Head gasket repair and replacement cost

If your car has an internal combustion engine (ICE) then it will have a head gasket. However, head gasket failure is a common and serious issue.

That's why it's important to understand how the head gasket works and the tell-tale signs of a blown gasket or failure. 

Here, we explain the costs associated with a head gasket repair.

A 'blown' head gasket or head gasket failure is a very serious problem. The average cost to replace a head gasket is £633, although the price you pay will depend on the make, model and age of your vehicle. 

If you do not fix or replace a faulty head gasket then it can cause serious and costly damage to the engine. This can drastically increase the price for repairs, replacement, and any work that might need to be carried out.

If you suspect your head gasket is damaged or faulty, have it inspected by a trusted local garage before it results in engine damage.

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The head gasket is an integral part of the internal combustion engine (ICE). It sits between the cylinder head and engine block, sealing oil, coolant and compression from the cylinders. 

This ensures that there is the correct amount of pressure – as well as regulating the temperature.

The head gasket seals oilways between the cylinder head and block, allowing oil to flow around the engine. It also ensures the coolant reaches the areas it needs to.

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A head gasket works by sealing the space between the engine block and the cylinder head.

This creates a tight seal around the combustion chambers (where the air-fuel mixture is ignited) and ensures that the high pressure gases generated during combustion stay within the cylinder.

When the engine is running, the head gasket will ensure that the fluid, oils, and gases do not escape into the surrounding areas of the engine.

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There are some common signs to look out for when it comes to faults with your head gasket.

• Engine overheating – you’ll notice the engine warning light, and a reduction in power
• Low engine coolant level
• White exhaust smoke proceeded by a strong, somewhat sweet smell within the vehicle itself.
• A pool of fluids under the engine when the car is turned off

Over the decades as technology has developed, there have become fewer variations of head gaskets – as the majority of modern vehicles use Multi Layered Steel head gaskets.

Previous versions were either solid copper, a composite of asbestos and graphite, elastomeric using steel, or an ‘O-ring’ gasket.

What is a MLS head gasket?

A multi-layer steel head gasket is used in most modern cars on the roads in the UK.

They use up to five layers of a steel and elastomer composite that is coated with a specialised rubber coating.

This is because of the high heat and pressure the head gasket is put under – and is an improvement on older versions of a head gasket.