Upgraded bypass pipe solution for coolant leak?

I haven't had it yet. I'm only at 36k. Still got two years of power train warranty left. I also have a lifetime powetrain warranty on it from the dealer I got it from. I really wanted to find metal replacement for it. Because I plan on keeping this truck for many years and 300k at least.

 

I could have swore I saw someone post a pic of the pipe from a 16/17 vs a newer model and while no part number changed or superseded, the curve of the pipe was clearly different on MY 18 and up

 

There is a TSB for the coolant pipe, that lives Under the V6 intake on ‘22, for misalignment.
There is no TSB/Campaign/recall for the coolant pipe on the back of the passenger side head.

 

The part number did change somewhere around 2019. I don’t know about physical/visual differences though.

 

I guess we 2017 and 2016 owners are just SOL on this one. Guess this just affects us and will eventually happen it’s just a matter of time when. Seems like Toyota fixed this issue as reported on above post on later years. I’ll just have to pony up and have it fixed when the time comes. Still cheaper than a new car payment.

 

I guess this is just one of the risks in becoming an early adopter with a new model. Is there any issues just letting this leak other than those unsightly pink tumors that no one will see? Can you just live with it and add more coolant when needed assuming the leak does not become critical?

 

The crossover pipe affects newer models as well, so not just us 16 and 17 owners. There a quite a few on the forum with newer models who have had it. Same with the timing cover leak which is already affecting some new 2023 models.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...astic-rear-coolant-bypass-joint.701890/page-9

 

I wouldnt risk it. If I see pink, it’s time to replace.

 

Wow . I guess I’m wrong .

 

I’m preparing to pull my plenum, intake and fuel rails off to replace my chewed knock sensor wiring. I’ll be checking out access to that coolant pipe while I’m at it.

 

It's covered by the 3yr/36k bumper to bumper, not covered by the Powertrain warranty, I've tried with the local Toyota dealer and Toyota corporate.

Mine is 2019, purchased in 2021 as CPO with 7yr/100k Power train warranty. This coolant bypass joint is not part of the power train, same as coolant hose, brake pads and serpentine belt.

If you have bought extended warranty, maybe.

 

There are a few users here that got Toyota Coprorate to cover it. All on the OG thread.

 

I didn't ask about the specifics of the warranty. I know that the driveshafts, engine, transfer case, diffs and transmission are all covered under the lifetime power train warranty. As far as anything else. I have to read through the paper and maybe even call.

 

I'm guess if the bypass pipe fails and destroys the motor. Considering it's a engineering flaw and not a maintenance issue. They'd probably replace the engine any way. Because what I told. As long as I show proof of me taking care of it to Toyotas requirements for maintenance in the owners manual. They will warranty it.

 

Ok, so what is the easiest way to inspect the bypass pipe, could someone reach behind the motor with their phone and take a photo of the area easily or can I only go from the bottom of the truck?

 

It is risky just to live with. Because if you forget or don't know that it's leaking. You could overheat your engine by accident. And crack the block. If it is leaking, I'd get it fixed as soon as possible. I just wish there was a easy to find metal replacement part that resolves the issue. And what people don't realize, even if yours doesn't leak now. Over the years, considering it's like a plastic material. All of that heat has got to make it become brittle eventually..

 

Its not that difficult to find it or You'll just notice the coolant level in the reservoir is low or empty . Its not catastrophic failure like it just blows. You'll have time to prepare .

 

Slide underneath with your head looking up from under the passenger side of the transmission bell housing, where it meets the engine block, and use a good flashlight to look for pink crusty. Or steer the front wheels so you have access to the passenger side fender well, remove the rubber splash shield, and look towards the front of the firewall.

 

Smart: You don't want 100,000 mile coolant in any engine. In a Toyota: 5yr/50,000mi OEM Pre-Mix Toyota Pink coolant.

 

just crawl under on the passenger side and shine a light up there. that's what i did after seeing many posts here on the subject and sure enough it was seeping out. got it changed.