Tune-up intervals

[Bodrey]

I have a '01 Protege that I bought new. I don't think it's as fuel-efficient as it once was (although it's still not too bad). I've never had the fuel injectors cleaned (never had a tune-up) and I'm wondering if this would help? I've always used premium unleaded (91+ grade) as recommended by the owner's manual so the level of carbon buildup shouldn't be that bad. Regardless, I don't know if the fuel injector jets get clogged over time. It has approximately 74,000 Kms on it. Is there a Mazda mechanic out there that can let me know? Also, is it absolutely necessary to use premium unleaded even if the manual says you should? The difference really adds up over time. In the long run I could save myself a lot of money by using regular instead.

Thanks in advance,
- Bodrey

[mazdatech177]

just use regular unleaded fuel, actually the higher octane will increase carbon
buildup. change your spark plugs, air filter and perform a fuel inection service
every 3 years or 30k miles

[Bodrey]

Thanks, Mazdatech!