Head Gasket Cost UK
See how much head gasket typically costs in the UK. Our estimates are based on manufacturer labour standards and current parts pricing across budget, mid-range, and OEM tiers.
Head Gasket Cost Estimate
Based on UK average labour rates • Standard Car
Typical Total Cost
£648 – £1,542
Labour
Low
8.0h
≈ £608
Average
12.0h
≈ £912
High
17.0h
≈ £1292
Parts
Cost by Vehicle Make
Premium makes typically cost 20-30% more due to complex engineering, specialist tooling, and higher parts pricing.
Premium Brands(9 makes)
Standard Brands(16 makes)
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When Is It Needed?
Head gaskets are designed to last the life of the engine, but can fail due to overheating, poor maintenance, or manufacturing defects. There's no scheduled replacement interval — it's always a reactive repair when the gasket fails.
Labour Time
Head gasket replacement is a major repair, typically taking 6–10 hours for a straight-four engine. V6 and V8 engines can take significantly longer. If the head requires machining, the car may be off the road for 2–3 days.
Warning Signs
- •White, sweet-smelling exhaust smoke — coolant is being burnt in the engine
- •Milky, mayonnaise-like residue under the oil filler cap — coolant mixing with oil
- •Coolant level dropping with no visible external leak
- •Engine overheating repeatedly despite coolant being topped up
- •Bubbling in the coolant expansion tank when the engine is running — combustion gases entering the cooling system
What's Involved in the Repair?
- 1
The cylinder head is removed — requiring removal of the intake manifold, exhaust manifold, camshafts, and timing components
- 2
The cylinder head and block surfaces are inspected for warping and damage
- 3
The cylinder head is sent for pressure testing and skimming (machining flat) if required
- 4
New head gasket, head bolts, and all associated seals are fitted
- 5
The head is torqued down in the correct sequence and to exact specification
- 6
The timing is reset, all components reassembled, and the cooling system bled of air
- 7
The engine is run up to temperature and checked for leaks
Expert Tip
Never continue driving with a suspected blown head gasket — overheating with a compromised gasket can warp the cylinder head, crack the engine block, and turn a £1,000 repair into a £3,000+ engine replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes head gasket failure?
Overheating is the most common cause — the excessive heat warps the cylinder head, breaking the gasket seal. Low coolant, faulty thermostats, blocked radiators, and failed water pumps can all lead to overheating.
Is it worth repairing a blown head gasket?
It depends on your car's value. The repair typically costs £800-£1,500+ for a standard car. If your car is worth less than twice the repair cost, it may not be economical. For newer or higher-value vehicles, it's usually worth repairing.