valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket "seeps"

[georgecarnes]

Hi Folks,

This is a great forum - I'm so glad I found you!

I have a 98 Camry LE V6 with 69,000 miles. I have had all major services done, and regular oil changes since 1998. i am in Los Angeles.

I've just been told by one Toyota Dealer Service Dept. that I now have a "leaking valve cover gasket" and it needs to be replaced. A different Toyota Service Dept. told me that oil is "seeping" from the valve cover gasket, but that there is also a "seep" from the oil pan gasket. They also recommend replacement for both parts.

Price quotes on the job are high, because of the extensive labor on the V6 to do this:

$390 labor and parts for the oil pan gasket

$570 labor and parts for the valve cover gasket

Are these prices way out of line? Does this all make sense? Can you recommend an independent shop in Los Angeles with more reasonable prices?
Please help me with any info or opinions you may have - I will truly appreciate it.
Thanks very much in advance.

[Brian R.]

Do you see oil on the floor of your garage or whereever you park? Can you see oil on the side, top, front, or back of the engine under one of the valve covers? Take a mirror and look carefully at all sides of the valve covers. If you don't see these things, I wouldn't worry.

If you see leaks and are worried about it, I would suggest you torque down the bolts (loosen one and then torque it back down one at a time) on the valve cover and oil pan and see if this stops the leaks. Maybe clean the engine and keep an eye on it afterward.

I agree that you certainly don't need to take it to a dealer for gaskets.