Timing Belt

wolves2u · 2010-07-27T18:54:19+00:00

My daughter has this stratus, & after the car quit on her, she had it towed to a garage. Without tearing in to her car she was told the timing belt broke. She was told the repairs would run 1600.00. She was told this would include the head being completely redone due to the fact when this model throws a belt, the vavles continue to move causing them to hit the pistons. She was also told the belt should have been replaced at 60,000 miles. My first questions: Is this normal to lose a timing belt with only 72000 miles? Second question: Is it true they would build an engine designed to possably cause more damage like the vavles hitting the pistons when the belt goes? Third and last question: What should the average cost range be on timing belt replacement under normal conditions without replacing everything under the hood? Thanks.

2006 DODGE STRATUS

JESSE BELL

MEMBER
1 POST

car ran fine the last time it ran. I tried to start it again and will not start tried squirting gas in intake and checked for fire. lined cam timing marks up, but they do not line up with mark on crank pulley and pointer.

Oct 29, 2019 at 6:30 PM (Merged)

STRAILER

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
54,837 POSTS

Hey Jesse,

It sounds like you have a timing belt that has gone bad, here is a diagram of what the marks should look like.

Best, Ken

Image (Click to enlarge)

Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
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Oct 29, 2019 at 6:30 PM (Merged)

Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.