Vehicles contain valuable components and other parts that undergo the wear and tear process. Even with the right use and proper maintenance, there are still components that need to be replaced. Among these components that you cannot afford without getting replaced or repaired is the head gasket. It is crucial in your engine operation. Failure to replace it or make the necessary repair can significantly affect the performance of your engine and you might even incur more costs. So in replacing this component, you need to know its head gasket price. How much does the head gasket cost?
What a Head Gasket?
A head gasket works as a sealing device to cover the top part of the engine cylinder. Its function is crucial to seal the internal pressure in the cylinder when the engine is operating. Since the head gasket is always in use, it tends to be used way too long which can result to damage. If that happens, you have no choice but to shoulder the head gasket replacement cost. In repairing or replacing the head gasket, you will definitely have to pay for the head gasket price. It is definitely not cheap, but failure to do so can cause more damage which in return can cost more.
Common Symptoms
There are common symptoms that you can see before you the head gasket is replacement. Failures are brought about by an engine that overheated. It can also be caused by age and high mileage. One of the signs that your head gasket is failing is that the engine is running rough especially when you start the car. The rough running will last for a few seconds, but it is quite evident. Another symptom that you can notice is a leaking head gasket. If there are problems in your head gasket, it produces a smoke out of the tail pipe.
Why Is the Head Gasket Cost Expensive?
In replacing your head gasket, you will notice that the head gasket price is quite expensive. Why is the head gasket cost so pricey? One of the reasons as to why it is expensive is the fact that it is located in a hard to reach area which makes it a tough task. Since your vehicle contains various parts, it requires expertise and caution for the mechanic to handle the parts and to replace the head gasket. When the mechanic is done replacing the head gasket, he will then do the same process although in a reverse process which is also a very tedious task. With the complexities involved in the head gasket replacement, you need an experienced and professional mechanic to do the job.
How Much Does a Head Gasket Cost?
There are different prices for a head gasket depending on your car model and car make. So, how much does a head gasket cost? Another factor that can affect the pricing is the complexity of the problem. For complex head gasket problems, you may have to shoulder from $1200 to $1600 especially if your vehicle has bigger engine. If your car has a smaller engine, the head gasket replacement cost is much lower. It can cost you about $600. But for a complicated vehicle, it could go as high as $2500.
The majority of the head gasket price would depend on the labor cost. Considering that the head gasket is located between the engine block and the cylinder head, it is a tedious task to make the necessary repair or to replace the head gasket.
When you hire a mechanic to replace the gasket, it usually costs $1000. Then again, you also have to factor in the labor rate at that shop. There are also instances where the head gasket needs to be machined. Most shops would also flush the coolant which can cost you between $50 to $150. If you want to purchase the gasket separately, it costs you about $10 to $500 depending on the unit that you will buy. More expensive units are
Head Gasket
considered to be full gasket sets that have other parts like seals. On the other hand, if you only purchase a lower priced unit, it only comes with the gasket. Over-all, you can expect about $75 to $120 per hour for the labor. This will still depend as to whether you want the work to be done at an independent shop or a dealership. Choosing to have the head gasket replaced at a dealership will cost you more. But the advantage in doing so is the fact that the technicians are well-attuned and much more familiar with the cars and they also use factory parts. If you want to reduce your cost, you may want to go for an independent shop. There are repair shops that offer discounts so you can reduce the cost by about 10% while there are also some shops giving discounts to AAA members.
There are different materials used in making a head gasket. Among the most common materials include aluminum and copper. There are also instances where your choice is limited as this will depend on the model of your car. That is why it is essential for you to hire a reliable mechanic. Your car mechanic can provide you with the option that is perfectly suitable to your car. There are gaskets that are made for racing cars. In the end, the choice of head gasket would depend on the specifications of your vehicle.
And in choosing for a repair service shop, make sure that you take the time to research so you would not end up wasting your money. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence provides a directory where you can search certified shops. There are also online retail shops that sell head gasket. You can read reviews and feedback so you know if it is a reliable and quality repair shop.