In a Greek Kia forum a dealer KIA technician says he had seen 2 sportages that broke timing belt and hit the valves the pistons <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" />

More info...

The valves hit the pistons because the tensioner got stuck, not due belt-breake

The service manual states that the Sportage gas engine is a non-interference engine.

can you scan it and e-mailed me?? I know its a big favor... if you can...

I do not have a way to scan. I looked up the information again and I found the note in the SOHC 1995 Technical Highlights Manual, but I am still looking for the DOHC note. The information is just a foot-note in the service manual.

I emailed you a PDF file with the information. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

i was told here by my mechanic at the kia dealership not to count on it being a zero interference engine, because he has seen many engines destroyed because of broken timing belts.

which reminds me, better get on that soon!

dealer told me they have seen bent valves, even though its non-interference too. dealer in dayton ohio.i think its luck of the draw.some get lucky some dont.
any way to check if belt is about to go? does the timing change if it stretches? does it stretch at all? im at 43,000 and wondering when to get the kit.

I'd like to know too, how you can tell if it's due. Mine makes a funny crackling/squeaky noise when running so I'm worried it might be on its last legs. Being on 135,000 km its way overdue too, just need to save up for the parts and do it pronto.

Be careful with "second hand" information. It may not be accurate.

We have first hand info in this forum that clearly shows that the SOHC and DOHC engine are non-interference. Search and you'll find several individuals who have broken a timing belt and did not sustain any damage.

But the above applies to US/Canadian Sportages. It is POSSIBLE that in other countries the engine MIGHT be interference if it has a higher compression ratio. US/Canadian Sportages are 9.2:1. If other countries run higher chances are a busted timing belt will result in valves and pistons hitting each other.

I have discovered that Kia Techs easily confuse the Sephia and the Sportage. The Sephia engine IS an interference engine and will be destroyed if the timing belt breaks.

But given this it is still wise the replace the timing belt when it is due. Rather safe than sorry. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" />