99 SC300-- brought it to dealership for 90K service. replaced spark plugs and timing belt. one week later, the timing belt slips causing massive damage to valves, pistons, etc.. damage was so extensive the dealership had to replace the entire engine.
although the dealership would not officially admit guilt (they said officially, the timing belt slipped off due to a faulty bolt. the dealership did at least acknowledge that its mechanics/technicians were the last ones to work on that bolt, less than a week earlier), it did replace the engine at no cost to me. the replacement unit is used and has approximately the same mileage as the original engine, and has been brought up to the 90K maintenance specifications (with new plugs and timing belt). the dealership then offered a 12 month warranty on the engine.
i intend to have several independent mechanics inspect the engine for flaws or inconsistencies, but i am more concerned with the long term life and efficiency of the engine. should i be concerned? is there anything that suggests that replacing the engine this early will cause problems down the line? also, are there any specific areas that i should pay more attention to, now that the engine has been replaced?
i'm hoping to avoid problems down the line in 50K miles or so. any and all information, suggestions, and opinions are very welcome
thanks
