tarzan17

If the valve clearance is out of spec is it easy for them to adjust or is it a major repair?

salimshah

The process is simple enough, but it requires removing valve covers. I have not removed mine, and cant tell you what else needs to be removed.

Salim

2KHarrier

Figures..... I had the whole top of the engine opened up when I updated the rear valve cover back in May. I never even thought about checking valve clearance when I was in there.... Argh...

kalali

Is valve adjustment part of the routine maintenance for the RX? No one seems to talk about it and ours hasn't ever needed one, even after 177000 miles. What am I missing?

salimshah

Not a regular part, but if there is (tappet) noise, one should check it. Service manual has the spec. I have not had a need, but if I ever open up the valve cover, I would verify it before closing.

Related to topic, all Toyota/Lexus have a tendency to have loose valve covers at around 100k miles. I had to torque my covers down (all vehicles) to prevent oil seepage. The loose cover may cause a rattle which goes away as the engine warms up or oil gets there. So I would suggest, check that the valve covers are seated right. Please use a torque wrench to verify the hold down bolts are tightened properly.

Salim

2KHarrier

Interesting update... The temps here in Milwaukee have been consistently below 35 the last few days, and every day when starting the car, it's been quiet. No more valve noise...... No idea why.