Head gasket replacement costs: What to expect in replacing a blown head gasket?

You have to replace your head gasket immediately if the damages are beyond repair, as leaving a blown head gasket can cause the engine to overheat and damage other critical components. But how much would it cost? It depends on various factors, such as your vehicle type and varying labour costs. 

In this guide, learn more about head gasket replacement prices to prepare your budget before asking for a quote from a mechanic. 

What is a head gasket?

The heart of any vehicle is the engine. Inside it 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:

An 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 the UK?

The average head gasket replacement cost is £683. One of the biggest factors that affect the price 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 its gaskets could be more expensive. The actual component might be more challenging to find, and not everyone knows how to fix it. 

You might need head gasket kits or sets for a detailed 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 average head gasket replacement costs for some of the most popular vehicles in the UK:

*Includes materials and labour

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

What are the factors affecting 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 £10 to £50. 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 £100 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 £150 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 £100, 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 £5,000 for the parts alone. Fortunately, you might lower the costs by finding a used engine in a salvage yard for around £650.

However, if the blown head gasket contaminated the engine oil or coolant, replacing these vehicle fluids can cost up to £200. 

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 cost 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 the UK is between £60 and £100. At least two factors help determine labour costs: location and the kind of repair specialist you hire. For instance, the typical price in London ranges over £800 because of the demand and high cost of living. Meanwhile, in Manchester, it’s about £680.

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 your head gasket doesn’t have to be a pain in the neck when you’ve got a professional on your side. With Airtasker, finding car repair experts for a head gasket replacement is easy.

Simply post a task detailing your needs. Make sure to include your budget and a thorough description of the issue, which, in this case, is a blown head gasket. You can also specify if you need any extra services, such as an engine check-up or repairs. After posting a task, wait for Taskers to send you their proposals.

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