I am a first time car owner and I just bought a 96 Mazda Protege LX 1.5L. None of the maintenance has been done for a 100k car. My question is what do I need to get done on the car? By the way, I am looking to buy a timing belt and get a mechanic to change it. What kind should I get? Any specific brand? I also seen packages including a water pump, tensioner bearings and idlers bearings. Should I get a package or just get the timing belt itself changed alone? Any help provided would be much appreciated.

 

For a timing belt, I would consider the kit with the bearings. I know Mazda makes a kit like this with all parts included for a reasonable price. If babyhuey comes on he can give more detailed info on this. It would be a good idea to replace drive belts while doing timing belt.

I would have fluids replaced to start at zero.
Oil and filter
Trans fluid
Engine coolant

Replace the air and fuel filters.

Replace the spark plugs with either ND or NGK brand. It would also be good to replace the distributor cap, rotor, and plug wires due to mileage.

Have the car looked over for things like brakes that are worn, CV boots, and oil leaks...etc...