TOP 10 BEST AUTOMOTIVE PERFORMANCE GASKETS TO BUY

The Best Automotive Performance Gaskets and Sealants for Your Engine

Find the best automotive performance gaskets, RTV sealants, and gasket sets for engine repair and high-performance builds. Top brands like FEL-PRO and Permatex.

Whether you're performing routine maintenance, tackling a major engine rebuild, or upgrading for high-performance driving, the quality of your automotive gaskets and sealants is non-negotiable. A reliable seal is crucial for maintaining engine compression, preventing leaks of vital fluids (oil, coolant), and ensuring the longevity of your vehicle.

Choosing the right gasket means considering material, application (head, intake, exhaust), and the specific demands of your engine—especially in high-torque or high-temperature environments. We've compiled a list of top-rated automotive sealing solutions, from comprehensive gasket sets to specialized RTV silicone makers, to help you achieve a leak-free and high-performing engine.

01
169PCS Automotive Self-Centered Bonded Seal/Gasket Assortment, Bonded Washer 10 Sizes, M6 to M24

169PCS Automotive Self-Centered Bonded Seal/Gasket Assortment, Bonded Washer 10 Sizes, M6 to M24

169PCS

4.7 (32 reviews)
  • Comprehensive 169-piece assortment for various automotive needs.
  • Features bonded seals/washers in 10 popular metric sizes (M6 to M24).
  • Self-centered design ensures easy and accurate installation.
  • Ideal for sealing hydraulic and pneumatic connections against leaks.
02
Permatex 82180 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, For High Flex And Oil Resistant Applications 3 oz

Permatex 82180 Ultra Black Maximum Oil Resistance RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, For High Flex And Oil Resistant Applica...

Permatex

4.7 (5,134 reviews)
  • Maximum oil resistance, perfect for oil pans, valve covers, and timing covers.
  • Ultra Black formula handles high flexibility and vibration.
  • Sensor-safe and non-corrosive for modern engine electronics.
  • Replaces most cut gaskets, providing a durable, reliable seal.
03
FEL-PRO 1204 Engine Intake Manifold Gasket Set

FEL-PRO 1204 Engine Intake Manifold Gasket Set

FEL-PRO

4.7 (220 reviews)
  • High-performance intake manifold gasket designed for racing and street use.
  • Features Printoseal sealing beads for superior sealing integrity.
  • Precision engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications.
  • Specifically designed for small block Chevy V8 engines (check application).
04
FEL-PRO 3075 Gasket Making Material

FEL-PRO 3075 Gasket Making Material

FEL-PRO

4.6 (5,342 reviews)
  • Versatile material for custom-cutting gaskets for unique applications.
  • Made from high-quality, durable cellulose fiber.
  • Resistant to oil, gasoline, and water for wide automotive use.
  • Allows mechanics to create custom seals quickly and accurately.
05
FEL-PRO FS 8548 PT-16 Engine Gasket Set for Ford Mustang

FEL-PRO FS 8548 PT-16 Engine Gasket Set for Ford Mustang

FEL-PRO

4.9 (16 reviews)
  • Complete engine gasket set tailored for specific Ford Mustang models.
  • Contains all necessary gaskets and seals for a full engine refresh.
  • PermaDryPlus® materials ensure superior sealing under harsh conditions.
  • Designed for durability and reliable performance in high-stress engines.
06
BEONEO-120-06310-0002 (2.5 Inch) 2.5" ID 2 Bolt MLSG High Temp Exhaust Gasket (Qty 2) - Heavy Duty be made of Metal And Fiber Laminate.

BEONEO-120-06310-0002 (2.5 Inch) 2.5" ID 2 Bolt MLSG High Temp Exhaust Gasket (Qty 2) - Heavy Duty be made of Metal And Fiber Laminate.

BEONEO-120-06310-0002

4.4 (82 reviews)
  • Multi-Layer Steel Gasket (MLSG) design for extreme heat resistance.
  • 2.5-inch inner diameter, ideal for custom exhaust systems and headers.
  • Heavy-duty construction using metal and fiber laminate for durability.
  • Excellent sealing integrity under high exhaust pressure and temperature fluctuations.
07
MLS Full Cylinder Head Engine Gasket Set Compatible with 2002-2011 Chevy Silverado Tahoe Avalanche Express Suburban, GMC Sierra Savana Yukon, Buick Escalade 4.8L 5.3L V8 Replace# CS9284 HS26191PT

MLS Full Cylinder Head Engine Gasket Set Compatible with 2002-2011 Chevy Silverado Tahoe Avalanche Express Suburban, GMC Sierra Savana Yukon, Buick...

MLS

4.5 (100 reviews)
  • Complete MLS (Multi-Layer Steel) cylinder head gasket set.
  • Specifically fits GM 4.8L and 5.3L V8 engines (LS platform).
  • MLS technology offers superior sealing for high-compression engines.
  • Includes all necessary gaskets for a complete cylinder head installation.
08
Permatex 82194 Ultra Grey Rigid High-Torque RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, For High Torque And Vibration Resistant Applications, 3 oz

Permatex 82194 Ultra Grey Rigid High-Torque RTV Silicone Gasket Maker, Sensor Safe And Non-Corrosive, For High Torque And Vibration Resistant Appli...

Permatex

4.7 (4,804 reviews)
  • Ultra Grey formula designed for rigid, high-torque applications like import engines.
  • Exceptional resistance to vibration and thermal cycling.
  • Low odor, non-corrosive, and safe for oxygen sensors.
  • Temperature resistant up to 500°F continuous and 625°F intermittent.
09
HS26511PT MLS Cylinder Full Head Gaskets Sets Compatible with Infiniti JX35 QX60, for Nissan Altima Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest 3.5L DOHC V6 3498cc Gas 2007-2020

HS26511PT MLS Cylinder Full Head Gaskets Sets Compatible with Infiniti JX35 QX60, for Nissan Altima Maxima Murano Pathfinder Quest 3.5L DOHC V6 349...

HS26511PT

5.0 (4 reviews)
  • MLS (Multi-Layer Steel) head gasket set for superior sealing and durability.
  • Fits Nissan/Infiniti 3.5L DOHC V6 engines (VQ35DE platform).
  • Designed to handle high compression ratios and heat stress.
  • Complete kit for professional engine repair or performance rebuilds.
10
Racing BTR LS3 Multi-Layer MLS Head Gaskets (Pair) -Fits 6.0 6.2 L99 L76 L77 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 L92 L96 L94 L9H for Buick/Chevrolet/Cadillac/Hummer/GMC Series

Racing BTR LS3 Multi-Layer MLS Head Gaskets (Pair) -Fits 6.0 6.2 L99 L76 L77 LS2 LQ4 LQ9 L92 L96 L94 L9H for Buick/Chevrolet/Cadillac/Hummer/GMC Se...

Racing BTR

4.2 (58 reviews)
  • High-performance MLS head gaskets specifically for LS-series engines (6.0L/6.2L).
  • Engineered by Racing BTR for extreme durability and boosted applications.
  • Multi-layer steel construction prevents blowouts under high cylinder pressure.
  • Crucial component for performance engine builds and forced induction setups.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between RTV silicone and a traditional gasket?

RTV silicone (like Permatex) is a liquid sealant that cures into a durable, flexible, formed-in-place gasket, ideal for sealing covers and housings. Traditional gaskets are pre-cut components made from materials like composite, cork, or MLS steel, designed for specific mating surfaces like cylinder heads or intake manifolds.

Why are MLS gaskets preferred for performance engines?

MLS (Multi-Layer Steel) gaskets are preferred because they can withstand significantly higher cylinder pressures and temperatures than traditional composite gaskets. Their layered design allows for micro-movement between the block and head without compromising the seal, making them ideal for turbocharged, supercharged, or high-compression naturally aspirated engines.

How do I know which Permatex RTV to use?

Permatex offers different RTV types for specific needs. Ultra Black is known for maximum oil resistance and flexibility (ideal for oil pans/valve covers). Ultra Grey is designed for rigid, high-torque applications and high vibration (common in import engines). Always check the product description for temperature and fluid resistance.

Final Thoughts

Investing in high-quality automotive performance gaskets and sealants is the foundation of a reliable engine build. Whether you need the extreme sealing capability of an MLS head gasket from Racing BTR, a complete engine set from FEL-PRO, or the versatile oil resistance of Permatex Ultra Black, the products listed here represent the best available options. Click through to secure the right sealing solution for your next project and ensure your engine performs at its peak.