Has my Renault Clio's cam belt snapped?

I bought a secondhand Renault Clio not too long ago, to learn to drive in. I was driving around a corner (very slow!) when the car just cut out, and there was a slight hiss sound (not for long, about two seconds). I've been told by friends and family that its most probably the cam belt that has snapped. I've been reading online to try and get a bit of info, and I've read about taking the head off and having a look myself to see how much damage is done. I would rather get this car fixed than scrapping it. Any advice welcome!

Asked on 9 September 2010 by robyn

Answered by Honest John
Could be. First thing, take the plastic cam cover off the end of the engine and have a look. If valves have hit pistons it's probably curtains for the engine.
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