1992 Hyundai Elantra
 

:( I need a BIG help. To make a story short; we sold the vehicle to a deaf female friend of mine. But she had the car repaired illegally (the fake mechanic cut the wires and then clipped one end to the battery terminal from the radiator's fans because the fans were not working), we told her on the day we sold, that if she has any problem, she should ask my kids' dad to help fix it. He would always send the vehicle to the appropriate mechanic. But she didn't. She blew it. The radiator was overheated, because she forgot to put the "clip" on the battery terminal. The car stopped on the street after she pulled over. I don't know if the engine is okay or not. But once I checked the dipster, I noticed the motor is in paint-like.. because the water probably went into the engine. I need a help; one said water pump, other said blown motor gasket but where, another suggested thermostat. Or just take my car to the rebuilding shop. HELP!!!!! :( :(

RE: 1992 Hyundai Elantra
 

I'm no mechanic, but to me that sounds like a sure sign of a blown head gasket at a minimum. Overheating can cause major damage to an engine. The problem with a blown head gasket is that the part really isn't all that expensive, but the job is very labor intensive and can cost several hours in labor(generally $50-$80 per hour at a dealership). You're best bet is to take it to a mechanic that you trust for an accurate diagnosis of the problem.

RE: 1992 Hyundai Elantra
 

Is it the 1.6L DOHC Mitsu motor. If so that can be a timly fix, cause they are a pain to work on. I am working on pulling the head on one right now because the GF ignored getting the timing belt fixed 8 months ago. A warning to all it may be around $200 to $300 to replace a timing belt but cost more if you don't.