Timing Belt Failure Need Help!!!

[mamotlani]

I have Alfa 156{W 2000 1.8 TS} Friday on my way to work timing belt failed.120000 miles on{first replaced at 70K}. Car is in Garage{Boar Hunt} only because they were nearest, I really expect worse.
Any I dea re: estimated cost, advise for future, does it worth it or should I get rid of it as I wanted a change to 7 seater any way.
Thanks

[flat16]

The group here can't advise you unless you tell them the state of the damage, i.e. have you been lucky, or unlucky?

My ex-business partner's BMW 3-series chucked a cam belt without any damage to the head at all... Suffice to say, he was lucky...

There's a small chance you might just need a new belt, but the overwhelming chance, sadly, is that your head will be mightily effed up I'm afraid.

If your head is knackered, it could make sense to telephone a few breakers and see if they have a low-mileage engine in their yard - it could be cheaper than the repair.

Edited to say that the pistons could also sustain damage potentially, not just the head, so a few calls to breakers could be in order if that's the case.

Edited by flat16 on Sunday 18th February 15:30

[Alfahorn]

mamotlani said:

I have Alfa 156{W 2000 1.8 TS} Friday on my way to work timing belt failed.120000 miles on{first replaced at 70K}. Car is in Garage{Boar Hunt} only because they were nearest, I really expect worse.
Any I dea re: estimated cost, advise for future, does it worth it or should I get rid of it as I wanted a change to 7 seater any way.
Thanks

It depends on how many valves you've bent, about £1,500 or there abouts to put right.

I cringed when I saw how many miles you had done since the last change, Alfa now recommend a change every 36,000. My 156 has 35,000 miles and had a change 3 years ago at 24,000, however I will do it again later this year because I would rather be safe than sorry.

[pdV6]

Yep - Alfa have a lot to answer for with their timing belt policy. 36k/5y is the way to go.

[harry1972m]

My wifes 147 just had one go at 48K and 4 months out of warranty - cost me £1627.00 to sort out but a few strong letters to Alfa UK later and have just rceived a cheque for the full amount from them.

[mamotlani]

Harry guy you were lucky ! hang on more than bad luck I should be blaming myself as I own this car for more than 4 yrs and never made an effort to know more about it. I just drove it like any other car. Its only after this failure I came across so may good forums with so much guidance that I am sure had I checked those earlier would have sorted cam belt earlier any way I will take it on my chin and will let you guys know about the cost .Meanwhile driving a courtesy car(like thing ) called ROVER CITY(SHITY) CAR.

THANKS