Head gasket replacement: Costs to replace a blown head gasket

Replacing a head gasket is time-consuming and complicated—definitely not for those with basic knowledge about vehicles. But you can better understand your budget and get excellent proposals from professionals when you know what affects head gasket replacement prices. Read on to learn more. 

What is a head gasket?

The heart of any vehicle is the engine. Inside are multiple components that work harmoniously to ensure that combustion occurs. Two of the most critical parts are the cylinder head containing the valve train and the engine block, with pistons and crankshaft. 

While both should work together, they have lubricating oils and coolants that can’t mix. This is where the head gasket comes in. This seal sits between the engine block and the cylinder head to keep their fluids intact. 

 A used head gasket removed during engine servicing, showing signs of wear and tear. (Source: iStock)

What are the signs of a blown head gasket?

Despite its thickness (not over an inch), the head gasket is durable enough to withstand pressure from a working, combusting engine–until it cannot. A blown head gasket can give you many hints, including:

Overheating engine

Radiator issues, thermostat failure, or a broken water pump can cause the engine to overheat. The increasing temperature can then lead to head gasket damage. When the seal fails, the coolant leaks. And thus, your engine becomes even more susceptible to overheating.

White smoke

Do you see white smoke coming out of the exhaust? It could mean a leaking coolant coming into contact with the hot parts under the hood.

Contamination

If you are diligent in checking your oil or coolant, you might notice a mixture of both when you test them. It could be because the seal has already malfunctioned.

Misfiring or non-running engine

If the cylinder head, engine block, or both are no longer efficient, you can count on the engine to perform poorly. It could misfire or, worse, stop running.

How much does head gasket replacement cost in Australia?

One of the biggest factors that affect the head gasket replacement prices is the vehicle’s make, model, and year. These three can influence part availability and prices. For example, if you’re driving an older model, changing the gaskets could be more expensive. The actual component might be more challenging to find, and not everyone knows how to fix a head gasket. 

You might need head gasket kits or sets for a complex car service, like if the engine needs an overhaul. The costs are usually double that of a single seal. The good news is that often, materials are cheaper than labour. 

Here’s an overview of head gasket replacement costs for some of the most popular vehicles in Australia:

A close-up of a head gasket properly installed on the engine block, ready for reassembly. (Source: iStock)

What factors affect head gasket replacement costs?

Although a head gasket is just one of the many parts of a car engine, replacing it can involve many costs. Not only do you need to buy the head gasket itself, but you also have to consider the mechanic’s labour fees. Plenty of other factors affect the prices, so keep reading. 

Gasket type

Since cars come in different makes and models, the head gasket also comes in many types. Standard head gaskets are often the cheapest, ranging from $39 to $100. This is the most basic type, usually made of a single layer only of steel or copper, ideal for regular engine applications. However, some materials are more expensive than others. For example, a copper gasket could fetch over $152 because of its long-lastingness.

We also have a Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) head gasket, which is ideal for sealing powerful engines. They feature several layers of steel, enabling the component to withstand some of the highest temperatures and pressures. 

Moreover, manufacturers combine steel with an elastomeric material, such as rubber, to make MLS head gaskets more flexible. Typically, they are worth $200 or more.

The O-ring head gasket is another head gasket type made of rubber. It might also have metals such as steel or copper to resist high pressure and temperature levels. This is ideal if the leak is in the cylinder head because its shape fits nicely into the engine component. You can find O-ring head gaskets sold for at least $200 to $400, depending on the size and material type and whether it needs resurfacing. 

Here is a breakdown of the average cost of replacing a head gasket by type. 

Extent of the damage

Your car’s condition also heavily influences the cost of replacing a blown head gasket. For instance, if you need to repair and overhaul the engine first, prepare to spend over $25,000 for the parts alone. Fortunately, you might lower the costs by finding a used engine in a salvage yard for around $5,000.

However, if the blown head gasket contaminated the engine oil or coolant, replacing these vehicle fluids can cost up to $150. 

Check out some of the other additional services and costs when replacing a head gasket in this table: 

Labour costs

Labour takes the bigger chunk of the average price of head gasket replacement. Usually, a car repair technician spends over five hours removing and replacing the damaged part. If the problem has already spread to the rest of the engine system, it could take 10 hours or more.

The hourly rate for head gasket replacement in Australia is between $25 and $120. At least two factors help determine labour costs: location and the kind of repair specialist you hire. For instance, in Sydney, the typical price ranges from $60 to $100 because of the demand and high cost of living. It’s also higher in Perth, where someone can charge up to $90. It could be because fewer technicians or shops operate here.

It also matters if you opt for a dealership, a repair shop, or a skilled mechanic. Usually, dealers charge the most because of the following:

• Convenience (e.g., you can lease a car while your vehicle is under repair)

• Original parts

• Overhead costs (which they can pass on to you)

• Brand and reputation

Take the hassle out of blown head gaskets with Airtasker

Replacing a head gasket shouldn’t be stressful with the help of a professional. At Airtasker, finding car repair experts for a head gasket replacement is simple. You just have to post a task, including your budget and a detailed description of the problem (which, in this case, is a blown head gasket). Indicate also whether you require additional services such as engine replacement or checkup. After posting a task, you only have to wait for qualified mechanics to offer proposals.

Have your head gasket replaced to get back on the road faster with Airtasker.