How much does it car to repair the head gasket on a Mini Cooper?

A head gasket failure is one of the more serious engine problems a Mini Cooper owner can face. 

While not as common as oil or coolant leaks, it can be expensive if left untreated. Mini Cooper head gasket repair costs start at £800 and can reach £2,000. 

We’ll break down why, and include some common warning signs and long-term implications that can help you act early and avoid unnecessary engine damage below.

How much does it cost to fix a head gasket on a Mini Cooper?

The cost to repair a head gasket on a Mini Cooper in the UK typically ranges from £800 to £2,000+, meaning it’s one of the more expensive repairs.

The final price depends on the engine type, the extent of overheating and damage, the availability of parts,  and whether any additional components need replacing.

Also, head gasket repairs are labour-intensive, as the engine must be partially dismantled. If the cylinder head has warped due to overheating, machining, or replacement will increase costs. Catching the issue early keeps repairs at the lower end of the price range.

Mini Cooper head gasket repair costs by component

Here’s a quick look at the average costs for a Mini Cooper head gasket replacement in 2026, alongside other associated problems. 

Note that costs vary between Mini engines, particularly between older R56 models with N14 engines and later N18 variants.

Facing an expensive head gasket repair? You can try car repair finance to split the final cost into interest-free instalments.

Do Minis have head gasket problems?

Not really. Mini Coopers are not widely known for chronic head gasket failures, but problems can occur, especially if cooling system issues are ignored. 

For example, overheating caused by failed thermostats, water pumps, or coolant leaks significantly increases the risk of head gasket damage.

Earlier models and high-mileage vehicles are more susceptible if maintenance has been inconsistent.

What causes head gasket failure on a Mini Cooper?

Common causes of head gasket problems in Mini Coopers include:

• Engine overheating
• Coolant leaks or low coolant levels
• Failed thermostats or water pumps
• Warped cylinder heads
• Prolonged driving with cooling system faults

Addressing cooling problems early is one of the best ways to prevent head gasket failure in the future. Check your cooling system now!

Signs of a blown head gasket in a Mini Cooper

Warning signs of a blown head gasket in a Mini Cooper may include:

• White smoke from the exhaust
• Milky residue under the oil cap
• Persistent coolant loss
• Engine overheating
• Rough running or misfires
• Warning lights on the dashboard

If you notice any of these symptoms, a professional inspection is essential. Don’t put it off, or you could face expensive repairs and reduced road safety.

At what mileage do Mini Coopers have problems?

Many Mini Coopers begin to experience engine-related issues between 70,000 and 120,000 miles, depending on driving habits and servicing history. 

Regular maintenance significantly extends engine life and reduces the likelihood of major failures like blown head gaskets.

How long does it take to repair a Mini Cooper head gasket?

Head gasket repairs usually take 2 to 4 days, depending on parts availability and whether additional work is required. 

However, cylinder head machining or replacement can extend repair times. Your garage will give you a personalised plan if this is the case.

Can you drive a Mini Cooper with a blown head gasket?

No. Driving with a blown head gasket risks severe engine damage, including cracked cylinder heads or complete engine failure. 

Continuing to drive may turn a repairable issue into a full engine replacement, and you’ll also put yourself and others at risk on the road.

What’s the life expectancy of a Mini Cooper engine?

With proper servicing, Mini Cooper engines can last 150,000 miles or more.

Timely repairs, high-quality oil, proper driving technique, and a healthy cooling system all play a major role in engine longevity.

Is it worth fixing a head gasket on a Mini Cooper?

In most cases, yes. If the car is otherwise in good condition, repairing the head gasket is far cheaper than replacing the engine or buying a new vehicle.

Early repairs also protect the car's resale value, which may be important if you plan to sell the car in the future.

Is a blown head gasket an MOT failure?

Yes, a blown head gasket will likely fail an MOT if it causes excessive emissions or coolant leaks. It may also affect your MOT if it flags up engine warning lights.

Even if your Mini Cooper passes temporarily, the issue should be repaired immediately.

What happens if you ignore a head gasket problem?

Ignoring a head gasket issue can quickly escalate into serious and costly engine problems, including severe overheating, engine seizure, coolant mixing with oil, and even complete engine failure. 

A repair that might cost around £1,200 if addressed promptly can easily balloon into a £4,000+ engine replacement if put on the back burner. Get your Mini checked now!

Final thoughts

A Mini Cooper head gasket repair is a serious but manageable expense when caught early. Understanding the costs, warning signs, and long-term risks allows you to act quickly and protect your engine — so, hopefully, this page has pointed you in the right direction! 

If you notice overheating or coolant loss, book a professional inspection as soon as possible.

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