How much should it cost to replace a head gasket on a 1996 Saturn SL 1.9L DOHC?

If the work is to be done by Saturn, Expect to Pay between $1100.00 and $1250.00

I am doing the same project, just picked up the headgasket and headbolts from O'Reilly for $42. I'm waiting to see how bad the intake and exhaust manifold gaskets are before I spend the $7apiece for new ones. I'm broke, lookin to do this as cheap as possible. lol

If your cooling system is full of oil, you'll need to flush the system VERY well with a mild detergent, and then TONS of water to get all the remaining oil and detergent out. If you have oil in the cooling system, Saturn will tell you to replace your radiator/hoses/waterpump. I am not doing this, just am flushing the system throughly. I have done many headgaskets before, and have never had any adverse results from not replacing radiator/hoses/waterpump.

Once you have the cylinder head off, that needs to be planed or resurfaced, to make sure your new gasket will seal properly. This costs $40+tax at engine shops here in WI.

After buying new oil, coolant, the gasket(s), and headbolts, plus the cost to resurface the head, I'll be getting this done for somewhere around $160-$225.

If this is your first time replacing a headgasket, this would be the motor to do it on. The 1.9L single cam is easy to work on, and there's not much to get in your way or make things difficult.

Best of luck!