A blown head gasket is something that needs to be avoided where possible in order to enjoy a fully operational vehicle. By learning the blown head gasket signs, you can ensure you replace it as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your vehicle or other parts. Keep reading as we share the key signs of a blown head gasket. Here at SSP, we can support you in replacing your blown head gasket to help you to remain safe when driving in the future. We’ll be happy to answer any questions on this topic to avoid issues moving forward.
An Overheating Vehicle
Without a doubt the most common sign of a blown head gasket is that your car starts to overheat. This is a very common issue which could also be caused by other faulty parts in your car. Usually, the vehicle will start to steam, and you may notice a strange smell coming from the car. If your vehicle starts to overheat and there is no other clear explanation for this issue, then it is likely to be one of the blown head gasket symptoms.
When your vehicle seems to be getting too hot or has steam coming from it, you need to stop driving immediately. The longer you continue to drive, the more likely it will be that a major issue occurs, or your car could break down. From there, you’ll want to get in touch with a mechanic or someone who can service your vehicle to see if you have a bad head gasket. If you don’t replace the gasket when you see the symptoms of a blown head gasket, you may find that you have to stop driving the car altogether in the future, which is something that none of us can afford to do.
The Oil and Coolant is Mixed
The number one reason that vehicles have gaskets is to stop your oil and coolant from mixing together. When the gasket begins to fail, then it’s clear that there could be a major issue with the vehicle. The radiator is where you can check for this if you are concerned about the signs of a blown head gasket, where you might notice an unusual coloured liquid on the top of the cap. When the leak has been occurring for some time, then you’ll find a dark brown liquid which looks like coffee on the tank.
If you notice this issue, then there’s a good chance that you are the victim of blown head gaskets. We recommend taking your car in for a full inspection as soon as possible to avoid the issue from getting worse. When you can catch this issue within the first few days of it occurring, you are much more likely to be able to save your car from further damage.
Your Car Won’t Start
When your car won’t start, it’s a clear sign that there is a major issue with your vehicle. There are many ways in which your car won’t start, including your engine turning on but not starting up properly. Some people find that the engine won’t ignite even when the starter catches, whereas others notice the battery continues to die more and more.
No matter what is happening when you are trying to start the engine or why the car won’t start, you need to take it to a garage immediately when you notice this issue. If the blown head gasket is preventing your car from starting, it’s likely it’s because there is an opening in the engine, and it can’t build up the compression that’s needed to create a spark. A mechanic will be able to take a good look at your engine and diagnose the issue. From there, they’ll be able to tell you if you have a blown head gasket or another issue and see what can be done to get your car working again. Remember, the sooner you get your car checked out, the more likely you’ll be to be able to keep using it for months or years to come.
Never try to keep driving if you notice any of these signs and symptoms of a blown head gasket. We recommend getting in touch with a team of professionals straight away to review your vehicle and see what is causing any of the issues we’ve shared above. A blown head gasket is a reasonably common issue, but it can stop your car from working if it’s not looked at quickly enough. Get in touch with our team today for more information about how we can help you if you are experiencing a blown head gasket. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have on the topic to ensure your vehicle remains in a safe condition for years to come.
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