RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2004 -2009 RX330, RX350 and RX400H models

Leaking of some sort.

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Old 09-05-12, 09:55 PM
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ES BL155
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Default Leaking of some sort.

Hi I was under the car and i saw oil all over a part on the under side. I uploaded a few pictures, maybe someone can tell me where it's coming from and what it is. Thanks!



Old 09-05-12, 10:08 PM
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RX330inFL
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Looks like transmission fluid.

Perhaps this is best moved over to the ES forums for those folks to view instead of here with the RX folks.
Old 09-05-12, 10:16 PM
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ES BL155
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Oops, forgot to say that this is for my 05 rx330.
Old 09-05-12, 11:44 PM
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ES BL155
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Looks like the front differential?
Old 09-06-12, 12:15 AM
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RX330inFL
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OK, RX it is...

Double check the fluid color. Is it red? Assuming it is...

Seems to be red fluid, so that would indicate transmission or power steering. Problem with leaks of this type is that by the time you notice the fluid it is everywhere. Unless the leak is obvious you will need to clean things up a bit. If you are trying to track this down yourself instead of taking it to the shop I would get under there with some rags and some cleaner. Remove the cladding and clean things up as best possible so you can get a better idea of where the leak is coming from.

Also, check your transmission and power steering fluid levels.
Old 09-06-12, 12:38 AM
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RX330inFL
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Take a look at this and see if it matches:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ight-side.html
Old 09-06-12, 12:32 PM
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ES BL155
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Anybody else have any insight on this?
Old 09-06-12, 12:41 PM
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hypervish
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It's hard to tell from the picture but it look's like the front diff.
Old 09-06-12, 01:02 PM
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That's what i figured. Do you think the seal just gave out? Anybody know how much to have this fixed?
Old 09-06-12, 04:40 PM
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That would be a leaking transfer case. The front cover of the transfer case is sealed using orange FIPG(formed-n-place-gasket) and can leak over time.

What is the mileage on the vehicle? If you have extended or certified warranty that your RX is still covered by, then most extended warranty plans will cover that. CPO definitely covers that.

If it is not covered, then you're looking at a costly fix. Transmission has to be taken out to remove transfer case, and it's recommended if the car has higher mileage (90-100k+) that the rear main seal be replaced at that point as well.
Old 09-06-12, 04:45 PM
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Originally Posted by ES BL155
Anybody else have any insight on this?
Every place will be different, but here is a general estimate (if not covered by warranty):

Approx 18 hrs labor,
Gasket kit(includes FIPG and seals for transfer case): ~$80
Diff fluid for transfer case: ~$15-20

I would say you're looking around $2100-2200 if you are paying for it.

Every place will be different because of labor rate, and remember, this is no quote, merely a general reference!
Old 09-06-12, 06:50 PM
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RockfordRX
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Originally Posted by ELITech
That would be a leaking transfer case. The front cover of the transfer case is sealed using orange FIPG(formed-n-place-gasket) and can leak over time.

What is the mileage on the vehicle? If you have extended or certified warranty that your RX is still covered by, then most extended warranty plans will cover that. CPO definitely covers that.

If it is not covered, then you're looking at a costly fix. Transmission has to be taken out to remove transfer case, and it's recommended if the car has higher mileage (90-100k+) that the rear main seal be replaced at that point as well.
I agree that it is transfer case. It looks wet around the drain plug as well. Make sure that is tight. While you're there, check the level of the transfer case fluid (in case it has been leaking out). 24mm wrench/socket is needed for that. There is a separate fill plug on the side of the transfer case - remove it to check if the fluid is at the lower level of the fill hole. If it's not the drain plug, then it must be the orange gasket.

Last edited by RockfordRX; 09-06-12 at 06:54 PM.
Old 09-06-12, 07:31 PM
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Originally Posted by ELITech
Every place will be different, but here is a general estimate (if not covered by warranty):

Approx 18 hrs labor,
Gasket kit(includes FIPG and seals for transfer case): ~$80
Diff fluid for transfer case: ~$15-20

I would say you're looking around $2100-2200 if you are paying for it.

Every place will be different because of labor rate, and remember, this is no quote, merely a general reference!

Concur with ELITech. Our 2004 RX330 with 161K has the same issue. At an independent that specializes in Toyota/Lexus, the quote for the repair (to include the rear main seal) was $1,250. I am waiting for drips on the garage floor before I do anything. Ours was diagnosed in February 2011 and (knock on wood), still no drips on the floor, so I haven't repaired it yet. Good luck.
Old 09-07-12, 02:49 PM
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Took it to a reputable toyota shop and he confirmed it was the differential. He said i shouldn't be worried yet since there's nothing on my drive way but it was leaking. He also said when i start seeing large amounts of dripping i should bring it in. Repair would be $1,200.
Old 09-08-12, 06:48 AM
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jamieZ
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He's right. Don't worry about it. They all leak to some degree.
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