The 1998 Kia Sportage uses a timing belt, not a timing chain, so a broken belt does not automatically require engine replacement. Replace the timing belt first; if the engine then starts and runs normally, internal damage is unlikely. If it failed while driving at speed, valves or pistons may be damaged, so get a second opinion if it does not run correctly after the belt is replaced.
The owner of a 1998 Kia Sportage was told a broken timing chain meant the engine had to be replaced after it failed while driving. An expert said the vehicle uses a timing belt, which is inexpensive to replace and worth trying first. Possible valve or piston damage was noted if it failed at speed, with no damage indicated if the engine runs fine afterward. Later replies discussed finding a timing diagram, replacing the water pump and belts at the same time, and using Kia technical information for the procedure.
