Hi guys I'm looking at buying a 2010 V6 4x4 runner for an upgrade from my 94 T4R Found a good deal on one with a nice aftermarket roof rack and a pop tent. Kinda exactly what I wanted. Minus...

Issue is it has an oil leak. The guy said it's been real slow and "his mechanic" said it's possibly the valve cover, kinda looks like it, or something lower down (he couldn't remember what it's called but he was quoted around 800 if it was that and not the VCG) I'm not familiar with this engine so I'm wondering what would be down on that side. Timing chain cover? front main slung up by pulley's?

I've attached a link to a video and photo on youtube.

1GR FE Leak - YouTube

Ok I'm seeing it's three possibilities well four I guess.

VCG minor easy enough to do my self and at 140k probably time anyway. Depending on valve style good time to do this also.

Timing chain tensioner cover gasket leak. A little more tricky but not too bad.

Timing chain cover leak. Somewhat common on these engines. Big job, something I really don't want to jump into. Question is.... Is there any issue if it's a slow/seep just keeping oil topped up? Till I have time to reseal or pay someone to reseal?

Front Main seal leak. Well if I'm doing the timing chain cover I'd just go ahead and replace this. Seems least likely.

If the truck was close by I'd ask the guy if I could clean off the gunk and watch for leak location. But it's not close and would be a trip to go do it.

It's not a leak, it is seeping oil due to gasket(s) deterioration of 12 years old vehicle. if no paddle of oil under car and oil level not dropping rapidly, do nothing. good bargaining point, if vehicle not rusted and oil was changed regularly. replace gasket when it starts LEAKING oil.

That doesn’t look like a slow seep. The last still picture of the pulley. Whatever is behind it looks to be soaked with oil. Not even somewhat dried from road dust, looks fresh. Like you’d sometimes see with a very slow valve cover gasket leak that doesn’t look slow. Hard to tell obviously without really looking at it