I have a 2004 Toyota Camry SE with a 3.3l V6. Right before the lockdowns, I had the valve cover gaskets replaced due to one leaking. That same valve cover is leaking again in the same spot. Should I try to retorque it and, if so, what would be the torque spec, or replace it again? I did not replace it the first time but took it to a mechanic but can't find a mechanic I trust.
Should I try to retorque it and, if so, what would be the torque spec,
"not too tight"
check them. Maybe the guy forgot to put a wrench on the bolts at all, and they're just spinning around.
snug them up bit by bit until leaks stops.
Exactly, they have a pretty low torque spec. Outer bolts on mine were like 96 In Lbs, and inners were like 80.
If you have some basic knowledge, you could replace it yourself. It likely isn't that hard, though I have never tried to do it on that V6.
Usually only takes an hour or two.
I had the valve cover gaskets replaced
when?
I believe right before the pandemic. Don't really remember when right off hand. Shouldn't have 50k miles on it since the change.
It should last longer than that. So he either didn't change it or didn't install it properly.
I was wondering as well if he maybe didn't even do it.
Possibly. I paid them to change the transmission fluid. Started shifting funny. It was low and the fluid brown. Shook when braking, said it was normal but had a warped rotar. Shook when accelerating, said it was nothing. CV axle came out in multiple pieces. This shop has taken care of my family for 3 generations. For some reason, they screw me over.