Here is the deal. 2002 A8 with 90K miles on it. After having the car for 2 weeks it was discovered the water pump was leaking. I saw no evidence of this when I first got the car so I am assuming it is a new leak. Because of the damage that can be done when a timing belt breaks the car has only been started up twice in the last 2 weeks. Both times to move it out of the way to get my lawn mower out of the garage. So my question is will I be okay driving this car 20 miles (mainly highway) to get to the repair shop. My biggest fear is the water pump seizing, and thus snapping the timing belt. What do you all think?

 

NO!! The water pump won't seize, but coolant being poured on the timing belt from the water pump weakens the belt. So if coolant has sat on the belt for long enough it could snap very easilly under little pressure. So, if you have had the leak for more than a month i would tow it.

 

Thanks. I will get it towed.

 

Upon further review, I don't need a water pump, or timing belt. My car was at the shop to have the timing belt, and the water pump done, and I got a strange phone call. The mechanic called to ask me why was I getting this work done because the timing belt, and the water pump looked brand new. I explained to him that another mechanic told me the water pump was leaking and that is why I brought him the car. Turns out that the oil cooler is what is leaking, and he said that would be cheaper because the timing belt, and water pump are fine. Sounds like I have found a good honest Audi mechanic

 

Sweet, thats always good to hear that you have found a mechanic that won't screw you.

 

Yes indeed. He is about 25 miles away, but worth the drive.

 

Might be worth it to drive to Cleveland...