Head Gasket Repair Cost UK 2025

How Much Does Head Gasket Repair Cost UK in 2025?

The average head gasket repair cost UK ranges from £500 to £1,200, depending on vehicle type and labour rates.

If your car is overheating or showing signs of engine trouble, a blown head gasket could be to blame. In this guide, we explore the head gasket repair cost UK drivers can expect in 2025 and what impacts those prices. Knowing what to expect can help you plan repairs and avoid further damage.

Average Head Gasket Repair Cost UK

Head gasket repair is one of the more expensive engine-related fixes due to the labour involved in disassembling and reassembling the engine components. Prices vary widely depending on make and model, the severity of the damage, and whether other parts need replacement.

Here’s a breakdown of typical head gasket repair costs by vehicle type:

Vehicle Type	Average Cost Range
Small Car (e.g. Vauxhall Corsa)	£500 – £800
Mid-Size Car (e.g. Ford Focus)	£700 – £1,000
Luxury/Performance Vehicle (e.g. BMW)	£1,000 – £1,500+
Diesel Engines	£900 – £1,400

Labour accounts for the majority of the cost, often billed at £50–£100 per hour, depending on your location. Urban garages in cities like London and Manchester tend to charge more than rural or suburban locations. If you require engine head machining or if the gasket damage has led to further issues such as warped heads or cracked blocks, costs can rise significantly.

Real UK Garage Prices — Correct as of 9th July 2025

Location	Average Price	Garage / Source
England (national average)	£662	RAC Drive
England (manufacturer average)	£800–£1,500	Motorway
Scotland (Glasgow via FixMyCar)	£633.17	FixMyCar (average Glasgow quote)
Wales (BookMyGarage average)	£600–£1,000	BookMyGarage (Wales)
National (UK average range)	£550–£1,700	Bumper.co.uk

These figures are indicative and vary by vehicle type, location, and garage. Always check with your local mechanic for exact quotes.

What’s Included in Head Gasket Repair?

Removal and reinstallation of the engine head
Replacement head gasket (OEM or aftermarket)
Inspection and possible machining of the cylinder head
Coolant and oil refill
Labour charges (often 6–10+ hours)
Testing for further damage (e.g. warped head or cracked block)
Timing belt or chain replacement if required
Pressure testing to ensure integrity after reassembly

Note that some garages may also include a short-term warranty or guarantee on the repair work, usually ranging from 6 months to a year. Always ask your mechanic what is included in the quoted price to avoid hidden costs.

How to Save Money on Head Gasket Repairs

Get multiple quotes: Prices vary significantly between garages.
Use independent mechanics: Often cheaper than main dealers.
Ask about reconditioned parts: These can reduce part costs.
Bundle repairs: If your car needs other work, combine jobs to reduce labour duplication.
Consider warranty: Check if your warranty or breakdown cover includes gasket repairs.
Act quickly: Delaying repair may worsen damage and increase cost.
Source your own parts: Some garages allow you to supply the head gasket kit yourself, potentially lowering the total bill.
Look for fixed-price repair deals: A few garages offer all-inclusive rates for head gasket jobs, which can help with budgeting.

Being proactive can save hundreds. Regular coolant checks and addressing overheating early on may even prevent the need for major repair in the first place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of a blown head gasket?

Common symptoms include white exhaust smoke, milky oil, overheating, poor engine performance, and coolant loss without visible leaks.

Can I drive with a blown head gasket?

It is not recommended. Continuing to drive can lead to severe engine damage, including a cracked cylinder head or complete engine failure.

Is it cheaper to replace the engine instead?

In some cases, yes—particularly if the engine has high mileage or multiple issues. A used or reconditioned engine may be a cost-effective alternative.

How long does head gasket repair take?

Typically, it takes 1–2 full working days. Some complex cases may take longer depending on parts availability and inspection results.

Are head gasket sealants a good temporary fix?

Sealants can provide a short-term solution in minor cases, but they are not reliable for serious gasket failure. Professional repair is always the best option.

Does insurance cover head gasket repair?

Generally, no. Mechanical breakdowns like gasket failure are not covered by standard car insurance but may be included in extended warranties or breakdown cover.