2001 Nissan Xterra XE - timing belt not installed properly?

Question

My Xterra died suddenly while driving earlier today and I could not restart it. I tried to several times; it almost started but just kept sputtering, maybe backfiring, and then just died out. Had it towed to my mechanic. At shop I tried to start it again...it is turning over but nothing else, no sputtering, etc. Had timing belt and other engine belts replaced 4 months ago. Car's been running fine since then until it died. Could it be an improperly installed timing belt? Hard to believe it would run well for 4 months with a belt not properly installed. Could it be fuel pump or another fuel line problem? Very worried that engine is destroyed if belt broke again. Shop is closed till Monday. How can I tell if engine is destroyed? Thanks.

Answer 1

Can't compete with Jessica's Link! But the 3.3 liter engine is not an interference motor. Means that the pistons do not hit the valves. What kills off the "new" timing belt is not replacing the idler and tensioner. Also a word of prercaution two styles of timing belts square cogs or half round cogs. Another possability is distributer with a internal failure

Answer 2

when they did the timming belt did they repace the belt idler pully if they did not then taht is your problem most shops do not change then so you come back 4-5 months latter to have it replaced. ask them if they did then the work should be under warranty if not they should have told you. when they did the belt. you should tell them to fix it if it is the belt. this time its there bill a belt should last years not months.

Answer 3

backfiring sure sign that timing is off ...like john paul said you should replace the idlers and seals while your in there doing the t-belt i would even replace water pump saves money (i.e labor cost ) take your vehicle to a reputable garage who can install a timing belt the right way