I have a DX with 1.6 Engine. Auto Transmission. Is this an Interference Engine or Non-Interference Engine ? I just bought the car from a buddy and he had Timing Belt replaced at 90,000 Miles. When is it due for another Timing Belt Change ? Thanks in advance.

 

The engine is Non-interference Dino1956 so not to worry if the T-belt break as it will not cause engine damage. Early Protege has replacement interval of 60k but later models with same engine and T-belt have the interval extended to 105k. 90k intervals should be well within a safe limit. If you are getting close to the 180k mark you might seriously consider replacing the tensioner and idler bearings as well. One of them siezing up will stop you right in your tracks!!!

 

Once again. Thanks again for clearing that up for me. One other qustion, if the previous owner had the Timing Belt repaced at 90,000 Miles, when should it be changed again. I'm hoping to get 200,000 Miles out of this car. I know !! I'm crossing my fingers.

 

You should be ok with the existing timing belt until you reach 160k-180k miles. Since you only have 94k, I would say you have a very long time to go.

 

Thanks for those encouraging words. That's just what I wanted to hear. Thanks again.

 

Hey babyhuey, I did not mention that my DX was year 2000. Do I still have a Non Interference Engine ?

 

All engines built by Mazda with a timing belt are non interference engines Dino1956. Mazda did not go the route of building interfence engine that have a weak T-belt like Honda did.[:@]

 

OK thanks. Good deal. One less thing to worry about.