Timing Belt

[HappyLS430owner]

Several weeks ago, a serpentine belt was installed. An effective cure for squeeking.

My car has 160,000 miles on it and going strong. No real issues. Today, there was a pinging noise and then the car conked out. OMG. The tow truck brought it to my home for Turkey Day holiday and the operator thought it might be a timing belt problem, tensioners, stuff like that. Does this sound familiar?

[steve2006]

Sorry to tell you but if the timing belt has failed the engine will have suffered major and expensive damage from valves hitting pistons so I hope it hasn't.

A mechanic will know as soon as the top cambelt cover is removed.

Please come back with the cause when you know.

Nearly forgot welcome to the LOC and a Happy Thanksgiving Day.

[HappyLS430owner]

Thank you Steve 2006. I will know the extent of the damage on monday when the shop takes a look. There

[HappyLS430owner]

The diagnosis is the timing belt broke and the collateral damage is devastating. Looking at having to purchase a rebuilt or new engine. Or, scrap the Lexus and get a new car. Lesson learned: when the engine light goes on, stop driving the car!

[steve2006]

That's not good then, BTW if the cambelt snaps the damage is done before the Engine Management Light even flickers it's all over in a fraction of a second.

Best way is to source a known good and warranted low mileage engine straight from Japan and replace the cam belt before you fit it.