After all the reseach I believe the timing belt is broken in my friends 2003 outlander. I know this is an interference engine so what are the odds that it could be ok or should she just be ready to replace the engine? Also I is it worth just trying to change the timing belt and give the motor a try?

She said that the first thing that happened was the A/C quit and she started hearing clacking noises, which sounded like the water pump went out. What I could notice (I'm attaching images) was a "Grease" which looked like it came from the front of the radiator. She tried to turn it over and the serpentine belt moves but does not not sound like it's turning over, which is why I think it's the timing belt, I also opened up the oil at the top and when she tried to turn it over nothing moves inside. Thoughts, ideas? Just trying to help a broke down Starbucks barista friend who dosent have much $. Thanks ahead for all the help.

 

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I'm not much help on the Gen1 Outlanders. But there is also a Facebook group for Outlanders....lot of Gen1s on there.

 

Thanks! I'll check them out.

 

I wouldn't call a 2003 a POS, especially since it appears the proper maintenance wasn't done on the vehicle.

If the timing belt did break, it doesn't necessarily mean there is engine damage depending on the position of the pistons, however, since it was attempted to start after the fact, which moves the flywheel and therefore the crank, you most definitely bent some valves during the process. Probably going to need to take the head off and replace valves. Also, going to need to replace the belt obviously.

I think the cheaper route is to find a low mileage junkyard engine and put that in.

First thing to do is get the timing belt cover off and see if it's really broken.