How to determine if my Audi A2 has a cracked head gasket?

I recently noticed that my Audi A2 is losing coolant and the engine is overheating. I suspect it might have a cracked head gasket. How can I accurately determine if this is the issue and if so, what should I do to fix it?

The most common method to check for a cracked head gasket is to perform a cylinder compression test. This will help determine if there is a leak between the combustion chamber and the cooling system. If the test comes back positive, it is best to replace the head gasket immediately to prevent further damage.

You can also visually inspect the head gasket for any visible signs of damage or leakage. Look for white smoke coming from the exhaust, milky oil when checking the dipstick, and a sweet smell coming from the engine. If any of these are present, it is likely that the head gasket is cracked and needs to be replaced.

Another way to confirm a cracked head gasket is to perform a chemical test on the coolant. This will detect the presence of hydrocarbons, which would indicate a head gasket leak. If the test is positive, it is important to address the issue immediately to avoid causing further damage to the engine.