Timing belt shredded

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.com.

If you are sure the timing belt has failed, chances are there is major internal damaged done to the cylinder head and valves. It may have even damaged pistons. This engine what is know as an interference engine. There is not enough tolerance between an open valve and a piston when it reaches the top of its travel. The result, the piston hits the valve, bending it, possibly cracking the head, and possibly damaging the top of the piston.

I wish I had better news. You could replace the timing belt and check engine compression. You may have gotten really lucky, but usually that is not the case.

Here is a link that shows, in general, how a compression test is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

If you want, I would be happy to provide all the directions for timing belt replacement or any of the engine components.

Let me know if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Are you sure that you are talking about the timing belt, and not the serpentine drive belt? You would not be able to see the timing belt without taking the front cover of the engine off, but you would be able to see the serpentine belt for sure just by raising the hood. And yes, you could experience that feeling of a loss of power (a stiff steering wheel, the battery light comes on, and if you keep going for a minute or so, the engine overheats).

Then yes definitely get it looked at. A pulley and a couple of belts should not be "replace-the-car" expensive, if that is all that is wrong.

That makes a big difference. And I agree. There is a good chance not much damage was done. However, I am not sure why you had a sudden loss of power. Will the engine restart?

Welcome back.

Please confirm, is the timing belt broken? If that is the case, and you would not be able to see it without removing the cover, then my first post was accurate. If it is only the serpertine belt, that would be much better news.

If you are unsure which it is, upload a picture so I can see what has happened. That way I can be sure. I do not want to give incorrect information to you.

Let me know

Ugh. At this point, I am not sure what to say. I have to be honest, I am not sure how he saw the timing belt unless he took things apart. If he is correct, there is a good chance the engine may need replaced or major repairs.

Please feel free to ask any questions you may have.

Take care,
Joe

Then we can be certain that is the issue. I just wanted to make sure someone was not taking advantage of you. I wish I had better news, but this is the reality.