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Head gasket repair: How much will it cost in the US?
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Price guide
$1,000 - $2,000
low
$1,000
median
$1,500
high
$2,000
Last Updated on
Key Facts
- Head gasket repair in the US generally costs $1,000 and $2,000, depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and engine type.
- Older vehicles and specific models like the Holden Cruze may incur higher repair costs due to wear and complexity.
- A blown head gasket can damage other engine components like the exhaust or cooling system, leading to higher expenses.
An overheating engine could signal a problem with its head gasket. Ignoring this issue can lead to serious damage, including leaks and potential engine failure.
Before you head to the repair shop, it’s smart to understand the potential costs of head gasket repair. This guide breaks down all expenses, from labor costs to the various factors that influence the final price, helping you avoid unexpected bills.
How much does head gasket repair cost in the US?
On average, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,000 for a head gasket repair job. However, prices of head gasket repair differ based on the make and model of the vehicle.
This table shows the average cost for a car mechanic for some common vehicles in the US. It's best to talk to your local car specialist for a more accurate quote.
| Vehicle | Average car mechanic cost |
|---|---|
Dodge Ram 1500 |
$500 to $1,500 |
Honda CR-V |
$700 to $1,000 |
Ford Ranger |
$700 to $1,300 |
Honda Civic |
$800 to $1,000 |
Honda Accord |
$800 to $1,300 |
Ford Mustang |
$800 to $1,500 |
Ford Focus |
$1,000 to $1,500 |
Nissan Altima |
$1,000 to $1,500 |
Chevy Cruz |
$1,000 to $1,500 |
Subaru Forester |
$1,000 to $1,700 |
Toyota Camry |
$1,200 to $2,000 |
Toyota Rav4 |
$1,200 to $2,500 |
Ford F Series |
$1,500 to $2,500 |
A mechanic working on a head gasket repair in a well-equipped workshop. (Source: iStock)
What are the factors that affect head gasket repair costs?
Costs can vary widely as several factors come into play when repairing a gasket. Here are some of the factors that could influence the total cost of head gasket repairs:
Age of the vehicle
Head gaskets usually wear out with years of use - you’ll need to repair them at some point. Gasket repairs for older cars cost more because of wear and tear, so ask your specialist for a quote on repairing your vehicle's head gasket.
Make and model of the vehicle
The make and model of the car will affect how much the repair of your head gasket costs. For example, head gasket repairs for a Mercedes-Benz with a turbocharged engine costs more than other vehicle models since this turbo engines are more complex to fix.
Type of engine
Different cars have different engines and configurations, requiring specialized knowledge regarding head gasket repairs. For example, a Subaru with a boxer-type engine has a different design. Thus, you'll need a repairer familiar with Subaru engines and head gaskets for the job.
Severity of the damage
The gasket is the lid that ensures different fluids within the car don’t mix. So, when a head gasket is blown or broken, it affects other parts like the exhaust, cooling system, and other engine components. These extra damages caused by a blown gasket will contribute to the overall repair costs. For example, a leaking head gasket repair cost will be higher than a normal inspection to repair minor damage.
Type of gasket
Knowing this is particularly important if you are to get your gasket replaced. The material of the gasket, whether made of layered steel or copper, will determine the total cost of the repair.
A blown head gasket showing visible damage (Source: iStock)
When should you consider a head gasket repair?
Don’t let your head gasket get worse before you fix it. Here are some telltale signs that your head gasket needs repair.
Your engine is overheating
If your engine is overheating, your head gasket is most probably blown. This happens when your car's hydrocarbons or gas enter the cooling system.
Colored smoke appears
Most vehicles nowadays are designed not to emit smoke, especially colored smoke. So, if you notice your car belching white, blue, or grey smoke, have it inspected immediately. When this occurs, it means the coolant or oil has entered the combustion chamber
Loss of power
If your car keeps losing power, especially at unexpected times, it's time to go to a mechanic. This symptom implies a lack of compression, resulting in sputtering and loss of power. This can also affect your car's fuel efficiency.
Discolored oil
Does your oil look like chocolate milk? There’s probably something wrong with your gasket, as this indicates the coolant is mixed with oil in the engine. You need to have it repaired or replaced with a new one.
Find the right mechanic for head gasket repairs with Airtasker
Finding a reliable car mechanic can be challenging, but at Airtasker, connecting with these experts is easy! Simply post a task with all the necessary details, such as your location, vehicle make and model, and the specific issue, and wait to receive quotes from Taskers.
While DIY fixes might seem tempting, head gasket repairs are complex and best left to a specialist. Hiring a qualified professional through our platform ensures the job is done right, saving you from potentially bigger repair bills and more significant problems down the road.
FAQs
Using a head gasket sealer is an affordable, easy, and temporary option to fix a head gasket. You pour the sealer into the radiator, let the vehicle run for 30 minutes, and allow the product to heat up and cover the cracks. When the chemicals cool down, they set in and immediately repair the gaps.
You can’t drive a vehicle with a blown head gasket for long. Sooner or later, the car is going to stall. Not to mention, it is unsafe to drive with a blown head gasket.
Yes, it is expensive to replace a head gasket. The price of the part is not the main factor for this, but rather the labour needed for the replacement. It costs somewhere from $1,200 to $3,000.
Despite its hefty price, a head gasket repair is worth the cost. When a head gasket blows, you'll instantly notice a pressure loss in the engine. This means there will be a significant loss of power, thus, putting your car in a stall.
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