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    How can I check if a broken tensioner belt damaged the engine of my 2014 Hyundai ix35?

    Hyundai Hyundai Advice Hyundai IX35 Hyundai IX35 Advice Hyundai IX35 2014

    Hi we recently bought a 2014 Hyundai iX35 and after two weeks the timing belt tensioner broke. We asked for a full refund. They refused and repaired it stating they put a new timing belt kit. Is there any way we can check whether damage has been done to the rest of engine?

    Answered by CarsGuide
    17 January 2024
    David Morley

    If a timing belt breaks, one of two things are likely. Either the broken belt will allow the valves and pistons of the engine to collide, instantly turning the engine to scrap. (This is what happens in what's known as an interference engine design.)

    The other alternative is that the belt snaps, but no intrinsic metallic parts collide (this is the case in a non-interference engine). If that's the case, the car won't run, but if a new belt is fitted and the engine retimed, it should work perfectly afterwards.

    But even in an interference engine, if the tensioner gets slack but doesn't actually allow the timing belt to jump ship or break, then there's a chance that you've avoided a catastrophic failure. The bottom line is that if your engine suffered a problem with the timing belt, but works properly after being fixed, then all should be good in the long run.

    Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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