Best Engine Cylinder Heads of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Engine cylinder heads are an essential component of any internal combustion engine. They sit on top of the engine block and contain the valves, springs, and other necessary parts for fuel combustion. A quality cylinder head ensures that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently. There are various types of cylinder heads available, including aluminum and cast iron, and they come in different sizes and shapes to fit different engine types. Investing in a high-quality cylinder head can improve engine performance and longevity, making it a crucial consideration for any engine builder or mechanic.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

RALBDX 1.4L Engine Cylinder Head with Camshaft Assembly Cover #TOP 1
RALBDX 1.4L Engine Cylinder Head with Camshaft Assembly
ftb score rating icon 9.9
DNA Motoring Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with SBC Engines Cover #TOP 2
DNA Motoring Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with SBC Engines
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ACDelco GM Original Equipment Camshaft Phaser Magnet Cover #TOP 3
ACDelco GM Original Equipment Camshaft Phaser Magnet
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Engine Cylinder Heads

#TOP 1

RALBDX 1.4L Engine Cylinder Head with Camshaft Assembly

1.4 Turbo Cylinder Head Assembly
RALBDX 1.4L Engine Cylinder Head with Camshaft Assembly Cover
RALBDX 1.4L Engine Cylinder Head With Camshaft Assembly Compatible with Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax Buick Encore 1.4 Turbo 2011-2019 Replace # 55573669 55565291 55573010 55573011 12703173

The RALBDX Cylinder Head Assembly is designed to replace the cylinder head in your 1.4L turbo engines, fitting models like the Buick Encore (2013-2019) and Chevy Cruze, Sonic, and Trax (2011-2019). This complete assembly includes the camshaft and valve seats, which means you avoid the hassle of installing separate parts that may not fit perfectly. It comes with multiple compatible part numbers, making it easier to find the exact fit for your vehicle. The cylinder head plays a vital role in cooling your engine by dissipating heat, helping to prevent overheating and damage while your engine runs.

What We Like
Complete assembly with camshaft
Fits multiple 1.4L turbo models
Includes valve seats
Compatible with various part numbers
#TOP 2

DNA Motoring Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with SBC Engines

CYLH-SBC-350
Silver
DNA Motoring Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with SBC Engines Cover
DNA Motoring CYLH-SBC-350 Aluminum Bare Cylinder Head Compatible with Chevy SBC 302/327/350/383/400

The DNA Motoring Cylinder Head is a high-quality aluminum cylinder head designed for SBC engines such as 302, 327, 350, 383, and 400 small block chevy engines up to 1986. This cylinder head features a reasonable design with high-grade aluminum construction, bronze valve guides, hardened seats, and advanced port design, allowing for greater airflow and improved fuel deployment. With a 200cc intake runner and a 68cc combustion chamber, this cylinder head not only enhances performance but also retains stock compression on 1970 and earlier models. The premium aluminum material ensures durability and can withstand high pressure and temperature, dissipating heat faster and making repairs easier. Designed for direct installation and replacement without modification, the DNA Motoring Cylinder Head offers precise dimensions with a 2.02'' intake valve diameter and a 1.60'' exhaust valve diameter.

What We Like
High-grade aluminum construction
Improved airflow and fuel deployment
Retains stock compression on older models
#TOP 3

ACDelco GM Original Equipment Camshaft Phaser Magnet

12653140
ACDelco GM Original Equipment Camshaft Phaser Magnet Cover
GM Genuine Parts 12653140 Cylinder Head

The ACDelco GM Original Equipment Camshaft Phaser Magnet is designed to ensure optimal positioning of camshaft phasers, serving as a high-quality, reliable, and durable replacement part that meets GM OE specifications for fit, form, and function. This product is ideal for car engine camshafts, offering users the assurance of a GM-recommended replacement part for their GM vehicle's original factory component.

What We Like
High-quality and reliable replacement part
GM-recommended for GM vehicles
Manufactured to GM OE specifications
#TOP 4

SBC 350 Cylinder Head

ND
DM-CYSBC002
Silver
SBC 350 Cylinder Head Cover
SBC 350 Cylinder Head Bare Straight Plug Aluminum Perfect fits for Chevy Small Block 302|327|350|383|400 200cc Intake 64cc Camaro Z28, Chevelle, Monte Carlo, Hot Rods, Street Rods

The SBC 350 Head is a high grade aluminum cylinder head designed for Chevy small block engines. It is a perfect fit for SBC engines such as 302, 327, 350, 383, and 400 small block chevy engines up to 1986. With its advanced port design, it allows for greater air flow, resulting in improved performance. The head features a 200cc intake runner and a 64cc combustion chamber, which not only improves performance but also retains stock compression on 1970 and earlier models. Additionally, the thick deck design of this head makes it suitable for nitrous, turbocharged, and supercharged applications. Whether you own a Camaro Z28, Chevelle, Monte Carlo, Hot Rod, or Street Rod, the SBC 350 Head is a reliable and versatile choice for your engine needs.

What We Like
High grade aluminum construction
Advanced port design for greater air flow
200cc intake runner for improved performance
#TOP 5

GOIRTUTSS Cylinder Head Kit for Honda GX340 GX390 Engines

AMJXMS0544
GOIRTUTSS Cylinder Head Kit for Honda GX340 GX390 Engines Cover
Assembled Cylinder Head Kit fit for Honda GX340 GX390 11HP 13HP Engine, Includes Rockers Valves Springs Gaskets Bolts & Spark Plug

The GOIRTUTSS Cylinder Head Kit is designed to fit Honda GX340 and GX390 engines, making it a perfect replacement for your 11HP to 13HP power equipment engines. Whether you own water pumps, pressure washers, or generators like the EC6500 and EM6500, this kit ensures compatibility and ease of use. It also fits various Honda clone engines, so you can rely on it for multiple engine types. The kit comes fully loaded with essential parts including the cylinder head, rockers, springs, spark plug, gasket, bolts, and nuts, providing everything you need for a complete installation. Made from high-quality materials, this kit helps improve your engine’s durability and performance, while also reducing fuel consumption for better efficiency.

What We Like
Wide engine compatibility
Complete installation kit
High-quality durable materials
Improves engine performance
Fuel consumption reduction
#TOP 6

IAP Performance Cylinder Head for VW Beetle

043101355CK
IAP Performance Cylinder Head for VW Beetle Cover
IAP Performance 043101355CK Complete Dual Port Cylinder Head with Sensor Hole for VW Beetle

The IAP Performance Cylinder Head is a high-quality replacement for your VW Beetle's engine. It is cut for 85.5mm pistons and liners with quality Osvat intake and exhaust valves and hardened valve keepers. The cylinder head is a stock bolt-on replacement and features a sensor hole for fuel injection applications.

What We Like
High-quality replacement for VW Beetle's engine
Cut for 85.5mm pistons and liners
Features quality Osvat intake and exhaust valves with hardened valve keepers
#TOP 7

GDUKOP Cylinder Head for Chevy Buick 1.4L Turbo

55573669
GDUKOP Cylinder Head for Chevy Buick 1.4L Turbo Cover
Upgrade Cylinder Head Assembly Compatible with Chevy Cruze Sonic Trax, Buick Encore 1.4L Turbo Models Replace for 55573669, 55565291, 55573010, 55573011, 25193622

The GDUKOP Turbo Cylinder Head is designed to fit various Chevy and Buick models with 1.4L turbo engines, including the Cruze, Sonic, Trax, and Encore, ensuring wide compatibility for your vehicle. Made from high-quality aluminum alloy, it offers excellent heat and wear resistance, which helps maintain your engine’s performance over time. This part is crafted with precision to meet strict quality standards, so you can trust its durability. Installation is straightforward since it’s a direct bolt-on replacement using the original mounting points, making it convenient for both professionals and experienced DIYers to upgrade your engine efficiently.

What We Like
Wide vehicle compatibility
High-quality aluminum alloy
Excellent heat and wear resistance
Precision manufacturing
Easy bolt-on installation
#TOP 8

Robur Bremse Air Brake Compressor Cylinder Head for PACCAR MX13/MX11

805.01.1200
Robur Bremse Air Brake Compressor Cylinder Head for PACCAR MX13/MX11 Cover
Robur Bremse Air Brake Compressor Cylinder Head for PACCAR MX13 One Piston/MX 11/912 218 920 2/2121411 / 2139800/912 218 000 0 /

The Robur Bremse Compressor Head is designed specifically for PACCAR MX13 and MX11 engines, ensuring a perfect fit for your air brake system. This cylinder head supports one piston setups, making it ideal for those looking to maintain or repair their PACCAR engines efficiently. With multiple part numbers available, you can easily find the exact match for your vehicle, which helps in reducing downtime and enhancing reliability. Using this compressor head ensures your air brake system stays in top condition, providing you with safer and smoother braking performance on the road.

What We Like
Compatible with PACCAR MX13/MX11
One piston design
Multiple part number options
Engine cylinder head category
Robur Bremse brand quality
#TOP 9

FANHAY GM OEM 2.4L Cylinder Head Assembly 2011-2017

12608279
FANHAY GM OEM 2.4L Cylinder Head Assembly 2011-2017 Cover
Cylinder Head Assembly Whole New GM OEM 2.4L 2011-2017 for Captiva Sport Equinox Impala Lacrosse for Malibu Terrain Regal Verano Replaces 12608279

The FANHAY Cylinder Head 2.4L is designed to fit a wide range of Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC models from 2011 to 2017, making it a versatile choice for many vehicles. It is crafted to match the exact shape and function of the original part, so you can easily replace a damaged or worn cylinder head without hassle. Built from durable materials, this assembly offers reliable performance that lasts, helping you avoid frequent repairs. Plus, with a one-year warranty included, you get peace of mind knowing support is available if you have any questions or issues.

What We Like
Wide vehicle compatibility
Exact OEM fit
Durable build quality
One-year warranty
#TOP 10

Edelbrock 1406 Performer Carburetor

1406
Edelbrock 1406 Performer Carburetor Cover
Edelbrock 1406 Edelbrock Performer Series Carburetor

The Edelbrock Performer Carburetor is designed to deliver a smooth and efficient air-fuel mixture for your engine. With a 600 cubic feet per minute (cfm) airflow capacity, it helps improve engine performance by allowing the right amount of air to mix with fuel. This makes your engine run more efficiently, providing better throttle response and power. Being part of the trusted Edelbrock brand, this carburetor fits well with various engine setups, making it a reliable choice for enhancing your vehicle’s performance.

What We Like
600 cfm airflow capacity
Efficient air-fuel mixture
Improves engine performance
Trusted Edelbrock brand
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does it cost to replace a cylinder head?

The cost of replacing a cylinder head can range from $2,176 to $3,705, depending on whether you go to a mechanic or choose to do it yourself. This price range is an average and may vary based on factors such as taxes, fees, and the make and model of your car.

2. What happens when a cylinder head goes bad?

When a cylinder head goes bad, it may result in failures to combust or engine misfires. This is because a cracked cylinder head may not be able to create the proper atmosphere for combustion within the cylinders. Symptoms may include the engine dying repeatedly during use or failing to start at all.

3. When should cylinder heads be replaced?

If you notice smoke coming from the exhaust, it could be a sign that you need to replace the cylinder head. This could indicate a coolant leak or a failing cylinder head. Excessive smoke from the exhaust is often an indicator of a problem with the cylinder head.

4. Can you drive with a bad cylinder head?

Driving with a damaged or cracked cylinder head can lead to serious problems and damage to your engine. It is not recommended to drive with a bad cylinder head. It is important to get the necessary repairs done to avoid further damage and ensure the proper functioning of your engine.

5. Can a cylinder head be repaired?

In most cases, small cracks in cast iron or aluminum cylinder heads can be repaired by pinning. Repairing a cracked cylinder head is usually less expensive than replacing it with a new or used casting. However, there is always a certain amount of risk involved in the repair process.

6. Can you drive with a blown cylinder head?

No, it is not advisable to drive with a blown cylinder head. Driving with a blown head gasket can cause further damage to your engine. It can also be dangerous, as hot escaping coolant can cause burns and even start a fire. It is important to get a blown cylinder head fixed as soon as possible.

Editor's Notes

During our engine cylinder head research, we found 24 engine cylinder head products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,040 customer reviews through our big data system to write the engine cylinder heads list. We found that most customers choose engine cylinder heads with an average price of $291.72.

The engine cylinder heads are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of engine cylinder heads, including RALBDX, DNA MOTORING, GM GENUINE PARTS, ND, GOIRTUTSS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 95 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.