[quicksilverdon]

Originally Posted by bitbyter

It has 78, 000 km on it (I'm in Canada). So I should look at replacing:

Ignition Wires & Plugs (what are the signs that this needs to be done?) It starts to "hesitate" or "cough" or "stumble" either at idle or when you accelerate.
Tires (will probably only do if they show signs of wear) Of course. If they aren't Goodyear, they've already been replaced
Brakes (same as above)
Auto Transmission Flush (I believe the dealer is doing this but I will check)

Timing Belt & Water pump (miles to km 160, 000 km? does that sound right?)
Yes. Insist dealer get you an owner's manual - it's in there. The bums always throw them out.

Anything else anyone can think of that I can budget for either to replace right way or for preventative maintenance? Anything that is known to be a problem part that I can have my mechanic keep an eye on when I go in for regular maintenance?

Other things that MAY arise - power steering (groaning or squealing or leaking)
Lights - fog lights stay on - it's the multifunction switch.
Remote Locking - locks go beserk - it's the Remote Keyless Entry Module (RKEM) above/behind the radio.

Now, nobody I know of had all those things happen, and I and most PT owners never had any of them happen, but they've happened enough that I remember several instances.
Hope that helps.