Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Asx-Head gasket

2016 Mitsubishi ASX head gasket: what it does, why it matters, and when to sort it

Yes, the 2016 Mitsubishi ASX absolutely uses a head gasket. This is confirmed across factory technical documentation: the Mitsubishi Motors Workshop/Service Manual for ASX/RVR/Outlander Sport (engine group covering 4B11 petrol and 4N1-series diesel) details removal and installation of the cylinder head and head gasket, and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue lists a dedicated “gasket, cylinder head” for these engines. Major aftermarket catalogues for this model year also carry head-gasket sets, which aligns with the OEM documentation.

On the 2016 ASX, the head gasket sits between the engine block and the cylinder head. Its job is to keep combustion pressure sealed in the cylinders while keeping coolant and oil flowing through their own separate passages without mixing. When it’s healthy, the engine runs smoothly, stays cool, and doesn’t drink fluids. When it’s not, you’ll cop misfires, overheating, milky oil, sweet-smelling exhaust, or a stubbornly rising temp gauge under the bonnet.

Good news: the head gasket isn’t a routine service item. Keeping it happy is mostly about prevention. Stick to coolant change intervals with the correct spec coolant, maintain the cooling system (radiator, thermostat, water pump, fans), and fix any overheating straight away. Avoid hard towing or long hill climbs if the temp gauge is even hinting at hot. If the engine ever boils, don’t keep driving—overheating is what finishes gaskets and can warp the head.

• Watch for common signs: unexplained coolant loss, white exhaust smoke when warm, oil that looks milky, pressurised hoses from cold, rough cold starts, or a check engine light for misfire.
• During servicing, ask for a cooling system pressure test and a quick look for external leaks. A chemical block test can help if there’s suspicion of combustion gases in coolant.

If replacement is needed on a 2016 ASX, it’s a proper workshop job. The cylinder head should be inspected and measured for flatness, machining may be required if it’s out of spec. Use a quality head gasket matched to the exact engine code, replace torque‑to‑yield head bolts, and refresh ancillary gaskets and fluids. Timing components need careful handling and correct timing marks. Expect significant labour time, and it’s worth choosing a technician familiar with Mitsubishi’s procedures from the service manual for the 4B11 petrol or 4N1‑series diesel.

Popular questions

Does the 2016 Mitsubishi ASX have a head gasket?

Yes. Both the 2.0-litre 4B11 petrol and the diesel options used in 2016 ASX models have a cylinder head gasket, as documented in Mitsubishi’s factory service manual and parts catalogue.

What are the common signs of a failing head gasket on a 2016 ASX?

Look for persistent overheating, unexplained coolant loss, white smoke after warm-up, milky residue on the oil cap or dipstick, rough running on start-up, or a sweet smell in the exhaust. A pressure test or chemical block test can help confirm.

Is head gasket replacement a regular service item on the ASX?

No. It’s only replaced if it fails or the head has to come off for other engine work. Regular coolant changes with the correct spec and quick action on any overheating issues go a long way to preventing trouble.