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

If your head gasket is damaged beyond repair, it's crucial to replace it immediately. Ignoring a damaged head gasket can lead to engine overheating and severe damage to other vital components. But how much would it cost? It can vary widely, depending on factors like your vehicle type and different labor rates.

This guide will walk you through typical head gasket replacement prices, helping you get your budget in order before you ask a mechanic for a quote.

What is a head gasket?

Before considering the cost of head gasket replacement, understand this part’s role in your vehicle’s performance. The heart of any vehicle is the engine, and 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 US?

The cost to replace a head gasket in the US is between $1,000 and $2,000 for parts and labor. 

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 labor. Here’s an overview of average head gasket replacement costs for some of the most popular vehicles in the US:

*Includes materials and labor

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 $10 to $80. 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 $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 $10,000 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: 

Labor costs

Labor takes the bigger chunk of the average head gasket replacement cost. 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, which roughly costs up to $910. 

The hourly rate for head gasket replacement in the US is between $90 and $120. At least two factors help determine labor costs: location and the kind of repair specialist you hire. For instance, if you live in California, fixing a blown head gasket of a 2010 Ferrari is a whopping $3,000. In New York, expect to pay at least $1,500 for a standard repair and replacement.

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

Head gasket issues can lead to costly and time-consuming repairs. Fortunately, getting your car back on the road is easier without the stress and guesswork of finding a reliable mechanic.

Our platform helps you connect with qualified candidates by simply posting a task. Make sure to include your budget and note whether you need additional services, such as an engine checkup. 

Have an expert handle your head gasket replacement efficiently with Airtasker.