My 2008 GS350 has started to leak a tiny bit at the what I believe is the front timing cover. This is a common issue on most v6 lexus/toyotas, the sealant over time and heat fails.

Question is how many have actually repaired this issue? Some have said the dealer wants to remove the engine to get easier access. my question is can the timing cover be removed without pulling the engine? It appears maybe if you pull off the radiator core support, would give more access.

 

I personally didn't do the work, if that is what you are asking. My '06 GS300 front timing cover leaked. They pulled the engine out. If I remember, the sealant failed in a particular area between the block and front timing cover.

 

Boogles my mind that to pull off the timing cover engine needs to come out. But I think its easier for the tech, or probably to add more hours of labor to the job. I read a comment from IS board that its possible to do the sealing with the engine in. Just ac compressors, water pump, tensioners all need to be removed. I will take it to a mechanic eventually and see, its a small leak I can live with just coating my underside that I dont like

 

I saw a video on YouTube pertaining to this leak on our engines and one of the comments claimed that they can do it with the engine in the car. You just have to basically remove everything in front of it. 2-3 hour job for them.

 

Awesome! hopefully that is true instead of this nonsense engine removal