Why choose the RAC for a head gasket repair?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running. We'll give you results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

From central Barnet to surrounding areas including High Barnet, Whetstone, Totteridge and Arkley, RAC Approved Garages offer a convenient way to get a head gasket repair, with a friendly service and clear updates.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car
A mechanic standing inside a garage

Book a head gasket repair

The head gasket is a vital seal between your engine block and cylinder head, preventing leaks and keeping engine compression. A damaged head gasket can lead to overheating, loss of power, and severe engine damage.

Any work done will meet the high standards set by the RAC.
We’re friendly, straightforward and jargon-free
A mechanic inspecting the underside of a vehicle.

Book a diagnostic

A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors

And it’s not just head gasket repairs that we do in Barnet

RAC Approved Garages offer MOTs and services. Our professional mechanics have the expertise and experience to make sure your vehicle is operating safely and efficiently – results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

A close up of an RAC mobile mechanic looking under the hood of a car

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

Mobile Mechanics and Tyres

4.9/5

Services provided: -- Can build and assemble machines or mechanical components according to requirements -- Able to Inspect machines, engines, transmissions etc. and run diagnostic tests to discover functionality issues -- Will aim to troubleshoot reported problems and resolve them in a timely manner -- Will perform thorough maintenance on machinery, equipment and systems -- Will clean and apply lubricants to components -- Will replenish engine fluids and components -- Will provide consultation on correct maintenance and preventative measures -- Can also undertake other duties (e.g. repair of hydraulic systems) -- Can provide logs of work and report on issues Experience: Proven experience as Mechanic for 12 years. Excellent knowledge of machinery and hydraulic, electrical and other systems and their components. Experienced in using various precision tools (I have equipment to perform most mechanical work). Will follow established procedures and practices with a strong commitment to health and safety. Very good communication skills with problem-solving capabilities. Very good physical strength and stamina Qualifications: BTEC national diploma motor vehicles (2 year course) HNC motor vehicles (1 year course) HND motor vehicles (1 year course) IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) MOT Certification NT / AE / Site Manager Classes of Vehicles tested: Class Descriptionwheeled vehicles (over 450kg unladen weight) 4 Cars (up to 8 passenger seats) 4 Motor caravans 4 Quads (max unladen weight 400kg - for goods vehicles 550kg and max net power of 15kw) 4 Dual purpose vehicles 4 Private hire and public service vehicles (up to 8 seats) 4 Ambulances and taxis 4 Private passenger vehicles and ambulances (9 to 12 passenger seats) 4 Goods vehicles (up to 3,000kg design gross weight) 4a Class 4 vehicles (9 to 12 passenger seats) with a seat belt installation checkPrivate passenger vehicles and ambulances (13 to 16 passenger seats) 5 Private passenger vehicles and ambulances (more than 16 passenger seats) 5 Playbuses 5a Class 5 vehicles (13 to 16 passenger seats) with a seatbelt installation check 5a Class 5 vehicles (more than 16 passenger seats) with a seatbelt installation check 7 Goods vehicles (over 3,000kg up to 3,500kg design gross weight
Unit 4, Red Rose Trading Estate, Lancaster Road, Barnet, EN48BZ

T L Motors

4.5/5

Here at TL Motors we provide an across-the-board garage service offering high quality servicing and repairs, including bodywork on all makes and models. We have six expert technicians with over 100 years of combined experience who assure quality servicing and repairs on all types of vehicles around North London. We offer a free collection and delivery (subject to status), courtesy cars available (subject to status) and breakdown recovery throughout North London by arrangement. We are also proud specialists in Japanese and German cars. We look forward to offering our expertise and assistance.
60 Cromwell Road, Muswell Hill, London, N102PD

OGS Mechanics

4.4/5

Picking a reliable and competent vehicle repair centre can be tricky. Here at O.G.S. Mechanics we operate very strictly to the Motor Industry Code of Practice and our work is fully guaranteed. We are part of the RMI (Retail Motor Industry Federation) and Fully approved by the Trust My Garage Independent Garage Association. We are fully equipped with Main Dealer Level equipment and have outstanding mechanics all fully qualified and trained to achieve the best of their potential. We do not only deal with everyday servicing and maintenance, we rebuild engines, gearboxes, reprogram modules/keys, remap vehicles, offer DPF removal, remove seized injectors and many other various specialist services.
9-14 Millers Yard, Rear Or 28 Long Lane, Finchley, N32QG

Goodmans Autos

Established in 1962 we have been at our current premises in Borehamwood for the last 11 years. If you're looking for top quality car servicing from people you can trust, you've come to the right place. And if you're looking to save money on what it costs to service and maintain your car you've come to the right place too. That's because you get the best of both worlds ÔÇô quality and price ÔÇô when you choose Goodmans Autos. You get complete peace of mind with our fully qualified staff and genuine quality parts. And we won't do any service work or any repair without getting your agreement first.
16-20 Shenley Road, Borehamwood, WD6 1DS

SWIFTFIX MOTORS LTD

SwiftFix Motors provides expert car repair services, offering reliable mechanical repairs, fault diagnostics, and general vehicle maintenance to keep your car running smoothly. As a professionally registered motor vehicle repair business (SIC 45200), the team handles engine issues, brake repairs, suspension faults, warning lights, and general servicing. SwiftFix Motors focuses on high‑quality workmanship, clear communication, and dependable turnaround times, making it a trusted choice for drivers needing fast, effective repairs.
944-946 High Road, Finchley, London, N129RT

Frequently asked questions about a head gasket repair

You should never drive with a blown head gasket. This can cause severe engine damage. The car may overheat and the engine could fail. This leads to even more cost.

Fixing a head gasket is often worth it, especially if the vehicle is otherwise in good condition. Repairing it can prevent further engine damage and extend the vehicle's lifespan.

Changing a head gasket involves labor-intensive work and the cost can range from £500 to £1,500. It’s important to get an accurate quote from your mechanic.

The cost of repairing a head gasket typically ranges from £500 to £1,500, depending on the vehicle make and model, labor costs, and the extent of any additional damage.

A blown head gasket means that the seal between the engine block and cylinder head has failed. This can lead to coolant and oil mixing, causing engine overheating and inferior performance.

Head gaskets can be replaced at most automotive service centres and by certified mobile mechanics. It’s important to choose a reputable and experienced service provider.

Some vehicle warranties cover head gasket repairs, especially if the failure occurs within the warranty period. Check your warranty terms for coverage details.

Most standard car insurance policies don't cover head gasket repairs. However, an extended warranty or mechanical breakdown insurance might.

If your leased car's head gasket fails, you usually need to fix it. Check your lease agreement for details.

The cost of a new head gasket depends on the type of vehicle and where you’re located. It usually also includes labor.

Different garages and mechanics may do different checks. Talk to your mechanic to know what services they provide.