That doesn't mean it is the timing belt at fault
And how would it be only on one side?
I would go through the basic checks
Spark, fuel, air flow, exhaust, compression before I suspect timing belt

But, if you trust your mechanic???

 

Well, I've taken my cars to this guy for 18 years. He was my cub scout leader. I know he won't overcharge me, he never has before, so yes.

 

Just wanted to say that timing belt change at 60k is pretty common with most engines that uses timing belts. For example my 2005 Chevy Aveo Hatchback with ecotec engine it's recommended to change it at 60k miles. Depending where you take it could range anywhere from $325 to $800. It's always good to shop around and sometimes some shops will let you bring your own parts to be installed. It's good to go by what they recommend because lets say if there is a oil leak and it gets on the timing belt it will shorten the life of the belt. I never done a timing belt on my 2002 Elantra before but I was able to manage to get it done on my own. Took me two days and the parts its self was $80 at Autozone. Then again I had another car to use in the mean time. Took the entire weekend to do it and runs great. Before this back the in the late 90s I did a timing belt on my 1993 Geo Metro. It was way easier on that 3 cylinder.

 

Did mine at 55k. Car was 12 years old. Also consider age! belts crack and weaken with age.

 

What vehicle do you drive now?

 

Still have the car. Only bought it a year ago used, but put a ton of time into it with audio and service.

 

My dad has his timing belt done at 68k. Went to pick it up and pulling out the CEL came on. Turned around and the guy said, can't help you, take it to a dealer, after checking the code. My dad drove it to a dealer, $4000 later he got the car back and gave it to me. Maybe if he had it towed it would have saved it, who knows.

500 miles later, lost a piston, engine ate itself. Hope you had better luck. Think it would be better to leave the damn timing belt alone. I have a 4 door paper weight now.

 

That is bad luck.
Sorry.
Better luck next time