, a speed restriction sticker, a repaired tire sticker, and comprehensive instructions. Of course, these patches are only a temporary fix. You will still need to get your tire professionally repaired or replaced at the dealership. Our Mazda-certified service technicians will be happy to repair or replace your damaged tire. My Model Didn't Come With a Kit? Some models come with a spare tire instead of a sealant kit. If this is the case for you, you will need to change out your flat tire for the provided spare. The spare can be used for short periods until you can get the tire replaced. 3. Get Your Tire Fixed or Replaced at Your Mazda Dealer Did you know that if you have the Mazda Protection Products Tire and Wheel protection, your tires are eligible to be replaced at no charge if there is a tire defect or if your tire was damaged by common road hazards such as potholes, tree limbs, broken glass, or even nails? All you need to do is contact your local dealership to schedule a maintenance visit! Our service center is open during convenient hours to serve you and all of your Mazda-related needs. When you need to repair damaged tires, schedule a maintenance visit with Flood Mazda immediately! We will have your tire fixed and have you back on the road in no time, so you never have to stop the adventure. Image via Pi x abay

The new 2023 Mazda3 sedan has recently dropped, and this latest iteration of the iconic flagship vehicle from the Japanese manufacturer has been a real hit. This vehicle has many impressive features, making it one of the best cars on the market. Here are some highlights that should encourage you to get one from your nearby Mazda dealership immediately. more 1. Infotainment System The Mazda3 has a brilliant central infotainment system that puts other sedan manufacturers to shame. It seamlessly blends practicality with style, being both slick and easy to use. It's an 8.8-inch screen with a great display and sits at the top of the dashboard, making it easy to see and use without needing to take your eyes off the road. The system can be linked to your phone through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, making it a super high-tech feature that's compatible with most users. Plus, the heads-up display projects your speed and navigation onto your windshield, giving the illusion that you're driving a futuristic vehicle. 2. Driver Attention Monitor This new sedan from Mazda has many great safety features included as standard, such as blind-spot warning and autonomous emergency braking. However, perhaps the best safety feature is the driver attention monitor. Brilliant for those who complete long drives or who drive at night, this feature can sense if you're paying attention to the road. It uses an infrared camera to spot where you're looking and if your eyes are closed. If it senses this, it will set off an alarm to jolt you back and ensure you're paying attention. This is designed to help stop people from falling asleep at the wheel, helping to make the Mazda3 a safe vehicle. 3. i-Activ AWD technology When getting the 2.5L turbo sedan, you'll get i-Active AWD included as standard. This feature helps improve the performance of your sedan and ensures that it can drive well in almost any weather. This is because the feature helps to constantly direct torque to the tires that have the most grip on the round, which can help with acceleration and steering. This technology further complements the impressive 320Ibs-ft of torque you can get in the car, which helps it perform well on the road. The new Mazda3 is an excellent option for car enthusiasts and is sure to be a popular option. Thanks to these features, as well as its increased size, practicality, and performance, it will be one of the year's best cars. Visit Flood Mazda to get one for yourself and see a range of other fantastic Mazda models. Image via Pixabay

If your brakes have started squeaking, there may be a number of causes. The noise may result from worn-down brake pads, dirt or dust in the mechanism, a buildup of rust, snow or moisture, or something else. Here are a few effective ways to deal with squeaking brakes, and if the problem persists, you can always visit your local Mazda dealership to have it resolved. more Temporary vs Persistent Squeaking Sometimes a little moisture or snow on the brake pads will cause your brakes to squeak temporarily. When the heat of friction evaporates this moisture, the squeaking should also disappear. But if the noise persists, you have a problem that requires a little more attention. Check Your Brake Pads Brake pads bear the lion's share of the work whenever you step on the brake pedal. The calipers clamp the pads onto the rotors, creating friction that stops your car. The upper friction layer of a brake pad may be made from semimetallic, ceramic, or even organic materials bonded together by resin under high temperatures. This friction layer gradually wears down over time. After 30,000 to 80,000 miles of driving, a brake pad will wear so thin that it needs replacing. At this point, a tiny metal tab is uncovered by the diminishing friction layer. This tab is designed to create a high-pitched squeaking sound, drawing your attention so you can buy a new pad. Grease the Brake Touch Points If your brake pads aren't yet worn down, something else is causing the noise. Just as squeaky door hinges can be silenced with a little oil, you might also be able to resolve the squeaking with some brake lubricant. You'll need to remove the brake pads and apply brake lubricant to the metallic rear of the pad and any touch points with the caliper. This usually works for brand-new brake pads, which tend to be squeaky for a while. Make sure you don't get lubricant anywhere near the friction layer or rotor, as this would reduce your brake's traction. Apply Brake Shims Sometimes squeaking and other noises are created by little imperfections in the positioning of the brake pads and rotors. This might problem develop over time as the brakes of your car age. You can often repair this issue by installing brake shims. Shims are thin layers of metal or rubber that fit between the rotors and pads to correct the positioning and eradicate the noise. Replace the Rotor Discs Over time, rotors begin to wear down, albeit much more slowly than brake pads. If a rotor starts to warp out of shape with age and touches the caliper, it can create a squealing sound. The way to resolve this is usually with a replacement rotor. Ask Your Mazda Dealer To Fix It The quickest way to diagnose any brake or car-related issue is usually to ask a trusted technician at your local dealership to look into it. With years of experience, your technician will quickly identify and quieten your brakes, saving you the time and hassle of trying to work it out by yourself. Visit Flood Mazda today to have your brakes repaired. We're a local full-service dealership with a broad range of vehicles and top-notch customer service. Image via Pixabay

The Mazda MX-5 Miata RF represents the pinnacle of Mazda's Miata sports car line. RF stands for "Retractable Fastback," referring to the hard-top convertible roof, but there is much more to this stylish sports car than just a retractable fastback. Keep reading, as we dive deeper into the trim levels, specs, and features of the 2023 Mazda Miata RF. more The 2023 Miata RF, a front mid-engine rear-wheel drive sports car, is powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that makes 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The front mid-engine placement is designed to balance weight between the front and rear axles, and by engineering a near 50/50 weight distribution, Mazda has created a super vehicle. Mazda Miata RF Trim Levels Club The 2023 Miata RF Club is immediately distinguished by its transmission, as it is only offered with a six-speed manual. The suspension is sport-tuned, and the two-passenger seating is heated. The interior is detailed with leather on the steering wheel, shift knob, and parking brake handle, and the infotainment system features full Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. The Miata RF Club is available exclusively built-to-order. Grand Touring The Miata RF Grand Touring adds an optional six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters as well as several cosmetic and comfort upgrades. Grand Touring Miata RFs have automatic headlights, adaptive front lighting, rain-sensing windshield wipers, color-matched side mirrors, leather-trimmed seats, Mazda Navigation System, and a terracotta leather interior option. Driver Assistance Features The 2023 Miata RF features a handful of excellent driver assistance features that are sure to increase the comfort of your ride. These include smart braking, blind spot monitoring, rear traffic alert, lane departure warning, and exclusive to Grand Touring Miata RFs, street sign recognition. While the alertness and attention of the driver are paramount, these features provide peace of mind while behind the wheel. Integrated Technology Tech features are the modern-day hallmark of thoughtful vehicle design, and Mazda has delivered an impressively outfitted cockpit. Miata RF drivers will enjoy the specially-tuned nine-speaker Bose sound system, as well as Mazda's Commander control dial in the center console that allows drivers to navigate and select music, telephone contacts, and vehicle navigation seamlessly. All of this can be managed through the Mazda Connect system in the infotainment center. If you are looking for a perfectly balanced and precise sports car, then look no further than the 2023 MX-5 Miata RF. The timeless style of a hardtop convertible and the modern comforts of technology have been combined into a sports car that can handle the city streets as well as ​winding mountain roads. Come see us at Flood Mazda to ​test drive a 2023 Miata ​RF today, because ​you need to experience this car to truly appreciate it. Image via Mazda

Engine misfiring occurs when one or more cylinders don't correctly ignite and generate combustion. There are various reasons for this problem, but a misfiring engine needs to be examined and the cause repaired by your Mazda dealer ASAP. If an engine continues to misfire, it will cause a variety of problems, from increased fuel consumption to engine failure. These are some of the reasons for a misfiring engine. more Worn Spark Plugs Combustion is a series of controlled explosions that produce the energy that allows a gasoline-powered vehicle to move. This process requires a precise mixture of air and fuel which is then compressed in the cylinders and ignited by the spark plugs. For this process to work correctly, you must have sufficient air and fuel, and the spark plugs must fire correctly. A spark plug is attached to each cylinder in your engine and ignites the compressed fuel-air mixture at a precise time. Spark plugs can wear out, and they can also be damaged by the failure of other engine components. If a worn or damaged plug doesn't ignite the fuel-air mixture correctly, you'll hear strange sounds from your engine and experience a lurching feeling from the engine. We can easily test your plugs and replace any worn or damaged ones. Failing Alternator Your alternator generates electricity for all your car's systems and components. A new alternator produces more than enough power for your car, but it slowly loses this ability as it ages. After approximately eight years, your alternator may not produce enough power for all your car's systems. When the alternator can't supply enough power for your car, your computer will have to allocate the available power according to the needs of the individual systems. This can result in the plugs not receiving enough power to ignite the fuel-air mixture, and the mixture could burn instead of exploding. Our technicians can test the electrical output of your alternator and install a new one if required. Damaged Intake Manifold Gasket Fuel and air mix in the intake manifold, and they must mix in a precise ratio of 14 parts air to one part fuel. The intake manifold gasket is a seal that fits between the intake manifold and the cylinder heads and prevents contact between the two sections. We routinely examine this gasket and all other gaskets and seals in your engine during your regular scheduled services. If this gasket has become worn or damaged, air will leech into the manifold from the cylinder head. This increases the ratio of air to fuel and will produce a lean fuel-air mixture. This mixture won't have enough fuel to ignite correctly, and this will cause misfiring. We can fix this problem by replacing the gasket. If you're engine misfires, call our service department at Flood Mazda. Image via Pixabay