Head Gasket Replacement Cost
Head Gasket Replacement typically costs $960–$5,100 across economy, mainstream and premium vehicles, including reference parts and labor. Overheating does not by itself prove head-gasket failure.
| Vehicle type | Parts | Labor hours | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| economy | $300–$960 | 6–14.4 | $960–$3,624 |
| mainstream | $520–$1,180 | 8.8–17.2 | $1,488–$4,362 |
| premium | $740–$1,400 | 11.6–20 | $2,016–$5,100 |
Labor uses the configured national band of $110–$185/hour. Vehicle windows narrow both reference parts and hours; pickup, full-size SUV and van access can require more labor. This table is a reference estimate, not a complete quote analysis.
Last reviewed October 28, 2026 · Content updated October 28, 2026
What’s included
- Head removal, gasket set, specified bolts and checks for warpage or damage
What’s often done at the same time
These jobs can share access on some vehicles. Ask which removal steps overlap; related work is not automatically necessary.
Signs you need it
- Combustion-gas test, compression evidence or confirmed coolant passage leak
How shops can pad this quote
- Separate full timing removal labor
- machining or extra head work without inspection results
Questions to ask the shop
- What tests confirm the gasket failure, and what changes if the head is damaged?
- What findings make this necessary now rather than something to monitor?
- Which parts, fluids and access labor are already included in the estimate?
Frequently asked questions
What tests confirm the gasket failure, and what changes if the head is damaged?
Overheating does not by itself prove head-gasket failure. A repair should address the original overheating cause too.
What should this estimate include?
Head removal, gasket set, specified bolts and checks for warpage or damage
What evidence supports this repair?
Combustion-gas test, compression evidence or confirmed coolant passage leak
Which charges deserve a second look?
Separate full timing removal labor; machining or extra head work without inspection results
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AI-generated estimate based on typical labor times and parts prices. Actual prices vary by shop, region, vehicle condition and parts used. This is not a mechanic inspection. Read the disclaimer.