1999 Hyundai Elantra timing belt

foo83

My cars timing belt recently went. I was told because of the type of engine this car has that when the timing belt went extensive damage may have been done. Has anyone had this problem and if so was it worth getting the car fixed? I'm wondering how much money it would cost me. I don't really have the money right now to get another car. Any info would be helpful. Thanks.

fushigi

From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timing_belt: "In an interference engine, or one whose valves extend into the path of the piston, failure of the timing belt (or timing chain) invariably results in costly and, in some cases, irreparable engine damage, as some valves will be held open when they should not be and thus will be struck by the pistons."

I am assuming your Elantra's engine is of the interference design; perhaps someone with more knowledge of your generation of car can chime in to confirm. If it is, I'm afraid the news is not good. Were you to get away with no internal damage I'd be surprised.