Hi folks,
I have, or at least may have a problem.
I recently bought a 2009, 3rd gen, 2.0 manual.
It runs smoothly, at least it did until,I had an air meter issue, but has been flat, even for a 2.0, since I got it.
I have only had it a few weeks and had decided to take it back to be looked at, when the meter failed.
The garage that fitted the new meter, not the one I had it from due to distance, were not happy with the performance when testing and looked a little deeper, what they found is potentially a big issue but I wouldn't know how to check.
They told me the timing belt was one tooth out, I don't know if it was both cams of just one and I don't know if it was retarded or advanced.
Given that I have driven the thing for 3 weeks and there is no indication of rough ideal or mechanical noise I am inclined to think the valves haven't hit the pistons and the timing was probably symmetrical at least.
I am now arguing with the dealer that sold it to me but worry I may get stuck with it and worse, have little idea of what, if any, damage has been done and how I would best go about checking that.
The local guy, who I trust tells me he isn't happy with how it is performing although it is much better than it was now it has a new meter and the belt in the correct place.
He also tells me that without further, detailed, diagnostic work, performed by an different technician, that he cant tell me much more an inst prepared to guess.
Obviously I am not expecting anyone to tell me why its flat, OK flatter than a 2.0 normally is, but I am hoping that someone may have some insight into:-
How far out the valve timing would have to be to cause damage, physically?
If damage can result from bad valve timing that inst mechanically induced, burned seats for example and how that could be assessed and or rectified?
It dose run smoothly and drives OK, bar the lack or toque, in fact it did even when the timing wasn't correct.
My point is it doesn't sound, or feel, dead, although I realise it may be seriously compromised.
I am jut looking for insight and suggestions.
If I can get it refunded I will but I suspect that would involve a legal fight, and probably not be quick, so knowing how worried I should be would help.
Thanks
Al