Q: I bought a Mazda Protege in spring of 2000. Currently has 118,000 miles and just passed inspection thru August 2009. Taking it for oil changes as need be. Can I get 150,000 miles out of it? I'd like another year out of the car before buying another in late 2009. thanks, Mark
A: Mark, Sure it's possible, maybe even likely. Have the water pump checked, belts and hoses, it may be time to replace the battery. If any of these items need replaced it is money well spent and could take you well beyond 30-40,000 additional miles, which is the optimal position to make a good decision. I would take it to a Mazda garage and let them perform a diagnostic/check for anything that needs replaced, this will cost you nothing. Then you decide who does the work or do it yourself.