How Do I Know If I Need Head Gasket Repair?

What a head gasket does

The head gasket seals the joint between the engine block and the cylinder head. It keeps combustion pressure in the cylinders and keeps coolant and oil in their own passages.

Signs of a blown head gasket

• Coolant in the engine oil, which can make the oil look milky
• Engine misfire
• Oil or coolant leaking from the joint between the head and block
• White exhaust smoke with a sweet smell, which can mean coolant is burning
• Overheating or bubbling in the coolant reservoir
• Unexplained coolant loss

Why not to wait

Other problems can cause these symptoms, and a failed head gasket does not always show all of them. Driving on a leaking head gasket can warp the cylinder head, damage the catalytic converter, thin the oil so it lubricates poorly and overheat the engine, and push combustion gases into the cooling system, stressing hoses, the radiator and other parts.

Why the repair is involved

The cylinder head has to be removed, parts are measured to see what needs machining or replacement, and everything is reassembled to the manufacturer’s specification. A careful repair is what prevents further trouble.

Prevention

Replace coolant on the schedule in your owner’s manual, and if the temperature gauge climbs or a warning light comes on, pull over safely and shut the engine off. Do not keep driving an overheating engine. Have the vehicle towed in.

Next step

If you suspect a head gasket problem, we can test the cooling system and engine to find the cause. Our ASE-certified technicians can inspect your vehicle and explain your options. Book at whichever of our shops is most convenient.