Blog

Whenever you press the brake pedal, your brake pads do the work of stopping your car by clamping onto the rotors. Each time they do so, they become a little bit more worn down and eventually need replacing. Here are six clear signs that you should visit your local Mazda dealer for new braking pads. more When Should You Change Your Brake Pads? You Experience Brake Fade The most urgent indicator that your pads need inspection and probable replacement is if you experience brake fade. Brake fade is where the components of your braking mechanism are no longer creating the friction necessary to promptly slow and stop your vehicle. You press down on the pedal and find your braking sluggish and unresponsive. Needless to say, it's a disconcerting experience. Brake fade occurs when you're braking constantly, which can create an excess buildup of heat in the pads and rotors. This overheating alone can lead to brake fade, and it only gets worse if the resin in the pads begins to melt. Driving conditions that lead to this kind of overheating include stop-and-go traffic with constant braking and also winding, hilly roads with plenty of sharp turns and downhill stretches. You Hear Squealing or Squeaking The pads in your braking system have a steel base and an upper high-friction layer. The friction layer is made from a compound of materials, including various metals, ceramics, and minerals, all held together by resin. Each time you brake, a minuscule amount of the friction layer is scraped away. When the friction layer is almost gone, modern pads are designed to emit a high-pitched squealing or squeaking sound to let you know it's time for new pads. You Hear Grinding If you ever hear grinding when you brake, then you need to replace your pads with some urgency. This is because the friction layer is all but gone and you're hearing metal scraping directly on metal. At this point, continued braking will start to damage your rotors, leading to far more expensive repairs. You Feel Vibrations If you feel vibrations while braking, either through the pedal or the steering wheel, then you need to have your brakes inspected. Vibrations point to a warped or damaged rotor, which will reduce your stopping power and cause uneven wear in your pads. In this case, you'll likely need to replace a rotor or two, and possibly your pads as well. Your Mazda Dealer Finds a Flaw It's recommended for Mazda drivers to have their brakes inspected once every six months. For convenience, you can coincide this with having your tires rotated. Oftentimes, an experienced technician at your local dealership will identify problems with your pads long before you would have noticed them on your own. 65,000 Miles Have Passed Pads are the components of a braking system that most often need replacing. They usually last from 25,000 to 65,000 miles, depending on their quality and usage. So if you find yourself nearing 65,000 miles since your last pad replacement, it's probably time to get new ones before any of the aforementioned problems rear their ugly heads. To have your brakes inspected and your pads replaced, visit Tom Bush Mazda. We've been providing a top-notch vehicle purchasing and servicing experience to the region's local drivers since 1974.

Car accidents are, unfortunately, always a possibility when you're driving. One minute your car is in perfect condition and the next it's been damaged. Whether the damage is great or small, you want to have it repaired. As your Mazda dealer, we understand how much your car means to you. We want to make sure that your car undergoes a high-quality collision repair and is returned to you ASAP more Get a Quality Collision Repair at Your Mazda Dealer Delivery and Inspection The first step in repairing the damage to your car is the delivery of your car to one of our repair centers. Our repair technicians will be assigned to visually examine your vehicle to ascertain the extent of the damage. We'll examine your car inside and out, and then we'll prepare a report outlining the damages. We'll check your car in, and we can also offer you a ride home. Complimentary pick up and drop off is part of our service. more Disassembly Our repair technicians will remove all of the damaged parts. This allows us to get a complete picture of the damage, and to accurately assess what needs to be repaired. We'll also connect your car's computer to our diagnostic equipment so we can scan it for any additional damage. Once this stage is complete, our technicians will have an accurate picture of the damage. We'll send our report with the repair quotation to you. If the work is being arranged by your insurance company, we'll send the information to them too. On confirmation of the order to proceed from either your insurance company or yourself, we will move on to the next section. Repair Our technicians will begin the process of repairing your car. We have the latest technology available to complete paintless damage repair (PDR), windshield replacement, and any other work that's required. PDR is a specialized repair technique that allows you to repair dented or damaged metal without a refinish. Its cost-effective, and our preferred technique if the damage allows for it. We have a vast store of replacement parts, and we will only use original Mazda parts. These replacements are identical to the original parts on your car, which ensures they will fit perfectly. If color matching is required, we can match any original Mazda paint color. Our technicians can also fix paint with brush touching of small scratches and chips. Quality Control Once the repairs have been completed, your car goes to quality control for assessment. All of our repairs are conducted to the high standard expected by Mazda. Our specialists will check to make sure that the repair has all been completed and that the work followed the policies and procedures set out by Mazda. Return When quality control has finished, we'll call you so you can view the completed repair. Once you are satisfied and confirm the work is correct, you'll be able to drive off in a perfectly restored car. If you need accident repair, call our service department at Tom Bush Mazda.

For your car to move, fuel and air must mix, and this mixture must be lit. The process is simple, but it requires a huge amount of clean air. Your car's air filter is responsible for cleaning the air that enters your engine. The filter traps dust and debris, but as it does this it starts to clog up. A car air filter needs to be replaced regularly, and as your Mazda dealer, we can easily fit a new one for you. more 5 Signs You May Need a New Car Air Filter From Your Mazda Dealer Engine Light Comes On The check engine light comes on when one of the sensors in your car detects a problem. These sensors are attached to all of your engine's vital components, and they monitor the components for any sign of trouble. A lack of air in the combustion chamber causes the fuel to burn badly. Poor combustion leads to a build-up of mineral deposits in your engine and this can trigger the warning light. Strange Engine Sounds A smooth-running engine shouldn't make any strange noises. Sipping or coughing sounds from the engine are signs that your engine doesn't have enough air. When the air filter is blocked, it prevents clean air from reaching the engine. The strange sounds are caused by your spark plugs trying to spark in a fuel-rich environment. Misfiring Engine A poor air to fuel mix makes combustion difficult, as the excess fuel floods the combustion chamber. Without enough air, much of the fuel won't burn. The spark plugs also don't ignite correctly without air and this causes your engine to misfire. If you find you have to rev your engine to start it, or your engine consistently misfires, a blocked air filter is the most likely culprit. Damaged Spark Plugs As mentioned earlier, too much fuel in the combustion chamber makes it difficult for the spark plugs to fire. The fuel-rich atmosphere also causes a buildup of sticky black residue from the fuel on the spark plugs. This residue damages the plugs and makes it even more difficult for them to spark. Damaged spark plugs will also need to be replaced when we replace your air filter. Dirty Air Filter The air filter is one of your car's components that's easy to check. Your car's manual shows the position of the air filter box, and if you pop the hood you can easily see the filter. New filters are white or cream, but constant filtering of dust and dirt changes their color to brown or black. If your air filter looks dirty, it's time to replace it. A new air filter is very inexpensive and it's also quick and easy to replace. If you continue to drive with a dirty air filter you will damage your spark plugs and possibly cause damage to other vital components. If your air filter is blocked, call our service department at Tom Bush Mazda and one of our expert technicians will replace it.

If your Mazda has suffered damage and needs to be repaired you need to know that the work has been carried out to the highest standard. If you're in Jacksonville, FL and you need a Mazda auto repair, you can rest assured that you're in safe hands. These are some of the main reasons to choose your Mazda dealer. more 4 Keys to Getting a Quality Mazda Auto Repair Expertise Mazda technicians are experts at repairing any damage to your car. Our technicians are factory-trained and only work on Mazda vehicles. Due to their specialist knowledge, they are familiar with any possible problems that can occur. Factory-trained technicians also have the skill and ability to fix a problem faster and more effectively than a generalist mechanic. A general mechanic will work on many different makes and models of vehicles every day. Even the best and most experienced general mechanic can never have the in-depth knowledge of your Mazda that our technicians have. When you need a problem identified and fixed, an expert is always the safest and most reliable choice. Original Parts Your dealership uses only original Mazda parts, exact copies of the parts used to build your car. For the best performance and longest lifespan for any component, its replacement should be made to the same high standard. We never use generic parts as they will never meet the high standard that you and your car deserve. We also maintain a large inventory of spare parts. If we don't have a specific part in stock we can very quickly source it directly. A general mechanic is unlikely to have original spare parts available and is likely to use a generic replacement. While a generic part may work, it will never last as long or work as well as a part specifically designed for your vehicle. If you need original parts from a general mechanic they'll take longer to arrive and will be more costly. High-Quality Work Our technicians are trained and certified by Mazda to be able to maintain and repair Mazda vehicles. Our work meets the same standard as the technicians who built your car. Our care and commitment to you and your car provide a level of service that even the best general mechanic can't match. Best Available Technology Our dealership has the best diagnostic equipment and technology available which is designed specifically for Mazda vehicles. To save you time and money, the diagnosis of any car problem must be completely accurate. Our expert technicians and the finest available equipment make a winning combination that ensures all repairs meet the highest quality standards. A general mechanic will never have the diagnostic equipment specifically designed for your car. They have to rely on a generic diagnosis, and a generic diagnosis always has the possibility of being incorrect. To ensure any repairs to your Mazda meet the highest possible standard, call our service department at Tom Bush Mazda. We have the expertise, technology, and parts to repair any possible problem.

A tire rotation involves swapping each tire on your car to a different position to extend the life of the tires. Regular rotations at your Mazda dealer provide a whole lot of benefits, with the added advantage of saving a bundle of cash. more 6 Benefits of Getting a Tire Rotation for Your Mazda at Your Mazda Dealer 1. Your Tires Will Last Longer When you take your Mazda for the factory-recommended oil change intervals every 7,500 miles or six months, your Mazda technician will also switch the tires on your vehicle to different positions. The repositioning of your car's tires will ensure that all four tires wear down evenly at an equal rate and last longer. You will find the oil change and rotation intervals for your vehicle's model and year in your car's owner's manual or ask your Mazda technician for assistance. 2. The Tires Will Wear Down Evenly Each one of your car's tires wears down at different rates. The front tires wear down faster than the rear tires on front-wheel drive vehicles because they are used for turning and braking. The Mazda technician will swap your car's front tires to the rear, cross the rear tires, and fit them to the front of your vehicle. By repositioning the tires regularly, they will wear down more evenly and last longer. Different types of cars require different rotation patterns. Your Mazda technician knows which rotation pattern to use for your specific vehicle. You will also find the rotation pattern for your car in your owner's manual. 3. Rotations Will Minimize Vibrations When you don't get your tires switched regularly,  the tread on tires wears down unevenly. Uneven wear causes vibrations you will feel through your steering wheel. If you don't ask your technician to sort out the problem, over time, the vibrations will cause damage to your vehicle. The vibrations will affect the wheel alignment and balancing. To reduce the risk of vibrations and damage to your car, ask your Mazda technician to rotate your car's tires every time you take your vehicle for an oil and filter replacement. 4. Your Tires Will Regularly Be Inspected Another benefit of regular rotations at your dealership is that the Mazda technicians also perform thorough tire inspections to determine the condition of your vehicle's tires. The technician will check the tire tread depth, inspect each tire for cracks and bubbles, and inflate the tires to the proper pressure levels. After every rotation, you can rest assured that your tires will be in excellent condition. 5. Regular Rotations Will Increase Your Safety Safety is the most crucial benefit of regularly switching the tires on your vehicle. Regular rotations will ensure that the tread depth is the same and the wear is even across all four tires. Even depth and tread wear will increase traction, especially on wet and slippery road surfaces when accelerating, braking, and cornering, ensuring that you and your passengers will be safe. 6. Regular Rotations Will Save You Money We all want to save money, and this is what you will do when your tires are rotated at regular intervals. The tires on your car will last longer because all four tires will wear down at the same rate, and you will not have to buy a new set of tires as often, saving you money. Generally, it's more expensive to buy and replace just one tire than purchase and mount a new set. Ask your Mazda technician to switch the tires on your vehicle to make them last longer, increase your car's performance and your safety on the road, and, best of all, save money. Visit Tom Bush Mazda today to reap all the great benefits of regularly rotating your vehicle's tires.

There are times when you know you need an engine diagnostic. However, sometimes you may wonder, would a diagnostic be good, or should I wait? There are many reasons you should get a diagnostic, especially at your Mazda Dealer. more Need an Engine Diagnostic? Visit Your Jacksonville Mazda Dealer Signs You Need a Diagnostic There are many signs that let you know you need a diagnostic. The most unmistakable sign is your check engine light; this light is a warning that you need to visit an auto shop. Power outages or a car that stops and needs to be restarted are both huge signs that you need to get a diagnostic soon. If you notice that your engine is running rough or that your fuel mileage is decreasing, it is another sign that you should get your car into a mechanic quickly. Other signs that you may notice are odd smells and unusual sounds. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, consider going in for a diagnostic. Your engine should not clunk, grind, squeal, or make any other odd sounds. Additionally, you need to get it in if your engine continues to run after turning the key off. Waiting and ignoring any of these problems will not make them disappear. Avoid extensive repairs by fixing the problem when it is still small. Reasons to Get a Diagnostic Your check engine light doesn't have to be on to make a diagnostic useful. A diagnostic can detect problems before they become large and expensive issues. However, there are other reasons to get a diagnosis for your vehicle. These tests ensure that everything in your car is in proper working order and can even increase your fuel mileage with minor tweaks and repairs. These tests are also fantastic at ensuring your pass emissions tests. Many counties in the United States have started requiring vehicles to pass emissions tests to ensure they aren't releasing extreme amounts of harmful pollutants into the air that we breathe. A diagnostic will reveal if your car will pass the emissions test and let the technician know what needs to be done if your vehicle fails. Reasons to Choose Your Dealer The technicians that work in a certified dealership service department are trained to work on your specific model. Additionally, because these technicians work predominantly on these models, they quickly gain experience in diagnosing and repairing issues your vehicle might experience. These certified techs will also have access to state-of-the-art technology and the best diagnostic tools. Your dealership will not give you sub-standard parts or services. If you need a replacement or repair, the parts you will receive will be OEM, and the dealership guarantees high-quality workmanship. Other mechanics may have diagnostic tools; however, they will not have parts on hand or the expertise that your dealership technicians will provide. If you are ready to get a diagnostic completed for your car's engine, then we have certified and experienced technicians for you. Contact Tom Bush Mazda of Jackson to schedule an appointment with our certified service department today.

Your Mazda is a safe vehicle that will serve you and your family for many years to come. However, taking it to your Mazda dealer for regular maintenance is crucial for keeping it running well. So is knowing the signs to look for that tell you it's time for a brake repair. more Do You Need a Brake Repair? Visit Your Mazda Dealer Today You Notice That Your Brake Warning Light Is On If your brake warning light comes on, it means there has already been an issue or malfunction within the system. Your brakes should give you other warnings that they need attention before the light comes on. So, get your brakes checked immediately once you notice the light. Your Brakes Aren't Working As Well as Usual Pay attention if you notice it takes longer for your brakes to engage when you stop. If you need to press on them harder to slow down, it's time to have your brakes inspected. Your Brake Pedal Feels Different If your brake pedal feels different when you press it, this is a sign your brakes need attention. A squishy feeling brake pedal could mean that your brake pads are worn down. It can also mean that you have brake fluid leaking within the system. Get your brakes checked as soon as possible to determine the issue. Your Vehicle Is Acting Differently When You Brake If your vehicle shudders before it comes to a stop, or if it pulls to one side during the braking process, this can be a sign of uneven rotors. This is something that needs to be inspected right away. Your Brakes Are Making Noise When your brake pads become too worn down, your brakes will rub directly on the rotor. This can emit a grinding or screeching noise. This issue should be addressed right away because you may only need to replace your brake pads instead of the entire brake system. You Smell Something Strange When You Brake When your brakes are engaged too often, they can overheat and emit a burning smell. This can occur if you ride your brakes while driving down a large hill or if you're stuck in stop-and-go traffic. It's normal for this to happen occasionally, but if you notice your brakes smell often, get them checked out. Your Brakes Look Quite Worn Every so often you should check out your brake pads yourself. You simply need to look at them through the spokes on your wheel. You'll see your brake pads held in place under the rotors. If you don't see at least a quarter of an inch of the pad on each of your tires, it's time to get new brake pads. At Tom Bush Mazda, we have a true passion for Mazda vehicles! We would love to pair you with your next new or used vehicle and help you keep it running well. Please stop by or contact our stellar customer service sales and service team at Tom Bush Mazda today.

A car's engine generates immense heat as it burns fuel, and this heat has to be removed or critical parts of the engine can be damaged. Your radiator's function is to remove that heat and keep your car at a safe operating temperature. The radiator will age and start to fail. These are some of the signs to look out for that you may need a radiator repair, and as your Mazda dealer, we will fix it for you. more How to Tell If Your Mazda Needs a Radiator Repair By Your Mazda Dealer Trapped Air in the System Your engine needs a huge amount of airflow to cool it down. It is possible that air can get into the cooling system, and if that happens it can slow the flow of coolant through the engine. A reduced flow of coolant will result in the engine temperature rising. Our technicians will investigate, and bleed the air out if that is the issue. A Broken Water Pump The water pump circulates coolant under high pressure through the cooling system. As with any mechanical part, it may fail and if it does coolant will no longer flow through the engine. A buzzing or whining sound from the engine could be a sign that the pump pulley has a problem or that there is a loose bearing in the pump itself. A water pump is easy for us to replace, and it will help to prevent engine damage. Contaminated Coolant Old, unchanged coolant or rust in the radiator can contaminate the coolant. This will lead to a sediment buildup, and the coolant will turn into sludge which can block the cooling system. We would, unfortunately, have to replace your radiator but this will prevent more serious damage to your engine. One of the ways to prevent this contamination is to ensure that the coolant is changed regularly according to your car's service schedule. Malfunctioning Thermostat The thermostat is a regulator that usually sits between the radiator and the engine. It is designed to release coolant when the engine temperature reaches a certain preset point. This coolant will flow through the engine and reduce the temperature. A worn thermostat will fail, and can then stick in either an open or closed position. If it is in the open position, coolant will continually flow through your engine which will keep it colder than it should be and you will use more fuel. If the thermostat is closed, it won't release any coolant and your engine temperature will rise into the redline very quickly. The thought of being stuck on the side of the road with steam billowing from the engine is a very scary one. As you have seen some of the signs of a potential radiator problem, this is now unlikely to happen. If your engine temperature rises too high, call us immediately at Tom Bush Mazda. Our technicians are perfectionists, and we will ensure your car is safely and speedily repaired for you.

Cars are complex machines with a huge amount of pieces and parts. When your prized Mazda starts acting wonky or won't start at all, it often seems impossible to know what the root problem actually is. Sometimes the problem is serious, but many times it's something simple like a faulty or dying battery. Your battery is a great place to start the diagnosis, and it often gives plenty of fair warning that you need a new car battery. more 3 Signs Your Mazda Could Use a New Car Battery 1. Slow Engine Crank Have you ever gone to start your car just to hear a slow whirring whine from the engine before it finally starts? This usually signals that there is a problem with the ignition process, and your battery is the first link in the chain of that process. The battery powers the starter and ignition, and a slow-turning engine may be the result of a battery with insufficient charge to get everything going. 2. Dim or Flickering Lights If the lights on your dashboard are dim (and you haven't dimmed them yourself) or are flickering, your battery could be to blame. The battery is responsible for powering your car's electrical system, so it's logically one of the first parts you should check. This could also be an issue with your alternator, but it's more economical to try the battery first! Likewise, you may also need a new battery if you notice that your headlights are dimmer when you're at a stop than when you're moving. Dim headlights while idling is often the result of a low-power battery. However, keep in mind that, much like your internal lights, headlight dimming could also be the result of issues with the alternator. 3. An Ancient or Corroded Battery If you haven't replaced your Mazda's battery in over five years, it's probably about time. The average lifespan of a battery typically ranges from three to five years, so it's a good idea to start testing your battery regularly (if you haven't already) once it turns three. Certainly, at five years it's good to start thinking about a replacement so your battery doesn't decide to surprise you by dying when you're out driving in the middle of nowhere. You should also think about replacing your battery if you notice that there are significant accumulations of white or blue powdery particles on the battery, usually around the contacts. This means your battery is corroded. Occasionally, cleaning the contacts helps but this is not so if there's a significant amount of corrosion visible. Replacing your battery is ideally something you'll want to do before it dies. Anyone who has ever been stranded because their car won't start can tell you that it's not a pleasant experience. So, make sure that you pay close attention to your vehicle for any potential indications of a dying battery. If you have more questions about batteries or are interested in a sleek, new car altogether, contact Tom Bush Mazda and we'll make sure you're taken care of.

Are you experiencing difficulty seeing at night? If you are, you just may need new headlights for your Mazda. Headlights are important for clearly seeing the road ahead, and if they're not working properly, it could compromise your safety. Here are several signs that indicate you need fresh headlights from your Mazda dealer: more Signs You Need to Get New Headlights at Your Mazda Dealer Headlights Are Dim The light output of a headlight decreases over time. If you notice this happening, you should clean the area around your headlights and see whether the light quality improves. If your headlights still appear dimmer than they used to, it's probably time to have them replaced at your local dealer. You must do this as soon as possible as bad headlights can lead to accidents! Broken Lenses When your headlights' lenses fracture or become hazy, the light will scatter rather than focus straight ahead. And since the beam is spread out over such a wide area, it will be nearly impossible for other motorists to anticipate where your car will go. However, you can fix this issue by bringing your car to your local dealer and having fresh bulbs installed. Headlights Are Blurry Much like how dirty glasses distort objects at a distance, the same can be said for dirty lenses in a headlight. You can try to clear up your blurry headlights by cleaning them but if they remain blurry, it's a clear sign that you need to have your headlights replaced at your local dealer. One Headlight Is Working If one of your headlights is no longer working, the issue is unlikely to go away if you just change one bulb. This is because they are linked, which means chances are they'll burn out at the same time. If you are experiencing this issue, strongly consider having both headlights replaced. Headlights Are Flickering Your headlights flickering may be caused by a faulty connection or harness. If you want to be sure that it won't mushroom into a bigger problem, you should immediately get your lights checked by a reputable mechanic at your local dealer. Headlights Are Dead When your headlights won't turn on, you should take the time to replace them immediately. It's unsafe and illegal to drive around without any headlights on so you should visit your local dealer as soon as possible to buy fresh headlights and have them installed by a Mazda-trained professional. Headlights are Foggy Moisture from the road can cause your headlights to become hazy. This will not only reduce the amount of light striking the road, but it will also lead to a decrease in their efficiency and cause eventual burnout. Make sure your headlight component is completely sealed to prevent moisture from seeping in and causing trouble. This is a crucial tip to follow if you reside in a region where there's a lot of rainfall all year long. If you need headlights for your Mazda, we'd love to help! Contact Tom Bush Mazda today or visit our website to learn more about what we can do for you.

Your Jacksonville FL Mazda dealer is not only concerned with selling you a vehicle to help you get to your destination in style, but also to get you there safely and securely. The fact that the Mazda CX-5 was awarded the 2021 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ goes to show that safety is paramount at Mazda. Here are 7 car safety features available in the current Mazda models. more 7 Car Safety Features You'll Find in Today's Mazda Cars at Your Jacksonville, FL Mazda Dealer Driver Attention Alert You'll never fall asleep at the wheel while driving today's Mazda vehicles because they just won't let you. Warning sounds and an LCD Meter Display alert will be activated when the Driver Attention Alert system detects driver fatigue or decreased vigilance. Smart Braking Systems Your Mazda can see into the future, at least when it comes to predicting an accident. When a collision is imminent, the Smart Braking System will warn the driver and even apply the brakes if necessary. This automatic braking technology is available even when your vehicle is in reverse. Mazda Radar Cruise Control On long highway trips, take your foot off the gas in comfort and confidence by activating Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go technology. Because you'll maintain a minimum distance from the traffic ahead, if the car in front of you slows or stops, your Mazda will automatically slow or stop right along with it. Blind Spot Monitoring If you can't stand wrenching your head around to monitor your blind spot, today's Mazda has you covered. Blind Spot Monitoring will keep you aware of any objects in your blind spot, sending you not only a chime, but a warning light in the Active Driving display as well as the side mirror. Lane Departure Warning and Lane-Keep Assist The Lane Departure Warning system on your Mazda will help you “stay in your lane”, quite literally. Activated above 37 mph, it will give you both audible and visual notification should you begin to unintentionally veer off course. Lane-Keep Assist will then step in and correct your steering to get you back on track. Adaptive Front-Lighting System Have you ever wanted to be able to see around corners? Well, today's Mazda can help you do just that with this available system, which kicks in as you turn a corner. The LED lights rotate in the direction of your turn, giving you greater visibility, and awareness of any potential problems ahead. Rear Cross Traffic Alert Eliminate those parking lot fender benders that usually result when you're backing out but have other things on your mind. The Rear Cross Traffic Alert system can quickly aurally warn you if there's trouble behind you in the form of another vehicle. The side mirror and the rearview camera display will alert you as well, just in case you're blasting the radio. Drive today's Mazda vehicles in relaxed comfort and confidence that you'll get to where you need to go in safety. Visit Tom Bush Mazda now and find out for yourself.

Have you had trouble starting your car recently? Are your headlights acting funny? Have you noticed your dashboard displaying your battery warning light recently despite having a nearly new battery? If so, you may need an alternator repair at your Jacksonville, FL Mazda dealer. Here's a closer look at some of the most common signs. more 5 Signs Your Mazda May Need an Alternator Repair at Your Jacksonville, FL Mazda Dealer 1. You Have Trouble Starting Your Car If you're having trouble starting your car, there is a good chance that something is wrong with your alternator. Your battery needs power to create a spark that ignites combustion in your motor's cylinders. However, if your alternator doesn't charge your battery when you turn your key in your ignition, no spark will occur. In the absence of a spark, your motor will remain dormant. Sometimes, when your car won't start, your battery doesn't have enough cold-cranking amps to start your motor. However, if your battery can't create a spark because it's not charged, there may not be a problem with your battery holding a charge. Rather, your alternator may not have enough power to charge your battery. 2. You Have Malfunctioning Headlights Malfunctioning headlights are another sign of a failing alternator. The role of your alternator is to distribute power to every electronic in your vehicle, including your headlights. If it is dying, you may notice such problems as flickering headlights, excessively bright headlights, or dim headlights. 3. You Have the Battery Warning Light On Your Dash If your dashboard is indicating a problem with your battery, there is a chance that the real problem lies with your alternator. This case is especially strong if you have recently replaced your battery or a recent battery test has indicated that there is nothing wrong with your battery. Even if your car starts when you turn your key in your ignition, it is possible that your battery isn't being charged enough by your alternator. Also, your battery warning light can be an indication that your alternator is operating at a voltage outside of the normal range of 13 to 14.5 volts. 4. You Have Malfunctioning Accessories Often, people with a failing alternator will experience problems with their radio. Sometimes, it will work just fine. Other times, it will cut off randomly and may or may not turn back on. Also, people with failing alternators often notice problems with other accessories, like power windows and seat warmers. 5. You Have Trouble Keeping Your Car Running Finally, there is a very high likelihood that your alternator needs to be repaired if your car frequently stalls when you drive. This problem occurs when the alternator can't send enough power to the spark plugs. You may need to have your alternator fixed if you have trouble starting your car, your headlights malfunction, or your dashboard is indicating a problem with your battery. If you've seen any of these signs of a failing alternator, don't ignore them. Contact us today at Tom Bush Mazda on Atlantic Blvd right away to schedule a service appointment.