Parts for your 2016 Ford Falcon-Head gasket

2016 Ford Falcon head gasket: what it does and when to act

Yes, the 2016 Ford Falcon (FG X) uses a head gasket on all its engines. That’s confirmed by technical sources such as the Ford FG X Falcon Workshop Manual (WSM – Engine 303-01 for the 4.0‑litre I6 and 303-01B for the 5.0‑litre V8), which details cylinder head removal/installation and specifies head-gasket replacement, plus Australian parts catalogues from Permaseal and Victor Reinz listing multi-layer steel (MLS) head gaskets and full VRS sets for FG/FG X Barra 4.0 and the 5.0 supercharged V8.

On a 2016 Falcon, the head gasket sits between the engine block and the cylinder head, sealing three critical paths: combustion pressure, coolant, and engine oil. The Barra 4.0 pairs an aluminium head with an iron block, while the XR8’s Miami 5.0 runs aluminium head and block—either way, an MLS gasket copes with heat, pressure, and different metal expansion rates. When it’s healthy, the engine runs crisp, keeps its coolant where it belongs, and doesn’t mix oil and water.

It’s not a routine service item, but good servicing keeps it happy. The big one is heat management: stick to the correct long-life coolant spec and change it as per the logbook, check hoses, clamps, radiator, fans, and the thermostat, and don’t ignore a creeping temperature gauge. Under the bonnet, look for early clues like unexplained coolant loss, pressurised hoses when cold, sweet-smelling steam from the exhaust, milky residue under the oil cap, or a rough cold start misfire.

If a head gasket does fail, a proper repair is the go. The WSM outlines torque sequences and angle settings for the torque-to-yield head bolts—always replace those bolts and use an OE-quality MLS gasket. Have the head checked for flatness and cracks, and consider light machining if it’s out of spec. After reassembly, fresh oil and coolant are a must, and a cooling system flush helps remove any contaminants. It’s also smart to inspect timing components, water pump, PCV system, and the radiator cap while access is open.

• Use the correct coolant mix with demineralised water and the spec recommended by Ford.
• Address any overheating straight away to protect the gasket and alloy head.
• During a gasket job: follow the WSM torque sequence, fit new head bolts, and pressure-test the cooling system.

Technical references noted: Ford FG X Falcon Workshop Manual (Engine 303-01/303-01B), Australian gasket catalogues (Permaseal, Victor Reinz) listing FG/FG X MLS head gaskets, Ford service schedules specifying correct coolant and intervals.

Popular questions

Does the 2016 Ford Falcon have a head gasket?
Yes. Both the 4.0‑litre inline-six and the 5.0‑litre supercharged V8 use a multi-layer steel head gasket. Ford’s workshop procedures include cylinder head removal with specified gasket replacement and bolt torque settings.

What are signs the head gasket is failing on a 2016 Falcon?
Common flags include overheating, persistent coolant loss, white steam from the exhaust, milky oil, bubbles in the header tank, or a rough start. Any of these should prompt a cooling-system pressure test and a combustion-leak check.

How much does a head-gasket replacement cost in AU/NZ?
It varies with engine and workshop: an I6 job can land roughly in the AUD/NZD 1,800–3,500 range, the V8 can be higher due to labour and parts. A proper repair includes machining checks, new head bolts, an MLS gasket, fresh fluids, and system testing.