The Benefits of Owning a Connected Car: A Check Engine Light Experience

TLDR; The speaker shares a check engine light experience, highlights the benefit of a connected car, and provides an 85,000 mile update on the Mazda 3.

💡 Check Engine Light Experience

The speaker experienced a check engine light issue during a road trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Despite driving normally, the light came on near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park sign.

The issue was later identified as a pedal fault and a catalytic converter code. After stopping for dinner, the check engine light resolved itself, providing a sense of relief.

The speaker found the occurrence to be a learning experience and emphasized the importance of a connected car.

The 2019 and up Mazda 3 models are known as connected vehicles, allowing Mazda to access the vehicle's information.

Despite initial reservations about owning a connected car, the speaker found it beneficial when dealing with the check engine light issue.

🚗 Benefit Of A 'Connected' Car

The speaker highlighted the advantage of owning a connected car, as it allows the dealership to remotely diagnose issues.

When the check engine light came on, the speaker was able to call the Mazda dealer over 600 miles away.

The dealer accessed the car's information and quickly identified the issue as a pedal fault, providing reassurance and peace of mind.

The speaker emphasized the importance of maintaining a good relationship with the dealer, as it was instrumental in resolving the issue promptly.

Additionally, the speaker recommended carrying a code reader for added convenience.

⚙️ 85,000 Mile Update (Other Issues)

The speaker provided an update on the Mazda 3 at 85,000 miles, mentioning a peculiar air conditioning issue.

The air conditioning stopped working after a road trip, but it mysteriously started working again after hitting a pothole.

Additionally, the speaker discussed the cost of maintenance, emphasizing the importance of following the service interval and doing preventative maintenance to ensure the car's longevity.