Sudden engine breakdown

[dfraser]

Hi folks, wonder if anyone has any ideas on a diagnosis for this one. My pal was driving his 2004 Passat 1.9 TDI 130. The car started behaving like it was on ‘kangaroo fuel’ and then sounded like it was running on 3 cylinders. The engine cut out, so he pulled into the side of the road. Now the car won’t start.
The starter engages and draws power, but will not turn the engine.
The AA have ruled out the timing belt.
The clutch feels light, and gears engage whilst static.
There are no external signs of leaks, odd smells etc.
No water in the airbox.
No dash warning lights – all going on/off as they should.
I spoke to another pal who suggested I rock the car in gear to see if the engine would turn, and I saw no evidence of pulley movement despite my best efforts.
There were no other warning signs like high temperature, low oil, no noises.
Could anybody shed any light and suggest any likely causes and fixes. My mechanic pal will be coming to have a look tomorrow lunch, so any advice would be helpful.
Thanks, David

[Crasher]

That sounds like it has seized but it would be unusual for that engine to do that.

[dfraser]

I must admit, that was a suggestion my pal came up with, but with absolutely no warning signs, it's difficult to understand why. The car hasn't been abused, and has only 52k...

[Crasher]

I wonder if the cam belt has gone.

[Sam]

How did the AA rule out the timing belt?

[zollaf]

probably just pulled the top cover off and said, '' yep, still there''. it could have stripped some teeth though so the timing is out.
just a thought, has anyone checked its got some oil in it ?

[dfraser]

Not sure how AA diagnosed that one, so you could be right. Plenty oil in there - it's been well looked after too.

[justin31]

sounds stupid but it hasnt run out of fuel has it or maybe blocked fuel filter?

[Chipped2]

I must admit, that was a suggestion my pal came up with, but with absolutely no warning signs, it's difficult to understand why. The car hasn't been abused, and has only 52k...

Was the cambelt changed in 2008 when it was due to be changed?

Trying to start the engine if it has seized will probably knock teeth off the starter ring and bend the starter motor shaft too. The head is bad enough but replacement flywheel and starter isn't cheap either. Don't attempt to start again!

Fingers crossed that it isn't cambelt breakage. Keep us posted.