My 1997 1.6L Corolla with about 180K miles developed a severe oil leak. I topped off the oil and was driving it to the shop. The oil light had not come on (not that low) when the engine developed a knocking sound. I immediately stopped & called for a tow. The shop has located & repaired the oil leak, but has only told me that a "rod is bent" and their specialized service technician will check it out today. Any ideas what I might expect? What questions should I ask? How much could various repairs run? I can't buy another car at this point. My finances are EXTREMELY limited. I need to make a cost effective, affordable choice. Any suggestions are welcome. I've been getting about 25 mpg, so compression is apparently good. While they are repairing the "bent rod" should I have them replace the timing belt as preventive maintenance? Would that save on labor costs, since they will already be opening the engine?