Damaged timing chain

2013 FORD FOCUS
165,000 MILES • 1.6L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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ROSYB
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My boyfriends car listed above 1.6tdci Diesel Zetec lost engine power whilst driving on the motorway (70 mph). The recovery mechanic said the timing chain was the issue. It was bought second hand at 145,000 miles and seems it had never been replaced. Now at 165,000 miles.

The garage has said they can replace the timing chain for £350 but it is a risk as it may have damaged the engine. The alternatives are to replace the engine or sell the car for parts.

Is there no way of telling beforehand whether the chain has damaged the engine?

Any advice on the best option is greatly appreciated.
Jan 3, 2020 at 4:58 AM
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KASEKENNY
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If I understand this correctly the timing chain broke and they can't tell if it damaged the engine?

If that is the case then they are worried the valves made contact with the pistons. The best way to determine this is to remove the injectors and put a borescope (small camera) down the hole to look at the pistons to see if there is damage.

If there is no damage then it should be good to go with the repair.

Please clarify if there are other concerns from the mechanics. Thanks
Jan 3, 2020 at 4:59 PM