Seeping Timing Chain Cover, Oil Pan Gasket, and Front Main Seal - Repair Advice

[Bolderboulder]

‘05 SR5 2WD with 186,000 miles -
The past couple of times having the tires rotated, the tech has pointed out leaking/seeping from the front main seal, oil pan, and timing chain cover. He wasn’t certain if there were leaks from each of those places or just one or two with dripping to other areas. I have looked at it and can see some fluid, but there is no steady, constant leak. I can only see where some kind of fluid has seeped out and gotten on some other areas. There has never been a single drop of any fluid wherever I have parked the truck.
I plan on keeping this fantastic truck forever. It runs perfectly and, other than the clear coat failing on several areas, it is in perfect condition.
The dealership where I have the tires rotated quoted almost $4700. I’m not touching that.
My question: should I have another garage check it out and, if confirmed, have the repair done? I don’t have the money to have this done, but if a very slow seep over a few years means the truck my brick, I would have to find money somewhere. I can’t imagine a private shop would charge as much as the stealership.
This forum has always been a big help, so your advice it greatly appreciated.

 

[Hungryhawk]

I used Mobile one full synthetic "High Mileage" engine oil. I think the label says"for vehicles over 75,000 miles". Seems additives are put in the oil to soften seals and control leaks.
My 2004 Pilot developed a main seal leak. Big $$$ for access to replace seal.
The High Mileage oil worked for at least 80,000 miles. Then leak started again. So in addition to High Mileage oil I added one bottle of AT-205 re-seal for 1 treatment. Leak stopped again then after about another 40,000 miles leak started again. So I added another "main Seal" leak (forget brand) additive 1 time and it lasted till I sold the Pilot.

 

[AuSeeker]

‘05 SR5 2WD with 186,000 miles -
The past couple of times having the tires rotated, the tech has pointed out leaking/seeping from the front main seal, oil pan, and timing chain cover. He wasn’t certain if there were leaks from each of those places or just one or two with dripping to other areas. I have looked at it and can see some fluid, but there is no steady, constant leak. I can only see where some kind of fluid has seeped out and gotten on some other areas. There has never been a single drop of any fluid wherever I have parked the truck.
I plan on keeping this fantastic truck forever. It runs perfectly and, other than the clear coat failing on several areas, it is in perfect condition.
The dealership where I have the tires rotated quoted almost $4700. I’m not touching that.
My question: should I have another garage check it out and, if confirmed, have the repair done? I don’t have the money to have this done, but if a very slow seep over a few years means the truck my brick, I would have to find money somewhere. I can’t imagine a private shop would charge as much as the stealership.
This forum has always been a big help, so your advice it greatly appreciated.

Not that it's makes much difference but you didn't say what engine you have, the V6 or the V8?

If you aren't noticing any oil on the ground where you park all the time and not having to add oil on a regular basis I would just drive as is, you could also add some of the gasket softeners as mentioned which may help somewhat, as long as you keep the proper oil level it will not hurt the engine.