What Does the Oil Filter Do?

Most automotive problems announce themselves through sounds, smells, and warning signals. Knowing when those signs add up to a Mazda service appointment can help you act before a small issue becomes a bigger repair. If anything here sounds familiar, Sentry West Mazda is ready to help. more Warning Lights That Deserve a Closer Look When the check engine, oil pressure, or brake system light stays on, your vehicle is flagging a detected problem. Some alerts are minor, while others can damage the engine or compromise your braking system if you keep driving. Note whether the light is steady or flashing, since a flashing check engine light needs prompt attention. A diagnostic scan at a certified dealership will help to accurately pinpoint the problem. Sounds and Smells You Should Not Ignore Squealing brakes usually mean the wear indicators have reached the rotor, signaling that it’s time to replace them. Grinding, knocking, or rattling noises, meanwhile, point to other worn components. Burning odors can indicate overheated brakes or oil reaching hot engine parts, and a sweet smell may mean coolant is escaping. If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, they deserve a professional look. Leaks, Vibrations, and Sluggish Starts Colored puddles under your vehicle are another warning sign to watch for. Dark spots suggest oil, while green, orange, or pink fluid usually points to coolant. On the other hand, if you’ve noticed vibrating through your steering wheel or a steady pull while driving, it can signal alignment trouble or uneven tire wear. Finally, slow starts may mean your battery is near the end of its life. Book Your MAZDA Service Appointment in Shrewsbury, MA Catching these warning signs early can stop them from evolving into a bigger issue. Count on the team at Sentry West Mazda to identify and resolve any problems as soon as they arise. Give us a call or use our online service scheduler to set up your service appointment today!

With a Mazda PHEV, or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, you’ll be able to reduce your environmental impact and save on fuel with every drive. If you’re nervous about making the switch, Sentry West Mazda is here to help with tips for how to care for your PHEV with ease. Schedule Regular Service Fully electric vehicles don’t have the same service needs as gasoline powered cars. With hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, however, you’ll still have to schedule routine service for the internal combustion engine parts and systems, such as oil changes and fluid fill-ups. The electric motor does reduce some of the pressure and wear on these parts, which means you’ll likely have longer intervals between appointments. Protect PHEV Parts There are a few PHEV-specific parts you’ll need to pay extra attention to, though – in particular, the battery. This part is larger in a PHEV than in a gasoline powered vehicle or hybrid vehicle, which is what allows for all-electric driving, so it’s essential to keep it in good condition. You also want to get the brakes checked regularly, as the regenerative braking systems in PHEVs are more complex than traditional braking systems. Keep Your PHEV Cool One of the most important steps you can take to protect your PHEV is to park in the shade. Extremely hot temperatures can cause batteries to swell, which affects vehicle longevity, efficiency, and charging capability. Take measures to keep your Mazda plug-in hybrid vehicle cool and it will continue to run smoothly for a long time to come. Test-Drive MAZDA PHEV Models in Shrewsbury, MA These are just a few of the steps you can take to ensure your Mazda PHEV continues to run right. The team at Sentry West Mazda will make sure you have the tools you need to transition with ease. Visit our dealership for expert PHEV service or to pick out your next model today.

Scheduling a regular Mazda service appointment is the best step you can take to protect your vehicle all year long. However, spring is one of the best times to make these appointments when it comes to the health and longevity of your vehicle. Find out why, and get the service you can rely on, at Sentry West Mazda today. more Winter Damage Winter weather can have a significant impact on the health of a vehicle. In temperatures below freezing, batteries can lose up to 50 percent of their capacity, and fluctuating temperatures can lead to tire pressure loss, as well. A spring service appointment is an opportunity for your team to catch any signs of wear or damage from winter weather before they can progress. Spring Safety Spring driving comes with its own set of challenges. The increase in rain can affect visibility and make road surfaces slick. With regular spring service, you’ll know you have wiper fluid, new bulbs, and reliable tire tread when you need it most. It’s Car Care Month Twice a year, drivers celebrate something known as Car Care Month. In April and October, drivers are reminded of the importance of scheduling regular service and care, and the type of services their vehicle needs. This can be a useful tool for remembering when you last brought your vehicle in for service, in case you need to reference it for your records. Schedule Spring MAZDA Service in Shrewsbury, MA Getting the service your vehicle needs doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. At Sentry West Mazda, it won’t be, thanks to easy online scheduling and financing support. Visit our dealership for the seasonal service you and your vehicle deserve.