Comments on oil leak

My son's 2001 4Runner was leaking oil. Took it to a reputable mechanic and he stated that in order to address the leak, they would need to do a motor drop and full reseal. The vehicle has over 229K miles on it. Prices are all over the board, but the question is, "is it worth it?" or "is it time to retire the vehicle"?

Based upon some of the comments I've already seen, the potential cost (labor) is between $1,700-$2,000, plus parts (which are not known, although it would be nice to simply assume minor gaskets, etc). Thank you

 

Two most common areas are valve covers and rear main seal.

Take that back, the rear main isn't as common for leaking but is the only leak that warrants some real labor.

At that mileage, I suspect it'd be the valve covers. I've had two 5VZ's (Tacoma and 4Runner) and only one dripped oil at the valve covers and the other was leak-free.

The leak wasn't even bad enough to hit the ground as it would just burn off on the exhaust manifold.

 

Did your mechanic identify exactly where the leak was coming from? Sounds like your mechanic wants to just replace all the gaskets which is probably not a bad idea. Car prices are still through the roof now so if it runs well you couldn’t get another vehicle for what it’s going to cost to do this work. Good luck. Keep us posted on how you make out.

 

Worth it is only something you can answer.

KBB is $4kish for it.

Repairs going be over half what the 4R is worth.

 

Some really good replies. At this point, he (son) only needs it to last until he finishes high school this year and then maybe until July-August 2024 and then he's off to college. If he can last that long, then it appears as though just continuing to feed the oil is the best solution. Thank you all.

 

If they are able, Have them put some dye in the oil and then nail down exactly where/what is leaking.

Possibly, something minor that could be repaired and save from the full Monty.

 

How much oil we talking?

If its little bit I say run it since it only gotta last less than a year.