hi my sista has a 2004 civic lx, d17. today she started her car and the timing belt broke and shut off. do you think its neccesary to take off head or do you think valves are alright?

 

Wow! an '04, what was the mileage? I had mine changed at 80K and the old one looked like new.
Well if the engine wasn't running too fast, the cylinder hitting the valve may bend the valve. That would be the BEST sinerio.

 

I am curious what the mileage was too. In your case age might of been a factor. I just did my the second time with 170k miles on it, to play it safe.

As for damage you can take a chance and replace the belt and see how it runs.

 

Better to say, replace the belt and do a compression and leakdown test.

 

agree with accordEX1991 u still need the belt anyways while your their change water pump and tensioner