3.0 Petrol (Quattro Sport Auto) Head Gasket(s) Issues?

[Computageek]

Hi All,

Today my beloved 2002 A4 became sick. Traveling along at about 55mph for 25 miles when the coolant indicator came on and the temp was 130......So....

I stopped on the hard shoulder and popped the bonnet. Steam everywhere as expected. I allowed the engine to cool and added some water (I carry some.... phew).

Off I trot again and within 5 miles, same thing happens, then as the junction i 1 mile away, I decide carry on and get off the motorway. As I left the junction, the oil warning came on too. EEK!

So....Stopped again and allowed engine to cool. Water added and this was repeated for the 10 miles needed to get to my destination.

I assume that there is a problem with a head gasket on one of the banks. But....

I have been having cold start issues recently, misfiring for 20-30 seconds, then all fine. Neither Audi Main Dealer or Audi Specialist diagnosed this as a head gasket issue, but combined with the "smoking" exhaust, I'm feeling that this head gasket has been a problem for a couple of months.

So, what can I do? Is this a DIY job or definitely a Garage Visit. If a garage visit, what is the likely cost? Also, am I likely to have caused more problems by limping the car home.....? (it is boxing day and tow truck would be heaps)

thanks
Pete..

[kite]

Could be a broken water pump.