A fractured or severed toothed belt, responsible for synchronizing the engine’s crankshaft and camshaft rotation, invariably leads to immediate operational failure. Internal combustion engines rely on the precise coordination of these components to control valve timing and piston movement. When this coordination is disrupted, the engine ceases to function.
The consequences of such a failure can range from minor inconvenience to catastrophic engine damage. In interference engines, where valves and pistons occupy the same space at different times, loss of timing can result in physical contact between these components. This contact typically causes bent valves, damaged pistons, and potentially fractured cylinder heads. The severity of the damage dictates the repair cost, which can be substantial, potentially exceeding the vehicle’s value in older models. Preventive maintenance, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended belt replacement schedule, is crucial in mitigating this risk.