Compare MINI head gasket repair quotes from specialist garages

Despite the confidence of Aurelio Lampredi - Fiat's chief designer - that the Mini would never be a true rival because it was "so damned ugly", the enduring popularity of the model and its manufacturer suggest otherwise.

There are over 460 MINI clubs in the UK. This guide discusses how much you can expect to pay to service your MINI.

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.