The 1988 Chevy Sprint and Geo Metro both used a 3-cylinder engine (generally the 1.0L Isuzu-designed engine).
In the event of a timing belt failure, there is a very high likelihood of valve damage. These engines are
interference engines, meaning that the pistons and valves occupy the same space at certain points in their cycle. If the timing belt breaks, the valves can be bent or broken by the pistons.
Therefore, you should not run a 1988 Chevy Sprint or Geo Metro if the timing belt is broken or even if you suspect it might be close to failure. Replacing the timing belt is a preventative maintenance item that should be done according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule to avoid this potentially expensive repair.
