Head Gasket Replacement Shop Recommendations- San Francisco Bay Area

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by davekro, Feb 4, 2026 at 4:26 AM.

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  1. davekro

    davekro Active Member

    Joined:
    Oct 23, 2013
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    Location:
    SF Bay Area, East Bay
    Vehicle:
    2013 Prius Plug-in
    Model:
    Plug-in Base
    I've been watching the Gen 3 Head Gasket replacement videos by Gasket Masters and NutsAboutBoltz. Initially, I was gung-ho about taking this project on. But now I want to look into what it might cost if done by a reputable SF Bay Area mechanic or shop. I'd like to hear from any fellow SF Bay Area PriusChat members who have had this work done by someone they would recommend. Has anyone in the area had Gasket Masters replace their head gasket? Other mechanic or shop?

    I don't see people here usually saying how much they pay for service, etc. Maybe it is frowned upon? If It is OK to share cost info via private message via this site, that would be good to. If anyone has recommendations for a person or shop in the area, I could call for an estimate as well. I'm probably not willing to pay dealership prices, but I would be curious of that scary price tag.
    Thanks in advance.
    Dave
     
    #1 davekro, Feb 4, 2026 at 4:26 AM
  2. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

    Joined:
    Jun 6, 2008
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    Location:
    Texas Hill Country
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius v wagon
    Model:
    Three
    You will find most dealers recommend against a simple gasket change on these engines because of frequent failures resulting in warranty problems. Problems that can only be solved with a replacement engine or rebuild. Complications like oil burning, prior overheating, bent connecting rods or warped surfaces can cause issues beyond a gasket.

    I would call Gasketmasters. While its not always a simple gasket swap, they should be able to judge the level of repair needed. They have done more repairs on gen3 head gasket failures than the dealers in your area.

    I would guess a head gasket job should run $2k-$3k, a used JDM engine installed for $2.5k-$3k, a Hybrid Pit rebuilt installed around $3.5k-$4.5k or a dealer/pro shop rebuild with a new short block around $8k. I would never recommend a US salvage yard engine.
     
    #2 rjparker, Feb 4, 2026 at 7:40 AM
    Last edited: Feb 4, 2026 at 8:01 AM
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