A gasket is a smooth surface that is designed to create a seal between two different engine parts. Gaskets are important in an engine because most of its parts are manufactured with uneven surfaces that oil or water could seep through. There is also a chance that dust or other debris could slip through gaps between unsealed engine components.
It is important to have gaskets inspected on a regular basis as they are prone to rotting or warping over time. If a gasket is damaged or is otherwise defective, it could result in significant damage to the engine.
Gaskets can be made from a variety of different materials such as metal and carbon, and in some cases, both types of materials are used to create them. This helps to provide greater structural stability as well as superior protection from the high temperatures that are created when the car is running.