Oil Leak?

[patrickd72]

Well this is sort of a vague post but here goes. A couple of days ago I noticed a small amount of what I think is oil( I licked some of the gravel it spilled on:boink under the front of my 2006 4runner. This morning the front was dry but there was a small spot towards the rear. Funny thing is that it seems to happen overnight after my car is parked for awhile. The car is running fine and it had it's 30k sevice about 2000 miles ago and everything checked out fine. I have an appointment to take it to the stealership on sunday and I am resigned to this fact, tho I would like to avoid it. Thought maybe some of you may have a couple of ideas. It appreciate any input.

Cheers,
Patrick

 

[004Gunner]

I noticed a small amount of what I think is oil( I licked some of the gravel it spilled on

Well then, I think you need to lick the other spot for a comparison. Maybe you can taste the oil dipstick and work your way to the trans and power steering? Just stay away from the antifreeze :wtf: That's a pretty hardcore approach to diagnose a leak though. Personally, I'm not that dedicated and I would shove some cardboard underneath it overnight to try and find out what it is and where it's coming from.

 

[patrickd72]

Well the first part of your post was worthless:sniper: but the cardboard is helpful.

 

[KB084RUNNER]

I park the vehicle inside and use a large piece of clean white cardboard to detect leaks. If I find one I then clean off the suspected area with brakekleen or simple green completely and dust with baby powder. The leak will show up readily.

 

[JeremyH]

Get your creeper out and slide underneat the vehicle. See if you can spot any areas of leakage. Dont rely on what is on the ground. A slow leak can be anything from a main seal to valve cover gaskets....