I've got a 2005 Ford Escape XLS(2WD) with the 2.4L engine. When I was backing it up in the driveway, the timing chain broke. This engine is an interference engine, so I know that typically means the valves got bent. But I'd barely moved it when the chain broke. I pulled the spark plugs and inspected the cylinder heads with a boroscope. I could see some 'clean spots' on the top of two of the pistons, so I'm thinking the valves hit there, but curious if anyone has experience with that? Definitely bent the valves or since it wasn't really moving, there's a good chance the valves are ok? Trying to decide if I should just take a chance and replace the chain and see how it does. Anyone seen anything like that before?

Thanks!

 

There is nothing like being sure. It is no big deal to remove and reinstall a head with a new gasket.
While the head is off,you can check and know if any if the valves are questionable. Do it right and do it once !

You could always hope there is no problem by doing a compression check when you recheck ,,,,,,,,,,after doing all the work replacing the belt.

 

If the engine was running when the timing chain broke, your valves are bent. It doesn't matter how far the car moved. The engine rotates around 14 times per second and it doesn't even need to rotate once fully to damage the valves.