Head Gasket Replacement: labor quote guide
Typical labor time (approximate)
About 6 to 15 hours. A major job, roughly 6 to 15+ hours depending on the engine. Overhead cam, V-engines and machine-shop time push it to the high end.
Approximate only: a rough general range, not labor-guide data. Times vary widely by vehicle and condition. Check a labor guide for the exact vehicle. How we estimate
The quote buttons open the labor-quote calculator prefilled; "Start an estimate" adds a labor line to the estimate & invoice generator. Add your own rate, parts and tax.
What's involved
- Confirm the failure: combustion leak test, cooling system pressure test, compression and leak-down
- Disassemble the intake, exhaust and timing components and remove the head(s)
- Have the heads checked for flatness and cracks (machine shop) and clean the block deck
- Reassemble with new head bolts if they're torque-to-yield, refill and verify no leaks or overheating
General outline only. Follow the service information for the specific vehicle.
What changes the time
- V6/V8 engines (two heads)
- Timing belt or chain removal
- Machine shop turnaround and head straightness
- Seized exhaust manifold studs
Related parts & common add-ons
- Head resurfacing and valve work
- Timing belt or chain kit
- Water pump and thermostat
- Oil and coolant change
Price parts with the parts markup calculator, and note findings on the inspection checklist.
FAQ
Is a head gasket job worth it on an older vehicle?
It depends on the vehicle's value and condition. Give the customer the estimate and alternatives, and let them decide.
Do head bolts need replacing?
Many modern engines use torque-to-yield bolts that are single use. Check service information.
What caused the failure?
Often overheating. Find and fix the cause (radiator, fan, thermostat or leak), or the new gasket can fail too.
More engine, ignition & fuel jobs
- Timing Belt Replacement
- Spark Plug Replacement
- Serpentine Belt Replacement
- Fuel Pump Replacement
- Oxygen (O2) Sensor Replacement
- Ignition Coil Replacement
- Valve Cover Gasket Replacement
- Oil Pan Gasket Replacement
- Intake Manifold Gasket Replacement
- Timing Chain Replacement
- Fuel Injector Replacement
- Engine / Transmission Mount Replacement
- Catalytic Converter Replacement
- Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Replacement
Other systems: Brakes · Cooling system · Electrical & diagnostics · Suspension & steering · Drivetrain · Heating & AC · Maintenance & tires · All job guides