Blown Head Gasket: What You Need to Know to Save You Money

Blown Head Gasket: What You Need to Know to Save You Money

What Does a Blown Head Gasket Mean for Wichita Drivers?

When your mechanic in Wichita tells you that you have a blown head gasket, it means a critical seal inside your engine has failed. And because of this, the seal can no longer keep coolant, oil, and engine pressure separated. As a result, your engine can quickly lose cooling and power. Even worse, serious internal damage can begin almost immediately.

So, whether you are driving along Kellogg Avenue near Towne East Square or heading toward Old Town for a weekend event, this problem should never be ignored. Therefore, in this blog the experts at Tracy’s Tire Pros explain how you can till if you have a blown head gasket and the steps you can take to prevent it. Because, this type of engine failure can turn a simple commute into a very expensive repair.


How Can You Tell If You Have a Blown Head Gasket?

Several warning signs usually appear before total engine failure. Unfortunately, many drivers miss them during daily trips around Intrust Bank Arena or the Keeper of the Plains.

  • First, you may notice white smoke coming from the exhaust while driving through Downtown Wichita.

  • Next, your temperature gauge may suddenly rise while sitting in traffic on Rock Road.

  • Additionally, your coolant level may keep dropping even when you see no leaks at home.

  • Also, your engine may run rough or misfire while merging onto US-54.

  • Finally, you may see milky sludge on the oil cap after short trips.

Each of these signs often points to coolant and oil mixing inside the engine. Therefore, your best bet is to head to Tracy’s Tire Pros on East First Street North in Downtown Wichita for a quick inspection.


What Causes a Head Gasket to Blow?

Overheating remains the most common cause of head gasket failure. A failed radiator fan, low coolant, or a clogged cooling system can push temperatures too high. Additionally, ignored warning lights and repeated hot-weather driving near Sedgwick County Zoo can quietly weaken the gasket over time. Meanwhile, even one severe overheating event can permanently damage the seal.


Steps Can You Take to Prevent a Blown Head Gasket

Prevention always costs far less than engine repair. Therefore, let review a few simple habits that can protect your vehicle year-round in Wichita’s changing weather.

  • First, always stop driving if your temperature gauge suddenly spikes.

  • Next, have your cooling system inspected before long drives to events at Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center.

  • Additionally, schedule routine coolant service at Tracy’s Tire Pros instead of only topping off the reservoir.

  • Then, fix small leaks and warning lights right away.

  • Finally, call Tracy’s Tire Pros to schedule regular maintenance checks to catch early cooling and pressure problems.

These small steps help keep heat, pressure, and fluids exactly where they belong.


Blown Head Gasket | Tracy’s Tire Pros | Wichita, KS

Acting Early When You Notice Engine Trouble Signs Will Save Your Sanity and Your Wallet 

A small head gasket leak can often be found before it destroys the engine. And, a fast diagnostic evaluation can help prevent warped cylinder heads and total engine failure. So, if you notice any warning signs while driving around Downtown Wichita or along the river paths near Exploration Place, act quickly and call Tracy’s Tire Pros Today for a Quick Check-Up.

Tracy’s Tire Pros can help you with any automotive issues that you may have. And they have three locations for your convenience:  West Maple Street auto care and auto repair, East First Street N. and West 21st Street N. And, Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.

Tracy’s Tire Pros in Wichita, KS