Mine are due. Never has been done before and I have a small leak. I just got a quote of $500. I don't think that's too out of line. That's why I'm posting on this. What has been your cost on this if it's been done recently.

 

I got a quote of $700 from a local shop which included replacing the spark plugs, so the quotes are similar. However, I am going to do the work myself. I am just too frugal (cheap) to pay that kind of money for a job that I can do. Good luck with your repair!

 

I was quoted $540 last week at an independent Toyota shop including parts. So pretty much in line.

 

Have any of you checked to make sure your cover screws are actually torqued to spec? Your valve cover gaskets are not the old cork style. They don't fail like in the old days. But they do soften a bit over time and the bolts become loose and allows leaks. 53 inch pounds. There's always the exception. Like when you confirm that everything is properly torqued but you still have a leak. Just FYI.

Paul

 

In my case, I had mine torqued to spec as per the posts here but that was only a temporary fix. If anything, the leak is now worse some months later. Getting my gaskets replaced while the car is in the shop for another issue next week.

 

My car came with a well documented service history. Seems like everything in the world has been serviced save for the valve cover gaskets.
I have to do it ,they're nearly 20 years old.

 

I just got valve covers done along with the plugs. What's with these Iridium plugs? Pricy little boogers. $800 total out the door.

 

You should also change your PCV Valve. Failure of the PCV Valve can cause over pressurizing of the crankcase causing the leak in the first place. Just FYI.

Paul

 

Hey Paul, My thinking is the valve gaskets shrink and harden, which results in the lose bolts, allowing leakage vs "softening," as you say. Either way, the "best practice" is to check the bolts periodically, maybe every 10-15 thousand miles, or three oil changes, especially after the gaskets have been replaced. I did mine recently on my Tundra and was shocked how lose the bolts got in just a few hundred miles. I've tightened them multiple times in the last six months after replacement, and now they seem to be settled-in.

My advice for replacement is to use OEM parts from a Toyota/Lexus dealer and invest in a good inch-pound torque wrench. The OEM parts are spendy, but they are worth the cost! Also, replace the dipstick o-ring, PCV, PCV grommet, and spark plug tube seals (and plugs if due) concurrently for preventive maintenance.

My Tundra valve cover gaskets lasted 21 years! I'm hoping my SC gaskets last longer, as I'm wise to the need for periodic tightening of the bolts and have checked them multiple times the seven years of owning my 2008. They are always a little bit lose. Not leaks so far!