Hi Scotty greetings from Houston. I have an oil leak problem on my 2012 Toyota Highlander 4 Cyl, automatic, 125k miles. Comes from the oil drain hole, thread is worn and the bolt doesn't close tight enough. I've seen from one of your videos you recommend to use a bigger drain bolt that cuts new threads in the oil pan.
Is there any risk of tiny metal pieces from the bolt cutting in that could go around inside the engine and damage something else ? Thank you
Not likely, as long as you pull the plug out again, and carefully clean it off, including the edge of the pan immediately adjacent to the freshly cut edge. I'd even possibly consider putting a small magnet in the bottom, but I think the filter would easily take care of a few flecks.
Very useful thank you
If you do that route, there are drain pan bolts sold that have magnetic tip.
Thank you. I believe the oil pan is made of aluminum, though, but just in case it's a good idea to go with magnet too.
Very likely it's a problem from the dealership. Some mechanics there go crazy fast too often and it isn't any secret for an oil change they use impact driver for the drain plug and bad too for the oil filter housing made of plastic. Then any of these "amateurs certified by Toyota" will tell you your car is losing oil bla bla bla, the maintenance plan may have expired and anytime a salesperson comes to entangle youto buy a new car. At the time I bought the Highlander used at the dealership I was being pushed a lot to buy about everything, service contract, extended warranty, transmission protection (not included with the warranty!?, or pay double for the same). Better to do myself oil changes or find a good and honest mechanic elsewhere.