T-SB-0008-20

January 27, 2020

Oil Leak Diagnosis and Repair
Service
Category

Engine/Hybrid System

Section

Lubrication

Market USA

Applicability
YEAR(S)

MODEL(S)

2000 - 2020

4Runner, 86, Avalon, Avalon
HV, C-HR, Camry, Camry
HV, Celica, Corolla, Corolla
BR-Prod, Corolla Hatchback,
Corolla HV, Echo, FJ
Cruiser, Highlander,
Highlander HV, iA, iM, Land
Cruiser, Matrix, Mirai, MR2
Spyder, Prius, Prius C, Prius
PHV, Prius Prime, Prius V,
RAV4, RAV4 EV, RAV4 HV,
Sequoia, Sienna, Solara,
Supra, Tacoma, Tundra,
Venza, Yaris, Yaris HB
MEX-Prod, Yaris R, Yaris
SD MEX-Prod, Yaris THAIProd

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Introduction

Vehicles may display evidence of a fluid leak or fluid seep from powertrain components. This
bulletin explains how to determine the differences between a fluid leak versus a fluid seep. Cases
that are determined to be a “leak” should be repaired accordingly and will be covered under
warranty if applicable. Cases that are determined to be a “seep” should be documented on the
repair order and inspected at the next service interval. Follow the Repair Information in this
bulletin to determine if the concern in question is a fluid leak or fluid seep and review the Repair
Procedure section to address the condition.
NOTE
This bulletin applies to ALL powertrain fluids excluding fuel and coolant.

© 2020 Toyota Motor Sales, USA

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T-SB-0008-20

January 27, 2020

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Oil Leak Diagnosis and Repair
Warranty Information
OP CODE

DESCRIPTION

TIME

OFP

T1

T2

N/A

Refer to Applicable Warranty Box Below

–

–

–

–

APPLICABLE WARRANTY
• Warranty coverage is based on the failed component. Please refer to the Warranty Policy and
Procedures Manual and the Powertrain Parts List for specific coverage.
• Warranty application is limited to occurrence of the specified condition described in
this bulletin.

Warranty Claim Submission: Warranty Policy 4.21
• ANY leak repair to be performed under warranty requires photo documentation of the active leak.
• This Documentation showing the cause of defect MUST be created prior to the start of the repair
and attached to the warranty claim.
• Photos MUST be clear and provide perspective image(s) that identify the affected component(s)
and close up image(s) that illustrate the defect or condition.
• For additional information regarding application and eligibility please reference Warranty
Policy 4.21.

© 2020 Toyota Motor Sales, USA

T-SB-0008-20

January 27, 2020

Page 3 of 5

Oil Leak Diagnosis and Repair
Repair Information
Leak Definition

A leak is verified by the identification of pooling fluid with the formation of droplets and dripping.
Below are examples determined to be a leak.
Figure 1. Oil Leak From Engine Oil Pressure Sensor

Figure 2. Oil Leak From Transmission Oil Pan

1

1

2

1

Oil Droplet Formed on Bolt Head

2

Oil Droplet Formed on Sensor

Figure 3. Oil Leak From Differential

1

Oil Droplet Formed on Bolt Head

Figure 4. Oil Leak from Oil Pan

1
1

1

Oil Droplets Formed on Bottom of
Differential Cover

1

© 2020 Toyota Motor Sales, USA

Oil Drops Forming at Mating Surface

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January 27, 2020

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Oil Leak Diagnosis and Repair
Repair Information (continued)
Seep Definition

A seep is defined as a thin accumulation, film, or coating of oil on the exterior of a component.
The area often has a darker or damp appearance compared to the rest of the part and may
attract dust or dirt over time.
NOTE
Seepage is a normal condition seen at mechanical joints that does not require repair but should be
noted on the repair order for future reference.

Below are examples determined to be seepage.
Figure 5. Oil Seep From Differential

Figure 6. Oil Seep From Engine Oil
Pressure Sensor

1

1

1

Darkened or Damp Appearance

Figure 7. Oil Seep From Timing Cover

1

Darkened Area but not Wet or Dripping

Figure 8. Oil Seep From Oil Pan

1

1

1

Dark Area With Dirt Accumulation

1

© 2020 Toyota Motor Sales, USA

Damp Appearance but not Wet or Dripping

T-SB-0008-20

January 27, 2020

Page 5 of 5

Oil Leak Diagnosis and Repair
Repair Procedure

If a repair is needed, reference the information below to ensure an adequate repair:
1. AFTER disassembly, clean, inspect and prepare each sealing surface BEFORE reassembly:
A. For Joints Sealed with Gaskets/ O-Rings/ Seals:
(1) Clean: Remove ANY gasket material stuck to each sealing surface.
(2) Inspect: Check the sealing area for ANY surface imperfections (pitting, grooves,
gaps, etc.) and replace part if necessary.
(3) Prepare: Remove ALL oil residue and wipe each surface with the appropriate cleaner
and allow to dry.
(4) Install a NEW gasket and reassemble components per the applicable repair manual.
B. For Seal Packing/ Form in place Gasket (FIPG) Sealed Joints:
(1) Clean: Remove ALL sealant from each surface
(2) Inspect: Check the sealing area for ANY surface imperfections (pitting, grooves,
gaps, etc. replace part if necessary)
(3) Prepare: Remove ALL oil residue and wipe each surface with the appropriate cleaner
and an oil-free cloth. Allow to dry BEFORE applying new seal packing.
Figure 9. Inappropriate vs. Appropriate Sealing Surface
B

A

2
1

A

Inappropriate Sealing Surface

B

Appropriate Sealing Surface

1

Seal Packing and Oil Residue on the
Sealing Surface

2

Surface is Dry and Clear of Seal Packing
and any Imperfections

(4) Apply new seal packing to appropriate areas and reassemble components per the
repair manual within 3 minutes of applying seal packing.
(5) Allow at least 2 hours AFTER installation BEFORE adding oil.
2. Confirm the repair is complete, test drive vehicle and make sure that there are no leaks from
the repaired area.

© 2020 Toyota Motor Sales, USA