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Mazda Safety: Built to Protect the People Inside Mazda has built its reputation by focusing on the fundamentals first—strong vehicle structures, predictable handling, and driver-assistance systems designed to help when they're needed, not compete for your attention. Independent testing has recognized that approach, with Consumer Reports naming Mazda the Safest New-Car Brand and numerous Mazda models earning 2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards. Those honors don't come from clever advertising. They come from years of careful engineering. Recognition That Reflects Real Engineering Crash-test awards are valuable because they're earned, not claimed. For the third consecutive year, Mazda received an impressive number of IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards across its lineup. The 2026 Mazda CX-30, CX-50, CX-50 Hybrid, CX-70, CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid, CX-90, CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid, Mazda3 Hatchback, and Mazda3 Sedan all achieved the organization's highest recognition. That's significant because it shows consistency. The engineering principles that protect occupants aren't reserved for one flagship model, they extend throughout much of the Mazda lineup. Safety Begins Long Before an Emergency Mazda has always approached safety from the idea that helping drivers avoid trouble is every bit as important as protecting them during a collision. The company's driver-assistance technologies work alongside responsive steering, balanced chassis tuning, and excellent outward visibility to help drivers stay aware of what's happening around them. The systems are there to assist, but they never overwhelm the experience of driving the vehicle yourself. It's an approach that feels reassuring on a busy commute through Greenville, NC, and equally valuable during a longer journey on the highway. Electrified Models Carry the Same Standards Moving to a Mazda hybrid or Mazda plug-in hybrid shouldn't mean accepting different safety standards, and Mazda hasn't treated it that way. The CX-50 Hybrid, CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid, and CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid all earned IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ recognition, demonstrating that Mazda's engineering priorities remain consistent across both conventional and electrified powertrains. Efficiency is another advantage. The CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 56 MPGe combined, while the CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid is EPA-estimated at 61 MPGe combined, allowing drivers to reduce fuel consumption without giving up the confidence that comes from a highly rated safety design. Confidence Across the Entire Lineup One of the reassuring things about shopping for a Mazda is knowing that safety isn't limited to a particular body style or price point. If you're considering the agile Mazda3, the versatile CX-30, the well-rounded CX-5, or the spacious CX-90, you're looking at vehicles developed with the same philosophy: build a solid foundation first, then support the driver with thoughtfully integrated technology. If you're comparing models, exploring the new Mazda inventory in Greenville is an excellent way to see how available safety technologies and features vary across the lineup. Experience Mazda Safety at Brown & Wood Mazda Reading about safety ratings is useful, but understanding how a Mazda feels on the road is something else entirely. Visit us in Greenville, NC, to explore the latest Mazda lineup, compare available safety technologies, or schedule a test drive online. Once you're behind the wheel, you'll see why Mazda's approach to protecting drivers and passengers continues to earn recognition from some of the industry's most respected organizations.

Why Mazda's Driving Experience Stands Out From the Competition Many vehicles exist on the market today, but manufacturers do not build all of them with the same philosophy. Mazda spends decades refining what it means to truly connect a driver to the road. The results speak for themselves. The Mazda driving experience stands out from the competition due to a combination of thoughtful engineering, safety leadership, and a practical lineup. We encourage you to reach out to your Mazda dealer in Greenville, SC, for more information and to schedule a test drive. A Safety Record That Sets the Bar Mazda's consistent commitment to safety elevates its driving experience above the competition. Consumer Reports magazine names Mazda the Safest New-Car Brand. This distinction reflects years of deliberate design choices rather than a single lucky model year. For the third consecutive year, Mazda leads all brands in IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards. The 2026 Mazda CX-30, CX-50, CX-50 Hybrid, CX-70, CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid, CX-90, CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid, Mazda3 Hatchback, and Mazda3 Sedan all earn this recognition. This sweep across an entire lineup gives drivers real confidence every time they get behind the wheel. A Lineup Built for Every Kind of Driver The Mazda vehicle lineup gives drivers another reason to choose the brand. If you seek an efficient daily commuter or a capable family SUV, you will find a model designed with your needs in mind. All models offer seamless connectivity through Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto©. The 2026 Mazda3 Sedan and Hatchback deliver a refined, sporty feel in a compact package. The CX-30 and CX-50 offer crossover versatility without sacrificing driving dynamics. For families needing more space, the CX-70 provides a spacious two-row experience, while the CX-90 brings three-row options and available electrified powertrains to the table. Mazda offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid options across several models. The 2026 CX-50 Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 38 miles per gallon combined. The CX-90 PHEV earns an EPA-estimated 56 MPGe combined. This range of choices reflects the approach Mazda takes to meet drivers where they are. Driving enthusiasts continue to praise the MX-5 Miata as one of the most rewarding sports cars available. Mazda designs it for balance, agility, and a real connection to the road. The Joy of Driving, Backed by Value The Mazda driving experience makes ownership feel worthwhile. Current offers on select 2026 models include attractive customer cash on crossover SUVs and excellent financing options for qualified buyers on the CX-90 PHEV. These savings make it easy to get into a vehicle you genuinely enjoy. When you look at safety leadership, a diverse lineup, electrification options, and accessible value, the Mazda driving experience clearly stands out from the competition. These are the results of a brand that takes driving seriously. Stop by your Mazda dealer in Greenville, SC, to explore the full 2026 Mazda lineup and find out which model moves you. You can also explore our online showroom to view current inventory and learn more.

How to Change the Battery in a Mazda Key Fob If you've noticed your Mazda key fob taking multiple presses to respond, the battery is likely running low. Knowing how to change the battery in a Mazda key fob is a simple, quick DIY skill that will get you back to using your advanced keyless entry system without a trip to the service center. This guide walks you through the exact process so you can swap out the battery yourself. What You'll Need Before You Start Before you open up your Mazda key fob, you'll need to gather a few simple tools: A replacement battery: Most Mazda key fobs use a CR2025 coin-style battery, though some models may use a CR2032. (Check your owner's manual to confirm). A small flathead screwdriver: Essential for prying the housing apart. A small piece of tape: Wrap this around the metal tip of your flathead screwdriver to prevent scratching or gouging the key fob's casing. A clean, flat workspace: Having a clear table prevents tiny internal pieces from rolling away. How to Open Your Mazda Key Fob Remove the auxiliary key: Turn the key fob over to find the small slide release button on the back. Push it and pull the metal emergency key out of the fob. Locate the prying slots: Look inside the slot where the metal key was just stored. You will see a small notch on either side of the inner casing. Pry the case open: Insert your tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver into one of these notches. Gently twist the screwdriver to begin splitting the two halves of the key fob apart. Repeat this on the other side if needed, working slowly until the cover pops open. Replacing the Battery With the case open, locate the battery compartment. Note the orientation of the existing battery before removing it; this is crucial as it ensures you'll place the new battery in the correct direction. Using your fingertips or a small tool, gently lift the old battery out, taking care not to touch any electronic circuitry inside the fob. Place the new battery into the compartment with the positive (+) side facing upwards, ensuring it sits securely within the designated holder. Then, align the two halves of the main key fob case and press them firmly together until you hear them click shut. Finally, slide your metal auxiliary key back into its slot. Pro Tip: Avoid using metal tweezers to pry out the old battery or slide the new one in. Metal tools can touch the internal circuitry and cause a short circuit, potentially damaging the transmitter. Your fingers or a small plastic tool is much safer. Testing Your Key Fob After the Swap With everything clicked back into place, stand near your Mazda and press the lock or unlock button. Your vehicle should respond instantly. If your model features a push-button start, jump inside and start the engine; the low-key battery warning indicator on your dashboard should now be gone. If the fob still isn't responding, open it back up to ensure the battery wasn't put in upside down. When to Visit a Professional While replacing a Mazda key fob battery is typically a five-minute job, sometimes key fob issues run deeper than a dead battery. If a fresh battery doesn't restore your key's remote functions, the transmitter may need to be reprogrammed or replaced altogether. If you need a replacement battery, a brand-new fob, or any other certified Mazda maintenance, the team at Brown & Wood Automotive is here to help. Stop by our Greenville dealership or visit us online at brown-wood.net to schedule a service appointment today!