Car Broken Down, No Compression...?

[Chrisb81]

I started the car ok this morning, however heard a loud rattling and humming as I drove down the street. A mile later it had cut out and wouldn't start again. Had to get recovery out to tow me home. Now the car won't start, if I turn the key it's trying to but won't pick up...
The recovery guy said there's no compression, the belt at the side of the engine (excuse my lack of knowledge) is still intact but it's not starting.
Wondered if anyone has any idea of the problem, and more importantly a rough idea of repair costs, it's an old car so might not be worth it.
It's a Vauxhall Astra 1.6 16v, 2001.
Cheers

[Togo]

Well Chris it could be anything from piston rings, valves, tappets hydraulics or head gasket. Without more info. not much advice can be given. You need someone to run a proper diagnostic test for you. I would try a small independent if you are unable to do it yourself. Most of the above reasons are fairly labour intensive but you could opt for a reconditioned engine if the rest of the motor is in good nick.

[Hopkirk]

2001?

Scrap it.

[tonyav]

Could be that the timing belt has slipped a tooth or two.
Check ( or get a mechanic ) to see if the timing marks on the cams and on the crank shaft are in the correct position.

[TWR]

As Tony, it seems from what you say, the timing has slipped a tooth, what milage has the car done? when was it last Fully Serviced, have you fuel in the car? that rattle could be the big Ends Bearings in the sump ( Big Job) You can get a 2nd hand unit for the car £150 mark, you can not tell what this is like until you fit it, total cost, around £400>>£500.