The name of the gasket that seals the cylinder block is the head gasket, and this is a major part of your engine. United Auto Care advises that if the head gasket blows (cracks), it requires a partial engine rebuild to repair the problem. Do not worry. If you are happy with your automobile and wish to have it repaired, we can replace the head gasket at our shop. Here are signs that you have a blown head gasket.
Reduced Coolant Level
As you already know, the head gasket seals the cylinder block. This keeps the coolant out of the cylinders. Unfortunately, if the head gasket cracks, the coolant has a way to leak into the cylinders, and it will do just that. This reduces the coolant that is circulating throughout the engine. It also adds another liquid in the cylinders that is burned during combustion. This is a huge problem.
Overheating Engine
First, let’s talk about the reduced coolant level. Once the coolant starts to leak out of the engine, the engine’s temperature will rise. Unfortunately, the engine will overheat and continue to overheat any time that you start it. This is because no matter how much coolant you pour into the radiator, it will leak out of the engine and into the cylinders through the cracked head gasket.
In addition, your engine is going to be exposed to excessive heat with which it normally does not have to deal. One reason why there is a head gasket over the cylinder block is to prevent the heat in the combustion chamber from rising into the engine. Unfortunately, now that heat has a way to get into the engine and it can make the engine so hot that the coolant boils.
Excess Exhaust Production
Now, let’s talk about the coolant being burned in the cylinders. When this happens, it produces excess exhaust that flows out of your tailpipe. It’s important to note the color of the exhaust to know which fluid is burning. In the case of coolant, the exhaust will be white.
Diluted/Milky Motor Oil
In addition to white exhaust, your vehicle will also suffer from diluted and milky motor oil. Unfortunately, the coolant does not only leak into the cylinder block when the head gasket cracks. It also mixes with the motor oil and causes a milky fluid that can damage the engine.
Call United Auto Care in Flowery Branch, GA, today to set up a service visit for your vehicle if you have a blown head gasket.
