What Happens When a Timing Belt Breaks?
When a timing belt breaks, the valves in the engine are no longer timed, or synchronized, properly. Two things may happen when a timing belt breaks: the engine may be inoperable until it is replaced, or internal damage may occur from valves contacting the pistons.TypesThere are two types of timing systems: interference and non-interference. In an interference engine, there is not enough clearance for the valves to operate out of time without the valves hitting the pistons. In a non-interference engine, a broken timing belt will cause the engine to “freewheel,” and it may not start, but replacing the belt will fix the problem.SignificanceTiming belts keep an engine running in sync, but they need to be changed as regular service items. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations in the owner’s manual.FeaturesOn some engines, the timing belt is also used to drive accessories like the water pump. In this case, the engine may overheat if the belt breaks.ConsiderationsTiming belt service shoul
