Head Gasket Replacement - What else could be damaged?

[herbidge]

I'm about to book my 1999 Polo 1.6 in for a head gasket repair, as it started misfiring last week and a mechanic diagnosed HGF on Monday.

Despite oil being found in the coolant, mayo in the oil and water mixing with the fuel, the car never overheated and didn't smoke whatsoever (although some steam from exhaust at start up)

The mechanic (and all the garages I called for quotes) informed me that once the head is off, they MIGHT find additional problems requiring more hours and parts resulting in an even higher bill. I'm aware that the head will be tested for cracks etc and may need skimming, but can anyone tell me what ELSE might be found that could have occured and likely costs?

I hate suprises, especially from mechanics

[julian]

well from my little knowledge they should really change the timing belt, water pump, tensioner and maybe a few other small parts although the cost of those parts shouldn't be too much altogether ~<£50

[The_phat_controlleruk]

It's always wise to get the head checked for twisting, mine did this when the head gasket went and required skimming. Didn't cost much though, granted I did the gasket change myself. Like the other guy said, seeing as the head is off, change the cam belt & tensioner, water pump as you don't know how old it is. Older water pumps had plastic fans on the blade, this is what normally goes first.