What is the function of a cylinder gasket?

[DelIsabelle]

The function of a cylinder gasket is to ensure a good seal between the cylinder block and the cylinder head, thereby maintaining the sealing of the combustion chamber and preventing gas leakage from the cylinder and coolant leakage from the water jacket. The cylinder gasket is a sealing component located between the top surface of the engine block and the bottom surface of the cylinder head. During engine operation, the temperature inside the cylinder is extremely high, and both engine oil and coolant have certain corrosive properties. Therefore, the cylinder gasket must possess heat resistance and corrosion resistance. There are very small gaps between the cylinder block and the cylinder head, and the top surface of the engine block and the bottom surface of the cylinder head have certain roughness and unevenness. Additionally, the cylinder head may deform under stress during engine operation. As a result, the cylinder gasket must not only have sufficient strength, pressure resistance, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance but also exhibit a certain degree of elasticity.

[StSimon]

The cylinder head gasket is essentially a crucial sealing component in the engine, sandwiched between the cylinder head and engine block. It prevents high-pressure gases from the combustion chamber, coolant, or engine oil from leaking or mixing together. Imagine when gasoline combusts in the engine, it generates tremendous pressure. Without this gasket, high-pressure gases could escape directly, and coolant might contaminate the engine oil, leading to engine overheating or even complete failure. I've seen many vehicles emitting white smoke or showing oil traces in the radiator due to aging gaskets, ultimately requiring expensive full engine replacements. During daily driving, avoid prolonged high-speed operation or engine overheating, as prolonged exposure to extreme heat and pressure can cause it to crack. Regular maintenance checks of the cooling system and oil traces can help detect issues early, keeping it in optimal condition so your vehicle runs longer and smoother.

[VanBrianna]

As a seasoned long-distance driver, I believe the core function of cylinder head gaskets is to act as sealing guardians, preventing internal engine components from going rogue. They contain the explosive pressure in the combustion chamber to avoid power loss from gas leaks, while also isolating coolant and oil passages to prevent catastrophic cross-contamination. I once drove an old Jeep where a worn gasket allowed coolant to leak into the cylinders - I noticed a strange sweet smell while driving, watched the temperature gauge spike, and nearly had an accident when the engine seized. The lesson? Check coolant and oil levels every 5,000 km for abnormal fluid mixing. Always use premium replacement gaskets, and let the engine cool slightly before shutdown to maximize gasket durability.

[Clifford]

Common cylinder head gasket failures during car repairs are located at the junction between the cylinder head and block, primarily functioning to seal pressure and prevent leaks. If damaged, high-pressure gas leakage will reduce engine power, while coolant mixing with oil can cause engine smoking or sudden shutdown. Diagnosis is straightforward: check if the engine oil appears white or has a milkshake-like substance, and sniff under the chassis for a sweet smell. I've replaced it multiple times—prompt action is crucial to prevent total engine failure. Avoid prolonged high-temperature engine operation, like running the AC too long in traffic, to prevent gasket burnout. A good gasket can last over 100,000 km; always use OEM parts for replacement and ensure proper alignment during installation.