Compare Hyundai I20 head gasket repair quotes from specialist garages

The i20 is a practical, efficient and stylish small car, making it a popular choice for urban commuters. There is a more exciting side to this model, too, because it is used as the basis for Hyundai's rally car, competing in the World Rally Championships (WRC).

At the 2023 WhatCar? Awards, the Hyundai i20 N was crowned 'Hot Hatch of the Year' - a highly sought-after title - earning praise for its "brilliant body control and grip". Two years before, it was also named 'Car of the Year' at Top Gear's annual awards. The most recent generation of the i20 is exceptionally reliable; in earlier models from 2009-15, watch for signs of clutch wear and blocked DPFs in diesel engines.

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.