Leaking Valve Cover Gaskets

[rswansbro]

My RX330 has 142,000 miles. The Lexus dealer is saying that my valve cover gaskets are starting to leak and wants $550 to correct the situation. I have some mechanical capability and am debating whether to buy the gaskets and replace myself. Is this a wise choice?

[lenore]

The front valve cover is no sweat, however the rear one is tough with the intake manifold over the top, which would probably have to be removed. has your sparks plugs been changed? If not a great time to do it. they are normally changed at around 125k miles. Is the leak bad or just residue? If just residue, let it go...if you do change the gaskets and the plugs havent been done it would be a great time to do those as well, just make sure to use original equipment denso or NGK iridium plugs...

[hotrodgirl70ss]

Just did mine (2000 rx300) Pain in the a**, but do-able. Hint-take your wipers, the linkage and the cowl off for better access.