dzell81

So I finally got around to changing the oil this week and found out some bad info. It looks as though my main rear seal is leaking. I noticed a couple of drops of oil on the garage floor the other day but didn't think much of it. After I got under there and looked around it little, it was fairly apparent that the oil was coming from my RX and out of that juncture.

Has anyone had any experience with this? I don't think I’m capable of changing it myself as it will probably require removing the engine and/or trani. I'm thinking about letting it go for a while though.

Also, would this be covered under the warrantee?

bob2200

What's the milage on the car, what kind of oil have you been using?

If not covered under warranty, I'd personally try some of the "high milage car" oils on the market that are said to be good for the seals. If that didn't do it, I'd be inclined to try some additives since it seems to be a minor leak from what you've said.

dzell81

Milage is at about 85K (its a 2000)

I've been using 5w-30 the whole time i've had it and it looks like the previous owner has had everything done at the dealership - so i would asume they used 5w-30 as well.

It is a very small leak I only see a couple of drops when I park it.

I don't know much about that "leak-stopage" stuff. And as serious as everyone in here is about the smallest differences in oil - I am almost afraid to add that. On the other hand I assume replacing it would be $1,000 to $1,500 given the labor, so I don't plan on having it done immediately.

Lil4X

If you're a little squeamish (as I am) about introducing odd fluids into your engine, you might try pouring in a good seal conditioning additive about a week before you change oil. The way most of these products work is to penetrate and soften the seal rubber, causing it to swell slightly, stopping the leak. While that isn't the optimal solution, at least you'll feel better about getting that "foreign" product out of the pan.

subal

My AWD RX300 started leaking at 99,500, and I changed oil on a regular basis!
You have to drop the tranny to change it out.
Lexus quoted $1675 to repair it. Said these usually go at about 150,000 or 7 years.

Given the above and forth comming need to replace timing belt. water pump, etc., I jacked up the lincense plate and put a new 350 under it this past week!

dzell81

So how urgent do you all think this is to take care of?

I don't mind losing a little bit of oil, but i don't want something awful to happen on a road trip or something.

Barryst

Mine has been leaking for a while now.( Probably a year!)

Just keep an eye on your oil dip stick, a little more often.

Barry

I STILL love my RX.-

dzell81

I could really use some more color on this if anyone has some?

Thanks

Lexmex

Eventually it is going to get worse. I am not surprised by a year, leaking seals are so common down here and people just keep adding oil. How much you need to add depends on the vehicle. In addition, keep in mind it that natural wear and tear will also affect engine consumption. I use Restore oil additive to help keep the compression up to minimize wear and tear.

palaka

i had my 2000 rx same problem the dealership fixed it for free cause it should be power terrain warranty ask your dealer how many miles power terrain warranty it should be at least 100k.

palaka

that is if its the rear main seal.