Head Gasket Headache?

Today I learned I most likely have a blown head gasket. The combustion leak detector indicates combustion gasses are present in the coolant system. I suspected a blown head gasket, but the car did not exhibit some of the telltale signs. The oil did not look contaminated with coolant, the engine was not overheating, and white exhaust did not appear. However, a sloshing noise developed during acceleration after stopping, and the smell of coolant permeated the air in the cabin during stop-and-go traffic.

The detector draws air from the coolant expansion tank via an aspirator (bulb) into a test chamber. If combustion gasses are present in the test chamber, the fluid changes from blue to yellow. The tester comes with instructions on how to use it. The procedure involves working with coolant on a running engine. Extreme caution must be taken with the moving parts and hot fluids. The coolant expansion tank cap must be removed when the engine is cold. The engine needs to reach the operating temperature for the coolant thermostat to open and flow coolant throughout the entire system for the test.

I also learned the local auto parts store rents test equipment to customers. I rented the combustion leak detector for free with a deposit. My only expense was the test fluid. I’ve never rented tools from an auto parts store before, but this was a very simple way to diagnose my issue.

Have you ever had a car with a blown head gasket? Did you get it repaired or get a new car? Share your experience below.