7 Signs Your Mazda Needs a New Car Battery

If you've been looking for a new sports car and have been interested in the Mazda MX-5 Miata, it's likely you 've been trying to answer the question what are the Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. MX-5 Miata RF key differences? Well, you’re in the right place, we’re going to explain it to you in plain language. Both are two-seat roadsters built around the same core philosophy - responsive handling, a lightweight feel, and a connection to the road. But one detail separates them and understanding it will help you choose the right one. What Makes the MX-5 Miata the Classic Choice The standard Mazda MX-5 Miata features a traditional soft-top convertible roof that folds down manually in seconds. It's the lighter of the two, and that weight advantage contributes directly to its nimble, balanced feel behind the wheel. If you want the most open-air experience possible, the soft top is hard to overlook. The 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata is well-suited for anyone who values simplicity and immediacy. When you want the wind in your hair, you pop the latch and the roof folds back. It doesn't get more easy than that. What Sets the MX-5 Miata RF Apart The Mazda MX-5 Miata RF where RF stands for Retractable Fastback  features a power-folding hard top roof with a distinctive fastback roofline. When the roof is raised, it gives the car a more coupe-like appearance. When lowered, a portion of the roof remains in place, creating an open-air targa-style feel rather than a fully open convertible experience. T he RF's hard top offers better insulation from wind and road noise at highway speeds, which some drivers find more comfortable on longer trips. The trade-off is a small amount of added weight and a slightly less open feel compared to the soft-top version. Performance: More Similar Than Different When it comes to performance, the Mazda MX-5 and the MX-5 RF are closely matched. Both are powered by the same engine and deliver the same responsive, driver-focused character that has made the Miata a favorite for decades. Both also get 29 MPG combined based on EPA estimates, so gas milage is not a deciding factor between the two. What you'll notice more is the way the roof affects the overall feel of the car. The soft top feels more open and airy, while the RF delivers a more enclosed atmosphere when the roof is up. Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. MX-5 Miata RF: Which Is Right for You When looking at the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the MX-5 Miata RF side by side, it really comes down to personal preference. If you want a fully open convertible experience and a lighter overall feel, the standard MX-5 Miata is the clear choice. If you prefer a more polished look with a hard top and quieter highway manners, the RF makes a strong case for itself. Visit Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon So. if you're leaning toward the soft top or the Retractable Fastback, the team at Auffenberg Mazda of O'Fallon is ready to help you explore both options in person. Visit auffenbergmazda.com to browse current inventory, build your ideal MX-5, and schedule a test drive.

Choosing a midsize SUV means looking beyond the spec sheet. You want something that's enjoyable to drive every day, comfortable for everyone on board, and capable when life calls for a little more. The 2026 Mazda CX-70 and Jeep ® Grand Cherokee both check plenty of boxes, but they take very different approaches. While the Grand Cherokee leans into its legendary off-road heritage, the Mazda CX-70 focuses on delivering a refined, premium driving experience without giving up capability. For many drivers around Shiloh, IL, that makes the CX-70 the more compelling choice. Performance Designed for Everyday Confidence The 2026 Mazda CX-70 offers a choice of electrified powertrains that blend performance with efficiency. Turbocharged I nline- 6 models produce up to 280 hp and 332 lbs. ft. of torque using regular fuel, while Turbo S models increase output to 340 hp and 369 lbs. ft. of torque with premium fuel. Drivers looking for greater efficiency can opt for the plug-in hybrid, which delivers 323 hp, approximately 30 miles of all-electric driving, and up to 3,500 lbs. of towing capacity. Properly equipped turbocharged models can tow up to 5,000 lbs., and every CX-70 comes standard with i -ACTIV AWD® for confident handling in changing road conditions. The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee introduces its new 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo engine while continuing to offer the capable four-wheel-drive systems that have made it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts. It remains an excellent SUV for those who regularly venture off the pavement. Most drivers, however, spend far more time commuting, traveling, and running errands than navigating trails. In those situations, the CX-70's responsive steering, composed ride, and refined powertrain make it the more rewarding vehicle to drive. A Cabin That Feels a Step Above Mazda has built a reputation for interiors that feel more premium than many competitors, and the CX-70 continues that tradition. Available Nappa leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seats, Driver Personalization, a panoramic moonroof, and a Bose® 12-speaker premium audio system create an inviting environment for every drive. A standard 12.3-inch center display and available 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster complete the clean, modern cabin. The Grand Cherokee also offers an upscale interior with available premium leather upholstery, a McIntosh® premium audio system, massage seats, and an available front-passenger interactive display. Those features help create an impressive luxury experience, though many are reserved for higher trim levels. The CX-70 delivers a premium atmosphere throughout much of its lineup. Technology That Works with You The CX-70 makes advanced technology a core part of the ownership experience. Standard features include Smart Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane-keep Assist, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Driver Attention Alert, Rear Seat Alert, and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. Available upgrades include Front Cross Traffic Alert, Head-on Traffic Avoidance Assist, Emergency Lane Keeping, Driver Personalization, and a Bose® premium audio system. The Grand Cherokee counters with available Hands-Free Active Driving Assist, Night Vision, a 360-degree Surround View Camera, and an available front-passenger touchscreen. These technologies are impressive, particularly for buyers planning more adventurous outings. Why the 2026 Mazda CX-70 Comes Out Ahead The Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to be an excellent option for drivers who regularly explore off-road trails and want traditional SUV capability. For most midsize SUV shoppers, however, the 2026 Mazda CX-70 delivers the more complete package. Its available electrified powertrains, standard i -ACTIV AWD®, premium craftsmanship, engaging driving dynamics, advanced safety technologies, and available 5,000-lb. towing capacity make it exceptionally well suited for everyday life while remaining ready for weekend adventures. Experience the 2026 Mazda CX-70 Near Shiloh, IL If you're comparing midsize SUVs, the 2026 Mazda CX-70 deserves a closer look. Visit Auffenberg Mazda of O’Fallon serving Shiloh, IL, to explore available inventory, compare trim levels, and schedule a test drive online. Once you're behind the wheel, it's easy to appreciate why the CX-70 stands out in one of the industry's most competitive segments.

Winter does a number on your car. Cold starts, salt on the roads, potholes that show up overnight. By the time spring rolls into Shiloh, IL, your Mazda has earned a little extra attention. The good news is that it does not take much to get everything back in shape. A few smart checks now can save you from bigger headaches later. more Why a Quick Reset After Winter Makes a Difference Think of spring maintenance as a reset button. Road salt can linger underneath the car, temperatures mess with tire pressure, and fluids do not always hold up the way you expect through colder months. Getting ahead of it now means smoother driving when the weather finally cooperates. It is simple and worth doing before the first long drive of the season. 1. Tires Take the First Hit, So Start There Your tires deal with everything winter throws at them. Check for uneven wear, low tread, or visible damage. A quick rotation helps even things out and keeps the ride consistent. Tire pressure is just as important. Cold air lowers it, and as temperatures rise, it can swing the other way. Getting it set correctly improves handling and helps your Mazda feel more stable on the road. 2. Wipers and Washer Fluid, Because Spring Isn’t Always Sunny Spring brings rain, and a lot of it. If your wipers left streaks at the end of winter, they are not going to improve on their own. Swap them out. It is quick and makes a real difference the next time a storm rolls in. Top off the washer fluid while you are at it. Pollen, dust, and road grime show up fast this time of year, and you will use more fluid than you think. 3. Battery Check Before It Leaves You Stranded Cold weather is tough on batteries. Even if your car starts fine now, it could be running on borrowed time. A simple test tells you if it is still holding a proper charge. If it is not, replacing it now beats dealing with a no-start situation in a parking lot later. It is one of those small checks that can save a lot of frustration. 4. Fluids and Filters Keep Everything Running Smoothly This is the part most people put off, and it is the one that matters most. Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. If anything looks low or dirty, it is time to take care of it. Air filters are just as important. A clean filter helps your engine breathe better, which improves efficiency and overall performance. It is a simple fix that makes a noticeable difference over time. 5. Wash It Properly, Not Just the Paint A quick rinse is not enough after winter. Salt and grime collect underneath the car, and that is where long-term damage can start. A thorough wash, including the undercarriage, helps prevent corrosion. Adding a layer of wax afterward gives the paint some protection from spring rain and sun. It also just makes the car look better, which never hurts. Get Your Mazda Ready at Auffenberg Mazda of O’Fallon If you would rather have a professional take care of it, Auffenberg Mazda of O’Fallon has you covered. From tire service to fluid checks, their team handles the details so you do not have to. If you are in Shiloh, IL, stop by and schedule a service online while you are there. It is a simple way to make sure your Mazda is ready for the miles ahead.