Common Problems After Head Gasket Replacement to Look For

Have you just purchased a new head gasket? If yes, then you are at the right place because we are here to make sure you do not miss out on anything that is important before you initiate the installation process.

There is a possibility that you may run into a few problems after head gasket replacement. Overheating is a result of a poorly performed head gasket replacement, warped engine blocks or cylinder heads, and a timing belt that is not functioning properly are some frequent problems that occur.

The process of replacing a head gasket that has blown is a laborious one. Even the smallest error might force you to restart the procedure and do everything over again. We will provide you with information on what to look for and what not to do so that you may complete the procedure successfully. Continue reading!

What is a Head Gasket? What Function Does it Perform?

The head gasket is the component of an automobile engine that is responsible for distributing oil and engine coolant as well as sealing pressure inside the engine itself.

When you switch on your engine, the head gasket is forced to perform its function despite the very high temperatures and pressures it is meant to withstand. Since the power generated by your vehicle’s engine comes from combustion, it is essential that it be kept at a consistent temperature, and the head gasket is the component that plays the most important role in ensuring this.

Damaged Head Gasket

In the event that the head gasket is damaged, the engine will soon overheat, which will result in significant damage. If the engine in your vehicle becomes too hot, you will experience a loss of compression, as well as the mixing of oil, water, and coolant, and a decrease in the amount of lubrication.

Because the head gasket is such complicated equipment, it calls for the use of a wide range of components. It is essential that it be able to continue working properly while being subjected to high pressure and temperatures. In addition to this, it must be resistant to the many oils and chemicals that circulate through the engine of your vehicle.

Each and every car’s gasket is distinct from the others since the requirements of every engine are different. Automobile manufacturers such as BMW, Vauxhall, and Ford invest millions of dollars each year in the research and development of head gaskets to assist in the management of the pressure inside engines as well as the cooling process.

Head Gasket Replacement – Do It Right The First Time

The replacement of the head gasket is a serious undertaking. You should already be aware of the fact that it is a pretty intricate task that needs to be completed by a technician who has more expertise.

There is no simple solution to the problem of a leaking head gasket. To determine whether or not the head gasket has to be changed, the technician will need to disassemble the whole of the engine. It is possible that the engine may need to be completely rebuilt if the damage is extensive.

The cost of repairs will increase at this point, and there is nothing you can do to prevent this from happening. The cost of replacing a broken head gasket might easily reach several thousand dollars. It’s also possible that this indicates the whole engine, or at least some of its components, may need to be replaced.

Get a Trusted Mechanic

When it comes to mechanics, the majority of them will tell you that they are able to replace the head gasket on a “good” vehicle, but they are unable to do it on a “bad” vehicle. This is due to the fact that repairing a blown head gasket on a bad vehicle would imply that issues have already set in and that they would be dealing with an entirely new scenario that demands greater effort on their part.

In this respect, it is of the utmost importance to be able to depend on the mechanics that you have faith in.

What To Look For After Head Gasket Replacement?

After having your head gasket changed, you should be on the lookout for a few different warning indications. What to expect after head gasket replacement? If you notice any of these problems in their early stages, you’ll be able to save your automobile from total damage.

1. Overheating Due To Bad Head Gasket Replacement Job

Even when they have installed a brand-new head gasket to replace the old one that was broken, some individuals may think it’s strange that their vehicle still becomes too hot to drive. The replacement of the head gasket might have been ineffective.

It is recommended that you inspect the head gasket for any signs of oil or coolant leaks in order to identify whether or not this is the cause of the issue.

If any of these components are discovered, you should contact the technician who replaced the head gasket on your vehicle. Instruct them to take another look at the work that needs to be done.

2. Warped Engine Block or Cylinder Heads

If there is no indication that there is a leak, then the problem might be caused by a warped engine block or a warped cylinder head. When a head gasket blows out, it leaves other components in a vulnerable position because it creates a weak spot.

If you haven’t noticed the blown gasket early on, there’s a good possibility that these components are warped.

If you are able to catch a blown head gasket in your car in its early stages, you may save a significant amount of money on repairs. Additionally, it will assist safeguard the health of your engine. If you fail to solve even relatively minor issues with your vehicle in a timely manner, you are putting the engine in danger.

Does the Check Engine Light Come On When the Head Gasket Is Blown?

Only if there are problems with the engine’s performance will the check engine light come on.

Although the pistons, cylinders, and valves of an internal combustion engine are not directly affected by a blown head gasket (since it serves as a seal), the engine may misfire as a result of the lack of compression.

The Bottom Line

To ensure a successful head gasket replacement, you must have a thorough familiarity with the way your engine should appear in its normal state and the problems after head gasket replacement..

If your engine’s head gasket was changed, for instance, the new gaskets should have been installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. How a good cylinder head and engine block look are things you should be familiar with.

This is the only way to ensure your technician is not taking advantage of you and your savings for unnecessary repairs.

If you have any queries related to automobiles, do not hesitate to write to us and our automobile experts will be pleased to assist you.