Head Gasket repair & replacement done differently

What does a head gasket do?

The head gasket in effect seals the cylinder head to the cylinder block of the car. It ensures that pressure inside the cylinder chambers stays optimal. It also prevents oil or water leaks from occurring there where the water and oil channels of the cylinder head and block meet. The part is, therefore, an extremely important part of the engine as it can make the difference between an engine running well, or badly.

How do you know there is something wrong with the Head Gasket?

*When the 'Check Engine' light is on.
*When the engine doesn't perform well at all (when it can't rev freely etc.)
*When there is a smoke or a smell coming from the engine bay.
*When the engine's coolant temperature is too high.
*When there are coolant or oil leaks around the cylinder head.
*When the engine is more noisy than usual.

When should you consider a Head Gasket replacement?

The head gasket is exposed to extreme heat when the engine is running, the part is therefore prone to wear. Normally head gaskets can cope with the heat, but when the engine becomes way too hot the head gasket can fail. This is normally referred to as a blown head gasket, and the result will be that pressure inside the engine's combustion chambers drops preventing optimal combustion. The engine will not run properly in that case, if at all. Should you experience a head gasket failure then it is advisable not to run the car and get help from a professional mechanic. At all times make sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

What happens during a Head Gasket replacement?

*Mechanic will inspect the area around the cylinder head.
*The mechanic will replace the head gasket if a replacement is required.
*Mechanic will advise if other parts need to be replaced.
*Sometimes the cylinder head needs to be skimmed when a head gasket replacement. A mechanic can advise and supply a quote for this additional work.
*If necessary, the mechanic can suggest replacing the cylinder head bolts as well.
*Mechanic will again check for any leaks around cylinder head and test drive the car.

What happens if I don’t do a Head Gasket replacement?

A blown head gasket will have serious consequences for your car. Not least, it will lead to oil and water mixing inside your engine. Other consequences of an unrepaired failing head gasket are the engine overheating, as hot exhaust gases leak into your coolant system, or coolant can leak into the cylinders.

In extreme cases, if not dealt with early, a damaged head gasket could lead to you needing the whole engine replacement.

Can I replace the Head Gasket myself?

A head gasket replacement is a labour and time intensive job, as well as a heavy job. Because it requires accessing and lifting out of at least one part of your car’s cylinder head, its best left in expert hands. In addition, if it isn’t done properly, a head gasket repair can do a lot of damage to other engine parts.

Mechanics will also bring a long list of parts, tools, and sundries, such as oil, coolant and spark plugs to replace a blown head gasket.

How common is Head Gasket replacement?

In modern engines, where the head gasket’s composite construction can withstand very high temperatures, and the constant contact with hot liquids and gases, a blown head gasket doesn’t happen too often.

But if you have an older car, where the internal workings have seen a mixture of liquids and gases passing through them, you could be more prone to it suffering a blown head gasket.

What are common head gasket brands on the market?

Brand names you may come across include Apex, Eristic, and ROCK. It’s a good idea to find out which OEM (original equipment manufacturer) is used by the maker of your car, so you know you’ll be getting a compatible head gasket replacement.

Are there any differences between old and new vehicles or petrol/diesel/electric vehicles?

There will be a head gasket fitted in any car with an internal combustion engine, while pure electric vehicles run without one.

How to extend the lifetime of your Head Gasket?

The best way to prevent a damaged head gasket is to keep its cooling system in good working order. Make sure that it doesn’t have any leaks, your radiator is working properly, and that you keep your engine coolant (water and anti-freeze) topped up to the right level.

Getting your car’s thermostat checked, making sure that it kicks in at the right temperature, and checking that the fans work properly when they are triggered will also help protect your head gasket.

How much does a Head Gasket replacement cost?

The cost of a head gasket replacement depends on your car and what parts the manufacturer recommends as being required for the replacement. A head gasket repair is a fairly complicated job and usually also requires skimming of the cylinder head, a mechanic will be able to advise and quote should this be necessary. If you book with ClickMechanic, you could save up to 50% on your head gasket repair versus franchise dealers.