Head Gasket Replacement Cost

A blown head gasket is one of the most expensive repairs, but it doesn't always mean the end of your engine.

Head gasket replacement typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500 depending on the vehicle. The gasket itself is only $50 to $200, but the labor is extensive — the cylinder head must be removed, which means disconnecting the exhaust manifold, intake manifold, timing components, and numerous sensors and hoses. The head also needs to be checked for warping and resurfaced if necessary, adding machine shop costs of $150 to $300.

A blown head gasket allows coolant and oil to mix, or lets combustion gases pressurize the cooling system. Symptoms include white smoke from the exhaust, milky oil, overheating, and coolant loss with no visible leak. Continuing to drive with a blown head gasket causes further overheating that can warp the head beyond repair or damage the engine block, turning a $2,000 repair into a $5,000 engine replacement.

Head gasket replacement is labor-intensive but absolutely doable as a mobile repair. Ez Mobile Mechanic performs this work at your Jacksonville location — your driveway is our shop. Our rate is $150 for the first hour and $100 per hour after, no shop markup. We're a mobile mechanic in Jacksonville, so no tow truck needed. Call (904) 788-7272 for an honest assessment.