TOYOTA V6 OWNERS! This is The Biggest Problem with The 3.5L V6 Engine
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- čas přidán 3. 06. 2024
- Dear Lexus and Toyota V6 owners. In this video we completely remove the drivetrain out of this 2015 Lexus RX350 with a 2GR-FE 3.5L V6 engine to repair a common and costly oil leak caused by engine sealer failure from the front timing cover.
Unfortunately this issue is expensive to repair and more common than we hope for. In this video you'll see why this job is expensive. You will see us remove the entire powertrain to get enough room to remove and reseal the front timing cover on this 2GR-FE 3.5L V6 engine.
I will share with you a bit of the history of the 2GR-FE and it's common issue and how they were resolved over the years. Then we'll talk about the cost of this job, If you decide to fix this how to choose the correct mechanic to fix it and when should you fix it.
Recently a well respected mechanic and shop owner @CarWizard released a video with a mysterious leak on a 2GR RAV4 which is a classic front timing cover leak. In that video that leak was very small and built up over time. When the leak reaches the axle it will spread the oil everywhere eventually making it's way on the belt and really making it difficult to diagnose. And when the leak is small you'll clean it and won't see it again for a while.
However if you clean your leak and it reappears within a few weeks perhaps you'd want to consider repairing it if the smoke\oil leak bothers you enough.
TCCN Automotive Inc.
Toyota and Lexus Specialist Repair
Visit www.tccnautomotive.com to schedule your appointment today.
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#thecarcarenut #tccnautomotive #toyota #lexus #2gr #toyotav6
0:00 Intro
1:26 Problem History of the 2GR-FE
7:42 Powertrain Removal and Tour
18:04 Engine Disassembly
21:11 Why it leaked?
29:30 Cost of This Job
31:54 Who should do this job?
34:18 Should you fix your leaking 2GR? Is it Worth it?
40:14 Engine Start - Auta a dopravní prostředky
No stupid music, no flashy editing, simple and informative. Keep up the good work Sir !
Agree!
I wonder if an alternate easier solution, for those who can't afford it, is rigging up something like an expanding turnbuckle that puts firm normal force on the leak area with some soft rubber at the leak end, kind of like one would stop bleeding in an open wound.
Where do you see music, flashy editing and no auto information on CZcams?
_Yep. I cannot STAND it when there is so much LOUD background music (no matter the type) that I need to turn on Closed Captioning just to understand what is being spoken! To be clear, I'm always appreciative of someone that takes the time & effort to post a video... but it actually saddens me when they somewhat 'ruin it' by adding awful (and often too loud) background music!_
*OK. I feel better. LOL*
Amen. Hate the LOUD music when you open their video and just stop viewing their channels.
I worked for the Toyota Powertrain plant in Georgetown Ky. that builds this V6 engine and the area with the leak in this video is what we called the 3-point mating surface and If cleaned properly before the cover is installed they would not leak. The problem usually happens when team member handling the part touches that area. The team members have alignment jigs to prevent touching. I own a 2016 Avalon with the V6 and it is a great engine with very good MPG. I have since retired from the plant after 33 years and 10 months of employment. I have made this same repair on new engines in the plant that failed testing and had a leak before even being installed in a car.
My 05 Highlander was made in Japan and is awesome
So the point is if that point has not been touched and sealed correctly, it will never leak?
@@chevalsauer he made it sound like it could just show up as a leak one day in some other videos
Thanks for a reply from somebody truly in the know about this issue! My question is - since this area was so sensitive to a leak happening - why did Toyota not just specify replacing with a gasket AND sealer, instead of just the crappy sealer??? I know this wasn't your call to make, and when it comes to pinching pennies every automaker is acutely aware of the least increased expense. But I'm thinking adding in a gasket PLUS sealer would have cost them $1 per car to do. So why didn't they? A fix that only bounces back a few thousand miles later is not a fix!
What the Tacoma 2016 2gr-fks
This job was given to you because the owner of this car was impressed when you refused to change brakes that did not need to be changed. Honesty pays for itself. I You are a tremendous mechanic.
I have 2 of these engines a RX and a ES. I love em. Never seen a engine surgeon like this fellow. Hats off to knowledge like he has
Too honest to be a millionaire.
The transverse mounted engine is supposedly way safer also, it’s really remarkable how many models it’s used in
The way you are producing these in-depth repair videos with voice over is fantastic, we can see everything while you explain everything in a calm voice - outstanding!
Totally agree. This guy is pure gold.
He is the man!!! This was a great video! I need to get my hands on a 2022 highlander before they switch to the 4 turbo
Hi Mr CCNut,
I love your videos.
If it wasn’t for the fact that i live in Sydney Australia I would be a customer.
Please if you can,
2009 rx350 6 speed when i put in gear or reverse i get what i can only describe as a ping sound driving no issues
Cold or warm start from N to D or R ping.
I suspect low auto transmission fluid but dunno.
Regards mike.
Def one of my favorite AMD videos!, My wife has a 2011 Toyota Rav4 v6 with the 2GR-FE and I just checked- no leaks for now! AMD, much love from Southern Ontario for the high quality content. 👌
As a professional when you know what you're up to and do a thorough job, the public will GREATLY APPRECIATED rather than just DOING THE MINIMUM TO GET THE JOB DONE IS WHAT MOST AUTO REPAIRS AND SHOPS DO FOR THE MONEY!
As a CZcams user of 15 years this is the first video I have watched without annoying garbage music during the time lapse scenes. You’re the best
I've got a 2007 Sienna, has the 3.5L with 278,000 miles. Never had a SINGLE problem.
If the thing blows up tomorrow, I am STILL amazed!
And ready to replace it with ANOTHER TOYOTA.
$2600 is a bargain. Finding a knowledgeable and honest mechanic is almost impossible these days. Great info as usual.
Some bargain. Thousands of dollars in expense to fix something that shouldn't break in the first place. How'd you like paying $45,000 for a new Lexus and then have to deal with it leaking oil all over the place like a 1962 British motorcycle.
@@skymningforelsket1302become a mechanic and stop crying.i did 13 years ago... This is all easy to do now
@@donjulio5045 Rrrrright. I should learn to code and remove the engine and transmission myself outside where I park on the street. ps please buy a V6 Toyota and enjoy yourself
@skymningforelsket1302 cry louder bud, get a prius and take the torment in stride if you're so butthurt over it
@@skymningforelsket1302 be a man...soycucboi
Thankfully, my es350 hasn't had an oil leak. It just turned over 360,000 miles yesterday and is still rock solid with routine oil changes. The 3.5 liter is Toyota's best engine!
What year is it?
Damn!!! what year is your ES350? Wow!!!
I own a es350 08 with 286k still runs great 2grfe bullet proof 100%
Wow what year is your Lexus?
Wow that gives mine hope
Dude, I love you man! I only wish I could work in your shop with you. Professional, honest, knowledgeable, organized, humorous, and well spoken. Great video!! It's a shame there are so few mechanics like you.
I'd be happy sweeping floors jst to witness in person.😂🤣🤓
I second that comment. You are a pros pro. Thank you.
Same for me am not professional mechanic but I do oil changes and brake changes.
@@erds6579 and sweep and scrub his floors.
his shop is as clean as any NASCAR professional race car shop.
Agreed. Competent, reliable, and honest mechanics seem to be about as rare as common-sense is these days.
Just took my mom’s 2007 es 350 with 126k in last week for service. My certified Lexus/Toyota mechanic pointed this out to me. Told me exactly the thing! Not worried about the small oil seepage it at the timing cover at this time but monitor it. A lot of labor involved.
I owned a 2009 Avalon with this engine. I maintained it religiously. Other than scheduled maintenance, I never had to put a dime into it. My best car ever
I would like to say it’s very impressive that you have to time to film, teach and explain everything while taking the engine out of a car. That requires a lot of time and energy while staying concentrated on the job. Your an amazing technician. I’m 18 and I would love be to mentored by you. So thank you for making these videos and teaching me things I would never hear from just any technician.
Definitely someone whom I want to study or work for and be mentored by too.
This guy is amazing. That stealership took a giant hit when Amd decided to go on his own. I know where I'll be taking my Rav4 after the warranty runs out.
If only an honest guy like you was in my area....I always trade to newer when a vehicle gets 4-5 years....just because finding honest
competent repairman is almost impossible...
I just found your CZcams channel. Being the son of a retired auto mechanic (and a Television engineer) I can't help it but to admire the awesome production of the video and the complete and detailed content of it. Watching was a delightful experience. I don't own a Toyota or Lexus but if I did, I would bring it to you even when that'd require to drive 2 hours (I'm in South Bend).
Excellent video and description. I’m a 38 year Toyota Master Tech, recently retired and have to say, that was perfect. This audience can learn a lot from your videos. FYI we originally used the pallets from the truck frames with those heavy duty Harbor Freight caster wheels attached , to jockey the frames around,and then started using them for engine removal.
Agreed. I'm a Lexus Master tech myself, the main tech that performs this and the head gasket replacement, and lost count after the 10th cover I've done. I use a flat push cart and wood to support the frame. I prefer to put the engine on a stand to do it. I got tired of getting dripped on by the oil pans. My FYI, I recommend a water pump when I do this repair or head gasket replacement. My only tips I have are upon cover removal is to stick rags under the gears and to wipe all mating surfaces down with a lint free rag and CRC brand brake cleaner to clean the surface. There's a film still left if it isn't done.
@@marcesposito2587 you recommend buying any GS or ES 350 LEXUS years?
Do you gentleman know if this issue is just as prevalent in the 2.5L models? Thank you in advance.
@@denverwynn4 it is not
@@GeoMo52 thank you!
I'm 31 years old and have owned nothing but Toyota since high school. It's a family "tradition" that we've started since my grandfather bought a Corolla in the 70's and fell in love with it. I wanted to tell you that your content and what you cover is TOP NOTCH. Kudos.
Smart family
Yeah except Toyota knew about this VERY expensive to repair problem for more than a decade and couldn’t be bothered to fix it like so many other problems Toyota has knowingly ignored for years. They even tried to ignore the throttle and brake problems on the Prius until the US Congress had to intervene. And, even then, they claimed it was a floor mat issue yet they reflashed the car’s firmware during the “floor mat” recall to fix the real problem which was a high software error. Now the wheels are literally falling off the incredibly poorly named BZ4X and the problem is so bad Toyota is forced to buy vehicles back from customers. Camry 4 cylinder head bolts pulled out of blocks causing catastrophic engine failure for years. The long list goes on of epic Toyota engineering failures. Toyota has had lots of serious reliability issues the Toyota fan boys love to pretend don’t exist.
That is why chevy, ford, and chrysler owners switched brands to Toyota.
@@sharedknowledge6640 I lost a good friend and her 2 young children when her 2009 Camry went to full throttle at a busy intersection. When the data from the engine computer was pulled it revealed implausible data faults from the accelerator pedal position switch. That discovery was a vital part in the wrongful death suit against Toyota. Toyota tried several times to take possession of that vehicle to "assess" the problem. No doubt if they had that information would have been flashed out of existence. Toyota also made shims to install in the APP to correct the sudden or unintended acceleration. Toyota was so arrogant with this deadly problem. They were found to have known about the problem and had to pay the largest fine ever for covering it up. They, in my opinion, also paid off the NHTSA and the enlisted NASA engineers to "find" that there was no fault with Toyota's products that it was pedal misapplication. So they recalled 8 million vehicles, paid the largest fine ever, engineered a shim to correct the sticking pedals, reflashed engine computers for nothing? Then have the audacity to blame the problem on Toyota's own loyal buyers as pedal misapplication and incompatiblefloor mats. What a shame. Toyota is as arrogant as a lot of their owners. Buy a Toyota, they say. It'll last forever and won't cause any problems. Here we have a repair that requires the entire power train to be removed for an oil leak! At less than 120K miles too! Then this guy says "This engine is very well engineered, trust me I know I've been in hundreds if not thousands" well that statement is a little contradicting. No offense to his ability as a mechanic. I can tell he is very capable and takes pride in his work. Well Toyota fans this little "Achilles Heel" of an oil leak just costed you thousands of dollars to correct. But at least the engine didn't go to full throttle against your will and cause a loss of life. I love what you do for me, Toyota!
@@topher8634 I'm still buying a TOYOTA!
This video raised my blood pressure. I am purchasing a 2023 ES350 with the thought in my mind that this engine was basically bulletproof and almost infallible after all the time it has been in production.
I have 2 Accord coupes with the J35. The timing belt issue always has had me question whether or not Honda understands the fear people have. I have been a Honda-fan for over 30 years despite 3 engines grenading themselves early due to timing belt and VCM issues despite what I thought was excellent maintenance.
I was interested in this engine because EVERYONE else stating "Bulletproof" "Perfect" "300,000+ miles with basic oil changes" etc etc.
Thank you for presenting reality. I found your channel only yesterday.
@@juliedumont3685exactly❣️ ppl can’t expect perfection or close to in anything. 😊
Lol wut.
This and the external coolant leak because of head gasket makes me twice whether I really want a Sienna.
how frequently did you change timing belts on the Hondas? My experience with t-belts is that they far exceed their recommended lifespans.
@bb5242 The D-series engines, as I recall, asked for replacements at 60,000. My '91 CRX grenaded at 60,500-ish. The 2nd, another D-series, let go around 120,000, 2nd belt. My J35, I changed at 93,000, around recommended time. The VCM took that engine out.
I have a 2007 Toyota RAV4 V6 (2GRFE) that I've been driving with the cold start rattle for over two years. Current mileage is 115K miles. Gradually, it got to the point that the rattle occurred with every cold start. No oil leaks; it still had that old VVTi oil line that needed replacing as well. Thanks to "The Car Care Nut" for these remarkable posts on the subject which helped me to intelligently understand the issue as well as approach my mechanic.
The decision point on getting the 'time bomb' 2GRE cold start rattle issue fixed is one's overall view on keeping the car as well as the overall vehicle serviceability. Indeed, it is expensive because of the size of the V6 in the engine compartment requiring it to be removed. While the parts themselves are comparatively cheap (using ONLY Toyota OEM or AISIN), it's 20 hours labor to remove the engine, effect repair and replace the engine. In my case, this car is the best vehicle I've ever owned, and its 2GRFE V6 engine is probably the best V6 made by anyone ... ever. It's just that, unfortunately, the 2GRFE (and other 2GR variants) had the 'birth defect' of the VVTi problem from years 2006 through 2012. Otherwise, I've taken immaculate care of the vehicle and for its years, it is low-mileage. I am keeping this vehicle, no matter what other vehicle I might purchase, and on that note, any new vehicle I'd want to purchase equates to an eight to 12 month wait. So, rather than sit on the time bomb for upwards to a year, I am "repurchasing" my own 'quality pre-owned' car by having its repairs done. This includes new lower front control arms and front struts because they were due anyway, and insofar as the VVTi repair, since the engine is out, I'm due new spark plugs and a new water pump.
I have a great independent repair shop, including a Toyota specialist with 40 years experience. The vehicle went into the shop on August 14th, and after waiting a week and a half for the VVTi gear assembly to be sourced and delivered, I picked her up on the 25th. Rattle gone, engine is strong, quiet and I can wait out the sh*t show of the new car market. How much did that cost? $6,800.00 for another 100k+ miles. These 2d Gen RAVs are among the best cars Toyota ever made; the V6 still gets around 27mpg hwy/24 city and I just couldn't rationalize, "skipping it" for the sake of infotainment, lane keeping assist and blind spot monitoring in something new at $40k and up.
I had a 2007 ES350 with this oil leak and I just watched the oil level and added maybe one liter every 4000kms. I now have a 2012 ES350 and no leaks so far at 95,000km. If it does develop a small leak, I will live with it.
I agree it’s not worth the effort to fix. That is a very minor oil leak. All engines leak a little oil especially if they get overfilled and/or run hard.
Did you ever have any transmission issues with your '07? I have the same car with the same leak and also a bit of a slip on the 3-4 shift when the trans is cold.
@@markvanderlee My transmission would sometimes slip when shifting down from 5th or 4th to 3rd when merging under full throttle. The 2012 I have now has a much smoother shifting transmission.
@@markvanderlee Famous transmission ‘flare’ in Toyotas.
Irritating but generally not serious.
try cleaning the area around the head - block - timing cover joint from the outside and smear gray rtv over it , there's no way i would spend 20 hours without trying that first!!!
Thanks for the diagnosis! After doing an oil change on my wife's 2011 Sienna (215k miles), I saw this leak and thought exactly as you described at 15:40 (banjo bolt leak). I had been looking for what that leak could be and how it can be fixed and, lo and behold, you pop out with this video. You, Sir, are no fluke. Your wealth of knowledge is priceless! Now I know it's a Front Timing Cover leak. On my wife's van it's not a "bad" leak. I cleaned it to see what would happen and it reappears slightly every month. I check the oil level every couple of weeks, and it has not gone down either. I might live with it but will monitor it regularly. May you continue to be blessed!
A leak like that is incredibly minor honestly. Especially at 215k. My 235k mile Accord has way more oil residue and doesn't use or lose any oil between changes. The best thing you can do? Change your PCV valve.
Cheapest way to fix Toyota timing cover leak is a 3 x 3 piece of scrap carpet in the garage underneath your engine
At my job we remove the entire powertrain w/ the front axle all the time. We have a heavy duty metal table with a scissor lift under it to lower the whole thing away from the car and move it around. We actually made this table ourselves. It was worth it.
Some folks are overreacting to this leak. If it is a small, seeping leak and doesn't require you to add oil, just leave it alone. It's not a leak that will destroy the engine. Clean the area yearly and keep those $$$$ in your pocket.
It’s disappointing given Toyota/Lexus supposed quality control.
100% agree. After watching this video I am not touching the banjo bolt on the back oil supply line. Going to clean it every 6 months and keep changing oil every 5-6K miles.
@@bngr_bngr agreed, but no machine is perfect. Not even the Toyota engines.
@@BMC530i I drive a 4th gen Avalon. It's interesting that these leaks are much less common on those 2gr engines. I think the 4th gen Avalon 2gr engines were built in another plant. I may be wrong through.
@@Tigerwarhawk it’s a manufacturing defect.
Your videos are usually a bit different than what you see from guys like Scotty and the Car Wizard. I really ENJOY seeing how you have given us a look at how this V6 would be dropped and repaired. Big thumbs up and subscriber here........ THANKS FOR POSTING!
I can't stand Scotty's voice, gives me tinitus.
@@2muchpoison 🤣
Eric O on the South Main Auto channel shows you the whole repair in real time and he does it like I would pour a cup of coffee. Watch him if you want to see every detail.
You are so knowledgeable and so honest!Love it❤️! Wish more mechanics were like this. 👍
Fantastic video. From the way it's edited, to its content. But most importantly the way you explain your understanding and expertise of this engine. Thank you CCN! I'll be closely watching all your 3.5 videos as my 2016 Taco has developed a mysterious rattle on higher RPMs and under heavy load. 100 k miles.....
🙏
This mechanic is confident and knows what he's doing a rarity these days. Amazing.
I love the honesty in your discussions.. really wish more mechanics were this way! You set the bar high. Another great vid, AMD :- )
I am done! My Highlander is 3.5L 2GRFE V6. Tomorrow I will check the cam cover leaks. If it does, I am going to sell it. I won't touch any V6 anymore. Many Thanks to Mr mechanic although you scare me the most.
Amazing video! I cannot express how much I appreciate the intricate detail of the procedure and the honesty when it comes to the urgency of repairing this leak. I happen to have an '08 Rav4 with this engine and this leak. It's good to know that it won't become catastrophic because I think I will buy a new vehicle before spending the $5k that the dealership wanted for this repair. Thanks again for all the excellent videos and knowledge!
I like how you take your time to explain in your videos, good and not quick. Some big youtubers always rush.
Great video. I don't even own a Toyota but I can appreciate watching a masterful professional Technician yourself doing what you do. May the Lord bless you and keep you as well. 👍
I always enjoy watching a well trained mechanic/master technician working on a project like this one. 👍
The very best repair videos I have seen on the internet. Outstanding job!
As a retired truck engineer I found this an excellent well made video. Thanks guys, much appreciated from London, UK
My honest belief is that we're living in a time where nothing is made strong to last.
@@JoDo777 Which ones in particular? I love Toyota but people won't let them go for cheap even old rusted out ones.
@@abes7181 anything GM/Buick/Chev with the 3.8L engine. They are know to last 400K miles easily. Look up Car Wizard on them.
@@namegoeshere2903 Agreed. Sadly it's going to be hard to get a good deal now. More people want them even though just a few years ago they were "old man" cars and nobody cared that they were reliable because they didn't want to be seen in them. Same thing with the Suzuki SX4 which nobody cared for until journalist started talking about it 5 years ago.
I had a 98 v6 Camry. Loved it. Drove it til the heads blew st 380k. My son then gave me an 02 Explorer. Only had it for 2 yrs b4 it's heads blew this year at 260k. Was done with older vehicles so bought a 2019 f150. But... I have my doubts how long this vehicle will last. The 10 speed gearing, to me, I believe is going to be the 1st thing to show issues. So...yes...quality is no longer job 1.
@@feliciamusic7945 trans will go out first for sure if you don't do any trucking activities just commuting like normal car with proper maintenance will last long
I used to had f150 for commercial delivery job had problems with powertrain in between 150-200k miles
Whoa, that's a big job dropping that huge engine.I don't think there are very many mechanics like you who can do that work so thoroughly.
I enjoy the tone of your voice, like it’s all so second nature with no confusion or hesitation on anything you are doing.
TY Sir for another awesome video, as an owner with a 2GRFE this was brilliant to watch but scary as well, I have never had an oil leak issue as my car is maintained very well but now I know what could be required if I am unfortunate to experience a leak.
Ty mate I have posted a link too this on our Australian Toyota Owners Club site for all of my fellow 2GRFE owners to watch.
Keep Safe Keep Strong 🦘🦘🦘🦘👍👍
This is a very well detailed documented vlog.
Thank you sir for that and more importantly your honesty and fairness. I will highly recommend you to anyone who needs repairs on their Toyota Lexus vehicles.
You are my new favorite CZcams mechanic. Keep em coming!
Loved the video, the content and the professional delivery. Much like what I would expect of a technician that works in Toyotas R&D department.
Your videos are simply mesmerizing!! Your skills with a wrench, a camera and the spoken word are quite impressive!!
It's your honest open discussion about issues like these that will have me drive 1000 miles from Florida if I ever need this level of repair. Yeah, it'll cost more for the travel, but it's hard to put a price on piece of mind.
Thanks for this channel, sir!!
You are a true professional sir. I am glad you are making these videos so you are teaching people how to do things correctly. There are so many mechanics out there doing things extremely poorly that give mechanics a bad name. But you are extremely top notch and I would feel confident bringing my car to you. And trust me I don’t let anybody touch my vehicles. Thank you again keep up the fantastic work.
Amazing instructional video. Outstanding way to keep those Toyota mechanics and engineers out of trouble. Your safety concerns are a plus and that's usually ignored. True the oil leak issues were overlooked in the engineering design phase, but there's no such thing as perfection, especially when the car is exposed to environmental conditions. Your instructional production, both video and audio aspects are excellent. Never a boring moment. So glad you left out those overbearing and unnecessary background music additions. Kudos to you, your coworkers and that pristine shop.
Of all the amazing videos here on CZcams, this is certainly one of them! Absolutely incredible presentation!
Finally finished working my way through this video, what a great in depth breakdown. I also watched car wizards video but wasn’t aware of this problem. So many cars in Toyota and Lexus land could be affected by this, glad to have a heads up. Thanks!
Fantastic! Couldn't be done better. Love all of your videos, and love your professionalism. As a fellow mobile technician, I pray that because of your work ethics more people appreciate the hard work of honest mechanics and shops, that sadly have been stained by dishonest dealerships and independent shops than only care about money, and not the customer and their trust. May the Lord bless you as well!
You are such a bad ass mechanic. May God bless you my friend. You, Scotty and Toyota Maintenance are my hero’s!
These videos are fantastic! I'll be putting plugs in my wife's 2014 Highlander Hybrid soon. Ahmed is definitely a wizard. I love his upbeat enthusiastic attitude.
Hi Amd, this is a great video. I commend you on your high-level of integrity helping everyone understand what is recommended and what is necessary. If I ever have that engine and need service, I will contact you since I'm in your area. Stay healthy and happy!
Great video!
I enjoy you sharing your knowledge and experience, and most of all, your honesty!
Keep up the great work!
As an owner of a 2015 RX350 and having changed the spark plugs recently, this definitely is a plan C for spark plug replacement. Its a great video on going what is all involved, Luckily mine isn't leaking oil yet, but I know where to go if I ever have to. Lots of great info as always, Thanks for the great video !
My mom has had 3 Toyota/Lexus with the 3.5. All 3 have had valve cover, timing cover, and power steering leaks. Her current Lexus had the timing cover leak while under warranty and fixed. Now at 98K miles it's leaking again and out of warranty. Makes me second guess a Tacoma with the 3.5.
It's funny you say that. That is exactly why I'm here to see what issues are out there. I would really love a 0:10 Tacoma with the 3.5 V6 before they make it a crappy four-cylinder with turbo😢.
If you had an issue while under warranty and they fix it , and it appears again after warrant, it should be covered to be fixed again. I had a tower cam leak on my 08 tundra with just 10k miles it was fixed. It happen again at 130k and Toyota fixed it the second time for free because it was considered an existing problem from when it was under warranty, whoever, said it’s not covered at 89k was lying
I haven't worked on my Lexus in a while, found a local independent guy who we like, but I really enjoyed you disassembling this and talking in detail about various things. Excellent job! New subscriber
...Absolutely love your channel and content! We just bought our second RX350 (2022 V6). We bought our first one 15 years ago. It is still a great vehicle and still running strong! I will most definitely follow your maintenance recommendations moving forward with the new one!
You are such a class act and genius with automobile repairs. Watching you zip through the myriad of details that are part of doing this repair and confidence with which you reassemble it all is mind blowing. If I ever need major repair to my Lexus I'm inclined to drive across country so I could have your shop do it.
The quality and depth of information this man provides is amazing....not to mention the quality of his narration....no uh's and um's....eloquence
My son and I really appreciate your videos, he was a entry level tech at our local Toyota dealer. He has moved onto to another brand. Enjoy watching him grow in his abilities. I wish you were closer to me, would love to have has a mechanic. Side note it was funny you mentioned the Car Wizard's RAV4 video. I watched it and went to your video list and reviewed Rav4. I was going to send it to his channel, I figured he would find it though. Just kinda funny. Keep up the good work and thank you.
I wish we have a mechanic like you sir here in Canada! Great job well done sir! Hope you have more blessings to come!
I’ve learned so many things from you already, Ahmed. Thank you. In this video, I just learned I’ll have to be a lot more careful looking over a V6 Highlander if I decide that I want one.
The production as well as the detailed content you’ve explained is impeccable. If that’s all that’s needed to be done with those miles on it. Then it’s worth it. Because now you’ll get another 100k+ out of it. I keep autos to the end myself. I’m not into getting a new one every 5-8yrs just because they’ve updated the look of it.
Most new cars won't last 8 years with heavy use anyway. LOL.
Toyotas and Hondas will.
Every time I watch one of your videos, the first thing that comes to mind: competence is a wonderful thing! You make it all look so easy 😃 Your videos are awesome!
Love your professionalism you're a teacher and mentor for new Mechanic generations.
Thank you so much for this. I have a 2GR-FE in my MR2 and I do not know whether, when the shop swapped it in, whether they looked into this. Probably not. But it’s very good to have had your walkthrough of this issue and many other aspects of this wonderful motor.
Great job. I was first hesitant to spend 45 minutes on your video but I enjoyed myself much more than watching the latest Hollywood blockbuster CGI movie on Netflix. Your editing, narration, confidence and film making has improved fast and significantly. There is just something about an honest mechanic that makes me happy and gives me faith back in humanity. PS And thanks for mentioning the Car Wizard. Another one of my favourites.
I am so glad you made this video, AMD! It was really helpful. My 2010 RX was diagnosed with the leaking timing cover a couple years ago from my Lexus dealership. I have had an independent mechanic doing my oil changes and the independent mechanic did replace the oil line hose as I did have the exploding oil line hose, but luckily it did not damage my engine. I have not noticed any oil leaks on the ground so I’m thinking that’s a good thing! I’m probably going to continue to just have the mechanics monitor it. I am having some suspension issues that I need to get checked out though. I wished I lived a lot closer to where you are because I would definitely take it to you!
Best Toyota/Lexus content on YT, hands down! Keep up the good work!
Sir. You are a legend, your videos are so dam resourceful! The world needs more people of your calibre, it would be a better place.
Once and done I love that ethic! Do it right the first time, even if it is more work.. I totally agree.
It is nice to see the 3.5 in the flesh and up close like you have done here. If I am not mistaken I believe you covered this issue and told us how to check that particular spot in your 2014-2019 Highlander video.
Thanks for all you do, being so thorough and keeping us well informed, you are the best Mr. Care Care!
edit: Any Toyota/Lexus mechanic I encounter out there I'd be interested to see how many of those "trophies" they collected. 😅
Great video Ahmed, thanks for sharing. I don’t own this car or engine but still a fascinating teardown and rebuild. Exceptional skills.
I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the information in this video. You cover a lot. I learned a lot. I can make intelligent decisions for my Toyotas. Much thanks to you!!
If the plenum is too hard to take off, just take out the engine 😂
I'd drill 3 holes in the firewall to get to those other spark plugs.
Toyota hates mechanics lol. It really is a pain to reach those rear plugs. On a Honda 3.5 it's about 9000x easier.
Impressive. I love how he says it's simple and not much to it! I'm pretty mechanical and I'm looking at it glad I don't have to put it back together!! Knowledgeable, well spoken true technician!
Smart people are fun to watch. Your level of competence in this world is rare. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
I own a 2012 Rav4 with the 2GR-FE. Nice to see it out. Thank you.
This is very impressive and amazing content. I own a vehicle with this V6 engine and it's great to get educated on these engines. Thank you for making these videos!!!
That was awesome. Thank you for your in depth description of the problems with the engine and how to make sure the repair is done correctly, along with your estimate of time and parts. Great shops, like great kitchens, don't have a lot of yelling and screaming or other BS because the people working there are experts at what they do and do things properly the first time around. That saves the customer time and money.
👏👏👏 There is no room for prima donnas in his shop.
Excellent video! Totally appreciate the cleanliness! I have the same problem with my Avalon and was going crazy trying to find the source of this leak. Thanks for putting this together and sharing!
Wonderful video for an ex: Toyota mechanic and now these days a Service Manager for another Japanese brand. God bless your great ethics.
Impressive content as always, awesome to see this process of dropping the power train. It’s a treat to see you explain in detail the process!
Is that the timing chain? And if so when should the timing chain be replaced?
Your calm voice, your kind demeanor, and caring attitude always makes us not to want to skip ads. It’s our only way of showing that we appreciate you very much. May God bless you and your family and your shop family as well. Take care and Christ be with you. 😊❤
Seriously, I would have paid money just to watch this episode. History, teaching, and presentation are superb.
Excellent job explaining this. I recently had my 20 camry TRD resealed and luckily under factory warranty. I was very fortunate and had a technician that has done several of these and was able to perform this repair in one day. The new sealant has been improved so hopefully this will not be an issue in the future.
If you had to pay do you know the amount? Gotta be 2500. For the labor. Crazy
Oh how I wish you were in UK as I would drive to anywhere in the UK that you had set up your workshop. I would trust you with my car as I know you put EVERYTHING into doing your job right. You are a rare individual, I have never come across someone so devoted to your trade and empathetic to your customers. Your engineering mind is quite beautiful to watch in your videos.
All this rings true to me as my 2016 ES350 needed this job at 36k miles. Fortunately, the local dealership did the work under the Lexus 6-year powertrain warranty, which was about 3 weeks from running out at the time. Great service from the dealership in this case, but I realize my situation is not typical.
Lucky
Ouch! My 2016 Toyota Avalon just hit 80,000 miles. Zero leaks, but I'll be on the lookout.
@@TigerwarhawkMy 2012 Sienna with 135K miles has been leaking (sippage to be accurate ) since 80k miles. I did not notice oil consumption at oil change neither oil drop on the garage floor. I always clean up with brake cleaner at the spot every oil change. Just keep an eye out if it gets worse. I probably leave it as is during my ownership.
@@joshlee284 that's what I would do.
@@Tigerwarhawk My 2016
Avalon is in the 40k mileage. No oil leak so far. But if it happens to mine, probably just keep cleaning the oil and move on. Chance of getting other issues after fixing the leak is discouraging.
You do such a great job at explaining the task at hand! Great job!
As a Toyota Highlander owner, THANK YOU. Awesome Content!!
Thank You for the informative content. It educates owners as to what they are dealing with and who should do their mechanical work for them. I help people in home improvement for the past 34 years and I can go anywhere in my community and have people walk up and thank me for the sound advice I’ve given them. As I’m sure you know It’s very fulfilling to know you’ve had a positive impact on other’s with information and confidence for them to make educated decisions so they don’t waste their time or hard earned money for poor results.
👏👏👏
Why
Another impressive video for those who, like me, are not car mechanics. We feel your great experience, in the calm and the concern to do well that you implement at each intervention on a vehicle, whatever the problem to be solved. Even without being directly concerned by this kind of operation or by the vehicle concerned, I always have great pleasure in watching your videos, solely for this constant state of mind that you show. Thank you and continue to give us this fine example of professionalism.
From France.
Tres bien
Great video, now I understand why my car was in the shop for over a week getting this done. Sad part is that I bought a CPO 2022 Lexus ES350 with 12,500 miles. The CarFax that came with it said that the timing cover gasket had been replaced. Within a week of owning the car, the bottom of the engine was covered with oil and it was leaking on the driveway. Took it in and they took almost a week to replace the valve cover gaskets. Less than 500 miles later I thought I saw oil on the driveway again but could not see anything under the car but checked the oil level every morning just to be sure. Was driving it one afternoon and the low oil level warning came on. Had it towed back to the dealer and over a week later just got it back. They said the technician who had originally replaced to cover missed an o-ring! Sure hope it is fixed now.
Unbelievable informative video from a true Professional. I am not a Lexus owner (Infiniti Q50) but looking at various models for my next car (LS 460/500?) and learning from you on all the good and bad. My son just bought a 2011 RX350 and we did Struts, brakes this weekend. You are an inspiration and I would be honored for you to work on my car... but the next best thing is learning how to DIY - although I admit - this project would be above my skill level so I would seek out someone like you. Keep up the great videos - I'm watching all the Toyota (Avalon not out of the question) and Lexus posts! Thank you.
What a big job! It would be difficult to get a mechanic with your caliber to do the right thing. My thoughts, just clean the leak until the car reaches 300 K miles and by then it would be worth buying a new car since you’ve maximized its use.
I'd have to agree. Unless you have a superb mechanic, it's likely you're going to have a few new problems once this car goes back together (mostly).
What do you mean by clean the leak ?
@@kane5445 basically, wipe off periodically excess oil or place some absorbent pads underneath or on your garage floor to soak up the oil leak. Also check periodically the rate of oil loss. If substantial decide to get it repaired or sell the car.
That’s what I’m doing. I just bought a 2005 RX330 with 323,000 on it to be my work vehicle. Runs fine but has the leak. I was going to try some leak stop, but since I only paid $1,000 for the car, I’ll keep it, maintain it and drive it until it dies. If I get a year or two out of it, I’ll be happy.
Great video! Should you replace the desiccant in the A/C system since it was opened? You just showed how easy it is to remove/replace the belt, water pump pulley, and water pump on a 2GR-FE. I really like this engine. Thank you for all the knowledge you share.
Sickdiculous how easy you make all these repairs seem! You are a master and my hero! Keep up the great work! Truly a fan!
This guy knows his stuff, and explains it perfectly.😊
As a long time Lexus/Toyota owner, I find your videos both informative and fascinating to watch. I had this exact repair done on my 2016 RX with 28,000 miles on it. The warranty had expired 2 months prior to my discovering the leak, however, Lexus did the repair free of charge anyway. I had no idea how involved it was. I now have a new 22RX and I’m hoping they they have corrected this problem. Thank you for making these excellent videos. You are a true professional at your craft!
The same leak on my 2016 with approximately the same mileage.
I can’t believe Toyota still selling these cars and not owning up to the mistake.
Probably 1 in a million leak so I assume that's ok.
I just bought a 2016 RX with 83k miles. First Toyota product for us. No entry on the CarFax report for this repair. In fact, the one-owner car seemed to have been self-maintained. Fingers crossed.
@@spicydogsoup no, every one of them do. Eventually the oil starts dripping on the passenger side axle and slings oil everywhere. There will be oil all over the fire wall and back side of the engine. And all underneath the undercarriage. While driving, the oil is blown towards the rear. This is usually evident on Toyota brands if you are behind them on the road. You can see oil on the lower part of the rear bumper cover. Especially if it's been a while since it was washed.
I love that stand you used to set the engine assembly on .... wish I'd known about that 15 years ago ... I spent a whole day building a 4 foot tall 4x4 tool table chest on industrial castors that I used to do this job on many vehicles. 😅
Commenting on my girlfriends account because my phone died. I was just thinking how could I build this out of wood. Can you make a video going over your and how you built it?