98 Leaking Oil

Just bought a 1998 4Runner. Had a mechanic check the vehicle out completely. No leaks whatsoever. I bought the truck, then had the oil changed. Yesterday I took a look underneath the truck when I dropped a screw and found fresh by/around the oil pan drainage bolt. The drainage nut was on pretty tight but I managed to tighten it some more. Could there be another reason why the truck has started to leak oil all of a sudden or could this have been due to the bolt that was on tight enough already.

Probably not a leak. The mechanic probably didn't remove the engine covers when he changed the oil and slopped some on top the engine covers. If it's slop, it will go away. You can always remove the engine covers and clean them up or rinse them with a hose while they're on the truck to clean them somewhat. Next time you get the oil changed, ask the mechanic to remove the engine covers.

If it only is leaking at the drain plug after the oil change and tightening it didn't help, then the fiber washer may have cracked in the last oil change. It is always a good idea to have a new washer installed as they get brittle with age, or crack when over tightened. Just an idea.

Yes, if the oil is actually on the bolt, then it is likely to be a washer needs to be replaced. If it is dripping from the engine cover, then it is probably sloppiness.

Just bought a 1998 4Runner. Had a mechanic check the vehicle out completely. No leaks whatsoever. I bought the truck, then had the oil changed. Yesterday I took a look underneath the truck when I dropped a screw and found fresh by/around the oil pan drainage bolt. The drainage nut was on pretty tight but I managed to tighten it some more. Could there be another reason why the truck has started to leak oil all of a sudden or could this have been due to the bolt that was on tight enough already.



washer or they cross threaded your drain plug...they do it all the time