Brentwood Auto Repair

To better understand what a head gasket leak is, it would help first to know what a head gasket is and its role in a car. What is a Head Gasket? A head gasket is a flat, thin metal sheet with several holes fitted between the motor and the cylinder head. Their design, thickness, and construction vary, depending on the engine design. It is a critical component under the hood, enhancing the engine's efficiency by sealing the combustion chamber for maximum compression and containment of exhaust gases. It also prevents the entry of oil and coolant (and antifreeze) into the combustion chamber. Understanding Head Gasket Leak and Its Costs The head gasket seals out extremely hot pressurized combustion gases and the antifreeze. Because the coolant temperature varies from time to time and the gasket's large surface area, it is not uncommon for the gasket to leak as the years go by. A leak in the head gasket is also referred to as a blown head gasket. That means it can no longer perfo ... read more