daubourg

CL Forum -

I have a 2017 GS350 RWD Base model w/ 80K miles. At my last service, the dealer told me I have a timing chain cover leak, which is not significant but will cost $5K+ to repair. I love this car, but I don't see it happening. I've been searching this forum to see what my options are: a) bite the bullet, b) use stop leak or sealant, or c) ignore it; not inclined to choose option c).

I would love to get some insight from anyone who had to deal with timing chain cover leaks on the GS.

Thanks.

jgscott

iTrader: (1)

The 1st thing I would do is take to someone like Toyota and have it checked out. I would not tell them it's a Timing cover leak and see what they say. If it was, I would wait till it gets really bad, then shop around for a Indy shop who is good at repairs that could do it for give or take $2k. Not a great answer but it is what it is, if so.

This is one of the reasons I change my oil at 5k - 6k, and change Coolant every year. In addition to other fluids also frequently. It cost way less to do the fluids than the repairs.

gripau1

$5k plus is a rip off, I would get a second set of eyes on it. The engine does not need to come out probably just remove the radiator.
I agree with JGScott 1/2 the recommended oil change and stick with 6K oil change as the additives in the oil reduces the chance of carbon and sludge build up and keep the internals clean.
Good quality oil and filter is cheap and to DIY oil changes takes no more than 15mins to do.

93SCMax

This may give you some background. 2GR-FE engine versus your 2GR-FSK, but I'm trying to convey that it's a lot of work/time to fix a timing cover leak on one of these engines (in chassis).

gripau1

The amount of space available varies significantly between a transversely mounted and longitudinally mounted engine, which is the case with the GS.

bclexus

Don't let the above video by the deceitful and shady character known as 'The Car Care Nut' mislead anyone. Toyota/Lexus orients the engine in the engine bay of various vehicle models differently - either longitudinal and transverse, but the 2GR-FE and 2GR-FKS engine is essentially the same engine in all aspects except for one. The one difference is that the FKS engine is direct injected and combines the D-4S system with the simulated on-demand Atkinson cycle method, whereas the older FE engine (noted in the above posted video) uses the traditional fuel injection of older engines. More to the point of this thread; the timing chain cover for the engine is exactly the same for all versions of this 2GR engine. Moreover, it's a known fact that the timing chain cover on this engine is not known to have a problem with it leaking. Many have gone over ¼ million miles without any sign of leaking.

charley95

If only you were half as smart as the Car Care Nut.

bclexus

Now, now Car Care Nut lover!

Do you want me to act like a little baby and go crying to Dave about you hurting my feelings like you've done? Grow up and find some moxie!

I happen to have a backbone...