Your vehicle's engine is made of several components both large and small. Gaskets fall in the small category, but they play a vital role in the overall long-term health of your vehicle.
Heat will cause an engine's metal components to expand and contract. Gaskets, with their flexible qualities, serve to maintain a seal to effectively prevent oil and other fluids from leaking out and from keeping unwanted debris from getting in. The cushioning quality of gaskets also helps prevent wear and tear to metal components caused by the natural vibration of the engine. Vehicles have several gaskets, and each is typically comprised of steel or stainless steel with some type of rubber compound. Some are located within the engine, while others can be found between the engine and ancillary components like the exhaust manifold or water pump.
If you have major work performed on your vehicle's engine, the servicer will likely replace gaskets. And, in fact, anytime work is performed on your engine, gaskets should be routinely inspected and replaced if needed. Ensuring that your gaskets are in good order will help prevent major internal engine damage over the life of your vehicle.