rm1

I have a 92 ES300 and today morning when I parked the car firstly I smelled as if something was burning and then the moment I got out of the car I saw smoke fumes coming out of the boot of the car.

I got very concerned but by the time I reached inside the car for opening the boot they were already gone. And after I checked the boot I couldnt make out where exactly those fumes were coming from?

This did not sound normal to me? Has anyone had a similar experience before? Or is this engine trouble?

rm1

khhoang

hi, when you say "boot" do you mean the hood? your car's symptoms may indicate you have leaking valve cover gaskets which is a very common maintenance issue on an aged/high mileage ES300. oil may be leaking on the exhaust which produce the slight fuming under the hood and the burning oil smell esp. thru the A/C vents.

rm1

Yes I meant the hood and you described my symptoms exactly. Burning smell through AC and fumes through hood.

What do I have to repair again and how much does it usually cost to get it repaired? An estimate will do.

Thanks for responding.

khhoang

You have 2 valve cover gaskets a front and a rear. They're leaking if you have a buildup of black oily residue along the seals and probably along the engine walls.

Gaskets are about $30 for the pair (do use oem gaskets) and labor is where it hurts (4-5hrs). Lexus will charge you about $550p&l. My independent mechanic changed F&R valve cover gaskets, fuel filter, PCV valve, spark plugs(OEM platinums) all for $340 ($92parts+$236labor). You can also try calling a Toyota dealership for an estimate.

rm1

Thanks for being detailed. I will definately get quotes first and accordingly get it replaced.