Oil Leak - 2016 Tacoma

Hello,
Got a story for you folks. Got service from Toyota for an oil change. They stated that there was a leak coming from "front engine cover". I looked on TW and learned this is a multi-gen issue with Tacos. I called their bluff and took it to a mechanic my mom has been using for her '94 volvo. I used him as well and he's legit. He said they're full of shit and just keep an eye on it. For a few months, I kept my senses up and looked for any source of leakage. Weeks go by and I return to this recurring issue. I recently took it to Toyota for service (oil change, tire rotation) and they stated the same thing. Previously, they quoted me 1800 (down from 4200), which motivated me to take it to the mechanic my mom uses. Is there any legitimacy to this issue? Is there even a front engine cover (WTF is that?)? What are your thoughts? You guys are like my guardian angels for people trying to screw with my TacoLife. I can't imagine this is not happening to anyone else.

 

The "front cover" is likely the timing chain cover. There are a few threads I've read in TW regarding this "issue," which can happen and should first be rather easy to verify, and then decide based on the severity whether it worth the cost to fix now rather than later.

You should ask the dealer service rep. to show you the leak (or for that matter any issues found that they say needs attention). Could be a seal leaking and (maybe?) no oil escaping outside of the TC cover. Or easily visible along the bottom of the front of the engine. Either way, instead of ignoring the service rep, you might want to verify by having them show you exactly where they see the oil leaks.

Either way, if you do have a leak, you should have it taken care of. I wouldn't suggest any dealer service shops do it since it's a rather basic thing most mechanics can deal with. If you do get evidence shown to you, discuss with your mech. People make mistakes, or he might have decided the leak is so little as to make the issue really not a big deal.

 

Might still be under the warranty or if not then maybe call corporate and talk to them. Sometimes they may split the cost ( as what some members here had experienced )

 

Buddy got his truck lemon lawed for the timing chain leak. He has a tundra now.... loves it

 

Why don't you just look for yourself? It's a common issue to have the timing chain cover leaking. Mine is seeping but it's so slow right now that I'm in no hurry to fix it.

 

Great thanks guys. I appreciate the feedback.