If the timing chain breaks on a 2002 VW Golf Tdi will it harm the engine?

Answer 1

First, the engine has a belt, NOT a chain.  Second, YES, it will very much hurt the engine. The pistons will likely strike the valves and bend (at very least) the valves and require major repairs.  The belt is rocommended to be replaced at 80,000 miles (read your manual). Do not cut corners on this as every mile after 80,000, you are your own test engineer.

Answer 2

if the timing belt (yes belt not chain) breaks on your tdi you will have sever engine damage  ie. head, valve, and or piston damage. sorry about your luck if it broke..