Ok, so I just sort of inherited a 2005 Mazda3, 2.3L.

I don't think its every really had maintenance done to it besides oil/brakes/tires. It seems to be runny great, but I'm sure I need to get it into the shop for some standard stuff.

I don't really want to just trust what a mechanic will tell me, so what specifically should I ask for them to do/look at?

So far I have this list:

Change spark plugs
Change Engine coolant
Change fuel filter
Inspect drive belt tension
Inspect all belts and hoses (should I be more specific?)
Inspect exhaust system & heat shields
Inspect brake lines/hoses and connections
Inspect Front and rear suspension, ball joints and wheel bearing axial play
Inspect Driveshaft dust boots
Tighten Bolts and nuts on chassis and body

Am I missing anything?

Also, roughly what am I looking to pay for all of this?

Thanks in advance for any advice

 

look in the service manual, but I think you got all the major things to check. i'm sure your due for shocks & struts, timing belt, maybe an air filter too.
if its the original belt, just change it - 5years is a while & 120k is a long time for a belt.
If its an automatic, change the fluid & filter.

no driveshaft - but cv jounts

they should be able to quote you, if you tell them they do the work it may be a cheaper inspection cost. total may hit $1k if they replace shocks, struts (then align it), belts, plus the items you identified for them to change.

 

Plugs & Wires, Both Cabin (inside) and Air Box filters (under hood), Coolant flush, and Oil Change and check the brakes...then id say your set. Might be at max...$500 (depending on if you went with OEM parts and DIY or slightly more if you went with aftermarket and through somone else doing the work. Either way, i think thats almost average miles for an 05....in this day in age where people are driving more. Down the road i would check the tires and do an alignmet (check wear and tear first)

There is a converter/adapter to switch out the canister/cartridge style filter to a screw on style specifically for the 2.3's Definately a MUST HAVE, if it has not currently been done yet. Do a internet search for one.

Other then that, drive the thing, these cars...for the most part have been rock solid.