What Happens When Your Head Gasket Is Replaced?
FixMyCar discusses the signs of head gasket failure, what happens when the part is replaced and how much it costs.
Book a head gasket replacementEllie Dyer-Brown
Friday September 20 2024
2 min read
Replacing the head gasket is a complex job - but what does it involve? Find out in this guide.
What is a head gasket and what does it do?
The head gasket is a seal found between the engine block and cylinder head that stops coolant and oil from mixing. It must be able to withstand extreme temperatures and pressure. Although the head gasket is a highly durable part, it's also the most stressed gasket in the engine, leaving it vulnerable to wear and tear over time.
Check out this guide to learn more about how a car engine works.
Signs of a faulty head gasket
Common signs of a faulty head gasket include:
White or milky oil
Water or a sweet smell from the exhaust
What happens when your head gasket is replaced?
Accessing the gasket can be difficult as it involves removing many engine components. The process is slightly different depending on the make and model of your car - here is a basic outline of what it might involve.
The engine oil and coolant are drained, and the parts connected to the cylinder head are removed. The timing belt or chain may also need to be removed.
Next, the engine block is checked for signs of warping and cracks, and the surface of the cylinder head and block are cleaned.
The new head gasket is fitted, and a torque wrench is used to tighten the head onto the block.
Finally, the other engine parts that were removed for access to the head gasket are put back.
Does your head gasket need replacing? FixMyCar can help you find the right garage at the right price.
If you found this guide helpful, you might also like:
- Related topics:
- Cracked Head Gasket
- Engine And Cooling
- Head Gasket
- Head Gasket Diagnosis
- Head Gasket Failure
- Head Gasket Replacement
- Repair
Written by Ellie
Ellie is FixMyCar's content manager. She has over three years of experience writing about cars and regularly collaborates with automotive experts to provide trustworthy advice for drivers that is easy understand. Her work has been featured in Yahoo! Finance, iNews, The Daily Express and The Sun. She has a BA in English literature and an MA in creative writing from Durham University. Outside of work, Ellie follows F1 and eagerly awaits Ferrari's next era of dominance in the sport. She drives a Suzuki Swift.