just been brought home by the aa, he said head gasket gone - groan - he also told me that nowadays garages also replace timing belt at same time? I just had new timing belt on two months ago, does anyone know if this is correct please? Also does anyone have a rough idea of how much it's gonna cost me, already paid out nearly £800 over the last six months, and car probably only worth around £500.00, but got all brand new tyres, wheels, and cam beltcam belt.

I don't know anyone who can fix it other than garage, so don't have access to a friendly mechanic who could help!!

many thanks

Alice, June 2010

Hi Bri

Thanx for taking the time to reply to my query. I think you're probably right, I guess I am a bit worried about buying another car, as I have spent so much on this one over the last year or so, think most things been replaced other than the engine!! Oh, and the gearbox.......hopefully I can find someone to come check one out with me, although I know that doesn't always garantee (excuse dodgy spelling!) road worthiness either............gonna have to think very carefullu.

Thanks again Bri, helped focus me in the right direction.

With thanks
Celtic-Angel

Celtic-Angel, June 2010

Bad news. If your head gasket has gone, the head may be warped and you may need the cylinder head to be machined to a flat surface. This, plus the cost of the gaskets and labour costs is going to be expensive. Might be time to cut your losses and buy another cheap car rather than spend more on the one you have.

Bri, June 2010