Welcome to Allpar.
ENGINE DESCRIPTION
The 2.4 Liter (148 cu. in.) in-line four cylinder engine is a double over head camshaft with hydraulic lifters and four valve per cylinder design. The engine is free-wheeling; meaning it has provisions for piston-to-valve clearance. However valve-to-valve interference can occur, if camshaft are rotated independently.
There should be a small plastic cap that you can remove from the center of the upper black plastic timing belt cover. You can get a visual confirmation that the belt and cam sprockets are turning while a helper cranks it over and go from there.
These are valve-to-valve interference engines and valve hits are rare, but still theoretically possible. Valve-to-piston hits aren't possible in the 2.4L.
If valves have bent, the compression may sound weak and uneven while cranking. A compression test may confirm this.
Always replace the water pump and idler pulley that ride on the belt, just so you don't have to do it again later. It is difficult in a driveway the first time. You will need a service manual, tools, crankshaft pulley puller, floor jack, jack stands and a nice day to do it.