3rd & 4th Generation (1992–1996 & 1997–2001)Toyota Camry Discussion for years: 1992-1996 & 1997-2001
Topics of discussion range from fuel economy, safety, modifications, performance all involving America's favorite family car, the Toyota Camry.
Free running engine & broken timing belt *UPDATED*
Yesterday my 00 Camry 2.2L 4 cyl died on the interstate going 70mph. I got towed to a local shop and they first said maybe its the fuel pump but after inspection they diagnosed a broken timing belt. Original TB was replaced at 65k miles and currently at 131k.
The shop said there could be extensive damage to the engine and they will let me know on Monday. So I am researching today and I found out I have a free running engine so damage to the pistons, valves, etc is not likely. Is this correct?
If the shop says the engine is damaged (like an interference engine would likely be), does this mean they are screwing me?
**UPDATE 6/14**
Mechanic called this morning and said I need new timing belt, water pump, and new head because it is warped (I don't know anything about a warped head). Total cost $1,700. He also advised there could be internal damage that would cost more or just render the engine beyond repair. I did not bring up the non-interference engine factor nor did he. I just said I will not fix it and come pick up the car in a day or two.
Today I found a friend of friend with a repair shop who will haul it and give me a second opinion. Probably won't have his verdict for several days. I will report back later.
Thanks to everyone. I really appreciate your help. I am not a car guy and I have learned a lot already.
**UPDATE 6/24**
The second mechanic replaced the timing belt and water pump (I bought both at AZ for $52 total) and charged me $189. He said he also had to get some other inexpensive gasket but I did not get details. The mechanic also said there is no damage to the engine. The car is running as good if not better than before the breakdown.
As far as I am concerned, everyone in this thread was right about non-interference engines and timing belt repairs.....and the first shop tried to rip me off! Thanks to all.
Last edited by coke&taco; 06-24-2010 at 05:53 PM.
Reason: UPDATE
It's highly unlikely- All Camry's have a non-interference engine where if the timing belt, unlike Nissan's etc., breaks the engine immediately cuts off causing NO HARM to the cylinders, valves, etc. If the mechanic does say theirs an issue, he's screwing you over for sure. If he does say something is an issue, walk out immediately- this happened to me a couple of years ago.
^ I agree. I've not had a timing belt break on any of my cars, but have ALWAYS heard that a timing belt breaking on a Camry will not do any harm to the engine.
...the engine immediately cuts off causing NO HARM to the cylinders, valves, etc...
There was a minute or so where I was pushing the accelerator and the car maintained speed/rpm but it started to feel funny - a little hesitation and the motor noise sounded slightly off. I wasn't sure if I was just imagining things or if something was wrong but then it died and I coasted to a stop.
^ I agree. I've not had a timing belt break on any of my cars, but have ALWAYS heard that a timing belt breaking on a Camry will not do any harm to the engine.
OK. Can't wait to see what they say tomorrow. This shop is a local tire and service place with several locations in eastern Tennessee. They have done work for me before and I was pleased with the results (but a little pricey) so that is why I got towed there.
Can any competent mechanic replace the timing belt? I had it done at the dealership before.
[quote=redtigerrocks;3228593]It's highly unlikely- All Camry's have a non-interference engine where if the timing belt, unlike Nissan's etc., breaks the engine immediately cuts off causing NO HARM to the cylinders, valves, etc.
Hate to tell you, the jury is still out on that. Meaning, some say the engine won't be damaged, but some say it will
Hate to tell you, the jury is still out on that. Meaning, some say the engine won't be damaged, but some say it will
Certainly will be interesting to find out what the mechanic says tomorrow.
What makes this situation so frustrating is that I cannot drive the vehicle around to get other opinions. Relying on getting a tow to get the car anyway is such a pain.
Pretty sure it's impossible for the engine to be internally damaged by a broken timing belt, the pistons simply won't hit the valves regardless of the cam/crank relative positions.
What can happen is the belt can get wound up in the cam or crank sprocket and do some damage, but usually the engine just stops and that's that. Easy to find out, slap a new belt on it and see if she starts.
My timing belt snapped at 50k and I was in your same situation on the freeway. I did not have any internal damage. Since our 5sfe motors are non-interference motors, I've been told that possible damage to the valves can only be done if the timing belt snapped during high revs.
Pretty sure it's impossible for the engine to be internally damaged by a broken timing belt, the pistons simply won't hit the valves regardless of the cam/crank relative positions.
The shop never mentioned any of this about non-interference engines. They just said there could be internal damage due to pistons and valves moving out of sync and they will assess today. I did not learn about interference til after the breakdown so I did not question them at the time.
Again, I will just see what they say later today and go from there.
Pistons slapping against valves makes quite a lot of noise. It makes the same sound as a diesel engine makes when decelerating. I learned that the hard way in a German car when the TB broke a couple days after I made the appointment to get it changed. If the engine just went quiet, you should be OK.
The fact that it is a non-interference engine means there will be no damage to the internals of the engine. That means no valve or pistion damage. If they call and tell you otherwise, get the car towed out of there as fast as you can. They would have to either be totally incompenent or crooks to call and say that.
$300 is probably the going rate for a timing belt repalcement of a 4 cylinder Toyota Camry engine. I have seen dealer specials at $200 for this job. About $40 more to replace the 2 accessory belts. There should be no additional labor to replace those belts (they have to come off to get to the timing belt), so if they have been on the car for any length of time, it would be a good idea to let them do that now.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
ToyotaNation.com is an independent Toyota/Lexus enthusiast website. ToyotaNation.com is not sponsored by or in any way affiliated with Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. The Toyota, Lexus and Scion names and logos are trademarks owned by Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
Linear Mode
