Mazda recommends inspection at 60k and replacement at 105K. I personnaly would not let one of my own Mazda vehicles go more than 100K without a new Timing belt. If it does break then the engine will not be damaged. You will just be stuck where it broke waiting for a tow truck, paying the tow bill and probably no start diagnosis where you have it towed to and then the cost of replacement that you would have payed normally.

 

This is a very interesting discussion and exactly what I've been searching for on this site. I just purchases an 03 Miata MX-5 1.8 engine with 53.000 miles and was concerned about when to change the timing belt. Now I have two questions for you guys. What is a good ballpark price for having a belt replaced? And what how much for doing a clutch? Thanks...Jack

 

I did both the timing belt and water pump change for $430.00 @ 120000 miles. Good luck(Protege2000)

 

From brand new, you should replace the timing belts in the 60,000-80,000 range. You should also do this when you buy any car used. Then the next time you should replace them would be in the 140K-160K range and should last you till you hit 200,000 miles. Once you hit that though, seriously get rid of the car and buy a new car. :-P