Compare Audi A3 head gasket repair quotes from specialist garages

Since it was founded in 1909, Audi has been at the forefront of automotive innovation. It was the first to conduct crash tests, one of the first to use a dual-clutch gearbox, and in 1921, became the first German manufacturer to make a production car, the Audi Type K, with left-hand drive.

Impressively, Audi is also the most successful carmaker in the history of the World Car Awards, winning 11 titles since 2005 and five World Performance Car Awards as of 2022. Find out whether Audis are expensive to repair in this guide or take a look at how their maintenance costs compare with SEAT and Skoda.

The head gasket is crucial because it prevents oil and coolant from mixing and seals the internal combustion process. It is under the most pressure of any engine gasket, and it can be expensive when it fails, so it's best to shop around.

Head gasket symptoms to look out for include white or milky oil caused by leaking coolant, white exhaust smoke, loss of power and water or a sweet smell from the exhaust. Blown head gaskets are usually caused by overheating, so keeping your coolant topped up is important. You shouldn't try to drive with a blown head gasket.

A head gasket repair is usually only a temporary fix, especially when you use sealant, and if the damage is too extensive, you may need to book a full head gasket replacement. A cylinder head repair is sometimes required if the head gasket has blown.

A head gasket specialist can advise you on the exact repair your car needs and how much it will cost. Read our complete head gasket replacement guide for more information.