Does 2006 PT Cruiser have non-interference engine? (Timing Belt Broke)

Asked by HobbyJim2010 Aug 11, 2017 at 08:19 AM about the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Wagon FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I've been getting conflicting information on this. Some sites and mechanics
say that when the timing belt breaks on PT's, the engine gets damaged
because the valves can make contact with each other. But apparently later
models PT's don't have that kind of engine. Is the 2006 model a non-
interference or interference engine? It's a non turbo 4 door. I don't think it's
a touring edition or special model. Just a regular PT.

2 Answers

50

I own a 2006 pt cruiser and had the timing belt break on me when I was driving on the interstate at 70 mph.. it did NOT tear up my engine thank God! But do make sure when you get the belt replaced that you have them replace the water pump and anything else that looks bad when they have all that out or you will end up paying the labor again at a later time getting the other stuff repaired. The best way I know to save money if you don't know a mechanic..

5 people found this helpful.
70

In the middle of my second shade tree PT timing belt. Both turbo models and non-turbo are twin cam. They and the Neons all use the same timing belt kit. RockAuto TCKWP265C gives you belt, water pump, idler and tensioner for $105 and change. TCK265ARB is the high performance kit but no pump for $128 and change. Both are Gates brand. The turbo is lower compression, so either the cylinder head has larger combustion chambers (not likely - cheaper to make only one) or the turbo pistons are dished (more likely as pistons are cheaper). That said, NONE should be interference. If a mechanic tries to tell you (as I had one try) that he checked compression or leakdown tests without a belt, fire the cheat! Book says seven hours in a shop. Took longer in my driveway. I replaced motor mounts and drive belts too. For the person that can't keep a belt on, ask the installer if he pried the belt on. Wrong move if he did - breaks the belt.

3 people found this helpful.

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