Where Is the Head Gasket Located?

Reviewed by

Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Written by CarParts.com Research Team - Updated on November 8th, 2023

Reading Time: 2 minutes
Summary
  • The head gasket is typically between the engine block and cylinder head. You’ll have to open your hood to access it.
  • The head gasket seals the internal combustion process and prevents coolant and oil leaks.
  • Some of the components you might have to remove to access the gasket include the intake, timing chains, and detaching sensors.

Q: Where Is the Head Gasket Typically Located?

A: In vehicles with internal combustion engines, the head gasket is always located between the engine block and cylinder head.

The thing about head gaskets is they aren’t something manufacturers can place elsewhere. A head gasket is meant to seal the engine’s combustion chamber, so it has to be placed between the engine block and cylinder head. There will be one gasket per head on engines with multiple heads.

The head gasket might be one of the thinner parts in a vehicle’s engine, but it plays a massive role in ensuring that the vehicle runs smoothly. It’s designed to seal the internal combustion process and keep coolant and oil from leaking.

Diagram showing the location of the head gasket | Image Source: Richard McCuistian

Tips on How to Access the Head Gasket

Accessing the head gasket is no easy task. Because it’s located halfway down the engine, you’ll have to remove half of the engine to get to it. This means you’ll have to remove the intake, timing chains, detaching sensors, and everything else in the way.

When it comes to accessing the head gasket, the service manual is your best friend. It should contain specific instructions on how to remove and return the engine head without damaging any of its parts.

About The Authors
Reviewed By Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Richard McCuistian has worked for nearly 50 years in the automotive field as a professional technician, an instructor, and a freelance automotive writer for Motor Age, ACtion magazine, Power Stroke Registry, and others. Richard is ASE certified for more than 30 years in 10 categories, including L1 Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel.

Written By CarParts.com Research Team

Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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Published by
CarParts.com Research Team and Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician