Compare Citroen C3 head gasket repair quotes from specialist garages

Citroen's C3 model is brimming with quirky styling features and offers serious scope for customisation, delighting some drivers while alienating others. It is often praised for its comfortable interior and decent equipment levels (at a reasonable price), though it isn't as good to drive as other small cars and isn't very spacious for passengers in the back.

One of the C3's most significant selling points is its reliability. There are no known problems in the most recent iteration, though faulty electrics are a known weak point for earlier Citroen models. In 2023, the C3 won the 'World Urban Car' prize at the 19th World Car Awards.

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.