A head gasket is a vital component of the engine that seals the cylinder head to the engine block. It ensures that there is no leakage of coolant, engine oil, or exhaust gases from the combustion chamber. A blown head gasket is a huge problem that can cause a great deal of damage to the engine if left unaddressed.
Top Signs of a Blown Head Gasket
- Overheating engine: The most common symptom of a blown head gasket is an overheating engine. The engine temperature gauge will rise quickly, and the engine may start to smoke or emit steam from the exhaust.
- White smoke from the exhaust: A blown head gasket can cause coolant to leak into the combustion chamber, resulting in white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe.
- Milky oil: Coolant can also mix with engine oil, resulting in a milky appearance. We recommend that you check the oil dipstick to see if there is a creamy substance on it.
- Loss of engine power: The engine may lose power due to the leakage of coolant or compression.
- Poor fuel economy: If the head gasket is damaged, it can cause the engine to work harder, resulting in poor fuel economy.
- Engine misfires: A blown head gasket can create engine misfires or rough idling. It is often a result of coolant fluid leaking into the combustion chamber and interfering with the ignition process.
- Coolant leaks: Coolant leaks can occur due to a blown head gasket. Check for any signs of coolant leakage under the car.
If you suspect that you have a blown head gasket, it is important to take your car to Kamphaus Auto Care and Emissions as soon as possible. Our qualified mechanics can perform a compression test or a cylinder leak-down test to confirm whether the head gasket is indeed the issue. From there, we will make the necessary repairs to restore your engine performance.