Cylinder Head Repairs & Head Gasket Replacement
MJ Auto Centre in Taunton offers professional cylinder head repairs and head gasket replacement for cars and light vans. If your vehicle is overheating, losing coolant, or showing signs of engine trouble, prompt attention can protect your engine from serious damage and costly breakdowns — and we’re here to explain everything clearly.
Why This Service Matters
The cylinder head and head gasket play a vital role in engine health:
The head gasket seals the combustion chambers and keeps oil and coolant separate, ensuring proper compression and lubrication.
If the head is warped or the gasket fails, coolant and oil can mix, compression is lost, and overheating can occur — potentially causing expensive engine damage.
Timely repairs help avoid engine failure, loss of performance, and more costly work down the line.
What Our Service Includes
At MJ Auto Centre, your cylinder head and gasket service typically includes:
Full engine diagnostics and pressure testing
Cylinder head removal and inspection
Head gasket replacement using quality parts
Cylinder head skimming/machining (if required) to correct warping
Reassembly, coolant refill, and system checks
Road testing to ensure reliable performance
We always explain what we find and why we recommend each step, so you stay in control of the cost and care for your vehicle.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
You might need this service if your car is showing any of these signs:
Persistent engine overheating
White smoke from the exhaust (coolant entering the combustion chamber)
Milky or creamy residue on the oil cap or dipstick (coolant mixing with oil)
Loss of power or rough running
Coolant levels dropping with no visible external leak
Warning lights on the dashboard
Catching these early helps prevent more serious engine issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does head gasket replacement take?
Most jobs can take 1–3 days depending on vehicle type and condition, as this is a labour-intensive repair.
Is it safe to drive with a blown head gasket?
No — driving with a blown head gasket can cause overheating, loss of compression, and severe internal engine damage. It’s best to arrange a repair as soon as possible.
How much does head gasket repair typically cost?
Costs vary widely depending on make, model, and extent of damage, but UK averages for a full replacement generally range from several hundred to over a thousand pounds.
Do I need to replace other parts while the engine is open?
Often, while the engine is disassembled, related parts like coolant hoses, belts, or even timing components may be inspected or replaced if needed — we’ll explain any recommendations.
Why Choose MJ Auto Centre
Trusted local garage serving Taunton and Bishops Lydeard
Skilled technicians with years of experience
Professional, reliable workmanship with transparent pricing
Clear explanations in everyday language
Quality parts and thorough testing
We’re here to help you make the right decision for your car, without upselling or confusion.
Book Your Repair Today
Don’t let cylinder head or head gasket issues escalate and risk more engine damage. Contact MJ Auto Centre to get reliable, honest repairs📍 Visit us:
Unit K, Dene Business Park, Dene Rd,
Bishops Lydeard, Taunton, TA4 3LQ
✉ Email: mjautocentre@yahoo.com