Semper Fi and hello,
I have a problem and need some Intel please. '02 A4 1.8T threw timing belt and need to go East to replace. I have heard vehicles that threw timing belts and chains will damage engines. I have had Ford V8's, Chrysler K engine 4 cyl., and Honda CVCC engines throw belts and break chains but never suffered valve or piston damage. Understand valve to piston, and piston to head clearance and do not believe valve would drop far enough to hit piston because of belt or chain. However this is our first Audi and it has been good to us. The engine has 160k miles and the belt and water pump was changed at 132K miles. Kids in Chicago went to movies, started the car and backed up no problem. Placed in drive and engine died, son stated no metallic sounds, just died. He had car flat bedded to Pet Boys and they said without checking or turning engine over with ratchet or breaker bar the engine is dead and needs replacement ($4.5k). Okay, even I know that you at least need to see if the engine will turn over or is it hitting (piston, valve) anything. Pretty sure they see dollar signs with inexperience person and may be scamming him. I have worked on cars for some time now and will not tell anyone I know it all. I only know what I know and before I remove the head and actually see the damage I would not be able to tell you what the problem is. Has anyone had a timing belt break while driving or idling? Did you hear monsters in the engine ripping it apart, did you have any damage to the valves hitting the pistons? Packing up tools and heading East in the morning unless someone knows someone in the Chicago (medical district 60612 area) that would actually check the engine to see what the damage is before putting their hand in my pocket. Has anyone taken the head off their 1.8T, replaced the timing belt, need to know what to expect. Hopefully I have given enough info on my problem, if not please ask. I can wait until 0500 hrs. Saturday morning before heading out. All information appreciated…………………Grump
Prayers to all Marines and civilians killed yesterday at the Chattanooga recruiting office.

 

Wow, over 200 views and not one reply. Can anyone see this post?

 

I don't know if people get offended when we describe our car problems with stories! It's the same with me... I feel you! Sorry.

But you stated that the timing belt was changed in 132k miles... It's impossible for it to break in 28k miles...The thing is designed to make 95k to 120k miles...

How can mechanic just say the engine is dead without looking at the car? Get another mechanic opinion I would advice... Cheers