When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
My dealership also had been noting a leak from the timing chain cover for a couple oil changes. They quoted me 18 hours of labor - $3,500 to remove the engine, repair the leak, then put the engine back in.
I know a good mechanic so called him to get a second opinion. Dropped the car off, and within a few hours he called and said it didn't appear it was the timing chain cover at all, but a metal plate above it that was leaking down. It made it appear that the timing chain cover was leaking. Opposed to the timing chain cover which would require the engine to be removed, he could reach this smaller cover. He advised that we clean it up, apply some sealant to the smaller cover, and tighten it to spec. He'd then check it in a week.
Two weeks go by, I take it in for a check, and it's dry and clean. Total bill - $85.
I'm attaching a couple pictures that show what it is I'm talking about. I asked him to take them in case I needed to pursue the issue with my used-car warranty company. So - get a second opinion.
^I wonder if that is some sort of inspection cover plate. Anyhow, glad yours was a simple fix! However, there have been documented timing cover leaks, so it wouldn't be far-fetched. But definitely a good idea to get another opinion!
That's the timing chain tensioner inspection cover. I'm willing to bet that wasn't your leak. The timing cover leaks at a gap in FIPG on the cover where the head and block meet. I'm not certain of late model 2nd gens. But the early ones will all leak eventually. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news
That's the timing chain tensioner inspection cover. I'm willing to bet that wasn't your leak. The timing cover leaks at a gap in FIPG on the cover where the head and block meet. I'm not certain of late model 2nd gens. But the early ones will all leak eventually. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news
Thanks for the information. My mechanic has been pretty spot-on before, so I'll keep thinking positively for a while. We'll see what the Lexus dealer says at the next oil change.
Originally Posted by pheonix72
JBAD, are you referring to the Black cover with 4 bolts?
Thanks for the information. My mechanic has been pretty spot-on before, so I'll keep thinking positively for a while. We'll see what the Lexus dealer says at the next oil change.
Yes.
Oh absolutely. Its a shame the Achilles heel of the 350 in my eyes, is the $2000+ repair everyone needs to make because of a simple oil leak. If its just your inspection cover 👍👍 that would be a blessing
Here's my oil leak between the timing cover and engine block. Is this the infamous oil leak everyone has?
There was also an oil leak at the oil cooling pipe bolt but I have already fixed that by replacing the washer. Not sure if it occurred when the dealer did the recalls or when they repaired the timing cover (yes the previous owner of this car had the timing cover repaired before by the dealership, but it was a few years ago so no goodwill or any warranty/coverage )
Labour (Warranty Time): 12.3 hours
Labour (Standard Time): 24.0 hours
If they're charging the non-warranty labour time, I can actually see it getting close to $3000. I am quite surprised to see the non-warranty labour time as that much more. I mean it's usually more, but an extra 12 hours? Quite significant. I can also see why they would use that time, haha. No tech is going to quote the warranty time, lol.
I would maybe call around and see if anyone will do the job for cheaper. Obviously labour is the big number here, so if you can find someone who will do it for less, you will save big.
Jeff
Looks like the parts Jeff listed replaces the Gasket Kit in the TSB.
I only need 00295-00103 FIPG sealant right?
03-08-15, 08:12 AM
)
