02 Hyundai sonata, lost rpms went to start it again and wouldn't turn over. Oil, battery and check engine lights we're on.

Asked by Jess Sep 20, 2015 at 12:59 AM about the 2002 Hyundai Sonata FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I was driving down the highway when I
started to lose rpms.  Pulled car over and
turned it off.  When I went to turn it back on
battery,oil and check engine lights we're all
on.  The car cranks but doesn't turn over.  
Took it to a repair shop and they said it was
the timing belt.  I don't know if I trust them
because the timing belt was replaced less
than 2 years ago. When I got my car home
that night (towed it)  I was doing some of
my own inspections.  While I was having
someone try to start the car,  I could see the
belt slowly moving but not like it should
obviously.  But the lights in my car were
flickering so that to me seems like a power
issue...alternator maybe?  
Any thoughts are greatly appreciated. Just
a single mom looking to get my car running
for a resonable price. Thanks in advance!

1 Answer

140

If your timing belt has jumped position(different than belt that runs alternator, water pump, power steering) its possible that your pistons are hitting your intake or exhaust valves, in which case the engine would not turn over or very slowly and you may have some severe engine damage. If they want a lot of money to change the belt and don't advise on engine damage, go elsewhere. You should not try and start the engine again if the timing belt is bad as this could damage the engine and starter.

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