Is Replacing a Cylinder Head Gasket Considered an Engine Overhaul?
2 Answers
Replacing a cylinder head gasket is not considered an engine overhaul, but rather a medium repair. Relevant details are as follows: Replacing a cylinder head gasket is not considered an engine overhaul, but rather a medium repair. It has minimal impact on the engine. After replacing the gasket, the engine should be run for a period of time and then undergo a secondary tightening to reach the specified torque, ensuring proper subsequent use. Once tightened, it generally does not cause additional effects on the engine. Additionally, although replacing a cylinder head gasket is no longer considered an engine overhaul today, it still involves technical difficulty, requires a certain level of skill from the mechanic, and takes a considerable amount of time.
My car had been running for seven or eight years when the engine suddenly started leaking coolant last summer. The diagnosis was a blown head gasket, so I quickly replaced it for less than 4,000 RMB. I asked the mechanic if this counted as a major engine overhaul, and he shook his head, explaining that a true engine overhaul involves disassembling the entire engine, including inspecting components like pistons and crankshafts. Replacing the head gasket only deals with surface sealing components, making it relatively simple and quick. However, if the head gasket issue is neglected, coolant leakage could corrode the engine internals, leading to cylinder deformation—then a major overhaul would indeed be necessary, doubling the cost. Now, I regularly maintain and inspect the condition of the gaskets under the hood. I recommend everyone keep an eye out for abnormal temperature gauge readings or oil stains in the engine bay to prevent bigger issues down the line.
