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Mazda SUVs are known for their refined aesthetic, ergonomic and lush interiors, and significant capability. But which one is perfect for you and your lifestyle? As a leading local Mazda dealership, we get a lot of questions ​from those comparing the CX-5 and the CX-50. So let's dive into what makes each one special. A Mazda Dealership Head-to-Head: The 2025 Mazda CX-5 vs. the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Compared The 2025 Mazda CX-5 The CX-5 was crafted for, and designed around, the driver. Mazda's Kodo Design philosophy is evident everywhere, from the sleek and clean exterior lines to the leather wrapping around the steering wheel. Available upgrades like genuine layered wood interior trim or Caturra Brown Nappa leather-trimmed seats speak toward refinement and comfort. more A Sporty Drive The CX-5 is just plain fun to pilot. With a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G engine purring under the hood, the CX-5 is peppy off the line, and maintains excellent handling and control thanks to standard i-Activ AWD. An available turbocharger makes it even more fun to drive, offering plenty of potential to play. City-Friendly With over 39 inches of legroom even in the back seat, the CX-5 is roomy and comfortable inside. On the outside, however, the CX-5 is a bit more compact than the CX-50, coming in at just over 180 inches long versus the CX-50's 185.8 inches, making it easier to navigate dense urban areas and win the battle for parking. The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Mazda's Intelligent Drive Select and i-Active AWD both come standard on the 2025 CX-50, which is designed to take drivers and their families on adventures into the unknown. The cargo floor is designed to be deeper than it is wide to accommodate coolers, packs, and gear with ease. An available rooftop platform makes it easy to bring bikes, kayaks, and pop-up tents along for the adventure, too. The CX-50 offers more space in the cargo compartment than the CX-5, with 31.4 cubic feet of gear space available with the back seats upright and 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. Plenty of Power to Push Further With both a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G power plant and a twin-scroll turbocharged version available, there's plenty of power under the pedal in the CX-50. Turbo-equipped models boast an engine output of up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, making it easy to push through tough terrain and make memories you'll never forget. Hybrid Efficiency Heads for the Trailheads New for the 2025 model year, the CX-50 offers an available hybrid powertrain, for those who love defending the environment as much as they love exploring it. Offering up to 38 mpg combined, the CX-50 Hybrid offers drivers plenty of efficiency while maintaining the spirited and capable performance of its conventionally powered sibling. Whether you prefer the city styling of the CX-5 or the expeditious nature of the CX-50, Mazda has an SUV to meet your needs. Test drive one today at Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR.

A leader in the crossover SUV segment, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 is still one of the best options that blends attractive style with an enjoyable driving experience. The more affordable base S model has been added back into the lineup this year and might be your perfect match if you spend a lot of time on the road or love to drive and are looking for a vehicle with responsive handling and ample interior space. A First Look at the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Power and Performance The base model of the 2025 CX-5 sports a peppy 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting ability and Sport mode. All models are equipped with iACTIV AWD, Mazda's advanced all-wheel drive system. The three range-topping trim levels offer even more power with a 227-horsepower turbocharged engine. more The electronic power-assisted steering is responsive and precise, offering a satisfying experience whether making tight turns or cruising down the highway. The four-wheel independent suspension with a strut and stabilizer bar in the front and a multi-link system with a stabilizer bar in the rear absorb road imperfections and provide a comfy ride for everyone onboard. Interior Comfort The 2025 CX-5 seats up to five people, with enough room in the second row to comfortably accommodate adult passengers. Upscale materials and an intuitive layout give it a luxury feel, including leather wrapping on the gear selector and steering wheel. The soft cloth-trimmed seats offer six-way manual adjustments for the driver and front passenger, and upgrading one level to the S Select unlocks leatherette seating, power adjustments, and heated front seats. Cargo and Storage With 29.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, you'll have plenty of room to pack for a family trip or stock up on groceries. The rear seatback offers one-touch folding to expand the cargo area to 58.1 cubes when you need more space. For small-item storage, the center console armrest includes a tray and covered storage bin, there's an overhead console in the front with a holder for sunglasses, front seatback pockets, and a glove compartment. Infotainment Technology Every 2025 CX-5 features a 10.25-inch infotainment screen you can control with a rotary controller on the center console, convenient steering wheel buttons, or your voice. Bluetooth hands-free capability is standard for phone and audio, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity. Whether you typically traverse rural roads or navigate through city streets, the 2025 CX-5 will keep you on track and deliver you to your next destination in style. Contact or visit Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR to set up your test drive and experience everything this crossover SUV has to offer.

A leader in the crossover SUV segment, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 is still one of the best options that blends attractive style with an enjoyable driving experience. The more affordable base S model has been added back into the lineup this year and might be your perfect match if you spend a lot of time on the road or love to drive and are looking for a vehicle with responsive handling and ample interior space. A First Look at the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Power and Performance The base model of the 2025 CX-5 sports a peppy 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting ability and Sport mode. All models are equipped with iACTIV AWD, Mazda's advanced all-wheel drive system. The three range-topping trim levels offer even more power with a 227-horsepower turbocharged engine. more The electronic power-assisted steering is responsive and precise, offering a satisfying experience whether making tight turns or cruising down the highway. The four-wheel independent suspension with a strut and stabilizer bar in the front and a multi-link system with a stabilizer bar in the rear absorb road imperfections and provide a comfy ride for everyone onboard. Interior Comfort The 2025 CX-5 seats up to five people, with enough room in the second row to comfortably accommodate adult passengers. Upscale materials and an intuitive layout give it a luxury feel, including leather wrapping on the gear selector and steering wheel. The soft cloth-trimmed seats offer six-way manual adjustments for the driver and front passenger, and upgrading one level to the S Select unlocks leatherette seating, power adjustments, and heated front seats. Cargo and Storage With 29.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, you'll have plenty of room to pack for a family trip or stock up on groceries. The rear seatback offers one-touch folding to expand the cargo area to 58.1 cubes when you need more space. For small-item storage, the center console armrest includes a tray and covered storage bin, there's an overhead console in the front with a holder for sunglasses, front seatback pockets, and a glove compartment. Infotainment Technology Every 2025 CX-5 features a 10.25-inch infotainment screen you can control with a rotary controller on the center console, convenient steering wheel buttons, or your voice. Bluetooth hands-free capability is standard for phone and audio, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity. Whether you typically traverse rural roads or navigate through city streets, the 2025 CX-5 will keep you on track and deliver you to your next destination in style. Contact or visit Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR to set up your test drive and experience everything this crossover SUV has to offer.

Mazda's CX-50 is a relatively new addition to the Japanese automaker's lineup, and it has already achieved massive success thanks to its compelling powertrain options and superb driving characteristics. The stylish compact crossover vehicle also promises a long list of desirable creature comforts and technologies. Let's take an in-depth look at the features of the 2024 Mazda CX-50! Exploring the Versatility of the 2024 Mazda CX-50 Capable Performance and Handling The CX-50 offers two variants of a 2.5L Skyactiv-G inline-4. The standard motor is naturally aspirated, producing a healthy 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Those who want even more power can opt for the available turbocharged engine with its output of up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque good for a 0-to-60 time of well under six seconds. A smooth 6-speed automatic transmission completes the powertrain for both motors. more Impressive agility and stability in the corners result from the CX-50's well-tuned MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension. For sharper turn-in, the standard G-Vectoring Control Plus technology makes subtle changes to power delivery and braking. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System Every CX-50 boasts advanced i-Activ AWD, which features over two dozen sensors that monitor everything from steering and braking inputs to the temperature outside the vehicle. The information it gleans from these sensors is then used to determine the perfect amount of torque to send to each wheel in order to provide you with the best traction in a variety of conditions, ranging from wet, slippery roads to rugged off-road trails. Generous Passenger and Cargo Space Inside the CX-60's upscale cabin, there's plenty of room for five adults, including 41.7 inches of front legroom and 39.8 inches of rear legroom. The cargo hold features 31.4 cubic feet of space, but you can fold down the 60/40 split-folding rear seats to expand that figure to more than 56 cubic feet if you need to transport larger items. Deluxe Amenities Even in its most basic form, the CX-50 is well-equipped, sporting dual-zone automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, and LED interior lighting. Many trims offer an 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar support and heated front seats, as well. Premium Plus models are genuinely luxurious with their leather-wrapped and ventilated seats. An available driver memory system removes the hassle of readjusting the seat and mirrors when switching drivers. As for infotainment, an 8.8- or 10.25-inch display sits atop the dashboard and lets users to access wireless smartphone integration, Bluetooth technology, and HD Radio. If you fancy yourself an audiophile, then you'll certainly want to equip your CX-50 with the available 12-speaker Bose premium audio system. You'll be hard-pressed to find another small SUV that does so much for such an affordable price. Make a stop at Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR today and discover the Mazda CX-50 for yourself!

Mazda's CX-50 is a relatively new addition to the Japanese automaker's lineup, and it has already achieved massive success thanks to its compelling powertrain options and superb driving characteristics. The stylish compact crossover vehicle also promises a long list of desirable creature comforts and technologies. Let's take an in-depth look at the features of the 2024 Mazda CX-50! Exploring the Versatility of the 2024 Mazda CX-50 Capable Performance and Handling The CX-50 offers two variants of a 2.5L Skyactiv-G inline-4. The standard motor is naturally aspirated, producing a healthy 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Those who want even more power can opt for the available turbocharged engine with its output of up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque good for a 0-to-60 time of well under six seconds. A smooth 6-speed automatic transmission completes the powertrain for both motors. more Impressive agility and stability in the corners result from the CX-50's well-tuned MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension. For sharper turn-in, the standard G-Vectoring Control Plus technology makes subtle changes to power delivery and braking. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive System Every CX-50 boasts advanced i-Activ AWD, which features over two dozen sensors that monitor everything from steering and braking inputs to the temperature outside the vehicle. The information it gleans from these sensors is then used to determine the perfect amount of torque to send to each wheel in order to provide you with the best traction in a variety of conditions, ranging from wet, slippery roads to rugged off-road trails. Generous Passenger and Cargo Space Inside the CX-60's upscale cabin, there's plenty of room for five adults, including 41.7 inches of front legroom and 39.8 inches of rear legroom. The cargo hold features 31.4 cubic feet of space, but you can fold down the 60/40 split-folding rear seats to expand that figure to more than 56 cubic feet if you need to transport larger items. Deluxe Amenities Even in its most basic form, the CX-50 is well-equipped, sporting dual-zone automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, and LED interior lighting. Many trims offer an 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar support and heated front seats, as well. Premium Plus models are genuinely luxurious with their leather-wrapped and ventilated seats. An available driver memory system removes the hassle of readjusting the seat and mirrors when switching drivers. As for infotainment, an 8.8- or 10.25-inch display sits atop the dashboard and lets users to access wireless smartphone integration, Bluetooth technology, and HD Radio. If you fancy yourself an audiophile, then you'll certainly want to equip your CX-50 with the available 12-speaker Bose premium audio system. You'll be hard-pressed to find another small SUV that does so much for such an affordable price. Make a stop at Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR today and discover the Mazda CX-50 for yourself!

The revamped 2025 Mazda CX-5 is stylish, modern, and equipped with savvy standard features that enhance your daily driving experience. The first-tier trim is the 2.5 S model, which has an estimated fuel efficiency of 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. Explore the specs and features of the base CX-5 model today. A First Look at the 2025 Mazda CX-5 One of the most exciting standard features for the base 2.5 S trim is the i-ACTIV AWD system, which is standard across all CX-5 trims in the 2025 collection. This all-wheel-drive drivetrain provides impeccable traction and stability on the road in virtually all weather conditions. This model also comes with a six-speed automatic transmission with selectable Sport and Manual shift modes so you can customize the performance of the powertrain. Exterior Features The 2.5 S model is equipped with durable 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with all-season tires for perfect year-round traction. This trim has LED headlights with automatic on/off technology that uses sensors to detect outdoor lighting conditions, so headlights can turn on as soon as it gets dark. Daytime running lights are also standard. more This SUV has body-colored outside mirrors that emphasize the modern design of the vehicle. These side mirrors have built-in LED turn signals so the cars beside you can see your lane-change intentions. Rain-sensing automatic windshield wipers activate when the windshield is wet to keep your view of the road clear. Infotainment Features The CX-5 2.5 S is outfitted with an advanced MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system housed on a 10.25-inch centerstack multimedia touchscreen. This infotainment unit comes with access to HD Radio and voice command technology that allows you to send text messages or change infotainment settings hands-free. A 911 emergency notification system is also standard with this technology. Interior Features The cabin has luxurious features such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector. The second-row seat has a 40/20/40 folding configuration, with a one-touch button to fold or recline the seats. The air conditioning system comes with a built-in pollen filter to reduce allergens for sensitive passengers. Safety Features This Mazda also comes with a variety of safety and driver-assistance features, such as high-beam headlight control that automatically turns off the high-beam headlight when oncoming cars are detected. The base model has Mazda Radar Cruise Control that adapts the cruise control speed to match surrounding traffic, even in stop-and-go traffic. The CX-5 is attractive, affordable, and comes with abundant advanced technology to enhance your driving experience. From the intuitive infotainment system to the AWD drivetrain ready to adapt to all driving conditions, this crossover SUV is an excellent option for urban and suburban drivers. If you're ready to reserve your CX-5, get in touch with Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR.

The revamped 2025 Mazda CX-5 is stylish, modern, and equipped with savvy standard features that enhance your daily driving experience. The first-tier trim is the 2.5 S model, which has an estimated fuel efficiency of 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. Explore the specs and features of the base CX-5 model today. A First Look at the 2025 Mazda CX-5 One of the most exciting standard features for the base 2.5 S trim is the i-ACTIV AWD system, which is standard across all CX-5 trims in the 2025 collection. This all-wheel-drive drivetrain provides impeccable traction and stability on the road in virtually all weather conditions. This model also comes with a six-speed automatic transmission with selectable Sport and Manual shift modes so you can customize the performance of the powertrain. Exterior Features The 2.5 S model is equipped with durable 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with all-season tires for perfect year-round traction. This trim has LED headlights with automatic on/off technology that uses sensors to detect outdoor lighting conditions, so headlights can turn on as soon as it gets dark. Daytime running lights are also standard. more This SUV has body-colored outside mirrors that emphasize the modern design of the vehicle. These side mirrors have built-in LED turn signals so the cars beside you can see your lane-change intentions. Rain-sensing automatic windshield wipers activate when the windshield is wet to keep your view of the road clear. Infotainment Features The CX-5 2.5 S is outfitted with an advanced MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system housed on a 10.25-inch centerstack multimedia touchscreen. This infotainment unit comes with access to HD Radio and voice command technology that allows you to send text messages or change infotainment settings hands-free. A 911 emergency notification system is also standard with this technology. Interior Features The cabin has luxurious features such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector. The second-row seat has a 40/20/40 folding configuration, with a one-touch button to fold or recline the seats. The air conditioning system comes with a built-in pollen filter to reduce allergens for sensitive passengers. Safety Features This Mazda also comes with a variety of safety and driver-assistance features, such as high-beam headlight control that automatically turns off the high-beam headlight when oncoming cars are detected. The base model has Mazda Radar Cruise Control that adapts the cruise control speed to match surrounding traffic, even in stop-and-go traffic. The CX-5 is attractive, affordable, and comes with abundant advanced technology to enhance your driving experience. From the intuitive infotainment system to the AWD drivetrain ready to adapt to all driving conditions, this crossover SUV is an excellent option for urban and suburban drivers. If you're ready to reserve your CX-5, get in touch with Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR.

A smooth-running engine depends on the spark plugs, which in turn rely on the ignition coils. If one of your coils fouls, cracks, or malfunctions, the corresponding cylinder will no longer be able to fire properly. This misfiring robs the engine of power and can even damage your car. If you notice the following indications of a bad coil, have it repaired or replaced at your local Mazda dealer as soon as you can. Ask Your Mazda Dealership: 6 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil Dropping Engine Power With all cylinders firing as they should, your car will be cruising along with as much power as you need. But if one bad coil prevents a spark plug and cylinder from doing its job, your engine's power will be significantly reduced. You're likely to notice this sudden loss of power when attempting to accelerate or when driving at speed on the highway. more Coughing, Sputtering Engine When a coil begins to fail, the connected spark plug will be unable to produce the electricity required to ignite the fuel. As this spark plug misfires, the engine will cough, sputter, and shake. You may also hear strange banging sounds coming from the engine. It's best to respond quickly to signs of misfiring, as the engine and elements inside the exhaust system can rapidly become damaged. Rough Idling and Stalls Misfiring spark plugs make the ordinary smooth purr of an idling engine become rougher and louder. Your misfiring engine will clearly struggle when you pause at traffic lights and may even stall. Then, once stalled, you might find it difficult to restart with at least one coil failing to function properly. Falling Gas Mileage When a bad coil causes misfiring, the fuel injector will continue to pump fuel into the cylinder. As this fuel is no longer being converted into mechanical power, your car will be traveling less far for each gallon of fuel it consumes. You'll need to stop for gas more frequently. Black Smoke and Backfiring With a bad coil preventing the spark plug from sparking, the unburned fuel will collect inside the combustion chamber, coating the spark plug with sooty residue, thereby worsening the problem. This unburned fuel will also start to leak back into the exhaust pipes, wherein it may ignite, creating a loud bang and spewing black smoke from the tailpipe. Blinking Check Engine Light Fortunately, the check engine light will usually come to life on your dashboard as soon as one of your coils fails. It's unwise to ignore this light; head to your local dealership without delay for repairs. Got a bad coil? Visit Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR, to have it repaired or replaced today.  For over 50 years, we've been helping out the region's drivers with excellent vehicles, competitive deals, and prompt, courteous customer care.

A smooth-running engine depends on the spark plugs, which in turn rely on the ignition coils. If one of your coils fouls, cracks, or malfunctions, the corresponding cylinder will no longer be able to fire properly. This misfiring robs the engine of power and can even damage your car. If you notice the following indications of a bad coil, have it repaired or replaced at your local Mazda dealer as soon as you can. Ask Your Mazda Dealership: 6 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil Dropping Engine Power With all cylinders firing as they should, your car will be cruising along with as much power as you need. But if one bad coil prevents a spark plug and cylinder from doing its job, your engine's power will be significantly reduced. You're likely to notice this sudden loss of power when attempting to accelerate or when driving at speed on the highway. more Coughing, Sputtering Engine When a coil begins to fail, the connected spark plug will be unable to produce the electricity required to ignite the fuel. As this spark plug misfires, the engine will cough, sputter, and shake. You may also hear strange banging sounds coming from the engine. It's best to respond quickly to signs of misfiring, as the engine and elements inside the exhaust system can rapidly become damaged. Rough Idling and Stalls Misfiring spark plugs make the ordinary smooth purr of an idling engine become rougher and louder. Your misfiring engine will clearly struggle when you pause at traffic lights and may even stall. Then, once stalled, you might find it difficult to restart with at least one coil failing to function properly. Falling Gas Mileage When a bad coil causes misfiring, the fuel injector will continue to pump fuel into the cylinder. As this fuel is no longer being converted into mechanical power, your car will be traveling less far for each gallon of fuel it consumes. You'll need to stop for gas more frequently. Black Smoke and Backfiring With a bad coil preventing the spark plug from sparking, the unburned fuel will collect inside the combustion chamber, coating the spark plug with sooty residue, thereby worsening the problem. This unburned fuel will also start to leak back into the exhaust pipes, wherein it may ignite, creating a loud bang and spewing black smoke from the tailpipe. Blinking Check Engine Light Fortunately, the check engine light will usually come to life on your dashboard as soon as one of your coils fails. It's unwise to ignore this light; head to your local dealership without delay for repairs. Got a bad coil? Visit Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR, to have it repaired or replaced today.  For over 50 years, we've been helping out the region's drivers with excellent vehicles, competitive deals, and prompt, courteous customer care.

Brakes are the unsung heroes of your car, working hard to ensure that you stop on a dime every time you press the pedal. However, if you neglect to properly maintain your brakes, that stopping precision may one day diminish. Along with routine brake inspections at your local Mazda dealer, it's crucial to get brake repair promptly carried out at any indication of trouble. Here are five key warning signs to look out for. 5 Signs Your Mazda Needs a Brake Repair Your Brake Pads Are Squealing Brakes occasionally emit squealing sounds for various reasons. Sometimes, this noise means there's a little water on the brake pads, in which case the noise won't last. If the squealing persists, your brakes might have a rust issue. More commonly, squealing points to a worn-out brake pad, which is designed to make this noise to let you know it's time for a new pad. If you hear metallic grinding sounds, one of your pads might have lost its upper friction layer altogether, which means it's causing damage to the rotor and needs to be replaced immediately. more Your Rotor Discs Are Pulsing Most rotors are made from cast iron or even stronger materials and tend to last a very long time. However, overheating or excessive use can weaken a rotor and cause it to warp or become scored by the brake pad. If this happens, you may feel a rhythmic pulsing through the brake pedal and steering wheel as a brake pad presses against a malformed rotor. Your Calipers Are Clattering The calipers serve as the casing for each braking mechanism. If one of the pistons inside a caliper seizes or a loose bolt, pin, or stone becomes trapped in the caliper, you might hear it clattering or grinding when you brake. Your Brake Pedal Feels Spongy Any soft or spongy sensation to the brake pedal may point to leaking brake fluid. This means optimal hydraulic pressure has been lost inside one of the brake lines and your car will no longer stop as promptly. Never continue to drive if you suspect leaking brake fluid. Your Brakes Are Overheating Towing heavy trailers, descending steep mountain roads, winding through hills, and navigating busy city traffic all require continuous braking. This can sometimes cause brakes to reach enormous temperatures and overheat, which may lead to brake fade. The phenomenon of brake fade temporarily reduces the friction necessary to stop a car. If your brakes seem to suddenly weaken, pull over safely and allow them to cool down. If the problem continues when your brakes are cool, ask a trusted technician to take a look. Have Your Brakes Inspected at Your Mazda Dealer Regular brake inspection is the flip side of the brake maintenance coin. It's advisable to have your brakes inspected at your local dealer twice a year; our technicians can let you know how safe your brakes currently are to use and quickly repair or replace worn-out parts. Visit Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR, today to have your brakes examined by experienced professionals. Our locally owned and operated dealership provides consistently high-quality customer care, whatever your automobile needs may be.

Brakes are the unsung heroes of your car, working hard to ensure that you stop on a dime every time you press the pedal. However, if you neglect to properly maintain your brakes, that stopping precision may one day diminish. Along with routine brake inspections at your local Mazda dealer, it's crucial to get brake repair promptly carried out at any indication of trouble. Here are five key warning signs to look out for. 5 Signs Your Mazda Needs a Brake Repair Your Brake Pads Are Squealing Brakes occasionally emit squealing sounds for various reasons. Sometimes, this noise means there's a little water on the brake pads, in which case the noise won't last. If the squealing persists, your brakes might have a rust issue. More commonly, squealing points to a worn-out brake pad, which is designed to make this noise to let you know it's time for a new pad. If you hear metallic grinding sounds, one of your pads might have lost its upper friction layer altogether, which means it's causing damage to the rotor and needs to be replaced immediately. more Your Rotor Discs Are Pulsing Most rotors are made from cast iron or even stronger materials and tend to last a very long time. However, overheating or excessive use can weaken a rotor and cause it to warp or become scored by the brake pad. If this happens, you may feel a rhythmic pulsing through the brake pedal and steering wheel as a brake pad presses against a malformed rotor. Your Calipers Are Clattering The calipers serve as the casing for each braking mechanism. If one of the pistons inside a caliper seizes or a loose bolt, pin, or stone becomes trapped in the caliper, you might hear it clattering or grinding when you brake. Your Brake Pedal Feels Spongy Any soft or spongy sensation to the brake pedal may point to leaking brake fluid. This means optimal hydraulic pressure has been lost inside one of the brake lines and your car will no longer stop as promptly. Never continue to drive if you suspect leaking brake fluid. Your Brakes Are Overheating Towing heavy trailers, descending steep mountain roads, winding through hills, and navigating busy city traffic all require continuous braking. This can sometimes cause brakes to reach enormous temperatures and overheat, which may lead to brake fade. The phenomenon of brake fade temporarily reduces the friction necessary to stop a car. If your brakes seem to suddenly weaken, pull over safely and allow them to cool down. If the problem continues when your brakes are cool, ask a trusted technician to take a look. Have Your Brakes Inspected at Your Mazda Dealer Regular brake inspection is the flip side of the brake maintenance coin. It's advisable to have your brakes inspected at your local dealer twice a year; our technicians can let you know how safe your brakes currently are to use and quickly repair or replace worn-out parts. Visit Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR, today to have your brakes examined by experienced professionals. Our locally owned and operated dealership provides consistently high-quality customer care, whatever your automobile needs may be.

If your alternator starts to malfunction, it can lead to a host of issues. To determine whether your Mazda needs an alternator service from your Mazda dealer, watch out for the following signs. 7 Signs Your Mazda Needs an Alternator Service From Your Mazda Dealer 1. Illuminated Battery Warning Light As you drive your vehicle, the demand for power increases, and the alternator works harder to uphold the required voltage. A malfunctioning alternator may struggle to keep up with these demands and cause the battery warning light to go on due to voltage fluctuations or to flicker, especially when you turn on your headlights or use accessories. 2. Dim or Flickering Headlights A faulty alternator struggles to produce sufficient power to keep the lights consistently bright while the accessories are in use. When you accelerate or use accessories, you might notice the headlights dimming, flickering, or fluctuating between dim and bright. 3. Malfunctioning Accessories You may notice a variety of issues with the accessories at the same time. Your windshield wipers and windows may move more slowly, the power seats may stop working, and your sunroof might get stuck. Minimize the use of the accessories to avoid a complete alternator failure until it's repaired. more 4. Burning Odors When the alternator is under strain, it can generate excessive power, leading to overheated wires. A misaligned pulley will increase friction on the rubber belt. When too much heat is generated, it causes a distinct electrical burning odor. 5. Stalls If your alternator malfunctions while you're driving, your car might stall. This usually occurs alongside the illumination of the battery light. It's important to note if the alternator is responsible for stalling your vehicle, it's only a matter of time before it happens again. 6. Hard Starts A failing alternator relies on the battery's power to keep the electrical system running. If a faulty alternator is not recharging the battery, your battery will lack the necessary charge to start your car. A quick jump-start might kick-start the engine if your battery can still hold a charge, but it won't keep it running for long. 7. Dead Battery When your alternator fails, it strains your battery. Your battery is not meant for long-term power supply, so it tries to compensate and eventually drains and dies. To check if the battery or alternator is causing the issue, you can jump-start your car and disconnect the cables promptly. If the alternator doesn't charge the system, your vehicle won't run. If your vehicle continues running, then the battery is causing the problem. Don't allow a malfunctioning alternator to cause your vehicle to break down. If you're struggling with failing accessories, dim lights, stalls, or hard starts, stop at Royal Moore Mazda in Hillsboro, OR, today. Our team of Mazda technicians will sort out your alternator problems expertly.