Your Kia Optima head gasket has a tough job. It has to seal water passages, oil passages, and serve as a compression ring for all of your cylinders. Because of the extreme temperatures and pressures that it is exposed to it is not uncommon for Kia Optima head gaskets to fail. But don't panic, a blown head gasket does not mean your motor is toast. Here at Andy's Auto Sport we have a full selection of replacement Kia Optima head gaskets for you to choose from. With gaskets from all of the leading brands, in both stock replacement and high-performance versions, you are sure to find the perfect head gasket for your application in our extensive lineup.

Head gaskets are available in different compositions and thicknesses depending on performance requirements. Copper head gaskets tend to be used for racing applications while composite gaskets tend to be used on street driven vehicles. As a general rule, the thicker the gasket the more it will lower your engine compression, and conversely the thinner the gasket the more compression your cylinders will have. If you are running a high-compression racing engine it is imperative to purchase a gasket that can stand up to the added stress of the increased cylinder pressure. Remember your Kia Optima head gasket is exposed to the same forces as the rest of the engine cylinder, so don't skimp out, get a top-quality gasket to keep your engine purring for many years to come.

Q: What is a head gasket? Why buy a head gasket?
A: The head gasket is located in between your head and your bottom block to help prevent compression leaks and coolant leaks. When your vehicle overheats, there's a chance the head gasket is blown, or if you're running a high horsepower vehicle or one with a lot of boost, it can warp and blow. Aftermarket head gaskets are made out of copper or metal and protect against high horsepower levels and huge boost levels.

Q: How do you install a head gasket?
A: Head gaskets should be left to the pros since the engine must be removed along with the head, and since machine work must be performed on the block.