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Home / Symptoms / Head Gasket Repair Price

The head gasket repair price is typically $1300 but it can change depending on the repair extension

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Head Gasket: Replacement, Costs & DIY

The head gasket replacement cost for non-luxury vehicle brands like Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford is typically between $1300 and $1600, depending on the vehicle model.

For higher-end vehicles like performance cars and luxury SUVs, the prices are different. For example, a head gasket replacement can fall around the $2500 range on a 2024 Mercedes G63 AMG.

Note that a blown head gasket does not have a repair, nor should it. If the head gasket fails, it needs replacement so the engine can work safely for the next years. Therefore, we can’t discuss repair prices, only replacement costs.

What are the costs of fixing the head gasket?

Fixing the head gasket goes beyond just replacing the part with a new one. The head gasket itself might cost around $600 and $800, but the replacement cost adds labor, area rates, etc. Let’s break down the costs involved in a head gasket replacement:

The labor rate: Labor rates change between professionals (ASE technicians charge more than rookie mechanics) and wage differences for areas.
The shop’s neighborhood/area: The area will determine the replacement cost. For example, Santa Barbara in California has prices different from Albuquerque in New Mexico; this could be due to lease rates, cost of living, etc.
The vehicle type: European brands like Mercedes, BMW, Audi, etc., have different prices for replacing the head gasket. For example, an Audi A3 head gasket replacement can typically start at $2000.

Let's Get To The Bottom Of It!

Have you noticed white smoke coming from the exhaust?

White smoke can indicate that coolant is leaking into the combustion chamber and burning—one of the clearest signs of a blown head gasket.

Has your engine been overheating recently?

Overheating is both a cause and a symptom of a bad head gasket. A failed seal can cause coolant loss, leading to frequent or sudden overheating.

Is your coolant level dropping without any visible leaks?

If the coolant is disappearing but there's no sign of external leakage, it could be leaking internally into the engine—often through a bad head gasket.

Does your oil look milky or foamy on the dipstick or under the oil cap?

A milky appearance in the oil means coolant is mixing with it, which usually happens when the head gasket fails and lets coolant seep into oil passages.

Have you heard bubbling or gurgling sounds from your radiator or coolant reservoir?

These sounds often come from exhaust gases entering the cooling system through a damaged head gasket, forming bubbles and pressure pockets.

Is the check engine light on, and has the car been running rough or misfiring?

A faulty head gasket can cause poor compression in one or more cylinders, leading to misfires or rough idling—triggers for the check engine light.

1. How much does a head gasket replacement cost?

The cost of replacing a head gasket typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500. This price varies depending on your car's make and model, labor rates, and whether other parts need repair (like a cracked cylinder head). Luxury or performance cars may cost more due to their complexity.

2. Why is replacing a head gasket so expensive?

Replacing a head gasket involves disassembling the engine, which is a labor-intensive job. The gasket itself isn’t that expensive, but the labor costs can be high due to the time it takes to remove parts like the cylinder head and to reassemble the engine afterward. Additionally, you may need to replace other parts like bolts, seals, or even the cylinder head if it's damaged.

3. Can I drive my car if the head gasket is bad?

It’s not recommended. Driving with a blown head gasket can cause further damage to the engine, like a warped cylinder head, cracked engine block, or coolant contamination in the oil. Overheating is common, and if coolant gets into the engine, it can damage it irreparably.

4. What are the signs I need a head gasket replacement?

Here are the main signs:

White smoke from the exhaust (burning coolant)
Engine overheating
Milky oil (a sign of coolant mixing with oil)
Loss of coolant with no visible leaks
Bubbling in the radiator when the engine is running
Poor engine performance like misfires or rough idling

5. Can I use a head gasket repair product instead of replacing it?

There are sealants and liquid repair products available, but they’re more of a temporary fix. They might work for minor leaks or if you're in a bind, but they don’t solve the root cause of the issue. If the damage is severe, a repair product might not work, and you’ll still need a full replacement eventually.

6. Can I replace the head gasket myself?

Replacing a head gasket is a complex job and not typically recommended for DIYers unless you're experienced with engine repairs. It involves removing the cylinder head, cleaning all components, and carefully reassembling everything. If you’re new to engine work, it’s better to leave this job to professionals.

7. What factors affect the cost of head gasket replacement?

Several factors can influence the price:

Labor costs: Labor rates vary by region and mechanic skill level.
Car make and model: Luxury cars or complex engines can take longer to repair, increasing the cost.
Additional parts needed: If the cylinder head is damaged, or other engine parts are affected, you may need to replace those as well, adding to the cost.
Location: If you're in a high-cost-of-living area, expect to pay more for labor.

8. What happens if I don't replace the head gasket?

If you don't replace a blown head gasket, it can cause:

Engine failure: Prolonged damage can lead to complete engine failure.
Overheating: The engine will continue to overheat, risking warping or cracking parts like the cylinder head or engine block.
Contaminated oil: Oil and coolant mixing can lead to a loss of lubrication, causing internal engine damage.

9. How long does a head gasket replacement take?

The job typically takes 6 to 12 hours, depending on the complexity of the engine. For cars with harder-to-reach parts or complex engines, it could take even longer. Always ask your mechanic for an estimated timeline.

10. Is the head gasket replacement covered by warranty?

It depends on your car's warranty. Some extended warranties may cover head gasket replacement, especially if it's a defect, but many basic warranties or used car warranties might not. Check with your dealer or warranty provider to see if it’s included.

11. Will replacing the head gasket fix the engine permanently?

If done properly, a head gasket replacement can restore your engine to proper working condition. However, if there are underlying issues like a cracked engine block or a warped cylinder head, the replacement might not be enough to solve the problem. It’s important to address any other damage before proceeding.

12. Can I prevent head gasket failure?

While you can’t completely prevent it, regular maintenance can reduce the risk:

Keep your engine’s cooling system in check (change coolant regularly).
Avoid overheating by addressing cooling issues early.
Replace engine oil and filters as recommended.
Address any engine problems like overheating or coolant leaks promptly.

Are there more costs to consider besides common replacement costs?

Yes, the common replacement costs are expected in any head gasket replacement. But you might get a specialized service, depending on what you want to achieve with your vehicle.

Here are the possible types of service you can get.

“Just” a fix: This means you just need the head gasket replacement and nothing else. The downside is that you might not discover what caused the head gasket to go bad in the first place. So, let’s assume there’s a problem somewhere else in your car that’s forcing the head gasket to wear down faster. In this situation, getting a new gasket won’t solve the issue, it might just make you return to the shop shortly to replace the head gasket again. This goal probably won’t have extra costs besides the common ones at first. But it may mean you’ll spend it all again if the cover keeps wearing out faster.
Long-lasting fix: This means you want to permanently fix your vehicle and understand what might be wrong with it. So, you want to investigate if there’s an issue causing your head gasket to wear down faster than expected. You’re willing to spend more money to cover extra processes that ensure your car runs safely and reliably.

Costs of a long-lasting head gasket fix

In addition to the common replacement costs, a long-lasting replacement has more factors that change the final price. Here’s what you can initially expect:

Engine system inspection: An engine block system inspection usually costs below $200. This is an investigation of your engine system that involves the labor of service advisors and mechanics.
Component replacements: The inspection might indicate worn and affected components that require replacement. This depends on the specific condition of the vehicle.
Other system repairs: The shop might find other malfunctioning systems affected by the problem that require replacements and/or computer reprogramming. For example, replacing parts of the ignition system that are worn out due to bad fuel pressure can cost north of $1,000.

Symptoms of a bad head gasket

The symptoms of a bad head gasket are performance loss, engine ignition/combustion problems, and an engine warning light. Let’s discuss these symptoms and some more related to a faulty head gasket.

White smoke from the exhaust: Happens when coolant leaks into the combustion chamber and burns off.
Overheating engine: Caused by coolant escaping or not flowing properly due to a broken seal.
Milky oil (like chocolate milk): Means coolant is mixing with the engine oil—usually a clear sign of a blown head gasket.
Coolant loss with no visible leak: The coolant might be leaking internally into the engine instead of dripping outside.
Bubbling in the radiator or reservoir: Exhaust gases are leaking into the coolant system, creating bubbles and pressure.
Poor engine performance: Misfires, rough idling, or low power can happen if the gasket fails between cylinders.
Check engine light: Sensors detect misfires or temperature issues caused by the failing gasket and trigger the warning.

What’s at risk with a faulty head gasket?

Some other car parts that work together with the head gasket will suffer. Here are some of these parts and how much they might add to the repair cost if the head gasket isn’t dealt with quickly:

Cylinder head: $300–$1,200
Engine block: $1,000–$4,000
Radiator: $200–$600
Water pump: $250–$750
Thermostat: $150–$300
Timing belt or chain: $500–$1,200
Oil cooler: $200–$500
Catalytic converter: $700–$2,500
Oxygen sensors: $100–$300 each

You’ll run safety risks if your vehicle keeps driving with a faulty head gasket. Here are some unexpected things that can go wrong:

Engine fire: Coolant or oil leaks can hit hot engine parts and ignite.
Brake failure: Leaking fluids or overheating can affect brake system performance.
Sudden engine shutdown: A blown gasket can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving.
Loss of power steering: Overheating can damage nearby systems like the power steering pump.
Poor visibility from white smoke: Thick exhaust smoke can block your rear view, especially at idle.
Toxic fumes in the cabin: Exhaust gases can leak into the heating system, exposing passengers to harmful fumes.

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Pinpoint the Issue

Have you noticed white smoke coming from the exhaust?

White smoke can indicate that coolant is leaking into the combustion chamber and burning—one of the clearest signs of a blown head gasket.
Has your engine been overheating recently?

Overheating is both a cause and a symptom of a bad head gasket. A failed seal can cause coolant loss, leading to frequent or sudden overheating.
Is your coolant level dropping without any visible leaks?

If the coolant is disappearing but there's no sign of external leakage, it could be leaking internally into the engine—often through a bad head gasket.
Does your oil look milky or foamy on the dipstick or under the oil cap?

A milky appearance in the oil means coolant is mixing with it, which usually happens when the head gasket fails and lets coolant seep into oil passages.
Have you heard bubbling or gurgling sounds from your radiator or coolant reservoir?

These sounds often come from exhaust gases entering the cooling system through a damaged head gasket, forming bubbles and pressure pockets.
Is the check engine light on, and has the car been running rough or misfiring?

A faulty head gasket can cause poor compression in one or more cylinders, leading to misfires or rough idling—triggers for the check engine light.

FAQ on Head Gasket Repair

1. How much does a head gasket replacement cost?

The cost of replacing a head gasket typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500. This price varies depending on your car's make and model, labor rates, and whether other parts need repair (like a cracked cylinder head). Luxury or performance cars may cost more due to their complexity.
2. Why is replacing a head gasket so expensive?

Replacing a head gasket involves disassembling the engine, which is a labor-intensive job. The gasket itself isn’t that expensive, but the labor costs can be high due to the time it takes to remove parts like the cylinder head and to reassemble the engine afterward. Additionally, you may need to replace other parts like bolts, seals, or even the cylinder head if it's damaged.
3. Can I drive my car if the head gasket is bad?

It’s not recommended. Driving with a blown head gasket can cause further damage to the engine, like a warped cylinder head, cracked engine block, or coolant contamination in the oil. Overheating is common, and if coolant gets into the engine, it can damage it irreparably.
4. What are the signs I need a head gasket replacement?
Here are the main signs:
- White smoke from the exhaust (burning coolant)
- Engine overheating
- Milky oil (a sign of coolant mixing with oil)
- Loss of coolant with no visible leaks
- Bubbling in the radiator when the engine is running
- Poor engine performance like misfires or rough idling
5. Can I use a head gasket repair product instead of replacing it?

There are sealants and liquid repair products available, but they’re more of a temporary fix. They might work for minor leaks or if you're in a bind, but they don’t solve the root cause of the issue. If the damage is severe, a repair product might not work, and you’ll still need a full replacement eventually.
6. Can I replace the head gasket myself?

Replacing a head gasket is a complex job and not typically recommended for DIYers unless you're experienced with engine repairs. It involves removing the cylinder head, cleaning all components, and carefully reassembling everything. If you’re new to engine work, it’s better to leave this job to professionals.
7. What factors affect the cost of head gasket replacement?
Several factors can influence the price:
- Labor costs: Labor rates vary by region and mechanic skill level.
- Car make and model: Luxury cars or complex engines can take longer to repair, increasing the cost.
- Additional parts needed: If the cylinder head is damaged, or other engine parts are affected, you may need to replace those as well, adding to the cost.
- Location: If you're in a high-cost-of-living area, expect to pay more for labor.
8. What happens if I don't replace the head gasket?
If you don't replace a blown head gasket, it can cause:
- Engine failure: Prolonged damage can lead to complete engine failure.
- Overheating: The engine will continue to overheat, risking warping or cracking parts like the cylinder head or engine block.
- Contaminated oil: Oil and coolant mixing can lead to a loss of lubrication, causing internal engine damage.
9. How long does a head gasket replacement take?

The job typically takes 6 to 12 hours, depending on the complexity of the engine. For cars with harder-to-reach parts or complex engines, it could take even longer. Always ask your mechanic for an estimated timeline.
10. Is the head gasket replacement covered by warranty?

It depends on your car's warranty. Some extended warranties may cover head gasket replacement, especially if it's a defect, but many basic warranties or used car warranties might not. Check with your dealer or warranty provider to see if it’s included.
11. Will replacing the head gasket fix the engine permanently?

If done properly, a head gasket replacement can restore your engine to proper working condition. However, if there are underlying issues like a cracked engine block or a warped cylinder head, the replacement might not be enough to solve the problem. It’s important to address any other damage before proceeding.
12. Can I prevent head gasket failure?
While you can’t completely prevent it, regular maintenance can reduce the risk:
- Keep your engine’s cooling system in check (change coolant regularly).
- Avoid overheating by addressing cooling issues early.
- Replace engine oil and filters as recommended.
- Address any engine problems like overheating or coolant leaks promptly.

Typical fixes to address the cause(s)

These are typical processes and repair services that fix a check engine light issue

What is a head gasket?

The head gasket is a sealing component; it’s a thin material that fits between the engine block (the bottom half of the engine) and the cylinder head (the top half of the engine). So, it’s like a middle wall separating two fluids; in this case, the oil and the coolant.

This gasket tanks up very high temperatures and pressure when the engine starts, all the while keeping oil and coolant separate and sealing the engine block and cylinder head. So, safe to say that a blown head gasket causes leaks, overheating, engine problems, and mechanical failures.

What causes a faulty head gasket?

Overstress and age are the most common causes for the head gasket to fail. The gasket is constantly under heat and pressure, and even though its material handles that, it eventually ages with time and loses some of its original strength. Let’s see some more reasons causing a faulty head gasket:

Overheating:
When the engine gets too hot (often due to coolant issues), the heat can warp or crack the cylinder head, stressing the gasket. This is one of the most common reasons a head gasket fails.
Engine Detonation or Pre-ignition:
When the air-fuel mixture in the engine ignites prematurely or unevenly, it creates extra pressure and heat, which can blow the gasket. Think of it like popping a balloon under too much pressure.
Corrosion:
Coolant that’s old or mixed with air can cause corrosion inside the engine, eating away at the gasket or cylinder head. This usually happens if coolant levels are low or neglected.
Improper Installation:
If the head gasket wasn’t put in correctly (wrong torque or uneven installation), it might not seal properly, leading to a failure down the line.
High Mileage or Normal Wear:
Over time, gaskets just degrade from constant heating and cooling, especially in older engines that have seen lots of miles.
Poor Maintenance:
Not keeping up with regular coolant changes, oil changes, or ignoring the warning signs of an overheating engine can lead to a blown gasket.

Head Gasket DIY Testing

You can run some tests to see if the head gasket might have a problem. But, of course, none of these tests can 100% diagnose the problem, so if you suspect, take some tests, but ultimately get your car to an auto repair shop for a proper diagnosis.

Check the oil:
If the oil looks milky or frothy, like chocolate milk, that’s a good sign that coolant is mixing with the oil due to a blown head gasket.
Check for white smoke from the exhaust:
Start the car and let it run. If there’s white smoke coming from the exhaust that has a sweet smell, it's likely that coolant is being burned in the combustion chamber.
Check coolant level and condition:
If your coolant keeps dropping without any visible leaks, the coolant might be leaking into the engine. Also, if the coolant looks muddy or contaminated, that's another clue.
Radiator cap test:
When the engine is cold, check the radiator cap. If there’s pressure built up when you open it, that could be exhaust gases leaking into the cooling system.
Bubbling in the radiator or coolant reservoir:
If you start the engine and notice bubbles in the coolant, that means combustion gases are likely escaping into the cooling system—another sign of a head gasket issue.

If none of these give you a clear sign, it’s best to get a compression test or chemical test done by a professional to confirm. You can buy DIY kits for these, but they’ll require more technical knowledge.

Head Gasket Repair vs. Replacement

Always replace a faulty head gasket. You might improvise some repair for minor leaks or small problems in the head gasket, but that should be considered a temporary fix only. The head gasket will keep worsening over time and won’t have any sort of safety, risking a mechanical failure.

If your car’s getting older or you’re worried about the cost of a full replacement, you might even consider whether the car is worth repairing. Sometimes it's cheaper to buy a new or used engine, depending on the situation.

How to get transparent, long-lasting repairs

If you want to fix the root cause, relying on online price estimates is misleading. Online estimates will only price the specific repair, e.g., the head gasket replacement, and they won’t consider whether your vehicle needs an inspection to investigate and deal with the problem as a whole.

The solution for the root cause of your head gasket being damaged is based specifically on your vehicle’s condition. This involves many components and procedures that won’t appear on online estimates because every case has specific needs.

The best way to get a precise estimate is to seek shops with a “transparency process” to perform a combustion system inspection for you. Their transparency relies on documenting everything about your head gasket’s condition and clarifying their findings using edited images and videos they took of your car, explaining their suggestions and quotes.

Let’s see an example of a fuel system investigation because of a faulty head gasket.

A Transparent, Long-lasting Head Gasket Repair Example

A complete combustion system inspection checks everything about the system’s condition, investigates chronic issues, and checks if all fuel components (fuel lines, valve gasket, pumps, engine, connectors, etc.) work as expected.

For instance, if a shop is requested to do a combustion system inspection due to a faulty head gasket, the mechanics will look through each combustion-related component, even getting to the engine’s fuel injection parts.

They’ll check every component for signs of wear, tear, or leaks to find if something overstressed or damaged the head gasket. The inspection may reveal that various components need replacement and identify the culprit causing extra stress on the head gasket.

The 'Find Shops Providing a DVI' Method

A shop with transparent inspections commonly does DVIs too, which are free-of-charge visual inspections with the same level of transparency. You can find shops providing a DVI to get the reassurance that any inspection or repair will also be transparent.

This method focuses on two things:

Does the shop have a modern DVI?
Does the shop have certifications?

What’s a DVI? As mentioned earlier, It’s like an annual physical visit to the doctor to assess the body’s vital signs, but for a car instead; most auto repair shops don’t charge to do it. The DVI regularly creates your vehicle’s “state of health,” explaining its overall condition.

The mechanic uses the DVI results to inform the conditions of your vehicle’s systems and the recommendations to get it running reliably. If they find issues, they’ll list them in order of priority.

A DVI helps with a head gasket replacement

The DVI starts with the mechanic checking vehicle systems (head gasket, valve gasket, the engine’s combustion chamber, injectors, etc.) for signs of wear/tear/leaks. They’ll document everything through notes, videos, and pictures.

Here are some important things about a DVI:

It’s a visual inspection: The mechanic looks at the car’s component’s surface, searching for obvious problem signs.
It also checks for noises: The mechanic listens to your car's sounds and points out unusual noises.
It does not include further testing: A DVI doesn’t mean in-depth tests and investigations; it’s a surface-level report that tells whether a car needs evident repairs or deeper inspections.

If they spot engine issues, they’ll edit images and videos to indicate what they found (damages, leaks, components’ locations, etc.). They’ll use arrows, circles, and text to make the images clear and easy to understand.

Note that the DVI doesn't involve additional testing, so the advisor will be taking notes based on what they see (visual inspection). In the image below, the mechanic found that the head gasket was blown, allowing combustion gas to sneak inside the cooling system, contaminating it.

Blown head gasket

A document with the vehicle’s health status is sent to the customer, with room for questions through online/phone or over-the-counter communication. The customer sees what repair priorities their vehicle has and what should be checked in the near future.

In this case, they’ll see a head gasket replacement priority. The focus is to educate and help the customer make informed decisions about their car.

Certifications that help you

Today’s auto industry has certifications for customer-educational and transparent businesses. For example, the AutoTechIQ certification makes shops that fit into the DVI method stand out on your local map. So you can find the one closest to you.

The shops with an AutoTechIQ certification typically feature 100+ excellent Google reviews! You can quickly find this certification on a shop’s website or using AutoTechIQ’s “Find a shop” map.