Having a bluetooth in your car is one of the most important innovations in the auto world. When it was first introduced, it was mainly for making hand-free calls by wirelessly connecting the phone to the car. Today, Bluetooth offers a number of other advantages that go a long way to enhancing road safety. 

Hand-free telephone
In addition to hand-free telephony, some Bluetooth auto systems come with Phone Book Access Profile (PBAP). It can be used to synchronize with the contacts on your phone so that you can see the names of callers, browse the address book and see the log of received, dialed, and missed calls.

Audio streaming (A2DP)
Bluetooth in your car also gives you Advanced Distribution Profile (A2DP) that makes the connected car audio system to receive stereo audio from Bluetooth-enable phone. The same wireless connection used for hands-free telephony can be used to listen to music on your phone. It can also be used to stream from an internet-based radio service like Spotify or Pandora and to listen to audiobooks as well as podcasts.

Most of the latest brands of cars that support Bluetooth telephony also support audio streaming with metadata display. Metadata display will usually be of song title, artist and album name. A2DP comes with Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) that facilitates receiving metadata from a connected Bluetooth phone and also gives you to ability to control playback.

Text messaging (MAP)
Message Access Profile (MAP) gives a driver bi-directional access to phone texts. Incoming messages can be read out loud so you can keep driving without having to check. Some car stereos that support MAP also make it possible to send a quick message like ‘Will you back’ or ‘Stuck in traffic’ with a tap or two. If you are waiting for a particular message or want to check them as they come in, you can just listen and keep driving which addresses a common cause of accidents which is texting while driving.

Data tethering and apps 
Some Bluetooth phones facilitate data tethering that makes it possible for the handset and other connective device like a laptop to share an internet connection. While this is unsuitable for heavy browsing, car stereos need very little data to work making them ideal for Bluetooth tethering. Some auto infotainment systems can use Bluetooth to power smartphone apps making it possible to use voice command to select radio stations or make travel or restaurant reservations online. Automatic Bluetooth can be used to connect to apps to an interface that can safely be used in the car.

Universal support
Most phones support Bluetooth connectivity to MAP, A2DP and HFP and to Apple and Android smartphones. Also, connectivity is standard or offered as an inexpensive option.

Mazda Bluetooth compatibility
Mazda understands the role of Bluetooth in ensuring safety on the road. To this end, there is hands-free support for all Mazda MX-5, Sport Tech, Mazda 6 and Mazda CX-5 models. All new Mazda 3 models have an advanced connectivity system and Mazda 2, 5 and MX-5 models purchased from February, 2014 have an AVN2 Mazda navigation system. The previous editions of Mazda have TomTom satellite navigation systems.

Upgrades
If you live in Chesapeake, Norfolk or Virginia Beach and are looking to buy a Mazda fitted with the latest Bluetooth-based systems or get your car updated, make your way to Cavalier Mazda. Located on 1552 South Military Highway, Chesapeake, VA 23320, you can buy or lease your new or pre-owned Mazda or friendly, experienced staff can upgrade your car so you can enjoy the best and latest Bluetooth-based systems.

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For further information: Nick Beard, Mazda North American Operations, 949-727-6567, or Eric Booth, Mazda North American Operations, 949-727-6144

Posted in Cavalier Mazda News | Comments Off on Mazda CX-5 and Mazda6 Set Record September Sales

September is a great month for events throughout the Tidewater region. Labor Day is celebrated on the last weekend in August and is considered the end of the summer vacation season. However, it will be three weeks before autumn begins. Checking Cavalier Mazda at 1552 S. Military Hwy, Chesapeake, VA 23320, or visiting https://www.cavaliermazda.com/, will help families get the vehicle they need to keep up with the different events.

The First Weekend
Friday September the 5th starts off the first weekend of the month and the choice of activities is robust. The Annual Blues at the Beach celebration is a major two-day east coast blues festival. For just five dollars a day, or eight for both, families can enjoy blues music from local and national acts at the 17th Street Park on the Virginia Beach oceanfront. Other events on the oceanfront this first weekend include the Neptune’s Surfing Classic and the 18th Annual Neptune’s Fall Wine Festival.

The 32nd Annual Hampton Bay Days Festival also starts this weekend in downtown Hampton. This is a celebration of the Chesapeake Bay and features musical performances and special events. Norfolk also gets started early with Bubbles and Bluejeans on Friday evening at TowneBank Fountain Park. This event caters to women who are interested in sampling sparkling wine while enjoying acoustic music. The park is also home to the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival on Sunday, which is a traditional Asian holiday celebration.

September 12th and 13th
The second weekend of the month also has some unique events to enjoy. Friday evening is the start of the Mediterranean Weekend, which is a free celebration of Italian and Greek food and culture. Festa Italiana takes place at the Virginia Beach Town Center and My Big Fat Greek Party will be at the 24th Street Park. In Norfolk, the Embrace the Culture Indie Music and Arts Festival will be held in Town Point Park on Saturday the 13th. This is a free event that is designed to encourage independent musicians and artists to expose their art to the public.

September 20th
The Oceanna Air Show returns on Saturday the 20th for two days of stunt flying and aerial demonstrations. The free event is held at the Naval Air Station Oceanna between Norfolk and Virginia Beach and is a one of a kind experience for those who are fascinated by flight and aircraft. In Downtown Norfolk at Town Point Park, Ribtoberfest returns for the second year. This celebration of ribs and beer also includes musical entertainment.

The End Of Summer
Virginia Beach is the site of several big events starting on Friday the 26th, so having a reliable vehicle will make it easier to get around. To celebrate the end of summer, Boardwalk Weekend is a major event with three stages of musical performances and 32 blocks of food and craft vendors. The International Sandsculpting Championship is also held this weekend and features 22 sculptures by international artists. This is the largest event of its kind in the world.

The Grand Finale
Saturday afternoon the Neptune Festival Grand Parade takes place and features floats, bands, and King Neptune and his court. The parade travels down 16 blocks of Virginia Beach Oceanfront which makes it easy for everyone to see. Sunday evening, a major fireworks display will be held at the end of the 14th Street pier. It will be visible from the entire boardwalk and will end the summer with style. There is a lot to see and do and everyone will find something that appeals to them.

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Automakers have introduced a number of safety innovations in recent years. Blind spot detection sensors, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warnings were all developed to help prevent crashes, and subsequently save lives.

Tire pressure monitors are another safety feature that enhance vehicle safety by alerting the drivers when a tire needs air. Driving on tires that have less than the manufacturers’ recommended pressure can cause more of the tire surface being in contact with the road. This lead to increased heat and a separation of the tire’s composition. When the materials separate, a dangerous blowout can occur.

Driving on worn or “bald” tires is also dangerous. As the tread of a tire wears away, the tires gradually lose their grip on the road surface. This lose of traction reduces the driver’s control of the vehicle and cause a collision.  

While vehicles have numerous safety features such as Mazda’s traction control, dynamic stability and side-impact door beams, one of most basic safety feature is to have good tires on your vehicle. There are ways to determine if your tires need to be replaced.

Placing a quarter or penny between the tire tread can indicate tread life on your tires. If the top of the image’s head can be seen, the treads are too worn for the vehicle to be drives safely. Replace the tires as soon as possible.

Tires are manufactured with built-in wear bars. These rubber bars are placed perpendicular to the tire treads. When tires are new or have significant tread remaining, the wear bars can barely be seen. They progressively become more visible as the tire treads wear down. When a visual inspection reveals the wear bars have become even with the tire tread, the tires should be replaced.

While a tire may not be showing significant wear, drivers should be mindful of the tires age. Most vehicle manufacturers suggest replacing tires after six years of use while tire makers recommend buying new tires after ten years if no other signs of excessive wear are present. Tire lifespan can be shortened if the vehicle is most driven in very warm climates.

While the treads are an important part of the visual tire inspection, attention should be paid to the sidewalls of the tires. Age and exposure to the elements can cause the walls of a tire to dry and crack. These cracks can eventually weaken the tires and lead to a blowout. If these cracks are vehicle to the naked eye, the tires should be replaced.

Any sort of blister-like bulges may indicate a weak spot in the wall of the tire. Such a bump usually indicates a separation in the tire material and can cause a sudden, dangerous tire blowout.

Vibrations in the car can be normal when driving over rough surfaces. If this happens on different road surfaces, it could indicate a problem with the tires or another component of the vehicle. Even if the tires are fine, such a malfunction may cause the tires to wear prematurely or develop other defects. Any sort of vibration should be checked immediately.

Driver living in or near Chesapeake, Virginia may visit Cavalier Mazda for any tire work they may need. Cavalier can repair tires, complete alignments and rotate tires according to manufacturers’ recommended intervals. You can also purchase new tires to help keep you vehicle in peak operating condition.

Caviler Mazda is located at 1552 South Military Highway in Chesapeake.

Tags: cavalier mazda, mazda, tires
Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Five Signs You Need New Tires

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today celebrated the unveiling of the fourth generation Mazda MX-5 (known as Roadster in Japan) together with fans at events held simultaneously in Japan, USA and Spain. The all-new MX-5, which adopts both SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and Mazda’s KODO—Soul of Motion design language, will be rolled out to global markets starting in 2015.

 The MX-5 is an iconic model representing Mazda’s vehicle-engineering philosophy—the pursuit of driving pleasure. “Innovate in order to preserve” was the motto for the fourth generation, as the development team searched for innovations that go beyond simple evolution. Environmental and safety demands are much more stringent than they were when the first generation MX-5 was introduced 25 years ago, but the fourth generation stays true to the model’s original aim of offering the pure driving fun that only a lightweight sports car can. It achieves this through the adoption of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and refinement of its appeal to the senses and sensations through which people enjoy cars.

 The design of the all-new MX-5 reveals another layer to Mazda’s KODO design language. The exquisite proportions make the driver and passenger stand out, and both the interior and exterior evoke the exhilaration of open-top driving. It is the most compact of any generation MX-5 so far and is more than 100 kilograms lighter than the model it replaces, promising a dramatic leap in Jinba-ittai driving fun.

As of July 2014, total production volume of the Mazda MX-5 exceeded 940,000 units and it continues to hold the Guinness World Record for the best-selling two-seater sports car. This highly-celebrated model has received over 200 awards from around the globe including Japan Car of the Year 2005-2006.

 Moving forward, Mazda will continue to develop products which offer all customers driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance.

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HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today unveiled the all-new Mazda2 (known as Mazda Demio in Japan). Production of the model, which has been fully redesigned for the first time in seven years, has begun at Mazda’s Hofu Plant No. 1 in Yamaguchi, Japan. Following the Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 (Atenza in Japan) and Mazda3 (Axela), the all-new Mazda2 is the fourth in Mazda’s line-up of next-generation models which adopt the full range of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and KODO-Soul of Motion design. The all-new Mazda2 will be rolled out in global markets starting from Japan this autumn.

The all-new Mazda2 brings a level of functionality and added-values exceeding the expectations for a car of this class by evolving the concepts and technologies cultivated through the development of earlier next-generation products, and condensing them in a compact body. KODO design gives the car the look of a living creature, and imparts a presence unrivaled in the class. Developed based on the same engineering concepts as those in larger next-generation models, new SKYACTIV engines, transmissions, body, and chassis, allow the all-new Mazda2 to provide both outstanding safety and eco-performance, and the brand’s trademark driving pleasure. The model also features a wide range of cutting-edge technologies such as the Mazda Connect^* next-generation car connectivity system, and a wide range of i-ACTIVSENSE advanced safety features that aid the driver in recognizing and responding to hazards.

The all-new Mazda2 is available with the SKYACTIV-D 1.5, a new small-displacement clean diesel engine that offers excellent fuel economy and eco-performance while delivering torque comparable to a 2.5-liter gasoline engine. Along with next-generation high-efficiency direct injection gasoline engines, the SKYACTIV-G 1.5 and SKYACTIV-G 1.3, the clean diesel engine will allow Mazda to offer an engine line-up tailored to the needs of each market. The Japanese market will get the SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter diesel and SKYACTIV-G 1.3-liter gasoline engines.

With total sales of over 2.4 million units, the Mazda2 is one of Mazda’s core products. Starting with the launch of the original in 1996, the Mazda2 has brought new value to the subcompact segment every time it has been fully redesigned. With this fourth generation Mazda2, Mazda again offers customers around the world a new interpretation of the subcompact car.

Posted in Cavalier Mazda News | Comments Off on Production of All-New Mazda2 Begins at Hofu Plant

Spring is budding in Chesapeake, VA, and your Mazda is probably ready for a good spring cleaning. Giving your car a thorough wash job is more than just about looks; it is about the overall health of your vehicle. An important part of the cleaning process is waxing, which helps to protect your automobile’s outer shell.

Why Is It Important to Keep Your Car Clean

As you drive, your car comes into contact with a large amount of dirt and grime. All that debris sticking to your vehicle slowly begins to flake your car’s paint. Winter is brutal on an automobile’s exterior. Driving on icy roads with salt, sand, and other debris begins to work away at the paint, and many times the salty debris makes its way under the finish – its most damaging residence.

Once the debris gets to the metal under the exterior finish, the metal begins to rust. After rusting begins, the problem becomes more difficult to treat. Rust can leave holes on the outside of the vehicle, which can expose sensitive working parts or even the passenger area of the car to the outside elements.

An important part of keeping your vehicle clean and protected is regularly waxing it. Wax is your automobile’s first line of defense against road dirt, grime, and gravel. It creates an outer protective layer, which keeps debris from loosening and chipping away at the paint. It also protects your paint from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

The helpful staff at your Chesapeake Mazda dealership urge you to give your car a good spring cleaning and regular washes, so your Mazda will look and feel its best at all times. A happy car holds happy passengers.

Car Washes In or Near Chesapeake, Virginia
 

Freedom Detailing

Freedom Detailing has 9 self-service areas, 20 vacuums, carpet shampoos, air machines, fragrance machines, and mega vacuums. Freedom is a one-stop self-service station for preparing your automobile for spring. 

Majestic Auto Spa

Besides the soft-cloth drive-through car wash, Majestic offers paintless dent repair, leather repair, auto detailing, headlight resurfacing, and paint touch-up. Majestic wants to ensure that all of your vehicle’s small surface repairs are complete so that your exterior finishes last as long as possible.

Auto Bell Car Wash

Auto Bell provides its customer with a variety of car wash packages. They also offer extra services such as interior carpet shampooing, undercarriage cleaning, polishing and sealing, rain repellent application, Armor All application, and vinyl top dressing. Auto Bell does not leave much undone if you opt for all of the services available. You will be starting out spring in a vehicle that looks like you just drove it off the lot.

Pro Detailing

Pro Detailing specializes in cleaning black vehicles. If you take advantage of all of the services available, you won’t see a speck of dirt left. The auto detailing services include hand washing, engine cleaning, wiping down door and trunk jambs, trunk cleaning, carpet shampooing, seat washing and conditioning, scratch removing, buffing and waxing, and much more.

Reliable Detailing

Reliable’s many different detailing packages will give your vehicle will get the deluxe treatment. Some of the deals available are a complete shampoo detail, a wash and wax detail, engine detail, over spray removal, well water and/or acid rain elimination, and the Platinum detail package.

Enjoy the Spring

Everyone at Cavalier Mazda extends their wish that each of you enjoys the beautiful spring weather. Be sure to give your Mazda a good spring cleaning, so it remains healthy and attractive. Do not forget to stop by and see our inventory of new Mazdas. Or just stop in and say hello!

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• Preparing Your Car For Spring: Service Tips for your Mazda Vehicle

Posted in Cavalier Mazda News | Comments Off on Where to Spring Clean Your Car in Chesapeake, VA

When people think of spring cleaning, they don’t usually consider their vehicles. However, giving your Mazda or another car a good wash, inside and out, is important, especially if you live in an area that was inundated with snow this winter. When you drive in snowy conditions, it is likely that your automobile has accumulated salt in locations underneath the body and in the wheel wells. Salt left in these areas or in any other places on your car can cause corrosion. Erosion caused by de-icing products can damage the exhaust and muffler system, coil springs, and the car frame. A good spring cleaning of your auto will fend off the corrosive qualities of salt and other de-icers as well as give your vehicle that new-car feel.  Here are a few tips from your Norfolk Mazda dealer:

Waxing Protects Your Car:

Following a good wash job, you should apply wax as a final finish to your vehicle’s exterior. Wax not only adds shine and curb appeal, it protects your paint job. Flying debris, accumulating contaminates, and UV rays all contribute to breaking down and/or chipping away at your exterior paint. Wax is your first line of defense against all of these assaults. According to Consumer Reports, liquid waxes are the best choice above spray and paste products. For the best protection, Consumer Reports advises reapplying within five weeks of each application.

Interior Cleaning Averts Rusting:

Remove any trash, and give the interior of your vehicle a good vacuuming and scrubbing. Popular Mechanics advises that “being thorough with the carpet is important, as it can act like a filthy, salty, wet rag that accelerates rusting. When you’re done, pull the drain plugs under the floor, and let things air out for a few days.”

Everyone deals with tough stains from time to time. For those really difficult areas, steam cleaning does wonders. Most detail services can help you out with this type of cleaning. For leather, be sure to use a leather cleaner. When cleaning your windows, spray the glass cleaner on the cloth, not directly on the window – this helps eliminate streaking.

Change Those Wiper Blades:

Winter is tough on windshield wipers. In preparation for those inevitable spring showers, it is a good idea to replace your vehicle’s wiper blades. You want to have the best visibility possible to ensure maximum safety for you and your family. If your current windshield wiper blades leave streaks or do not remove water efficiently, it’s probably time for a change. Consumer Reports offers this advice: “Our tests have found that most blades are ready for replacement after just six months, but you can try extending their service life by wiping them with a cloth and glass cleaner before removing them.”

A Few More Maintenance Items for Spring:

Check your tires, and be sure to switch out your winter tires to avoid excess wear. Inspect your ventilation system, or have a mechanic or detailing company perform regular maintenance, and make certain to change the cabin’s air filter regularly. Finally, ensure all fluids are topped off and/or changed per a maintenance schedule.

Cavalier Mazda wishes you and your family a happy spring. The following are five locations where you can take your vehicle for a spring cleaning in Norfolk, VA:

• Reliable Auto Detailing
• Divine Touch
• SSS Express Car Wash
• Pro Detailing
• Xtreme Detailing

Be sure to stop by and check out our selection of new and used Mazdas, or just stop in to say hello! The staff at Cavalier Mazda is ready to help you. We are conveniently located at:

1552 S Military Hwy
Chesapeake, VA  23320

Call us today at 888-854-7370.

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• Preparing Your Car For Spring: Service Tips for your Mazda Vehicle

Posted in Chesapeake Mazda Service | Comments Off on 5 Places to Spring Clean Your Mazda in Norfolk, VA

With Winter coming to an end, it’s time to prepare your Mazda vehicle for the upcoming Spring weather. Taking the time to properly care for your vehicle will ensure its optimal performance and appearance for many years to come. Scheduling routine maintenance here at Cavalier Mazda is a great way to ensure that your vehicle is ready for Spring.

Checking Your Tires

Now’s the perfect time to change your vehicle’s snow tires back to your standard all-season tires. Since temperature fluctuations can drastically alter tire pressure, your tires should be checked for proper inflation once you’ve made the switch. To avoid other tire damages, including rust and wear, head over to Cavalier Mazda’s service department where they can inspect, balance, and rotate your tires, as well as perform a pressure check. Located at 1552 S. Military Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23320, Cavalier Mazda offers Mazda owners routine services with convenient department hours available Monday-Saturday.

Replacing Engine Fluids

The condition of your engine’s fluids can be affected by a harsh Winter. It’s important to have your engine’s fluid levels, and condition, checked to determine whether they need to be topped off or replaced.

Checking Your Engine Coolant:

One of the most important fluids to be aware of is your engine’s coolant as it prevents the engine from freezing in the Winter and overheating in the warmer months. It also plays an important role in your vehicle’s air conditioning since the engine’s temperature affects its performance. As a rule of thumb, a vehicle’s coolant should be flushed and replaced at least once every two years.

Scheduling an Oil Change:

Now’s also a good time to have your oil and its filter changed. Oil changes are crucial when it comes to extending the life of your Mazda vehicle. In the Winter months, motor oil can be affected by acid buildup which can in turn negatively affect your engine’s components. Changing your oil will enhance your engine’s performance and helps to prevent engine trouble from occurring in the future. Oil changes should be completed about four times a year and can be scheduled here at Cavalier Mazda in Chesapeake, VA. After Winter is a great time to schedule your appointment so your Mazda vehicle is ready to go when Spring arrives.

Cleaning Your Mazda Vehicle’s Interior & Exterior

Keeping your vehicle’s interior and exterior clean, by removing dirt and grime, will greatly improve its overall appearance. With a little extra TLC after the Winter months you can be sure that your vehicle is ready for Spring.

Your Vehicle’s Interior:

During the Winter months you’ll likely track snow and salt into your car’s interior, leaving the floor looking dirty and worn. Now’s a great time to have your Mazda vehicle detailed before spring arrives to keep it looking its very best.

Your Mazda’s Exterior:

The exterior of a vehicle can also take a beating during the Winter especially due to the salt on the roads. To gain back its sleek, shiny appearance a trip to the car wash should be a top priority. With Spring on its way, rainy weather can also be expected making it the ideal time to have your vehicle waxed. A professional wax job will prevent rain spots from developing on your vehicle’s finish and helps to extend the life of its paint.

By following these tips your Mazda vehicle will be in great shape by the time Spring arrives. A little maintenance can go a long way and when it comes to your Mazda’s performance it’s well worth the effort.  For more advice and assistance schedule a service appointment at your Chesapeake Mazda Service Center.

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Posted in Chesapeake Mazda Service | Comments Off on Transitioning Your Mazda from Winter to Spring

With a Winter like the one we have experienced this year it is important to make sure your vehicle is reliable. You still need to commute to and from work, run errands and attend events, so your Mazda needs to be ready for the season. Some simple Mazda winter car care tips can ensure your vehicle is protected from the winter chill. You need to be able to rely on your Mazda year round and your Mazda relies on you to keep it running and looking it’s best. In addition to routine oil changes and service inspections at your local Cavalier Mazda dealership, these tips can help you survive the winter.

Debris

If you aren’t lucky enough to be able to park your vehicle in a garage each day when you arrive home, you want to pay extra close attention to the area where you are parking your vehicle. Debris like wet leaves, piles of snow and ice, etc. can all cause a buildup of moisture inside areas of your vehicle such as the engine or air intake. Make sure you clear the area where your vehicle is going to be parked overnight and keep an eye on things if the weather becomes exceptionally wet and windy.

Wiper Blades

Standard wiper blades are built to last about one year. At this point they can crack or rip and becomes far less effective, even useless. Winter wiper blades are available and do a much better job of removing ice and snow from your windshield. Winter blades also don’t freeze as easily as traditional all-year blades.

New Tires

If your Mazda isn’t brand new, your tires may have some wear to them that makes the treads less effective. Because of this you may have a hard time handling an icy or wet road. Consider replacing your tires with a new set or upgrading to winter or all-season tires. Your vehicle may also have come with low profile tires to make your vehicle look nicer. This is great, but you might want to consider a set of tires for the winter that will handle the road a lot better than stylish tires will.

Wiper Fluid

Fill up those windshield wiper reservoirs so you aren’t stuck driving halfway home, realizing the muck on your windshield isn’t coming off because you’re out of liquid. Salt from the roads, dirt, mud and ice can all create quite a dangerous mess on your windshield that can sometimes obstruct your vision.

Battery

When the weather is cold and nasty outside this can put a large stress on your battery. This is even truer if you park your vehicle outdoors while you are at work or at home. Before the cold weather hits it’s always a good idea to have your battery level checked at a Mazda Service Center. This is usually a very easy and affordable check to have done and it will give you peace of mind knowing that you can count on your Mazda to start up when you need it to.

If you would like to get your Mazda vehicle serviced or have any questions about keeping your Mazda in top condition contact Cavalier Mazda of Chesapeake, VA.

Posted in Chesapeake Mazda Service | Comments Off on Mazda Winter Car Care