When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Noticed an oil leak. (3UZ) Any idea of the source and how much it'd cost to repair?
Hey all,
Was replacing my radiator the other day and while I was under the car I noticed a pretty substantial oil leak. Car isn't pissing oil or anything but there's a decent build up on the skid plate, and around the oil pan. It seems as though either the oil lines are leaking (they felt like jello when touching them, very squishy).
Sorry for the bad pictures, best I could get with the positioning. Leak is right next to the alternator. Build up is closer to one of the corners of the oil pan. Lines are covered in oil. Can't see any oil leaking while looking into the engine bay top down. Can only see it from the bottom. Right behind the alternator.
Any ideas of how I can pinpoint the source and how much it may cost for a shop to repair?
That's the power steering pressure line and appears to be whats leaking based on your photos. I can't say it's all, but it's likely what has that area so wet.
That's the power steering pressure line and appears to be whats leaking based on your photos. I can't say it's all, but it's likely what has that area so wet.
I'm thinking that's the likely culprit as the line connected the the PS reservoir is covered in gunk. Do you know how much it might cost to fix the leaky line?
If you have it done at a shop, probably $500-600 with parts, fluid, and labor. RockAuto appears to have the lines anywhere from $65-90 and could be done DIY if you are handy or know anyone that can help you.
It’s a very common issue with the all V8 Lexus’s from the around the turn of the Millennium. You’ll find multiple places that it’s probably leaking from around the power steering pump. And unfortunately the alternator is located right below it. So your best bet is to plan on getting a replacement power steering pump, and a replacement alternator. The power steering pressure line and return lines are usually ok, not making any promises there, but the other 2, going to and from the reservoir are usually brittle and due for replacement. I found my fluid would quickly turn black and determined it was the hoses breaking down. So I also added an online filter and small oil cooler. The P/S system runs pretty hot and a little cooler mounted below the factory air box dropped the temps down by about 25% and now my fluid stays bright red and at the correct level. Very happy with these additions.
10-03-21, 02:33 PM
Noticed an oil leak. (3UZ) Any idea of the source and how much it'd cost to repair?
