Gaskets are two items in the car, each of which has a specific function. Firstly, gasket is called the item which is required for sealing or adjusting the position of detachable parts of elements and devices. Secondly, the gasket is an item of the cavity above the piston, in which all thermal processes of the operating cycles are performed. In this case, this piece is called cylinder head gasket. The gasket is required in order to seal the joint of the plane head with the cylinder block of the internal combustion engine. It consists of several layers and a frame made of perforated steel sheet.

Such a gasket is necessary in order to eliminate possible leakage of oil when it is fed into the engine. The materials used in manufacturing of gaskets, may be different - cork, fiber, carton, paronite and other materials containing asbestos. Apart from that, such a gasket can be coated with a layer of sealant in order to increase the encapsulation. The gasket is an indispensable part in the functioning of turbocharged engines. Because the very high pressure in the chamber of the internal combustion engine with a turbine, the load on the gasket is greatly increased. This is exactly what leads to its mechanical damages.

If this spare part breaks, it must be replaced immediately, as the consequences can be severe, such as engine malfunction. To detect the failure and replace the gasket with a new one, go to a qualified car repair center. At the same time it is not advisable to buy the spare parts in the same place or in specialized stores because of exaggerated prices. This item, just like others, like radiator grill, damper strut, rotor distributor plus repair will cost you a small fortune. You can get the necessary spare parts cheaper and faster by ordering them in our online store.

What you need to know about replacement of car gaskets and seals: lifetime limits, common defects and their signs, tips and recommendations

There’s no certain term at the end of which car gaskets and seals should be replaced. These car parts are replaced, in particular, in case of any damages which cause loss of hermeticity of component connections. New gaskets and seals are also installed during repair or replacement of other car parts. For example, gearbox gaskets and seals kit is required for the installation of elements of the corresponding unit.

Leakage of working fluid or lubricant is the first sign that car gaskets and seals need replacement. For example, if engine gaskets and seals are damaged, oil level drops. A special sensor indicates this: it shows the information on a dashboard display. You can also find out that oil level is low by checking the dipstick. Leakage of transmission oil points at the need to replace the differential gasket or other gearbox gaskets. Stains of oil can be seen on the gearbox cover.

Diagnostics of car gaskets and seals is in their visual inspection and is performed, as a rule, at a service station. In order to assess components condition you should set the car onto a lifting platform and if necessary demount some other elements which hinder access to these parts. The components replacement algorithm depends on car design features, types of fasteners and gaskets themselves.

Car gaskets and seals don’t require complex replacement. But in case of engine overhaul it will be more practical to buy and install a kit which may include a fuel injector gasket, an oil filter housing gasket, sealing rings, a thermostat gasket, etc.