{"id":118765,"date":"2024-09-20T03:22:15","date_gmt":"2024-09-20T10:22:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=118765"},"modified":"2025-10-09T22:05:36","modified_gmt":"2025-10-10T05:05:36","slug":"what-happens-when-your-vehicles-timing-belt-breaks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-happens-when-your-vehicles-timing-belt-breaks\/","title":{"rendered":"What Happens When Your Vehicle\u2019s Timing Belt Breaks?"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span><style>.kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column118765_5e7d8a-db inner-column-1 qk-look-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-row ultp-block-6bb390  qk-main-wrap\"><div class=\"ultp-row-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-row-content\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-column ultp-block-8049d1\"><div class=\"ultp-column-wrapper\"><style>.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3\"]{text-align:center;font-size:20px;font-style:normal;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3 mark.kt-highlight, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3\"] mark.kt-highlight{font-family:Inter;font-weight:500;font-style:normal;color:#f76a0c;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;padding-top:0px;padding-right:0px;padding-bottom:0px;padding-left:0px;}.wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3 img.kb-inline-image, .wp-block-kadence-advancedheading.kt-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3[data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3\"] img.kb-inline-image{width:150px;vertical-align:baseline;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"kt-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3 summary-title wp-block-kadence-advancedheading\" data-kb-block=\"kb-adv-heading118765_53f2ae-c3\"><span>Summary<\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If your timing belt breaks, you&rsquo;ll know immediately because your engine will stall and your vehicle will grind to a halt. If the belt just loses a few teeth, you might notice a loss of power.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A broken timing belt can also damage engine components like your valves, camshaft, and cylinder head.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If your timing belt snaps while driving, you&rsquo;ll have no choice but to have your vehicle towed to an auto shop to have a mechanic inspect the damage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/crankshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"crankshaft\">crankshaft<\/a> is connected to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/camshaft\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"camshaft\">camshaft<\/a> by a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-belt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"belt\">belt<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-chain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"chain\">chain<\/a>, or directly meshed gears so that the camshaft turns half as fast as the crankshaft, because the camshaft opens the valves. These two shafts must be perfectly in time for the engine to run. If they&rsquo;re slightly out of time, the engine won&rsquo;t run right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The crankshaft provides the power that drives the camshaft, but the only reason the engine can &ldquo;breathe&rdquo; is the operation of the intake and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/exhaust-valve\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"exhaust valves\">exhaust valves<\/a>. Again, the crank and cam depend on each other and they must be perfectly in time.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83 > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column118765_9d9b8c-83 kb-section-dir-vertical kb-section-sm-dir-vertical inner-column-1 pro-tip-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:20px;padding-right:32px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(10% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(90% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.00;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-top-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:28px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:25px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id118765_fb648e-74 alignnone pro-tip-wrap wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-right-golden kt-mobile-layout-right-golden kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{min-height:45px;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{row-gap:0px;column-gap:0px;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}}@media all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;justify-content:flex-start;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column118765_6ca5a7-c6 kb-section-dir-horizontal kb-section-md-dir-horizontal inner-column-1 pro-tip-item1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image118765_71c3ec-52.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image118765_71c3ec-52 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:45px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image118765_71c3ec-52.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image118765_71c3ec-52 .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image118765_71c3ec-52 figure{max-width:45px;}.kb-image118765_71c3ec-52 .image-is-svg, .kb-image118765_71c3ec-52 .image-is-svg img{width:100%;}.kb-image118765_71c3ec-52 .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image118765_71c3ec-52\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/f_auto,dpr_auto,q_auto,c_pad\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/protip\/services-icon\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img\"><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column118765_187953-aa > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column118765_187953-aa > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column118765_187953-aa > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column118765_187953-aa > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column118765_187953-aa > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column118765_187953-aa > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column118765_187953-aa{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column118765_187953-aa > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column118765_187953-aa > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column118765_187953-aa inner-column-2 pro-tip-item2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"protip-desc\">\n\t<div class=\"help-tip\">\n\t\t<p><strong>Pro Tips<\/strong> are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n    <div class=\"help-caption\">\n        <p>\n            <strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong>\nThe service interval for the timing belt is in the maintenance table for that engine (owner&rsquo;s manual will have this info), and it&rsquo;s best to replace the timing belt before the specified mileage. It isn&rsquo;t the same on every engine. This way, you decide when the work is done rather than having the belt decide for you.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-data443-irp-shortcode irp-shortcode\"><div style=\"clear:both; margin-top:0em; margin-bottom:1em;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/p0015-code-exhaust-b-camshaft-position-timing-over-retarded-bank-1\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"dofollow\" class=\"u9eb0e72563cb6af58ed4bd24178aaf1f\"><style> .u9eb0e72563cb6af58ed4bd24178aaf1f { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .u9eb0e72563cb6af58ed4bd24178aaf1f:active, .u9eb0e72563cb6af58ed4bd24178aaf1f:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .u9eb0e72563cb6af58ed4bd24178aaf1f { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .u9eb0e72563cb6af58ed4bd24178aaf1f .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .u9eb0e72563cb6af58ed4bd24178aaf1f .postTitle { color:#000000; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .u9eb0e72563cb6af58ed4bd24178aaf1f:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } <\/style><div style=\"padding-left:1em; padding-right:1em;\"><span class=\"ctaText\">See also<\/span>&nbsp; <span class=\"postTitle\">P0015 Code: Exhaust &ldquo;B&rdquo; Camshaft Position Timing - Over - Retarded (Bank 1)<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"540\" height=\"960\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/some-kia-engines-tend-to-destroy-themselves-if-the-timing-belt-fails.jpg\" alt=\"some kia engines tend to destroy themselves if the timing belt fails\" class=\"wp-image-122508\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/some-kia-engines-tend-to-destroy-themselves-if-the-timing-belt-fails.jpg 540w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/some-kia-engines-tend-to-destroy-themselves-if-the-timing-belt-fails-169x300.jpg 169w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/some-kia-engines-tend-to-destroy-themselves-if-the-timing-belt-fails-150x267.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This Kia timing belt was a disaster in the making, because some Kia engines tend to destroy themselves if the timing belt fails. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Do You Know If a Timing Belt Is Broken?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes a timing belt will just lose a few teeth so that the engine is slightly out of time. This is not usually the case, but it does happen, and typically you&rsquo;ll notice a lack of power. On MAP only engines (not MAF), you&rsquo;ll notice black smoke because of lower intake vacuum, which happens when the camshaft timing is late.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The timing belt can suddenly shear all the teeth right at the crankshaft gear, which stalls the engine and\/or prevents it from starting. The belt can also break, but this doesn&rsquo;t usually happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One way or another, the engine won&rsquo;t run when the belt totally fails. When you spin the engine with a failed timing belt, it won&rsquo;t sound like it usually does because some of the cylinders won&rsquo;t have compression due to open valves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-data443-irp-shortcode irp-shortcode\"><div style=\"clear:both; margin-top:0em; margin-bottom:1em;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/sohc-vs-dohc-whats-the-difference-and-which-is-better\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"dofollow\" class=\"ub6726389158bc2047ea12863fce3b60c\"><style> .ub6726389158bc2047ea12863fce3b60c { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .ub6726389158bc2047ea12863fce3b60c:active, .ub6726389158bc2047ea12863fce3b60c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .ub6726389158bc2047ea12863fce3b60c { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .ub6726389158bc2047ea12863fce3b60c .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .ub6726389158bc2047ea12863fce3b60c .postTitle { color:#000000; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .ub6726389158bc2047ea12863fce3b60c:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } <\/style><div style=\"padding-left:1em; padding-right:1em;\"><span class=\"ctaText\">See also<\/span>&nbsp; <span class=\"postTitle\">SOHC vs. DOHC: What&rsquo;s the Difference and Which Is Better?<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will a Broken Timing Belt Destroy My Engine?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are free-spinning (non-interference) timing belt engines and there are interference engines. A non-interference engine is designed so that the pistons and valves never make contact even if the timing belt fails. Interference engines are just the opposite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When pistons contact valves because the timing belt fails, it can be catastrophic. At worst, the heads will need to be removed to have the valves replaced. The engine will suffer so much damage it&rsquo;ll be cheaper to replace the engine than to repair it.<\/p>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column118765_f7ae3d-6f kb-section-dir-vertical kb-section-sm-dir-vertical inner-column-1 pro-tip-widget\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 > .kt-row-column-wrap{align-content:start;}:where(.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 > .kt-row-column-wrap) > .wp-block-kadence-column{justify-content:start;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 > .kt-row-column-wrap{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem );row-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-md, 2rem);padding-top:20px;padding-right:32px;padding-bottom:20px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, calc(10% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)))minmax(0, calc(90% - ((var(--global-kb-gap-none, 0rem ) * 1 )\/2)));}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 > .kt-row-layout-overlay{opacity:0.00;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-top-sep{height:100px;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{width:100%;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-top-sep svg{fill:#ffffff!important;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 > .kt-row-column-wrap{grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 > .kt-row-column-wrap{padding-top:28px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:25px;padding-left:16px;grid-template-columns:minmax(0, 1fr) minmax(0, 2fr);}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep{height:px;}.kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 .kt-row-layout-bottom-sep svg{width:%;}}<\/style><div class=\"kb-row-layout-wrap kb-row-layout-id118765_0c62bc-d0 alignnone pro-tip-wrap wp-block-kadence-rowlayout\"><div class=\"kt-row-column-wrap kt-has-2-columns kt-row-layout-right-golden kt-tab-layout-right-golden kt-mobile-layout-right-golden kt-row-valign-top\">\n<style>.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col{display:flex;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col{min-height:45px;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col{row-gap:0px;column-gap:0px;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;align-items:center;}}@media all and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:row;flex-wrap:wrap;justify-content:flex-start;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > *, .kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-image, .kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > figure.wp-block-kadence-image{margin-top:0px;margin-bottom:0px;}.kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image-is-ratio-size{flex-grow:1;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column118765_f3885b-26 kb-section-dir-horizontal kb-section-md-dir-horizontal inner-column-1 pro-tip-item1\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\"><style>.kb-image118765_9dd59f-1b.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .kb-image118765_9dd59f-1b .kb-image-is-ratio-size{max-width:45px;width:100%;}.wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image118765_9dd59f-1b.kb-image-is-ratio-size, .wp-block-kadence-column > .kt-inside-inner-col > .kb-image118765_9dd59f-1b .kb-image-is-ratio-size{align-self:unset;}.kb-image118765_9dd59f-1b figure{max-width:45px;}.kb-image118765_9dd59f-1b .image-is-svg, .kb-image118765_9dd59f-1b .image-is-svg img{width:100%;}.kb-image118765_9dd59f-1b .kb-image-has-overlay:after{opacity:0.3;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-image kb-image118765_9dd59f-1b\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/image\/upload\/f_auto,dpr_auto,q_auto,c_pad\/carparts\/blog\/widgets\/protip\/services-icon\" alt=\"\" class=\"kb-img\"><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e > .kt-inside-inner-col,.kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{border-top-left-radius:0px;border-top-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-right-radius:0px;border-bottom-left-radius:0px;}.kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e > .kt-inside-inner-col{column-gap:var(--global-kb-gap-sm, 1rem);}.kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;}.kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e > .kt-inside-inner-col > .aligncenter{width:100%;}.kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e > .kt-inside-inner-col:before{opacity:0.3;}.kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e{position:relative;}@media all and (max-width: 1024px){.kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}@media all and (max-width: 767px){.kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e > .kt-inside-inner-col{flex-direction:column;justify-content:center;}}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-column kadence-column118765_7ec00c-5e inner-column-2 pro-tip-item2\"><div class=\"kt-inside-inner-col\">\n<div class=\"protip-desc\">\n\t<div class=\"help-tip\">\n\t\t<p><strong>Pro Tips<\/strong> are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.<\/p>\n\t<\/div>\n    <div class=\"help-caption\">\n        <p>\n            <strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong>\nFor a few examples of free-spinning engines, timing belt-equipped Ford Escorts (1.9L) are free-spinning, as are 2.2L Toyota engines and 2.4L Dodge 4 cylinder engines are free-spinning.\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"445\" src=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mistubishis-and-kias-with-timing-belts-tend-to-either-bend-valves-or-snap-the-heads-off-some-valves-1024x445.jpg\" alt=\"mistubishis and kias with timing belts tend to either bend valves or snap the heads off some valves\" class=\"wp-image-122509\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mistubishis-and-kias-with-timing-belts-tend-to-either-bend-valves-or-snap-the-heads-off-some-valves-1024x445.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mistubishis-and-kias-with-timing-belts-tend-to-either-bend-valves-or-snap-the-heads-off-some-valves-300x131.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mistubishis-and-kias-with-timing-belts-tend-to-either-bend-valves-or-snap-the-heads-off-some-valves-768x334.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mistubishis-and-kias-with-timing-belts-tend-to-either-bend-valves-or-snap-the-heads-off-some-valves-1536x668.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mistubishis-and-kias-with-timing-belts-tend-to-either-bend-valves-or-snap-the-heads-off-some-valves-150x65.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/mistubishis-and-kias-with-timing-belts-tend-to-either-bend-valves-or-snap-the-heads-off-some-valves.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Mistubishis and Kias with timing belts tend to either bend valves or snap the heads off some valves, destroying the piston and the cylinder heads (see photo). | Image Source: Richard McCuistian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Can You Do If Your Timing Belt Fails?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If your timing belt snaps while driving, you&rsquo;ll have no choice but to have your vehicle towed to an auto shop to have a mechanic inspect the damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-data443-irp-shortcode irp-shortcode\"><div style=\"clear:both; margin-top:0em; margin-bottom:1em;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/engine-seized-symptoms-plus-faq\/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"dofollow\" class=\"ube74cae0e4ca62c76fce5434bfacbe38\"><style> .ube74cae0e4ca62c76fce5434bfacbe38 { padding:0px; margin: 0; padding-top:1em!important; padding-bottom:1em!important; width:100%; display: block; font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaeaea; border:0!important; border-left:4px solid #34495E!important; text-decoration:none; } .ube74cae0e4ca62c76fce5434bfacbe38:active, .ube74cae0e4ca62c76fce5434bfacbe38:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; text-decoration:none; } .ube74cae0e4ca62c76fce5434bfacbe38 { transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; } .ube74cae0e4ca62c76fce5434bfacbe38 .ctaText { font-weight:bold; color:#464646; text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px; } .ube74cae0e4ca62c76fce5434bfacbe38 .postTitle { color:#000000; text-decoration: underline!important; font-size: 16px; } .ube74cae0e4ca62c76fce5434bfacbe38:hover .postTitle { text-decoration: underline!important; } <\/style><div style=\"padding-left:1em; padding-right:1em;\"><span class=\"ctaText\">See also<\/span>&nbsp; <span class=\"postTitle\">Engine Seized Symptoms, Plus FAQ<\/span><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;re wrench smart, you might be able to replace the timing belt yourself, but if your engine is a valve-bender, there&rsquo;ll be a lot more work to do. If you are simply replacing the belt, get a kit that includes all the related pulleys and a water pump (if the pump is timing belt driven).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You&rsquo;ll need to replace your timing belt and the damaged components to get your vehicle running properly again. This might involve replacing components like the intake and exhaust valves, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/cylinder-head\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"cylinder head\">cylinder head<\/a>, camshaft, or even the engine block in serious cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, having a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/timing-belt\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"broken timing belt\">broken timing belt<\/a> essentially means that your vehicle is crippled. You can avoid this catastrophic issue by following the manufacturer&rsquo;s recommended <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/when-to-replace-timing-chain\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"replacement interval\">replacement interval<\/a> and looking out for timing belt-related issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"rsi-card\">\n  <div class=\"rsi-thumb\">\n    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cld.partsimg.com\/d_noimage.jpg\/b_white\/e_sharpen,e_auto_brightness,e_auto_contrast\/f_auto\/q_auto:eco,dpr_auto\/w_873,h_873,c_pad\/images\/dnjtbk960awp_1\">\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"rsi-info\">\n    <span class=\"rsi-title\">The Best Timing Belt Kit Brands for Easy Repairs<\/span>\n    <span class=\"rsi-desc\">Check out the best aftermarket timing belt kit brands and learn how to choose a durable, budget-friendly replacement for your vehicle.<\/span>\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/the-best-timing-belt-kit-brands-for-easy-repairs-quickref\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Discover Your Options\">Discover Your Options<\/a>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to Find a High-Quality Timing Belt for Your Vehicle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&rsquo;t expect to get out of the driveway anytime soon when you&rsquo;ve got a broken <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/timing-belt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"timing belt\">timing belt<\/a> under the hood. Replacing this part can be quite the hassle&#19968;unless you go to CarParts.com where shopping for high-quality auto parts is easy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There&rsquo;s no need to skimp on replacement parts when you shop from us. Enjoy low prices on all our products while getting OE-quality parts vetted by industry professionals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find the right timing belt replacement for your ride by entering your vehicle&rsquo;s year, make, and model into our vehicle selector. You can also use the search filters to narrow down the catalog according to your preferred brand, price range, quantity, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thanks to our strategically located warehouses across the US, it won&rsquo;t take long to get the parts you need. Order now, and we&rsquo;ll deliver your new timing belt straight to your doorstep in as fast as two business days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Can&rsquo;t shop online? Don&rsquo;t worry! Call us anytime using our toll-free hotline, and our team of round-the-clock customer service professionals will be ready to assist you.&nbsp;<br>Shop for a high-quality timing belt here at <a href=\"http:\/\/carparts.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" aria-label=\"CarParts.com\">CarParts.com<\/a> today!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>The crankshaft is connected to the camshaft by a belt, a chain, or directly meshed gears so that the camshaft&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-happens-when-your-vehicles-timing-belt-breaks\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1651,"featured_media":118847,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[52,3747],"tags":[1206],"ppma_author":[2607,2985],"class_list":{"0":"post-118765","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-diy","8":"category-engine","9":"tag-timing-belt-2","10":"entry"},"acf":{"adrotate_specific_mobile_ad":"","adrotate_specific_desktop_ad":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What Happens When Your Vehicle\u2019s Timing Belt Breaks? - In The Garage with CarParts.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"A broken timing belt can cause catastrophic consequences. If it happens to your vehicle, here\u2019s what you should expect.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/what-happens-when-your-vehicles-timing-belt-breaks\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What Happens When Your Vehicle\u2019s Timing Belt Breaks? - In The Garage with CarParts.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"A broken timing belt can cause catastrophic consequences. 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