A head gasket is a significant part of the car’s engine. Located between the cylinder head (which contains parts like the valves and spark plugs) and the engine block (which hosts the pistons and cylinders), the gasket enables the free flow of oil and refrigerant. This process secures the inner combustion by lubricating and cooling the engine.
Read on to understand what the head gasket does and the signs that indicate its failure.
What Does a Head Gasket Do?
The gaskets for cars carry out crucial functions that help improve the life of a car engine. These functions include:
The primary function of a car gasket is to maintain pressure. It fastens the combustion chamber and allows the vehicle to produce enough compression to accelerate the engine.
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Ensures Maximum Temperature
The combustion chamber often contains fuel, and as you drive the vehicle, it overheats. The head gasket maintains optimal temperature by safeguarding the cooling channels between the cylinder head and the engine block.
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Helps Separate the Oil and Coolant Channels
A vehicle’s gasket separates the oil and coolant passages to avoid a possible mix-up. This process also stops oil leakage and prevents the risk of explosion.
Signs of Head Gasket Failure
The signs of head gasket failure, which drivers can encounter, include the following:
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Constant Oil and Coolant Leakage
Oil and coolant leakages are major indicators of blown or burned-out head gaskets. Whenever a gasket does not seal properly, fuel and refrigerant can spill out from the engine block.
A malfunctioning car gasket is risky. The refrigerant oozes into the cylinder since the gasket can’t separate the oil and coolant passages. This effect causes an imbalance between the oil and air ratio, which can result in a fire explosion.
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Release of White Smoke and Water Vapour
When the coolant burns, smoke can come out in white deposits and water vapour generated through the vehicle's exhaust or tailpipe.
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Milky or White-coloured Oil
Together with the symptoms explained above, whenever you check the dipstick and the oil appears milky or whitish, you know that the coolant has already mixed with the oil. In such scenarios, you can find some remains on the oil filler cap. These are clear signs of head gasket failure.
Conclusion
The head gasket holds a significant role in vehicles. The small yet crucial component works to secure the inner combustion process. It enables the oil and refrigerant to flow continuously to help lubricate and cool down the engine. This allows your car's engine to perform faultlessly. Also, to enhance your safety, ensure you check through and select the best comprehensive car insurance online to protect you from unwanted financial costs. In the event of an accident, the insurance will cover you for car repairs, medical bills, and damage to another's property or life.
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