2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Timing belt replacement

JLSPRINK

MEMBER
2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
11,500 MILES

Hello,
Looking for advise.
I threw my timing belt the other day. When I took it to my mechanic, he stated that with this type of car/engine, there is always major damage that occurs and I would need another engine. I was quoted $6,500 for a new one and $3,500 for a used one with 61K miles on it. (Price included labor) The pricing doesn't really have to do with my question because there is no way I'd pay that much at this point for this car. I'd start looking for another instead. My question is whether or not the statement is accurate about me definatley needing a new engine.
I called around to some other mechanics and had varying responses. A couple said it varies and I could be lucky and have little or no damage to the engine.
I would prefer to have it diagnosed to be sure, and certainly wouldn't mind risking a hundred or (maybe $200) to see if it was worth fixing. I'm just afraid that once someone starts diagnosing it the costs will escalate and then I may be trapped into a huge expenditure when I should have cut my losses initially.
I would really appreciate your opinions on what I should do. Thank you kindly! :)
Regards, Jeff

2 Replies

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

Hello

Thanks for the donation.

Your vehicle is equipped with what is called an "interference engine". This means that if the timing chain/ timing belt was to break with engine running that the pistons will smash into the open valves doing a lot of damage. Honestly I would go with a new/used engine because the chances of the engine not needing any work or very little ork is highly unlikely.

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