2008 Accord Broken Camshaft
 

Hi! Just looking for a little advice here.

The other day as I went to leave work my car wouldn't start. It would turn over but just seemed it wasn't getting fire or fuel. Did some diagnosing myself and found it wasn't the fuel pump, and it wasn't the battery or starter. Oil level seemed fine and all other fluids were good. Got it towed to a mechanic and they called and said it was either a broken timing chain or a broken camshaft, if it was a broken camshaft they would need to replace the whole engine. They will call tomorrow with what they find. My question is this: Is there honestly no other option than replacing the whole engine if it is the camshaft? Should I try a different mechanic if they say that's all I can do? Honestly I don't want to spend the money to replace the whole engine if there is another option, the rest of the car is in great shape and I love my car!!! But honestly if this is my only option I guess I have nothing more to do but get a new car. Please help!!!

Depends on what they find. If the chain or cam went then at the very least I'm thinking the vales are bent as well. So the head would have to come off and be "re-built" or replaced. Now if the head comes off and there is damage to the pistons....then the best thing from there would be a used low mile engine swap.

I do think it is a bit odd that without even getting into it they are talking about replacing the whole engine....unless they are just taking the "worst case" situation.