Can the engine still run after cylinder head gasket failure?

[LilaMarie]

Engine can still run after cylinder head gasket failure, but it is prone to overheating, so it is better not to continue driving to avoid cylinder scoring and causing more serious damage. In case of minor cylinder head gasket failure, the engine coolant reservoir will frequently run low at first - this situation needs to be checked whether it is caused by gasket failure. If not inspected and repaired promptly, the cylinder head gasket performance will deteriorate increasingly, leading to poor sealing of the gasket. This may cause penetration between water channels, air passages or oil passages, resulting in severe coolant loss and rising water temperature. In serious cases, it may cause power loss or failure to start, and may also lead to poor oil lubrication, causing severe engine wear.

[DiZoey]

Speaking of engine cylinder head gasket failure, let me share some insights. A cracked cylinder block allows coolant to leak into the combustion chamber, resulting in lean air-fuel mixture and a sharp drop in engine power. The engine might still start and idle in this condition, but if you attempt to drive, it will shake violently and emit white smoke. I've seen many car owners at repair shops trying to drive short distances, only to cause more severe damage like accelerated piston ring wear or bent connecting rods. Being able to move temporarily doesn't mean it's safe – when coolant contaminates the engine oil, lubrication fails and the engine can quickly overheat or even stall. My advice is to stop immediately, check the engine oil condition (milky color confirms the issue), and call for a tow truck to a professional shop. Repairs typically involve replacing the head gasket or cylinder head, costing at least a couple thousand. But forcing it to run could total the engine, multiplying repair costs. To prevent gasket failure, regular cooling system checks and avoiding overheating are crucial, especially for older vehicles which are more prone to this issue.

[DelOwen]

My personal experience tells you: Once the cylinder is flooded, it's best not to drive. One time my car's cylinder head cracked, coolant leaked into the combustion chamber, and I immediately felt a lack of power when starting. I barely managed to drive about 500 meters to a nearby shop. During the repair, the mechanic said the engine oil was severely emulsified, and cleaning and replacing the gasket cost a lot. Theoretically, the engine can still run, but continuing to drive will accelerate wear because the piston movement is hindered by the liquid, deepening the scratches on the cylinder walls and increasing noise. In the short term, you can move the vehicle, like pulling it out of the garage, but driving on the road is highly risky—sudden loss of power can easily cause accidents, especially at high speeds. I also heard about a friend who ignored the flooded cylinder and kept driving, eventually having to replace the entire engine, costing thousands more. So if you encounter this situation, stop and check, don't take the risk—it saves worry, effort, and money.

[Gabriel]

Never drive after a blown head gasket unless it's an emergency to move the car. The engine will lose power and easily overheat and stall. Towing is the safest option. Coolant mixing with engine oil destroys lubrication, accelerates wear, and drastically increases repair costs.