I have a 1989 626 auto transmission.. the transmission is playing up there seems to be no 1st gear..I called my local firestone mechanic to schedule a transmission fuild change, he told me mazda dont need them and there policy is to not do them on the mazda..
Has anyone heard this before or should I go else where and have it done anyway??

I'd take it to a transmission shop or the dealer for an assessment. Changing fluid is probably a waste of $ if you are trying to resolve an internal problem. Check the level, or have it checked, first and make sure it's up to the mark. Fill to level, then take it in for a check if the problem persists. And the Firestone guy is full of s**t.