What a head gasket does and why it fails
The head gasket seals the joint between the cylinder head and the engine block. It keeps the combustion gases, the coolant and the engine oil in their separate channels. When it fails, those fluids mix. Coolant enters the combustion chambers and the oil ways, oil enters the coolant, and the engine loses compression. Left running, the cylinder head warps, the bearings wash out and the repair bill climbs sharply.
The most common causes are overheating, a cooling system that has been neglected, and on some modern engines a wet belt that degrades and blocks the oil pick up, starving the top end of lubrication. We identify the root cause during the strip down so the new gasket is not asked to do the same job that destroyed the old one.
Symptoms of a failing head gasket
If you notice any of the following, stop driving and get the engine checked before the damage spreads.
- Loss of coolant with no visible external leak
- White smoke from the exhaust, especially on start up
- Coolant and oil mixing, giving a mayonnaise like residue under the oil cap
- Engine overheating or the temperature gauge climbing
- Rough running, misfires or a loss of compression on one cylinder
- Bubbles in the coolant expansion tank when the engine is running
Our head gasket repair process
- 1
Diagnose and confirm
We pressure test the cooling system and check for combustion gases in the coolant to confirm the head gasket has failed.
- 2
Strip and inspect
The cylinder head comes off. We inspect the gasket, the block face and the head for warping and cracks.
- 3
Pressure test and skim
The head is pressure tested for cracks and skimmed true to restore a flat sealing surface.
- 4
Rebuild with OEM parts
We fit a quality head gasket, new bolts and valve stem seals, and address the root cause of the failure.
- 5
Test and return
The engine is run, checked for leaks and road tested before the vehicle is returned with a written warranty.
How much does a head gasket repair cost?
Head gasket repairs start at £2495.00. The price depends on the engine, whether the cylinder head can be reused or must be replaced, and the parts required. You receive a written quote before any work starts. See typical pricing on our prices page.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a head gasket repair cost?
Head gasket repairs start at £2495.00. The price depends on the engine and whether the cylinder head can be reused or must be replaced. You receive a written quote before any work starts.
Can a head gasket be repaired, or does the engine need replacing?
In most cases a head gasket can be repaired without replacing the whole engine. We pressure test the cylinder head, skim it true and fit a quality gasket. If the head is cracked beyond repair we will tell you and quote for the alternatives.
What causes a head gasket to fail?
The most common causes are overheating, a failing cooling system, and on some engines a wet belt that degrades and blocks the oil pick up. We identify the root cause during the strip down so the failure does not recur.
How long does a head gasket repair take?
Most head gasket repairs take between three and seven working days, depending on parts availability and whether the cylinder head needs machining.
Head gasket repair from £2495.00
Pressure tested, OEM gaskets, road tested and collected from your door.