I circled a black plastic cover-plate on the bell housing in this image. Dust embedded in the damp metal surface below the cover-plate tells me there is no leak, only a negligible seep. Why would one consider replacing the seal when it isn't leaking and streaking? This appears to be similar to shock absorber misting, which is considered to be normal. What am I missing here? Obvious dripping warrants careful oil level monitoring because a torn seal can become a major leak quickly. If it costs $1100 to replace the seal, then speaking for myself, a leak would have to affect engine oil level before I considered replacing the seal. A drip pan is far cheaper. Would it be annoying? Yes, but my 20 year old Nissan Maxima had an occasional drip seal leak which stopped after awhile without doing anything about it except monitoring as needed and checking for a clogged or blocked PCV system.

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Surprised to see a rear main seal fail at such low mileage. Have the boys at the Tahara plant been slacking?

not yet

I just had the transmission fluid changed out by the dealer 5,000 miles ago. surely they would have noticed? Maybe not. Annoying either way. not ready for this bill around the holidays.

A lot of the pictures you guys have sent on this post are definitely not “leaks “ and taken to Toyota or a dealership you will find it hard to be relaxed under any sort of warranty as they will just say it’s not leaking it is “sweating “ ... this doesn’t seem abnormal and definitely doesn’t warrant the $1100 price tag.

The oil leaking from my rear main seal was actually collecting and dripping off of the bottom of the transmission pan. Sounds like yours is not quite as bad as mine was.

My 2005 4runner 150,000 miles came directly from Japan so it's a manufacturing issue, as I have little oil leaks - but just a drip or so a week.

I haven't tried tightening up the pan bolts as it might get worse.

Mine started the "drips" about 4 years ago.

Do all cars and truck engines eventually leak a little?

I think the answer is yes.

Has anyone done a write up for DYI? Dropping the trans and part numbers and such?