I was going to work a couple of weeks ago and all the sudden my heater started blowing out cold air then the engine stalled.

 

Taking it to a reputable garage I was informed it needed a new water pump (there was no warning signs such as it making a sound etc.)

 

After tearing down the front of the engine and replacing the pump (to the tune of $300) the mechanic cranked the engine and antifreeze gushered out of the radiator and other places.

 

Bottom line is the head gasket is fried and possibly the head is warped.

 

Its a 1987 GL 1.8 L Turbo wagon that has 166,000 miles on it.

 

What would you do?

1st off, I would have a few words with the wrench for not telling U / finding the head G. problem 1st! (as in BEFORE he started up the engine) 2nd, I think it's a mater of how much do U like this car. A head gas. is not the end of the world in terms of fixing it, but is the car worth the repair bill (to U that is)

If it wer me, I'd fix it, no 2 ways about it

First of all, I would tell the mech thank you very much for replacing my waterpump and may I have the bill please? After that I would get my car away from him pronto, and find a more reputable mech, recommeneded by friends preferably. Or find someone from the board who can do the HG's for you, if thats the problem. Just because the heater started blowing cold air doesnt mean the HG is gone. From what you are saying there was no warning, ie - no over heating, the most common precursor of a head gasket failure. I hate to say it, but I think this mech might have done further damage to your car. Do you know him personaly? I see you said the garage was a reputable one, but have they had many complaints?

Anyway, I would advise on another opinion.

The garage was AAA certified and all the mechanics were ASCE certified for whatever that means.

 

Can anybody recommend anyone in the St. Louis area that could look at it or whatever. I've got to get it off the garage's lot one way or another.....

 

Thanks,

 

Mark