J295

I have generally followed the Service Manual and had the dealership do most of recommended service (I change the filters and have Sams rotate the tires, and made changing brake fluid every 60k instead of every 30k). Vehicle has 150k miles. Only material non-scheduled item was water pump and drive belt at 130k.

Now dealership has recommended fixing "coolant leak coming from valley plate, rec seal valley plate, replace intake gaskets, 2 bypass o rings" ($1853); and "Lf axle book leaking grease re book Lf axle" ($665). They previously identified alignment needing repair, but I've held off as nothing noticed driving and no abnormal tire wear (thought I'd have a mechanic check it out or see if dealership noted it a second time on next oil change, which they did not so note).

So, do I find a recommended mechanic to inspect/advise, or just go with the dealership. (Back in the day I had a trusted mechanic for our Infiniti and used him instead of the dealership principally because that dealership was an hour away -- Lexus dealer is close).

Thanks for your insights!

mike202

Valley plate leak: Common on this engine so I don't doubt their diagnosis, same for the drive axle boot leak. On the alignment, if tires are not wearing abnormally and the vehicle does not pull, then skip this.

If you can find a knowledgeable independent mechanic, then go for it. The valley plate repair is rather involved so it would be nice to find someone who has done this repair in the past.

ASE

... Valley Plate Leak ... Dealership ... beyond having the experience, you can also secure a warranty for the work performed.

On the axle boot(s) ... assuming the CV Joint(s) continued to have lubrication ... best to replace the Boots and retain the original axles. Yes, there are aftermarket axle assemblies that are relatively inexpensive ... but the quality is not even close to the Toyota originals. Not sure if Lexus will just replace the boots ... will probably quote "rebuilt" axles.

texas008

alignment can be done in many indy shops for about ~$90

J295

Super helpful replies by all ... thank you!!!