How much to replace a 2002 Saturn head gasket?

Answer 1

this question can vary with repair shop pricing, the prices i will list here are average markup/labor dollars. looks like autozone has the entire head gasket kit for about 220. most repair shops have accounts with venders, they can probably get this set for around 160-180. they usually charge the customer double what they get it for so figure 320$ on the highside for the head gasket kit. according to the Mitchell Labor Guide (The Bible of a repair shop) the time alloted to the mechanic is 10.8 hours. If the vehicle is equipped with A/C, add an additional 1.1 hours. so you are looking at 11.9 labor hours. average labor dollar per hour is around $75. sor your labor will run you $892 on top of your gasket set. figure your at just over 1200. now add Engine oil and Coolant, most places will include this, but don't count on it. Now there are things to think about while doing a head gasket on a Saturn. are you close to 100K miles? or will you be in the next year or two? Saturn timing chains should be done at around 100k. the book or service manual doesnt mention this, but ask anyone who works on saturns... they will all tell you this needs to be done if you plan on keeping your vehicle running for the time you own it. The repair shop will probably try and talk you into replacing it..... it has to come off in order to do the head gasket anyways.