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

S T Garage

4.7/5

Our Core Services DPF Cleaning: Complete, professional deep cleaning to clear soot and blockages. Diagnostics: State-of-the-art fault-finding to pinpoint issues quickly. Repairs & Maintenance: Reliable handling of both minor servicing and major mechanical repairs. EV & Hybrid Specialist Work: Fully qualified and equipped to safely service electric vehicles.
6, Stonehill, Huntingdon, PE296ED

IN'n'OUT Autocentres - Lincoln

4.5/5

Professional MOT and Servicing while you shop. Simply drop off your vehicle and we’ll complete your service, MOT test or repair while you shop or relax in the café at Morrisons. With over 30 Autocentres across the UK and a 5-Star Trustpilot rating, IN‘n’OUT Autocentres is the big local garage you can trust, making caring for your car even easier.
Tritton Road, Lincoln, LN67QL

BRS Automotive

4.7/5

Welcome to BRS Automotive, Banbury's trusted and award-winning garage. Proudly securing the 'Best Garage In The South East' title from whocanfixmycar.com in 2019 and 2022, we are delighted to announce our recent accolade as the 'Best RAC Garage of 2024'. Our comprehensive range of services includes mechanical repairs, maintenance work, servicing, and MOT. Rest assured, your vehicle is in capable hands with our technicians, who hold Senior ATA accreditation levels and boast years of industry experience. Booking with BRS guarantees you the peace of mind that comes with our commitment to excellence. While specializing in sports and performance cars such as Jeep, Mercedes, and Porsche, our expertise extends to all makes & models and small vans. We pride ourselves on using only quality parts, ensuring your vehicle leaves our premises in peak condition. At BRS Automotive, customer service takes precedence. We are dedicated to providing the best service and experience for all our clients. When you choose BRS, you choose a team that prioritizes your satisfaction and consistently delivers excellence in every aspect of our work. Experience the difference with BRS Automotive – where skill, quality, and exceptional customer service converge to redefine your automotive service expectations.
Unit 1 Thorpe Way, Banbury, OX164SP

R&S Services RAC Approved Garage

4.8/5

As an RAC Approved Garage, we’re committed to honest advice, transparent pricing, and quality workmanship. Whether it’s a routine oil change, warning light investigation, or complex electrical fault, we have the experience and equipment to keep your vehicle in top shape. We also offer air conditioning servicing, brakes, suspension repairs, clutches, timing belts, timing chains, coolant pumps, alternators, batteries and much much more! Book online or call today — your local specialists for reliable car servicing and diagnostics in Birkenhead.
364 Brook Street, Birkenhead, Wirral, CH414LB

Ebony & Ivory Motors Ltd

4.0/5

Here at Ebony and Ivory Motors we provide a comprehensive vehicle and repair service for all makes and models. Our small but highly experienced team have the knowledge and technical experience as a main dealer, we are also VW - AUDI - SEAT - SKODA specialists.
Bessemer Way, Scunthorpe, DN158XE

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.