kauthor47

First post, I've skimmed over the posting guidelines so if I post out of line I apologize and I'll correct it. I don't know much about cars and I thought you guys would be the best place to look.

I was on my way to work this morning, on the highway going about 65-70, and out of nowhere I heard a thud in my engine, looked up and saw that my RPM meter had dropped to zero and the check engine light came on, but I was still going about 70 and it didn't slow down, at all - I kept my foot where it was and my speed stayed the same. About ten seconds later, the oil and battery lights both also came on, so I pulled over onto the side of the road (I started getting over initially, but now I was doing it a lot faster) and turned the car off, and tried to turn it back on but it wouldn't start. Starter kept turning normally, didn't sound like it was low or dying or anything, it just wouldn't catch, if those are the correct words.

I got it towed to a mechanic and left it there since I think they're closed on weekends, but I just want to get an idea of what to expect. This car (92 Accord DX) hasn't given me a minute's trouble in the two years I've had it, and I just hit 180,000 miles last week. I'm just in panic mode right now because this is the first real car trouble I've ever had.

Looking for suggestions or ideas or anything that would help. Thanks.

redbull-1

Sound like a problem with the engine instead of the transmission.

Lost Again

I would agree with Redbull. When was the last timing belt change.

kauthor47

I actually don't think I've had that replaced since I have had the car, it's been about two years since I got it. So no idea lol.

Nicefeet

You won't be LOLing if it is the timing belt

kauthor47

I'll be happy if it's not the transmission in general because I understand that's very expensive work. How much is a timing belt?

Katastrophic

timing belts are fairly cheap, having them snap while going 70 mph well.....that's a lot of possible damage. Our surpentine belt exploded while on the freeway once and the waterpump, radiator hoses, and alternator all became damaged and had to be replaced. So it's not a laughing matter.

kauthor47

Gotcha. Well I had to maintain speed for a really short period to get over into the other lane, but then I pulled over as soon as I could. I took a quick peek inside when I got towed to the mechanic but I didn't see anything out of the ordinary (like I actually know what anything inside my engine is, anyway) but I'll just have to wait and see what they say.

It sucks because I really love this car.

jdmcertified909

Agree sounds like the timing belt. hope that,you didnt bent any valve and that theres no piston damage if valves are bent that would mean taking the head to a machine shop which can be kinda expensive if your taking it to a well known shop. If the belt went out damage cost will be more expensive than the transmission work. Always always have a mechanic with you when buying a car for inspection

Jleecare

I believe it's just your serpentine belt broke...not the timing belt..pop up the hood and take a peek before spending a bug bucks!

MAD_MIKE

Doubtful, if the serpentine belt broke the ALT light would come on and the Tachometer would still work. Then the engine would have run off of battery power until it died, which would have been a gradual loss of power as the battery drained, not a sudden engine stop.

chikin pickle

Not to mention that Honda's don't have a serpentine belt.

redbull-1

Not the OP's Accord; but, 7th and 8th gen Accord have serpentine belts.