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Person inspecting a damaged vehicle

How To Tell if a Used MAZDA Car Has Been in an Accident

Are you searching for a used Mazda car to buy? It may seem overwhelming to find the right vehicle, so our team is here to offer some tips on what to look for when inspecting a used car. Color Discrepancies Walk around, examining the car, and look at the quality of the paint. Pay attention to the color and texture in different areas of the vehicle. If the color is noticeably different, there have likely been repairs done. Aftermarket Replacement Parts Aftermarket parts are affordable— and often low-quality—replacement parts for cars. If aftermarket parts are used for repairs, there may be a noticeable difference in quality from the original surrounding parts of the vehicle. Make sure that you’re inspecting the car thoroughly. Common part replacements that indicate an accident are the headlights and taillights. Test Drive Test-driving a car is a great way to know if it’s a good fit, and it can also give you some valuable information about any possible issues. If the car drifts to the left or the right while you drive, there likely is a misalignment or chassis problem, both of which could indicate a previous accident. Vehicle History Report Ask for a vehicle history report to learn about past repairs and damage done to the vehicle. However, not all accidents are not reported, so it's still crucial for you to inspect the car. Visit Sansone MAZDA to Take a Look at Our Used MAZDA Inventory If you’re interested in a pre-owned Mazda vehicle, swing by Sansone Mazda, where we have an impressive lineup of used Mazda cars. Our team will be happy to help you today!

Person holding car keys and a calculator

MAZDA Financial Tips: Tax Benefits of Trading in Your Car

If you’re looking at purchasing a new car, you may be considering a trade-in. Our Mazda financial team wants to ensure you know the tax benefits of trading in your vehicle. Tax Benefits of a Trade-In When purchasing a new car, buyers have the option to trade in their current vehicle, which helps lower the price of the new car they are buying. In addition, there are also tax benefits of trading in a vehicle: lower sales tax. You will only need to pay sales tax on the difference after the trade-in credit is applied to the new car’s cost. This could mean hundreds to thousands of dollars you will be saving. For instance, if you are buying a $30,000 car and you have a $10,000 trade-in, you’ll only need to pay sales tax on the remaining $20,000. Since the sales tax in New Jersey is 6.625 percent, you would lower your sales tax cost by over $600! Additional Information Concerning Trading in Your Car There are many factors that are taken into consideration when you trade in your car. They include: Condition of your vehicle Mileage Make and model Any needed repairs Before you decide to trade in your vehicle, get an estimate of your car’s current trade-in value to plan your down payment and estimated remaining costs. Contact Sansone MAZDA To Learn More Do you still have more questions about the tax benefits of trading in your car? Contact Sansone Mazda today. Once you’ve traded in your vehicle, we are happy to match you with the perfect new car!

Brakes

5 Signs Your Car Needs Brake Repairs

The brakes are one of the most essential components in your vehicle. If you’re noticing these five signs, it may be time to visit Sansone Mazda to get your brakes repaired with genuine Mazda parts in Woodbridge, NJ. 1.      Brake Light Turns On The brake light alerts you that your brakes need repairs. We recommend making a service appointment when the brake light illuminates to avoid further damage to the brake system. 2.      Vibrations When Braking Schedule repairs if you notice steering wheel or brake pedal vibrations. This usually indicates that the rotors are uneven and need replacing. 3.      Grinding and Squealing Sounds When Braking Strange sounds coming from your vehicle indicate that it needs to be looked at. If you hear grinding or squealing when you apply the brakes, you may have worn-out brake pads. Schedule an appointment to get the brake pads replaced at Sansone Mazda. 4.      Burning Smell Coming from the Wheels A burning smell coming from your car’s wheels signals overheated brakes. You should immediately pull over to the side of the road and inspect your car’s tires. If you continue to drive, it could cause brake failure. 5.      Soft Brake Pedal When you press your foot on the brake, there should be a bit of resistance. If the brake pedal begins to feel soft or goes down to the floorboard, you could have air in the brake lines. Schedule MAZDA Brake Repairs at Sansone MAZDA Schedule your Mazda car’s service appointments with Sansone Mazda for future brake maintenance and repairs. Our certified and experienced technicians will be happy to help you keep your Mazda car running smoothly.

Oil Filter

How Often Do You Need to Change the Oil Filter?

On your next visit for a Mazda oil change, your car may need its oil filter replaced. An oil filter is an essential part your vehicle needs for the engine to work efficiently, and it should be routinely changed. This is what you need to know about the oil filter of your Mazda car. What is an Oil Filter? Your car's oil filter helps keep dirt, debris, and other contaminants from getting into the engine. An oil filter also keeps the engine oil flowing smoothly to ensure all other components of the engine are properly lubricated. Routine replacement of the oil filter is often an overlooked maintenance service—failure to do so results in damage to the engine, which can cause costly repairs. Oil Filter Change Frequency Changing the oil filter with every second oil change is usually recommended. If you’re unsure of when to bring in your car for an oil filter replacement, there are signs that indicate your vehicle requires an oil filter change, such as: Engine sputtering Sounds coming from the engine Black and dirty exhaust Lack of oil pressure Service engine light For newer car models, an oil change indicator or oil pressure warning light will illuminate as a signal for an oil change or oil filter replacement. Your vehicle’s driving conditions will also factor into when your car needs the oil filter replaced. The extreme driving conditions that will require more frequent oil filter replacements include: Driving in extreme temperatures Frequently towing heavy loads Driving often on dirt and dusty roads Aggressive driving Schedule a MAZDA Oil Change at Sansone Mazda Schedule your Mazda car’s next maintenance appointment with Sansone Mazda. One of our experienced technicians will be happy to help you today!

Used cars

Where Do Dealerships Get Used Cars From?

Are you interested in buying a used Mazda car? Before purchasing a used car, it’s vital to learn more about where dealerships get their used inventory from. There are multiple ways Mazda dealers can get used cars. Here’s what you need to know. Customer Trade-Ins One way dealerships can acquire used cars is from vehicle trade-ins made by customers purchasing or leasing a new vehicle. After our dealership takes in the used car, we will inspect the vehicle and conduct any necessary repairs to sell it. If the trade-in vehicle isn’t sold within a particular time frame, it may be traded with another dealership or sold at an auction. Car Auctions Auctions are another way for dealerships to attain used cars. There are two types of auctions available that dealers can bid at. An open auction is public for any dealer, lease company, bank, or fleet company to attend, and it may be populated with vehicles that didn't sell at a closed auction. Typically, smaller dealerships will go to open auctions. A closed auction limits who can attend, and often a manufacturer will have an auction for only franchised dealerships. This means, for example, only Mazda dealers may be able to attend a particular Mazda auction. The majority of vehicles auctioned in a closed auction are referred to as ‘program cars’; the cars include: Former rental cars Lease returns Repossessions The cars at these closed auctions are usually in good condition, with low mileage, and are often still under the factory warranty. Visit Sansone MAZDA to Buy a Used MAZDA Car Visit Sansone Mazda to test-drive a used Mazda car today. You can easily apply for Mazda financing online or visit our finance department to learn about your financing options. We are happy to help!

Engine oil

Types of Motor Oil

Before you schedule your next Mazda oil change, learn about the different types of engine oil, or motor oil, available for your Mazda car. The type of engine oil your car will need will differ due to a couple of factors, such as the recommended engine oil by the automaker, climate, driving habits, and vehicle age. Routine oil changes are essential to ensure your Mazda car continues to run smoothly.  Here’s what you need to know about the various types of engine oil. Conventional Motor Oil Conventional motor oil is the standard motor oil for cars. It is created from crude oil that has been refined until it has the lubricating properties to ensure your vehicle will continue to run well. This budget-friendly motor oil option is recommended for vehicles with low to average mileage. Conventional motor oil must be replaced more often than other engine oils. Full Synthetic Motor Oil Fully synthetic motor oil is the priciest engine oil option. This motor oil is chemically engineered and formulated to keep your engine clean and perform efficiently in low and high temperatures. Although the price of synthetic motor oil is significant compared to others, it is higher quality and doesn’t have to be changed as often. Synthetic Blend Motor Oil The combination of conventional and synthetic oil creates synthetic blend motor oil. A synthetic blend motor oil is a good choice for drivers who want the performance of a fully synthetic motor oil for a lower price. High Mileage Motor Oil High mileage motor is designed for cars with over 75,000 miles. The formulation of high-mileage motor oil is designed to prevent oil leaks, reduce oil consumption, and lessen smoke and emissions. Schedule Your Next Maintenance Visit at Sansone MAZDA Schedule your Mazda vehicle’s next oil change with the Sansone Mazda service team. One of our qualified technicians will be happy to help you today!

Car Paperwork

Can I Return my MAZDA Lease Early?

Are you thinking of ending your Mazda lease early? It is possible, but other options are available to avoid paying penalties. Read on to discover which lease-end option is best for you. Early Lease Termination If you decide to end your lease early, you will be required to pay the balance, additional costs, and penalty fees for early termination. As leasing contracts vary, consult with your leasing company to determine the cost of terminating your lease early. Leasing a New MAZDA Vehicle If you plan to return and lease a new Mazda car, this will allow you to waive early termination penalties, but you will still be required to pay for the lease payments on the returned vehicle and the newly leased car. The monthly payment may be considerably higher. Lease Transfer You also have the option of transferring your lease to another person. You may be required to pay a transfer fee, which is usually less than the cost of an early lease termination. Not all leasing companies allow for a lease transfer. Consult your leasing company to learn if you can transfer your car lease. Be cautious if you choose this option because you may be held liable if the new lessee fails to make a payment. Buying Out Your MAZDA Lease A lease contract will have a buyout or payoff fee, which you will be required to pay if you wish to purchase the car. If your lease allows you to buy out the lease before it ends, you will be responsible for paying the rest of the lease payments and the car’s residual value at the end of the lease term. Visit Sansone MAZDA to Lease a New Car If you’re looking to lease a Mazda car, visit Sansone Mazda. One of our skilled dealers will be happy to help you find the right vehicle. During your visit, we will review your Mazda finance options, so you can leave with a new Mazda car the same day.

Mazda3 Sedan

Is the 2023 MAZDA3 Sedan a Good Car for Commuters?

The 2023 Mazda3 Sedan is a reliable vehicle that’s the perfect car for commuters. This new model offers dependable performance, a comfortable interior cabin, and advanced technology features. Here’s more you need to know about this new Mazda sedan. Performance The new Mazda3 Sedan features an upgrade to its engine for more powerful performance, which is ideal for long commutes. It’s powered by an available Skyactiv®-G 2.5-liter Turbo engine that delivers 250 horsepower and up to 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine is paired with i-Activ AWD® for a safe and confident drive in most weather conditions. Additionally, another performance feature that makes this car a perfect fit for commuters is the G-Vectoring Controls Plus system. This vehicle dynamics and motion control system responds to steering inputs with engine torque and braking adjustments for a smoother drive. Interior Design The design of this new model prioritizes comfort for long drives and stretches in traffic. The Mazda3 Sedan offers a meticulously crafted, driver-centric cabin. Its sophisticated upholstery seating options, such as warm Greige and Red leather, elevate the cabin and provide a luxurious driving experience. Technology Features The technology features of the Mazda3 Sedan help commuters stay connected while on the road. The Mazda car’s infotainment system features a standard 8.8-inch display easily controlled by a console-mounted rotary knob. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ smartphone compatibility is standard. You’ll also get a complimentary three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services through the MyMazda App. You can control vehicle functions and check important stats, all from the comfort of your phone. Services include: Remote Engine Start Vehicle Finder Vehicle Health and Status Visit Sansone MAZDA to Test-Drive the 2023 MAZDA3 Sedan Contact Sansone Mazda today to test-drive the 2023 Mazda3 Sedan and discover its commuter-friendly features for yourself. One of our dealers will be happy to help you today!

Researching on a Laptop

How to Research Used MAZDA Cars

Buying a Mazda car takes a lot of time and effort, whether it’s a new or used Mazda vehicle. If this is your first time buying a used car, the following information will help make the purchasing process easier. Let’s go over some tips and tricks on researching used cars. Determine a Budget Before you choose the Mazda vehicle you want to purchase, determine your budget. It’s important to be thorough and take into consideration any extra costs. Remember, additional fees will be added to the price, including sales tax, documentation fees, and licensing. You’ll also want to calculate ownership costs, such as maintenance, insurance, and gas. A good rule of thumb is to spend no more than 20% of your monthly take-home pay on total car costs. Search For the Right Mazda Car Find the right Mazda car that will fit your needs. Make a list of must-have features to determine the vehicles you will look at or test-drive when you visit our dealership. Is Apple CarPlay® a must? How many seats do you need? Figuring out what you want will help you narrow down your list of contenders. Find Your Current Vehicle’s Trade-In Value If you have a car that you will swap out for your new-to-you vehicle, research its trade-in value. Trading in your car is a great way to lower the price of your next car. Your current car's value could change the budget you set for the vehicle you wish to purchase. Look Over the Car’s History Report Check the vehicle’s history report in case of past collisions and repairs. If the car needs serious repairs or has been in a bad accident, you'll want to know beforehand. Cars that have received regular scheduled maintenance are more likely to be reliable and last a long time. Visit Sansone MAZDA Need assistance on your visit to Sansone Mazda? One of our knowledgeable and experienced dealers will be happy to help you find the right used Mazda car for your needs.

Service Technician

How Long Can I Put Off MAZDA Auto Repairs?

If you notice your car needs a Mazda auto repair, it may be tempting to delay bringing your car into our service center. However, doing so may cost you more in the long run. Let’s review why it’s important to get repairs as soon as possible, and how keeping a regular maintenance schedule can help you avoid frequent repairs. The Consequences of Delaying Repairs There are many signs you may need a repair, such as strange noises/smells, reduced vehicle performance, and dashboard warning lights. You know your car best, and if something seems off, we recommend bringing it into our service center to get things checked out. Putting off repairs often makes the issue worse, since one broken part can affect and damage other components. The longer you wait, the more extensive the repairs will likely need to be, meaning you may end up spending more on repairs than you would have if you’d brought in your vehicle right away. Regular Maintenance Service Checklist Skipping regular maintenance appointments can cause damage to your vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, and more. Repairing your Mazda car will be more costly than regular service. Here’s a list of routine maintenance checks to keep your car running smoothly and efficiently: Oil Change: Your car’s oil should be changed every six months or between 5,000-10,000 miles. Engine Air Filter: Regularly changing the air filter regulates the airflow to the car’s engine, improves fuel efficiency, and decreases emissions. Tires: Tire pressure should be checked monthly to ensure a safe and fuel-efficient drive.  Our mechanics will also check the tire tread and rotate your tires if needed. Schedule Service at Sansone MAZDA When you’re ready to schedule your next service or repair, call Sansone Mazda to book your appointment or go online to schedule your appointment. One of our experienced technicians will help keep your Mazda car running smoothly.

Car Parts

MAZDA Parts that Increase Performance

Do you want to increase the performance of your Mazda car?  There are many available Mazda parts that will improve and enhance your car’s performance. We recommend choosing Genuine Mazda Parts for optimum quality, safety, and coverage. Learn more about common performance parts for your vehicle. Performance Parts There are a variety of performance parts that will improve your vehicle’s acceleration, horsepower, handling, and more. They include: Cold Air Intake: This system introduces cold air into the car’s engine environment, boosting torque and horsepower. The engine will breathe better, and fuel will burn more efficiently. Performance Exhaust System: A performance exhaust system creates a smoother exhaust flow through the engine and adds power to your car. Your car may also get better gas mileage. Performance Tires: New tires improve the performance of your car by providing better handling and traction. High-Performance Brakes: Upgrading to high-performance brakes will increase your vehicle’s stopping power. Performance Chip: Changing or upgrading your car’s performance chip will enhance your vehicle’s horsepower and responsiveness. Suspension: Upgrading your Mazda car’s suspension will improve its acceleration, braking, and cornering. A new suspension will also offer a smoother ride. Ordering MAZDA Parts Online Ordering new Mazda parts is easy and can be done on our website using our Parts order form. You will need to input your vehicle’s Make, Year, Model, Trim, VIN #, and the parts you want to order. If we don’t have your part in stock, our friendly team can order the part for you and notify you when it has arrived. Contact our team to learn more about which Mazda performance parts are best for your vehicle. One of our experienced mechanics at Sansone Mazda will be happy to help order and install your Mazda vehicle’s new performance parts.

Jump Starting a Car

MAZDA Service Tips: Jump-Start Your Car

Do you know how to jump-start your Mazda vehicle? Learning how to restart a dead battery is an important skill for all drivers. If you don’t jump-start your car correctly, this can lead to injury or damage to your vehicle. Our Mazda service team is reviewing what you need to know about jump-starting your Mazda vehicle. Setting Up You will need a pair of jumper cables and another working vehicle to begin. Park the cars facing each other or side by side, and make sure they’re both turned off. Next, pop the hood and locate the battery of each vehicle. Locate your jumper cables. The red cable attaches to the positive (+) terminals, and the black cable is for the negative (-) terminal and grounding. Attach the cables, beginning by connecting the red clamp to the dead battery’s positive terminal. Connect the other red clamp to the booster battery’s positive terminal. Next, attach the black clamp to the booster battery’s negative terminal, and finally, attach the other black clamp to an unpainted metal part of the dead car’s engine. Jump-Starting Your Car Once everything is connected, turn on the working vehicle’s engine. Then, try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it doesn’t work, let the battery charge for a few minutes and then try again. Once the car is successfully jump-started, remove the jumper cables carefully. They should be removed in the reverse order they were connected. Close the hood of both vehicles and stow away your jumper cables. If your battery continues to die, it may be time for a new battery. Schedule a visit to our Sansone Mazda service center, and one of our technicians will be happy to help.

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