Hi all,

The dealer told me today that I have a leak in the "coolant plate" on my 2006 RX330 (220k miles). I haven't found coolant under the car or any weird stains or anything. They quoted me $1400 for the repair. When I mentioned I hadn't seen stains, etc. they said they found "crust" on the plate which is how they knew it was leaking. Is this for real? Is this a real part? Is that the real cost of the repair?

I'm pretty clueless when it comes to cars, but I saw in some other threads that after I get it back I can check the levels, keep an eye on them, and top off as needed while I figure out what to do long term.

Should I just get it repaired by them? Take it elsewhere? Other strategies?

Possibly related:

• https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ant-plate.html

Thanks!

 

Yes, the link you provided shows where the leak is. 1400 seems pretty stiff. Looks like it wouldn't be too bad of a DIY, but if you're not comfortable, call a few Toyota dealers (or highly ranked independent shops) and ask for a quote. Your motor was designed by Toyota and their dealers will be totally familiar with it.

 

Thanks. In the interim, is it ok to just keep driving it and refill the coolant (while the engine is cool) as needed?

 

You could but I wouldn't recommend it. Don't go far, watch your temp gauge constantly, and keep your coolant reservoir topped off to the high mark at all times. Be very careful though. Once a leak starts it is unpredictable. It could worsen at any moment and then you'd have real problems. Leaks in the coolant, brake, and oil systems should be dealt with immediately.