What is the construction and purpose of cylinder heads?

Cylinder heads are components mounted in the upper part of the engine, above the cylinder block. They consist of a body with intake, exhaust, oil, and cooling channels, as well as valve seats and guides. Their task is to seal the combustion chambers and create a workspace for valves and timing parts.

What are cylinder heads used for?

Cylinder heads are used to control gas exchange and maintain the tightness of combustion chambers. They enable proper air intake, exhaust discharge, and cooperation with valves and camshafts. Without a correctly selected head, the engine may lose compression, overheat, or run unevenly.

What role does the head gasket play?

The head gasket is an element mounted between the block and the head, whose task is to seal the combustion chambers and separate oil and cooling channels. It affects the maintenance of compression and the proper circulation of operating fluids. Its compatibility must be checked together with the engine type, channel layout, and contact surface.

How to choose a cylinder head for a specific car version?

It is best to compare the OEM part number, engine code, fuel type, and equipment completeness. It is also worth checking interchangeable numbers, channel layout, mounting points, and compatibility with the manifold, injectors, or camshafts.

What symptoms may indicate a problem with the cylinder head?

Typical symptoms include a drop in compression, coolant loss, engine overheating, and oil mixing with coolant. Difficulties with starting, uneven operation, and leaks around the head gasket area are also significant.

What data in the offer should be checked before ordering a cylinder head?

Information about the brand, condition, OEM part number, interchangeable numbers, and fuel type is useful. Additionally, it is worth verifying whether the offered element is complete, what mounting points it has, and which engine version and equipment it is compatible with.

Engine heads

At Global Parts, we offer a wide selection of original used car parts, including cylinder heads for many popular car brands such as BMW, Mini, Mercedes, Audi, Volkswagen, and others. Each cylinder head we offer undergoes quality control to ensure you receive a top-quality product.

More information

Make

BMW E60 E61 E63 E65 E87 E90 E91 Metal Bracket Cylinder Head N52

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 8610473

Engine Acoustic Cover BMW F20 F21 F22 F30 F31 F32 Petrol N20 Trim Panel 8610473

£18.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 8511484

BMW F30 F32 N57N N57Z Diesel Engine Acoustic Cover Trim Insulation Panel 8511484

£47.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7811920

Mini R55 R56 R57 LCI N47N Engine Cover Acoustic Diesel 7811920

£23.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7530743-1

BMW 1 3 Série E46 E81 E87 116i 316i N45 Moteur Bobine D'Allumage Bougie Housse

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2710160481

Vent Pipe Mercedes W203 W212 M271 Cylinder Head Breather Line Hose A2710160481

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7530743

BMW E46 E81 E87 116i 316i N45 Engine Ignition Coil Spark Plug Cover 7530743

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7530743-3

Engine Cover BMW E46 E81 E87 116i 316i N45 Ignition Coil Spark Plug Trim 7530743

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6510151402

Crank Cover Mercedes W906 OM651.955 Engine Timing Case A6510151402

£32.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7511180

BMW 5 7 Series E60 E61 E65 N62 Engine Ignition Coil Spark Cover 1-4 Cylinder

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 8645876

BMW F30 LCI 330e B48X Engine Cover Acoustic Slam Insulation Trim Panel 8645876

£142.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7777364

BMW E90 320si N45 Ignition Coil Engine Cover Carbon Petrol 7777364

£75.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7530743-2

BMW 1 3 Series 2 E46 E81 E87 116i 316i N45 Engine Ignition Coil Cover 7530743

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7800001

BMW E90 E91 LCI E92 F10 F11 N57 Cylinder Head Cover Engine Covering 7812929

£313.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6510101120

Cylinder Head Mercedes W906 OM651 Diesel Engine A6510101120

£265.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7523714-1

BMW 1 3 X3 Series E83 E87 E90 E91 1 N46 Petrol Engine Acoustic Cover 7523714

£18.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7777364-1

BMW E90 320si N45 Ignition Coil Engine Cylinder Head Cover Panel Carbon 7777364

£75.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6510100882

Mercedes Sprinter W906 OM651 Vent Pipe Hose Cylinder Head A6510100882

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7566614

BMW E60 E61 LCI N43 Petrol Engine Ignition Coil Insulation Cover Panel 7566614

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6510100382

Mercedes Vito W639 OM651 Vent Pipe Cylinder Head Breather Line Hose A6510100382

£18.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6510110108

Crank Cover Mercedes W204 W639 W906 OM651 Engine Timing Case Bottom A6510110108

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7527742

BMW E60 E81 E87 E90 E91 E92 F10 F11 Engine Covering Plate 7527742

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06K103264

Audi A3 S3 8V Engine Cylinder Head 2.0 TFSI Petrol Engine CJXC 06K103264

£398.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2740100107

Cylinder Head Mercedes W213 C238 X253 M274 Engine Cover Molded A2740100107

£664.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7638639

BMW F10 M5 F13 M6 S63N Engine Cylinder Head Rocker Cover Panel Cyl 1-4 7843506

£189.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7634077-1

Mini Cooper S R56 R55 LCI R60 N18 Petrol Cylinder Head Cover Rear 7619111

£47.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06K103063AM

Audi S1 8X 2.0 TFSI CWZA 231HP Petrol Engine Cylinder Head 06K103063AM 06K403AE

£313.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 8514202

Engine Acoustic Cover BMW F10 F20 F21 F22 F30 F32 Diesel B47 Trim Panel 8514202

£23.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 03C103264FX

Volkswagen Golf Mk5 Cylinder Head 1.6 FSI BLF Petrol 03C103358S

£161.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2710160806

Mercedes SLK R171 W204 W211 Petrol Engine M271 Camshaft Timing Front Case Cover

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 059103064JT

Audi A7 4G8 3.0 TDI CVZA Diesel Engine Cylinder Head Cyl 1-3 059103064JT 0594BP

£237.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 8490577

BMW F20 F30 F31 LCI Engine Acoustic Cover Trim Panel Diesel 8490577

£28.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7838053

Cylinder Head Cover BMW E90 E92 E93 M3 S65 Cylinder 5-8 7838053

£18.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2720106620-2

Mercedes W204 W212 Cylinder Head Lower Part Right O/S M272 V6 A2720106620

£113.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 8507561

BMW F07 GT F10 F11 F30 F31 F32 F36 GT Cylinder Head N57D30B Diesel 7812929

£313.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 11000-PWA-000

Cylinder Head Cover Honda Civic Jazz Petrol Engine Block Oil Pan 11000-PWA-000

£94.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7934488

BMW F40 X1 F48 Mini F55 F56 Engine Cylinder Head B38B B38C Petrol 7934488

£474.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 059103063NE

Audi A7 4M Cylinder Head Cyl 4-6 3.0 TDI DPXA Diesel Engine 059103063NE 0593CB

£664.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 059103064NP

Audi Q7 4M Cylinder Head Cyl. 1-3 3.0 TDI DPXA Diesel Engine 059103064NP

£664.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 9242094

BMW X3 F25 Glove Box Damper Absorber Spring Glovebox 9242094

£18.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7561714-1

Cylinder Head Cover Mini R55 R56 Cooper S N14 Petrol Engine 7561714

£94.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7812604

BMW F20 F21 114d 116d ed Diesel N47N Engine Cylinder Head 7812603

£189.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6420100621

Mercedes W204 W212 W221 Cylinder Head Bank 4-6 Right O/S OM642 V6 A6420100621

£237.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7838137

BMW E90 E92 E93 M3 S65 Cylinder Head Cyl 1-4 7838137 FOR REGENERATION !!!

£417.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6420106107

Mercedes W204 W212 W221 Cylinder Head Bank 1-3 Left N/S OM642 V6 A6420106720

£237.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6400101182

Vent Pipe Hose Mercedes W169 W245 OM640 Cylinder Breather Line A6400101182

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7838147

BMW E90 E92 E93 M3 S65 Cylinder Head Cyl 5-8 7838147 FOR REGENERATION !!!

£427.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 03L103265D-1

Audi A3 8P Engine Cylinder Head 2.0 TDI CFFB Diesel 03L103265D

£379.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 057103063BN

Audi A8 D4 Cylinder Head Cyl. 5-8 4.2 TDI Diesel Engine 057103063CA

£284.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7575671-1

BMW E87 E91 E81 E90 116i 316i N43B16A Cylinder Head Planned 7575671

£569.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7833877

BMW 5 6 Series E60 M5 E63 M6 Petrol S85 Engine Cylinder Head Right 1-5 7833877

£284.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7833881

BMW 5 6 Series E60 M5 E63 M6 Petrol S85 Engine Cylinder Head Left 6-10 7833881

£284.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7608406

BMW F10 F11 LCI F12 G11 Cylinder Head Cover Cylinder 5-8 Cover Cap Plate 7608406

£18.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103903JX

Audi A4 B8 S4 B8 S5 8T Cylinder Head 1-3 06E103903JX 06E103404K 06E103286

£237.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06M103061P

Audi S4 B9 S5 F5 Engine Cylinder Head Cylinders 4-6 3.0 TFSI CWGD 06M103061P

£474.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2720101301

Mercedes SLK R171 Cylinder Head Right O/S Side 3.5 Petrol Engine A2720101301

£446.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6510103020

Mercedes W204 W205 C207 S212 W221 OM651 Cylinder Head Diesel Engine A6510103020

£379.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2720101201-1

Mercedes SLK R171 Cylinder Head Left N/S Side 3.5 Petrol Engine A2720101201

£398.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7530743-4

Engine Cover BMW E46 E81 E87 116i 316i N45 Ignition Coil Spark Plug Trim 7530743

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7575671

BMW E87 E91 LCI E81 E90 116i 316i N43B16A Cylinder Head Planned 7559172

£569.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7838147-1

BMW E90 E92 E93 M3 S65 Cylinder Head With Camshaft Cyl 5-8 7838147

£617.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103263

Audi S4 B8 S5 8T Engine Cylinder Head Cyl 4-6 3.0 TFSI CREC 06E103403AA

£360.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7636612

BMW F10 F11 LCI F13 N63N Engine Cylinder Head Rocker Cover Panel Cyl 5-8 7603653

£151.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7596054

Mini R55 R56 R60 Engine Cylinder Head Header Unit N12 N16 Petrol 7596054

£569.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103264

Audi S4 B8 S5 8T Engine Cylinder Head Cyl 1-3 3.0 TFSI CREC 06E103404AA

£360.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 8513677

Cylinder Head BMW F20 F21 LCI 114d 116d Diesel B37 Engine 8513677

£218.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06M103061AK-1

Audi S5 F5 Rocker Camshaft Cover Housing Cylinders 4-6 3.0 TFSI CWGD 06M103061AK

£522.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 1740108

Cylinder Head Ford Transit MK7 2.2 TDCi RWD Diesel Engine 1740108 BK3Q-6090-AC

£474.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06M103062AK-1

Audi S5 F5 Rocker Camshaft Cover Housing Cylinders 1-3 3.0 TFSI CWGD 06M103062AK

£522.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 1858445

Engine Cover Ford Transit MK7 2.2 TDCi Cylinder Head Rocker Panel 1858445

£94.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06K103063CD

Audi S3 8V Engine Cylinder Head 2.0 TFSI DNUE 06K103403AG

£664.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2720103920

Mercedes R171 Petrol SLK 280 272942 Cylinder Head Right A2720103920 A2720161305

£332.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2720100901

Mercedes R171 SLK 280 Petrol 272942 Cylinder Head Left A2720100901 R2720162401

£332.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103065M

Audi A6 C7 Engine Cylinder Hear Cover 06E103065M

£189.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103403M

Audi A4 S4 B8 A5 S5 8T Engine Cylinder Head Cylinders 4-6 3.0 TFSI 06E103403M

£170.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 1740108-1

Cylinder Head Ford Transit MK7 2.2 RWD Diesel Connect 1740108 BK3Q-6K537-A1C

£142.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103404M

Audi A4 S4 B8 A5 S5 8T Engine Cylinder Head Cylinders 1-3 3.0 TFSI 06E103403M

£170.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103935C

Audi S4 B8 3.0 TFSI Petrol Engine Cylinder Head Trim Cover 06E103935C

£28.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2700109902

Mercedes W176 W246 C117 Engine Cylinder Head Rocker M270 Petrol A2700109902

£664.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7603346

BMW 1 3 Series F20 F21 F30 N13 Petrol Compressor Supporting Bracket 7603346

£13.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7624429

BMW E90 LCI F10 F20 F30 Engine Cylinder Head Rocker N55 135i 335i 535i 7605102

£759.95

Free delivery: Jul 07

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103066N

Audi A6 C7 A7 Cylinder Head 06E103404A 06E103066N

£949.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 059103264

Audi Q7 4L VW Touareg 7L 3.0 TDI CRCA Diesel Cylinder Head Cyl 1-3 059103264

£256.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2730104820

Mercedes W164 W212 W221 Cylinder Head Left N/S M273 Petrol R2730162601

£379.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06K103063AP

Audi S3 8V 2.0 TFSI DJHA Petrol Engine Cylinder Head 06K103063AP

£427.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 05E103063F

Volkswagen Golf Mk8 Skoda Karoq Engine Cylinder Head 1.5 TSI 05E103063F

£170.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 8513709

BMW F20 LCI F30 Cylinder Head Housing Rocker Panel Diesel Engine B47 8513709

£142.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103067BP

Audi A4 B8 S4 B8 S5 8T Cylinder Head Cylinders 4-6 06E103067BP 06E103285

£237.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103066C

Audi S4 B8 3.0 TFSI Quattro Cylinder Head 06E103066C 06E103066CX

£450.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2730104920-1

Mercedes W164 W212 W221 Cylinder Head Upper Cover Right O/S M273 V8 A2730160105

£113.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2730104920

Mercedes W164 W212 W221 Cylinder Head Right O/S M273 Petrol R2730162701

£379.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 05L103061AG

Volkswagen Golf Mk8 Audi A5 F5 Lower Cylinder Head 2.0 TDI 05L103061AG

£303.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103791A

Audi A5 S5 8T Engine Cylinder Head Cylinders 4-6 3.0 TFSI CREC 06E103791A

£427.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 06E103792A

Audi A5 S5 8T Engine Cylinder Head Cylinders 1-3 3.0 TFSI CREC 06E103792A

£427.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6420104506

Mercedes A207 C218 Cylinder Head Left N/S 350 CDI 642853 Diesel A6420104506

£351.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6420100421

Mercedes C218 Cylinder Head Right O/S 350 CDI 642853 Diesel A6420100421

£203.95

Free delivery: Jul 8 – 15

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 7797488

BMW E60 E87 LCI E90 N47 Diesel Engine Timing Case Cover 7797488

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 7628021

BMW 1 3 Series F20 F21 F30 MINI R55 R56 LCI Cylinder Head Drive Unit 7628021

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 7531324

Engine Top Cover BMW E60 E63 E65 E87 E90 Petrol N52 Trim Panel 7531324

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Showing 1-99 of 304 products

Cylinder heads – structure, application, and impact on engine performance

Cylinder head components and their role in the combustion process and exhaust emission control

The cylinder head is one of the most important components in the construction of a powertrain. It is responsible for the proper flow of air, fuel, and exhaust gases, as well as for sealing the combustion chambers, enabling the engine to operate efficiently. Without a functional cylinder head, it is impossible to achieve optimal performance and durability of the engine unit. In the Global Parts automotive store, you will find a wide selection of used car engines, including cylinder heads matched to brands such as BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini, and others.

What functions does a cylinder head perform?

The cylinder head is a complex component that performs many key functions:

Creating the combustion chamber – The cylinder head seals the cylinders from the top, enabling the proper combustion of the air-fuel mixture.
Managing flow – It is responsible for delivering air and fuel to the cylinders and for discharging exhaust gases through the intake and exhaust valves.
Mounting point for the timing system – It contains camshafts, valve rockers, and other components responsible for the precise opening and closing of valves.
Cooling and lubrication – It contains oil and cooling channels that prevent overheating and wear of key components. Precise manufacturing of the cylinder head and its proper maintenance are essential for the reliable operation of the engine unit.

Construction and purpose of cylinder heads

Cylinder heads are the upper parts of the engine mounted above the cylinder block. Their task is to seal the combustion chambers and create space for valves, intake ports, exhaust ports, and coolant circuits. A typical cylinder head works with gaskets and mounting parts, and its compatibility must be confirmed by the OEM number, fuel type, and engine version.

Comparison of head variants and data to check

Variant	Typical characteristics	Cooperating elements	What to check before purchase
Petrol engine head	Layout of channels and combustion chambers adapted to spark ignition	timing parts, intake manifold, spark plugs	OEM number, fuel type, number of valves, compatibility with accessories
Diesel engine head	Adapted to higher compression ratios and different combustion system operation	Injectors, manifold, gasket, fuel lines	Engine code, injector seats, contact surface, cracks
Complete head	May contain valves, camshaft, or other embedded elements depending on the version	chains, timing belts, and mounting kits, valve cover, seals	Equipment scope, mounting points, condition of guides and seats
Incomplete head	Body prepared for further equipment according to the car version	engine blocks, valves, camshafts, mounting bolts	Dimensional compatibility, oil channels, cooling channels, resurfacing

The cylinder head is made of aluminum or cast iron, depending on the model and year of production. In cars such as the BMW E46 320d, 4-cylinder heads with 2 or 4 valves per cylinder are used, integrated with cooling and oil channels. The typical weight of a head ranges from 10 to 25 kg, and the combustion chamber diameter varies in the 80–85 mm range for 2.0 l units. In sports models and M versions, heads with increased airflow and modified valve geometry are often used.

Why is it worth taking care of the cylinder head?

A damaged or malfunctioning cylinder head can lead to serious problems, such as:

Loss of compression – Causes a drop in engine power and efficiency.
Engine overheating – Resulting from leaks in the cooling channels.
Wear of valves and valve seats – Resulting in problems with fuel and exhaust flow.
Oil and coolant leaks – Which can lead to the failure of other components. At Global Parts, we offer used car engines that undergo rigorous quality tests, ensuring their durability and reliability.

The role of channels, seats, and contact surfaces in engine operation

The intake and exhaust ports in the head are responsible for directing the mixture and discharging exhaust gases, so their condition directly affects the engine's smoothness. The head contact surface is the area of contact with the engine block, which must maintain flatness and tightness after installing the gasket. When choosing an element such as a BMW E90 320i valve cover, it is worth checking the compatibility of sealing surfaces, ventilation, and mounting points in the upper part of the engine simultaneously. For example, in a BMW E46 320d cylinder head, the average compression is 18–20 bar, and the intake ports provide an airflow of 120–140 l/s at 6000 rpm. Such parameters are important for power, torque, and fuel economy. Cylinder heads are compatible with specific injection systems, intake manifolds, and head gaskets, which allows for precise part matching.

How to choose the right cylinder head?

When choosing a cylinder head, you should pay attention to several key aspects:

Compatibility with the vehicle model – Every car brand and model has its specific technical requirements. In the Global Parts automotive store, you will find cylinder heads perfectly matching BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini, and others.
Technical condition – Ensure that the cylinder head has no cracks, damage, or signs of corrosion.
Service history – It is important that the cylinder head comes from a vehicle with a known mileage and has been regularly serviced.

Selecting a cylinder head by OEM number and equipment version

The selection of a cylinder head should take into account the OEM part number, interchangeable numbers, fuel type, and the completeness of the element. Compatibility with equipment such as camshafts, manifolds, injectors, or engine sensors and switches is also significant. If you are looking for a subassembly such as a Mini Cooper S R56 valve cover, you should compare the breather system, bolt layout, and engine version, as these features also affect the fit of the upper part of the head.

Checking cooperating components during replacement

Replacing a cylinder head involves not only the body itself but also assessing the parts that work with it. You should check the condition of the block surface, the tightness of the lubrication system, and the compatibility of accessories with seats and channels. In the case of parts such as a Mercedes W203 engine cover, the compatibility of mounts and engine bay layout is mainly important, while for the head itself, the OEM number, fuel type, and engine version remain key.

Example table of heads and basic parameters

Vehicle model	Head type	Number of valves	Material	Approximate weight
BMW E46 320d	4-cylinder, diesel	4 per cylinder	Aluminum	12–14 kg
BMW E46 330i	6-cylinder, petrol	4 per cylinder	Aluminum	18–20 kg
Mercedes C200	4-cylinder, petrol	4 per cylinder	Cast iron	22 kg
Audi A4 2.0 TDI	4-cylinder, diesel	4 per cylinder	Aluminum	13 kg

Why is it worth choosing used cylinder heads?

Used car engines, such as a cylinder head, are an excellent solution that allows for savings while maintaining high quality. By choosing Cylinder heads, you gain:

Lower costs – Used components are significantly cheaper than new ones but offer equally high quality.
Ecology – Recycling car parts supports environmental protection and reduces waste.
Wide offer – In our store, you will find cylinder heads for the most popular car brands. In practice, used heads fit original injection assemblies, manifolds, and turbochargers. Compatibility with the model and year allows for maintaining original flow geometry and compression pressure parameters.

How to take care of the cylinder head?

To ensure the cylinder head works reliably for years, it is worth following a few rules:

Regularly change the coolant to prevent corrosion of the cooling channels.
Check the condition of the cylinder head gaskets to avoid leaks and loss of compression.
Monitor the timing system operation and replace worn elements, such as camshafts or valves. If you need to replace a cylinder head, at Global Parts you will find suitable used auto parts that will restore your vehicle to full efficiency. The head assessment procedure includes:

Checking the flatness of the contact surface with the engine block (tolerance 0.05 mm).
Inspecting valves and seats for wear (valve seat diameter: 34–38 mm in E46).
Verifying cooling and oil channels for patency.
Measuring pressure tightness at 3–5 bar to detect micro-cracks.

FAQ

Question	Answer
What is the construction and purpose of cylinder heads?	Cylinder heads are components mounted in the upper part of the engine, above the cylinder block. They consist of a body with intake, exhaust, oil, and cooling channels, as well as valve seats and guides. Their task is to seal the combustion chambers and create a workspace for valves and timing parts.
What are cylinder heads used for?	Cylinder heads are used to control gas exchange and maintain the tightness of combustion chambers. They enable proper air intake, exhaust discharge, and cooperation with valves and camshafts. Without a correctly selected head, the engine may lose compression, overheat, or run unevenly.
What role does the head gasket play?	The head gasket is an element mounted between the block and the head, whose task is to seal the combustion chambers and separate oil and cooling channels. It affects the maintenance of compression and the proper circulation of operating fluids. Its compatibility must be checked together with the engine type, channel layout, and contact surface.
How to choose a cylinder head for a specific car version?	It is best to compare the OEM part number, engine code, fuel type, and equipment completeness. It is also worth checking interchangeable numbers, channel layout, mounting points, and compatibility with the manifold, injectors, or camshafts.
What symptoms may indicate a problem with the cylinder head?	Typical symptoms include a drop in compression, coolant loss, engine overheating, and oil mixing with coolant. Difficulties with starting, uneven operation, and leaks around the head gasket area are also significant.
What data in the offer should be checked before ordering a cylinder head?	Information about the brand, condition, OEM part number, interchangeable numbers, and fuel type is useful. Additionally, it is worth verifying whether the offered element is complete, what mounting points it has, and which engine version and equipment it is compatible with.

Summary: cylinder heads at the Global Parts automotive store

The cylinder head is a key element that affects the efficiency, durability, and reliability of the engine unit. The Global Parts offer includes used parts matched to many brands, including BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and others. When choosing, it is worth comparing the OEM number, interchangeable numbers, fuel type, element condition, and compatibility with engine accessories. We invite you to contact us – we are here to help you! For more information and interesting facts, we also invite you to our automotive blog.

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