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.

A head gasket repair for Volkswagen vehicles requires specialist tools and workshop facilities, so this work is completed through the RAC Approved Garage Network. Our approved garages service models such as Golf, Polo, Tiguan, T-Roc, and T-Cross, following manufacturer procedures, certified equipment standards and rigorous quality checks. You receive transparent pricing, progress updates and RAC‑backed guarantees.

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 for Volkswagen

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

Lynx Auto Centre Limited

4.9/5

Lynx Auto Centre is a family run business with a great pedigree and a trading history spanning 3 decades. We provide a comprehensive range of auto repair services for motorists and work on all the main makes and model of car. Conveniently located just off the A264, we’re perfectly placed for customers in Crawley, Horsham, Kilnwood Vale and the surrounding areas. Our range of services are designed to provide high quality and reliable services and whether ad-hoc repairs, replacement parts or scheduled MOTs and serving, you’re assured the best service and work from our highly experienced technicians. We also stock and supply a huge range of tyres meaning we’re often the first choice when tyres need replacing.
Unit 4 Burns Way Holmbush Potteries Industrial Estate, Faygate, Near Horsham, RH124ST

Sahibs Auto Electric

4.0/5

We are London's go to centre for MOT, Servicing, Alternators, Starter Motors and Car Diagnostics. We pride ourselves in Car Electrics and are well renowned for are specialists in Car Alternators and Car Starter Motors. Established in 1980, we have nearly 40 years of trusted experience the industry.
3 Norbreck Parade, London, NW107HR

Clutchmaster Automaster

4.9/5

Clutchmaster was established in May 2000 by Dave Willcocks. Since then he has offered a "Second to none" clutch replacement deal for both public and trade customers. Due to our huge buying power we have been able to structure our prices accordingly, passing on superb savings. This makes Clutchmaster the best deal on BRAND NEW clutch parts not only in the Southwest but we believe Nationwide!!
Automaster Longcombe Cross, Longcombe, Totnes, TQ96PL

Surrey Motor Services

5.0/5

Surrey Mot Centre is located in Norbury independent car garage specializing in mot & all types of repair work. We have fully qualified repair professionals If you are looking for a reliable Car repair & Service or MOT Testing Surrey Mot Centre is your local garage, at state-of-the-art premises based in Norbury. We provide a wide range of services and delivered quality results which make return customers as a majority of our customers come back. We offer free and accurate estimates on all repairs and only commence work once we have the consent of our customers. Although our expertise in MOT & regular repair and servicing, we also offer a range of services including all major and minor mechanical and electrical repairs, computer diagnostics, and bodywork. We have fully qualified trained staff who look after your car or van.
Unit 15 Tait Road, Cr0 2Dt, Croydon, CR02DT

A1 Motorist Centre

4.9/5

A1 Motorist Centre was first established in 2005 moving to our present site in late 2006. Our aim is to offer the latest technology that the motor industry can offer, combined with good old fashioned values and excellent customer care. We offer you a clean comfortable reception / waiting area with complimentary refreshments, free Wi-Fi internet connection and toilet facilities (this also includes disabled access). From here you will have a full view of the workshops so that you can watch as we work. We offer many services and our advice is free and impartial. We are members of the Good Garage Scheme and the Motor Industry Codes of Practice.
Unit 2, Patricia Way, Industrial Estate, Broadstairs, CT10 2LE

Frequently asked questions about 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.

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.

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.