I'm having the same problem. Almost a year ago (200,000km or 120,000 miles) I replaced both belts. Last week, at 228,000km (130,700 miles) the car died unexpectedly. I've been told that a tensioner for the timing belt let go, and I'm faced with junking the car or putting $2000 - $3000 into a rebuild (btw, it's the 4cylinder).
In speaking with a few people, I've learned a few things: The engine rebuilding firm I spoke to (recommended by a both a dealer and independent garage) said that the 4cylinder "doesn't stand up very well" and that I should be thankful that I got as much out of it as I did. The guy who towed my car said that he had the same thing happen to his car (an Escort). I know that both these cars have a lot of Mazda parts, are the motors of Mazda design as well?
