How Long Do Head Gaskets Last?
Head Gaskets play a crucial role in your engine’s operation, sealing the combustion chambers and keeping oil and coolant from mixing.
But just how long do head gaskets last, and what factors can affect their lifespan? Keep reading to learn more on this topic.
How Long Do Head Gaskets Last?
The typical lifespan of head gaskets ranges from 100,000 to 150,000 miles.
The lifespan of a head gasket can vary based on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as how it is driven and maintained.
Poor engine maintenance, overheating, and engine modifications can all contribute to a shorter lifespan for a head gasket.
Signs Of A Failing Head Gasket And What To Look For
Here are some common signs of a failing head gasket and what to look for.
External leaks
One of the most common signs of a failing head gasket is an external oil or coolant leak at the seam between the engine block and cylinder head.
You can check for signs of leaks by inspecting the engine block and cylinder head for signs of oil or coolant residue.
Overheating engine
When a head gasket fails, it can cause the engine to overheat, as the combustion gases can escape into the cooling system.
You may notice that the temperature gauge on your dashboard is reading higher than normal, or that the engine is emitting steam from the hood.
Loss of power
If a head gasket fails, it can cause a loss of compression in the engine, resulting in a reduction in engine power.
This loss of power can cause the engine to run roughly or misfire.
Exhaust smoke
A failing head gasket can also cause smoke to come from the engine’s exhaust system.
The smoke may be white, indicating a coolant leak, or blue, indicating an oil leak.
Bubbling radiator or overflow tank
When a head gasket fails, it can cause the engine coolant to bubble or boil.
This bubbling can be observed by removing the radiator cap or looking into the overflow tank.
Poor fuel economy
A failing head gasket can also cause a decrease in fuel economy as the engine is not running efficiently.
If you notice that you are getting fewer miles per gallon than usual, it may be worth having your head gasket checked.
Head Gasket Replacement Cost And Factors That Affect It
Factors That Affect Head Gasket Replacement Cost:
Labor Costs
On average, the labor costs associated with head gasket replacement range from $909 to $1,147.
However, the total cost of labor can quickly climb to $3,000 or more if there are additional engine problems that caused the head gasket to blow.
Parts Cost
On average, the cost of parts for head gasket replacement ranges from $715 to $832.
Location of the Repair Shop
The location of the repair shop can also affect the cost of head gasket replacement.
Labor rates can vary depending on the region, and some shops may charge more for parts due to shipping and handling costs.
Make and Model of the Vehicle
The make and model of the vehicle can also impact the cost of head gasket replacement.
Luxury or high-performance vehicles may require more specialized parts and labor, which can increase the overall cost of the repair.
Estimates for Head Gasket Replacement Cost
According to various sources, the average cost for head gasket replacement ranges from $1,400 to $1,600.
How To Properly Maintain Your Head Gasket?
Here are some tips on how to properly maintain your head gasket:
Check your coolant levels regularly.
One of the most important things you can do to maintain your head gasket is to keep your engine coolant levels at the recommended level.
Checking your coolant levels is easy; simply open the hood and visually inspect the coolant expansion reservoir.
If the coolant level is below the “full” line, top it off with a compatible coolant like PEAK Long Life Antifreeze Coolant.
Monitor your engine temperature.
Keeping an eye on your engine’s temperature gauge can help you catch potential overheating issues before they cause damage to your head gasket.
Use a service manual when performing repairs.
If you need to perform repairs that involve removing your head gasket, it’s important to have a service manual on hand.
A service manual will provide step-by-step instructions and help you avoid mistakes that can cause damage to your head gasket or other engine components.
Check for flatness when reinstalling your head gasket.
When reinstalling your head gasket, it’s important to check both the cylinder head and block surfaces for flatness.
Place a straight edge across the deck to check for any warping or irregularities. If you notice any issues, have the surfaces machined or repaired before reinstalling your head gasket.
Clean the bolt holes before tightening your head gasket.
To ensure a proper seal, it’s important to clean the bolt holes that tighten the head to the block before tightening your head gasket.
Dirt or grease on the gasket or head surface can prevent a good seal and cause leaks.
Use gasket sealant as recommended by the manufacturer.
When installing your head gasket, always use the recommended amount of gasket sealant in the specified areas.
Deviating from the manufacturer’s recommendations can cause damage to internal engine components.
Use a head gasket sealer for minor leaks.
If you notice minor leaks or symptoms of a blown head gasket, a head gasket sealer in a bottle may be able to help.
How To Choose The Best Head Gasket For Your Vehicle?
Here is some guidance on selecting the appropriate head gasket for your needs.
Consider Your Vehicle and Engine
The first step in choosing the best head gasket for your vehicle is to consider the make, model, and year of your car.
Different vehicles require different types of head gaskets, and using the wrong one can lead to problems down the road.
It’s also important to consider your engine size and any modifications you may have made, as this can affect the type of gasket you need.
Types of Head Gaskets
Here are some of the most common types of head gaskets:
MLS Head Gaskets
MLS (Multi-Layer Steel) head gaskets are popular for modified engines with higher compression ratios and special cam timing.
These gaskets are designed to eliminate distortion and blowouts and provide added durability.
Composite Head Gaskets
Composite head gaskets are made from a mixture of materials, including graphite and other synthetic fibers.
These gaskets are suitable for most stock engines and provide a good seal between the engine block and cylinder head.
Copper Head Gaskets
Copper head gaskets are soft and malleable, allowing them to conform to any irregularities in the mating surfaces of the engine block and cylinder head.
These gaskets are often used in racing applications and can provide a very tight seal.
However, they can also be more difficult to install and require careful preparation of the mating surfaces.
Fire Ring Head Gaskets
Fire Ring head gaskets feature a stainless steel fire ring that surrounds the cylinder bore.
This ring helps to seal the combustion chamber and prevent leaks, making these gaskets a good choice for high-performance engines.
However, they can be more expensive and may require more maintenance than other types of gaskets.
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to the type of head gasket, there are other factors to consider when choosing the best one for your vehicle. These include:
Cooling system capacity:
Make sure to choose a head gasket that is compatible with your vehicle’s cooling system capacity.
Some gasket sealers, such as BlueDevil Pour-N-Go Head Gasket Sealer, come in specific sizes to treat different cooling system capacities.
Bolt hole cleaning: Make sure to clean the bolt holes that attach the head to the engine block to prevent damage to internal engine parts.
Surface cleaning:
Use a gasket scraper to clean the surface of the cylinder head and engine block before installing the gasket to ensure a proper seal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Head Gaskets Typically Last In A Car?
The lifespan of a head gasket can vary depending on several factors, including the engine design, driving conditions, maintenance history, and usage. In general, most head gaskets can last anywhere from 100,000 to 200,000 miles or more before needing replacement.
What Are Some Signs That A Head Gasket May Be Failing Or Needs Replacement?
Common signs of a failing head gasket include engine overheating, loss of coolant, white smoke coming from the exhaust, engine misfires, oil contamination, and low compression.
Can Regular Maintenance Help Prolong The Life Of A Head Gasket?
Yes, proper maintenance, including regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and engine tune-ups, can help extend the life of a head gasket.
What Are Some Common Causes Of Head Gasket Failure?
Head gasket failure can result from several factors, including overheating, engine coolant contamination, engine block cracks, high mileage, and poor maintenance.
Overheating is a common cause of head gasket failure, and it’s essential to address any cooling system issues promptly to prevent damage to the engine.
Conclusion:
Head gaskets are an important but often overlooked component of your car’s engine.
By keeping an eye out for the signs of a failing head gasket and taking steps to prevent overheating and other engine problems, you can help ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly for many miles to come.
