Head Gasket Repair Cost Breakdown
Basic Head Gasket Replacement
Labor Hours: 8-12 hours
Labor Cost: $1,000-$1,500
Parts: $200-$400
Total Estimated Cost: $1,200-$1,900
Head Gasket Replacement with Machine Work
Labor Hours: 10-14 hours
Labor Cost: $1,250-$1,750
Parts: $200-$400
Machine Shop Services: $200-$500
Total Estimated Cost: $1,650-$2,650
Complete Head Gasket Job with Additional Repairs
Labor Hours: 12-16 hours
Labor Cost: $1,500-$2,000
Parts: $400-$800
Machine Shop Services: $200-$500
Additional Components: $300-$600
Total Estimated Cost: $2,400-$3,900
Please Note:
- Costs may vary depending on vehicle make and model
- Additional repairs might be necessary once inspection is complete
- Luxury and performance vehicles may incur higher costs
- All estimates include our standard labor rate of $125/hour
What's Typically Included:
- Complete head gasket replacement
- New head bolts
- Coolant system flush
- Basic timing components
- Post-repair testing
Head Gasket Repair Procedure
A head gasket repair is one of the more complex automotive repairs. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the typical procedure:
Initial Steps
1. Diagnosis and Preparation
- Perform compression and leak-down tests to confirm head gasket failure
- Document and photograph component locations
- Drain all fluids (coolant and oil)
2. Component Removal
- Remove hood for better access (if necessary)
- Disconnect battery
- Remove air intake components
- Remove upper and lower radiator hoses
- Disconnect and label all electrical connections
- Remove fuel lines and vacuum hoses
Main Procedure
3. Cylinder Head Removal
- Remove timing belt/chain covers
- Set engine to TDC (Top Dead Center)
- Remove timing components
- Remove valve cover
- Remove exhaust manifold
- Remove intake manifold
- Loosen and remove cylinder head bolts in correct sequence
- Carefully lift cylinder head from engine block
4. Inspection and Surface Preparation
- Inspect cylinder head for warpage
- Machine or replace cylinder head if necessary
- Clean all mating surfaces thoroughly
- Check cylinder walls for damage
- Inspect valves and camshaft for wear
5. Reassembly
- Install new head gasket
- Carefully place cylinder head
- Install new head bolts (never reuse old ones)
- Torque bolts to specification in correct sequence
- Reinstall timing components
- Reinstall all removed components in reverse order
Final Steps
6. Completion
- Refill all fluids
- Bleed cooling system
- Start engine and check for leaks
- Verify proper timing and operation
- Road test vehicle
Note: This procedure can vary depending on the specific make and model of the vehicle. Some engines may require additional steps or special tools. Always consult the manufacturer's service manual for detailed instructions.
Average Time Required:6-12 hours depending on vehicle make/model and any complications encountered.
Special Tools Required:
- Torque wrench
- Timing tools specific to vehicle
- Surface cleaning tools
- Straightedge and feeler gauges
Understanding Head Gaskets: Function and Importance
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Signs and Symptoms of Head Gasket Failure
Head Gasket: Signs of Failure and Service Information
Common Signs of Head Gasket Failure:
1. White Exhaust Smoke
A failing head gasket often produces thick, white smoke from the exhaust, especially during startup. This happens when coolant leaks into the combustion chambers.
2. Coolant Loss
Unexplained coolant loss without visible leaks is a classic symptom. You may need to frequently refill your coolant reservoir.
3. Engine Overheating
Persistent overheating, especially during normal driving conditions, can indicate head gasket failure.
4. Milky Oil
When coolant mixes with engine oil, it creates a milky, light-brown substance often visible on the dipstick or oil filler cap.
5. Bubbles in Radiator
Bubbles or foam in the radiator or coolant reservoir while the engine is running can indicate combustion gases leaking through the head gasket.
Typical Service Schedule:
Preventive Maintenance:
Head gaskets don't have a specific replacement interval. They're designed to last the lifetime of the engine when properly maintained.
Inspection Schedule:
- Visual inspection during regular oil changes
- Cooling system pressure test annually
- Monitor coolant levels monthly
Contributing Factors to Failure:
- Age of vehicle
- Engine overheating history
- Poor maintenance practices
- Certain vehicle makes/models are more prone to failure
Important Note:
If you notice any signs of head gasket failure, it's crucial to have it inspected immediately. Continuing to drive with a blown head gasket can cause severe engine damage and lead to more expensive repairs.
Contact our certified technicians for a thorough inspection if you suspect head gasket issues.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
