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How to Prepare for a Visit to Our MAZDA Service Department

Whether your car needs routine maintenance or repairs, you can count on our Mazda service department. However, if your mechanic lacks information about the problem or can’t access the broken system, then you must wait longer before your car returns to normal. Taking small steps can expedite your visit to Sentry West Mazda. Clear Out Your Cabin Remove all personal belongings from your glove compartment before receiving service. This will allow your mechanic unimpeded access to your cabin air filter. Depending on your model, other systems may also have an access point through your glove compartment. If your car’s backseat or trunk is cluttered, we recommend clearing out large items out before the service visit. Your service job will take longer if our technicians have to move things around in order to access systems in your vehicle. Note Any Issues If you’re visiting our service department for repairs, it’s important to be detailed in your description so that our service technicians know what to look for. Taking detailed notes of how the car looks, feels, and smells can speed up your car’s diagnosis. Don’t forget to notify us of services or repairs you have recently received from any other service centers. Make An Appointment Before you visit, we recommend making an appointment by calling us or filling out the online form. This will expedite your visit and ensure you are back on the road in no time. Don’t forget to check out our rotating service specials! Visit Our MAZDA Service Department Our Mazda service center has state-of-the-art equipment and experienced Mazda technicians. Schedule an appointment today at Sentry West Mazda.

Sales looking at paperwork

MAZDA Financial Tips: What Does MSRP Stand For?

When you are purchasing a new car, you may come across the term “MSRP” and wonder what it means. Our Mazda financial team is reviewing everything you need to know about this important finance term. What is MSRP? Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price, or MSRP, is typically displayed on a sticker on the car’s window or windshield. This is the list price recommended by the original manufacturer. It does factor in all visible features associated with that model, trim, and any packages, but not costs like delivery fees or paperwork processing. MSRP vs Invoice Price The invoice price refers to the amount that a dealership pays to purchase the car from the manufacturer and add it to our inventory. It typically includes the vehicle’s base price and additional advertising costs. Invoice prices may vary based on regional pricing differences and supply and demand. Market Value’s Relation to MSRP A car’s price is fluid, and the MSRP is not always the final price you will pay. For instance, certain specials or dealer incentives may lower the total cost of your car. Additionally, market value, which is different from MSRP, is the average cost fellow customers paid in a local area for a certain make, model, and trim level. The market value may influence the total amount you pay. Schedule a Test Drive at Sentry West MAZDA Now that you know what MSRP means, you can shop for a car more confidently. When you’re ready to discuss the details of your purchase, visit Sentry West Mazda.

Researching on a Laptop

How to Research Pre-Owned MAZDA Cars

Buying a pre-owned Mazda car is an exciting process, but you’ll want to make sure you’re well-informed. Researching models before purchasing can streamline the process. Here are some tips from the team at Sentry West Mazda. Determine Your Model Before you visit our showroom, it’s important for you to research different Mazda models and determine which one is a good fit for your needs. If you’re looking for a family SUV, we’d recommend a model like the Mazda CX-9. If you’re looking for a commuter car, a sedan or hatchback, like the Mazda3, is always a great option. Consider Must-Have Features Different models will have different amenities, so when purchasing a pre-owned Mazda car, it’s important to know which features you want. Make a list of must-haves, like Apple CarPlay® or a hybrid powertrain, and research which years, models, and trims have them. Vehicle History Report Once you’ve found your desired car at Sentry West Mazda, obtain its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and ask for its vehicle history report. This document explains the car’s service and ownership history, and if it suffered any accidents or major damage. Test-Drive the Car in Person We always recommend conducting a test drive before purchasing a car. Confirm that you feel comfortable while sitting in the driver’s seat, and that features like speakers and seat adjustability meet your specifications. Pick a driving route with diverse features, including well-maintained and rough pavement, straightaways and curves, and highways versus heavily trafficked areas. Determine if you like how the car handles these situations. Shop for Your Pre-Owned MAZDA Car at Sentry West MAZDA Now that you’re armed with the above information, it’s time to find your next pre-owned Mazda car. Browse our inventory and schedule a test drive at Sentry West Mazda today.

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

Why the 2024 MAZDA CX-90 PHEV is Perfect for Summer Road Trips

Looking for a reliable and luxurious SUV for your next summer road trip? The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV fulfills your needs with its customizability, up-to-date technology, and safety. Trim Options The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV has three trims: Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus. It’ll be easy to get up to speed on the highway since all trims pair a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, 280-horsepower gasoline engine with one electric motor and a 17.8-kWh battery. Every model is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, so you can tackle any terrain. Only the Preferred trim has a default eight-passenger capacity and optional second-row captain’s chairs. The other trims only offer second-row captain’s chairs, seating up to seven passengers. Interior All trims utilize standard leather upholstery, with the Premium Plus trim substituting it for Nappa leather instead. The second and third rows can fold when not in use, and the third row can fold down completely to expand the cargo area to accommodate suitcases, gear, and more. By default, all trims contain a 10.25-inch infotainment display, with the option to upgrade to a 12.3-inch display controlled by a click wheel on the center console. The lineup also has Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® connectivity, paired with a standard eight-speaker audio system, with the option to upgrade to a 12-speaker Bose® surround sound system for a dynamic listening experience. Safety Stay safe on long trips thanks to the standard i-ACTIVSENSE® safety system. The suite includes front automated emergency braking, which stops your vehicle to prevent an accident, blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you to obstacles in your car’s blind spots, and adaptive cruise control, dynamically adjusting your following distance to match a predetermined one. The Premium trim adds traffic sign recognition, displaying sign contents on the instrument panel. The Premium Plus trim swaps the rear backup camera for a 360-degree monitor. Test-Drive the 2024 MAZDA CX-90 PHEV at Sentry West MAZDA Before you head on your next summer road trip, visit Sentry West Mazda to see the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV in action. We can’t wait to get you behind the wheel of this exciting new model!

Mazda CX-90

Performance Features in the 2024 MAZDA CX-90

A full-size SUV offers ample cargo room and powerful performance. The 2024 Mazda CX-90 fulfills these criteria while also adding additional customizability. Let’s review its performance highlights. Engine and Powertrain Options By default, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 utilizes a 3.3-liter, turbocharged, inline-six engine with 280 horsepower in all non-PHEV, non-Turbo S trims. The PHEV powertrain pairs an inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a combined 232 horsepower. Both of these engines allow you to tow up to 3,500 lb. From the Turbo S trim onward, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 includes a 340-horsepower engine with 369 lb-feet of torque. With these models, you can tow campers, small boats, ATVs, and more, thanks to a 5,000 lb towing capacity. i-ACTIV AWD® All trims include standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and an eight-speed, automatic transmission. With i-ACTIV AWD® technology, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 provides drivers with confidence even in challenging driving conditions. Usually, the powertrain directs about 80 percent of the torque to the rear wheels. However, on slippery surfaces and tricky terrain, it distributes torque evenly between the front and rear wheels. Mi-Drive can further enhance your sense of control, allowing you to switch between four modes to fully customize your driving experience: Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and available Towing. Experience the 2024 MAZDA CX-90 at Sentry West MAZDA To find the configuration of the 2024 Mazda CX-90 that complements your lifestyle best, book a test drive at Sentry West Mazda. We look forward to getting you behind the wheel of this exciting all-new model!

Engine oil

3 MAZDA Spring Service Tasks

During winter, lower temperatures and the accumulation of snow and ice on roads demands changes in driving habits, like installing cold-weather tires or salting roads to slow ice formation. However, the service requirements for spring weather are less obvious. Performing these three Mazda service tasks will help your vehicle run smoothly in the spring. 1. Oil Change The oil in your car’s engine lubricates and cools its components. The thickness of your engine’s oil impacts the energy needed to operate it. As oil ages, it thickens and becomes less effective. This can put a strain on your engine and reduce fuel efficiency. Spring is the perfect time to schedule an oil change at Sansone Mazda to ensure your car is prepared for the warm weather trips ahead. 2. Tire and Wheel Maintenance In the winter, poorer road conditions like snow, ice, and potholes arise. Months of driving in these conditions can cause your wheels to misalign, which may damage your car’s suspension and create uneven tire wear. Uneven tire wear exposes your wheel to the elements and increases the likelihood of a flat tire. Realigning your wheels and rotating your tires will address these issues by returning your wheels to their natural alignment and increasing your tire’s lifespan. 3. Battery Inspection Winter temperatures can put a strain on your battery and shorten its lifespan. Spring is a great time for our technicians to test its performance and inspect your car battery for corrosion, cracks, and leaks. If it’s time for a new battery, our parts center can order and install one for you. Spring Service at Sentry West MAZDA Schedule a spring service appointment today at Sentry West Mazda. Our technicians will have your car running at peak performance!

Person holding car keys and a calculator

MAZDA Financial Tips: Loans vs. Leases

Most consumers default to using a loan to pay for a new car. However, leases also possess distinct benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the differences between car loans and leases will enable you to make more informed decisions when you visit our Mazda financial service department. Payment Structures Both car loans and leases last a certain number of months and have a set interest rate. Either your car dealership or a bank will calculate these metrics using your credit score. The interest on a car loan is essentially a fee you pay to borrow money from a lender. A lease’s interest serves a similar purpose, though it also acts as a contingency if the car becomes inoperable. Model Availability Your budget greatly impacts which new models you can afford and purchasing a vehicle with an auto loan will typically incur higher monthly payments than leases. Some technology, safety, and performance features only exist at certain trim levels. In contrast, leasing means that you can constantly replace your vehicle with the newest model available. Because your monthly lease payments cover the vehicle’s depreciation, but not its entire value, you may afford a higher-priced vehicle than if you bought one. Ownership Once you pay off a car loan, your only recurring costs involve repairs, maintenance, and optional modifications. If you keep your car in good condition, you can continue driving it long after your loan ends, and your mileage exceeds the manufacturer’s initial warranty. Leasing a car amounts to smaller payments in the short term, but successive leases lead to greater expenses in the long term. Though you may receive some maintenance and repairs at a reduced cost, or free of charge, you cannot personalize your car, because you must undo those modifications when you return it. You also cannot drive your car as much as you want, because you must pay a fee for each mile you have driven over the limit set in your lease contract. Discuss Loan and Lease Options at Sentry West MAZDA To determine whether loaning or leasing suits you best, consult with the finance department at Sentry West Mazda.

Mazda3 Hatchback in Sunset

2023 MAZDA3 Hatchback Trim Level Comparison

The 2023 Mazda3 Hatchback provides functionality and style across its trim lineup. Let’s review some key differences to help you determine which model is right for you. Engine and Drivetrain All models of the 2023 Mazda3 Hatchback prior to the 2.5 Turbo trim contain a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine that delivers 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired to front-wheel drive (FWD) and an automatic transmission. You have the option to upgrade to i-ACTIVE AWD®. From the 2.5 Turbo trim onward, the vehicle contains a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that pumps out 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, pairing with standard AWD. Only the Premium trim supports a manual transmission, and manual models can only use FWD. Interior Every trim uses the MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system, with standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. The Premium trim is the first variant to contain onboard SiriusXM, the Select trim adds dual-zone climate control, and the Preferred model adds a power moonroof and heated front seats. The 2.5 Turbo trim adds a heated steering wheel. Safety Every 2023 Mazda3 Hatchback uses the i-ACTIVSENSE® suite of safety features. It includes adaptive cruise control, which adjusts your speed relative to your preset speed, and automatic emergency braking, which autonomously brakes the car to avoid accidents. The Select trim adds blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot or oncoming traffic when backing up. The Premium trim adds a heads-up display, which projects vital vehicle statistics onto the back of the windshield so you can maintain attention while driving. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim adds features like reverse automatic emergency braking and Traffic Sign Assist. Test-Drive the 2023 MAZDA3 Hatchback To determine which trim of the 2023 Mazda3 Hatchback is right for you, visit the showroom at Sentry West Mazda. We can’t wait to help you find your dream car!

Brakes

3 Signs Your Car Needs Brake Repair

Your car’s brakes are some of the most important components. Worn-out or faulty brakes can reduce your reaction time when driving, leading to accidents. Knowing when to replace your brakes with new Mazda parts can help you avoid costlier repairs later on. Let’s review some of the indications you need brake repair. 1. Strange Noises If you press on your brake and hear screeching or squealing noises, this indicates that your brake pads have nearly or completely worn down. The screeching comes from the uncovered pads making contact with your rotors. This motion places extra force on your rotors, which may lead to damage or even brake pad failure. 2. Pulling to One Side when Braking Usually, braking occurs smoothly. If your car pulls to one side when braking, this means that your car’s rotors are worn unevenly. The brake with the greater amount of wear cannot stop your car as easily. 3. Spongy Brake Pedal The brake fluid in a properly maintained brake pedal helps the brakes move smoothly, so the brake offers some resistance when pressed, no matter how far down you push it. If your brake pedal feels soft and offers less resistance, this may mean that you need new brake fluid, or you have a brake fluid leak. You can identify a brake fluid leak via yellow spots under your car. Identify and Fix Brake Issues at Sentry West MAZDA To address any emergent brake problems, visit the parts department at Sentry West Mazda. Our technicians will replace any worn parts with genuine Mazda parts. Schedule repairs and service today!

Budgeting Car

MAZDA Finance Tips: How to Budget Your Car Purchase

When buying a car, both immediate and long-term costs complicate the process of calculating how much you can safely spend. To afford your dream car, create a personalized, tangible budget, and stick to it as you go through the Mazda finance process. Credit Score and Vehicle Affordability If you pay for your car using a loan, your credit score will determine the interest rate set by either us or your bank. Your credit score is inversely proportional to your loan’s interest rate, so your interest rate lowers as your credit score rises. Your credit score may also impact your loan term because your owed interest increases as the loan term lengthens. Other Fees You will also pay multiple fees, from us and the state. We charge a fee for delivering your car to our dealership, for instance. The state adds sales tax, a registration fee, and the cost of a new license plate. You must also account for ongoing expenses, like planned maintenance, emergency repairs, and fuel costs. Factoring in Your Income If you take out a car loan, your payment plan will differ from budgeting when paying with cash. When taking out a loan, follow the 20/4/10 rule. It states that on a four-year car loan, make a down payment worth 20 percent of the car’s price, and monthly expenses worth no more than 10 percent of your monthly income. Depending on your cost of living, you may make payments as high as 15 percent instead. When paying with cash, compare the car’s price to your yearly income, and pay no more than 35 percent of your yearly income. Consult with Experts To receive advice on how to pay for your next car or to determine your eligibility for car loans, visit our finance department at Sentry West Mazda.

Technician looking at car parts

How to Order MAZDA Parts on Our Website

Does your car need windshield wiper blades, new tires, or upgraded brakes? Using the online form, ordering Mazda parts at Sentry West Mazda is easy, even for customers without car repair experience. Here's a glimpse into the process. Order Parts Online The online order form enables you to specify what parts you need. The form will ask you for the make, model, and trim of your car, as well as your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Assigned when manufactured, the VIN is like your vehicle’s social security number, and provides details like technical specifications and recall information. You can find it on the inside of the driver’s side dashboard or door jamb. Then, the form contains text entry fields for your personal and contact information. A customer service representative will contact you using the methods you provide to follow up on your form submission and schedule an in-person appointment. Part Arrival and Installation If the part you want is not in our current inventory, we will be happy to order it for you and contact you when it’s ready. You can either install your chosen parts yourself or schedule service at our dealership, where our expert technicians will be happy to install your parts and complete any needed repairs. Care for Your Vehicle! To find the parts that suit your car best, or receive advice on acquiring the best parts, contact our Mazda service center.

Service Appointment

Three Signs You Need a MAZDA Service Appointment

After purchasing a new car, you will follow a maintenance schedule that outlines which maintenance tasks your car will receive and when. However, you may need repairs in between these intervals. Here are three signs you need to book a Mazda service appointment. 1. Abnormal Driving Behaviors You may notice some changes to your car’s performance while driving. Examples include cabin vibrations while accelerating or climbing up hills, or stalling while driving under normal conditions. Your car may also markedly decrease in power or fuel efficiency, or braking may seem more difficult. These issues can indicate numerous service needs, such as requiring an engine air filter replacement or an oil change, and our technicians can properly identify and complete them. 2. Engine Ignition Issues If your engine cuts off while driving or your car does not start immediately, book a service appointment as soon as possible. Even if your car eventually starts after multiple tries, this difficulty demonstrates that your car needs serious, immediate repairs. This is even more applicable if smoke is emitting from under the hood. 3. Strange Scents or Liquids You may also notice new smells or leaks emitting from your vehicle. The color and location of the liquid can help technicians narrow down the source and the severity of the problem. If you notice any sulfuric, burning, or otherwise strange smells, schedule a service appointment before the affected components deteriorate further. Receive Vital Maintenance at Sentry West MAZDA Whether you need scheduled maintenance or emergency repairs, visit the service department at Sentry West Mazda to receive expert advice. Our mechanics will have your car running like new in no time!

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