nice simple write up: http://carspecmn.com/gx460-oil-leak-...ver-explained/

 

I don't remember this one being posted.

 

Recently purchased this GX460 from carmax. Love it but discovered this goo, leak, or whatever in the front of the engine. I know these engines can have a leak, timing cover. Is that what I am look at here? Appreciate any help!


Top down view

bottom up view

 

I honestly don't know what that is? Is it really oil leaking out the front?! Or is it some kind of engine protection film...

 

How's your engine oil level?

That vehicle appears to have experienced some really sloppy engine oil refills during the change OR it has a timing cover leak. you can check that thread to see if it's leaking in the same general area... hard to tell from the posted pictures....

 

That is a typical area around AC compressor that timing chain cover leaks.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gx-...-oil-leak.html

That should be fixed by Carmax under that 90 day 4K warranty.

https://www.carmax.com/car-buying-pr...-service-plans

 

What year and how many miles?

 

If you bought it real recent, I'll remind you that Carmax includes a free 90 day warranty with all their cars and this is definitely something they'd fix if you're within that time frame still.

 

At my last oil change, the Lexus dealer said I have a small leak at the timing cover.....like many of us. I called this local shop called Carspec in Minneapolis. They have this really nice article about the issue:

http://carspecmn.com/gx460-oil-leak-...ver-explained/

I talked to John and he said he has over 50 customers who have the same issue and have told them they don't need to spend the $2200-$2800 to replace the gasket. Its a nuisance oil drip. He said if it doesn't bother you, then save your money.

 

My leak was brought to my attention a few years ago from the dealership. No concern and all is good.

 

Its a 2012 with 71k on it.

 

Took it to the dealer today. They said it's seeping, not leaking out and that it is not a problem. It's a "known" thing with these engines and they said it didn't need to be fixed.

IDK seems odd to have a "seeping" oil leak and not want to fix it...thoughts?

 

Does he mean save your money cuz your going to have to fix it eventually? or save your money as in you won't ever have to fix it?

A bit annoyed as my warranty will run out in 70 days, 3k miles...would like to get it fixed now, while it's covered..

 

If you check the timing chain cover leak thread there is criteria the dealers use.

That said, no engineer, designs an engine to leak or seap oil. The oil is meant to lubricate and cool the engine internals...

Being an engineer, I also believe 99% of the time this particular issue will not lead to a catastrophic failure, it's a manageable chronic condition. So long as your engine oil level is good, you're ok.
clean up the engine once in a while... you should be good longterm.

 

Does the 5.7 share the same issues that the 4.6 has with this and other issues?