Rapid Oil Leak

[PLP]

I have my car sitting idle for couple of days and today I’ve noticed a rapid oil
leak at the front where the radiator is but I don’t think it’s a radiator as
when I touch the steering wheel it makes a lot of screechy noises as if the
steering wasn’t working. On board computer on the other hand shows all in good
order. I don’t think I can drive this car anywhere now...

Do you guys think it’s the transmission...?

[gbhrps]

Darius,

You haven't given us much to go on, in order to nail down a fix.

From your post it is obvious that you know very little about car mechanics, and there is nothing wrong about that. I know nothing about brain surgery, so we're even.

Your problem sounds like it may be steering pump related, but then again could be anything under the hood. You've spotted an issue early, and that's the best way.

The best advice I can give you is to get the car to a good independent mechanic whom you trust and let them evaluate the problem. There is no need to go to Lexus, unless you want to, as any good mechanic can solve your issue. It'll also cost less that way as well.

Before you drive very far, check the fluid level in the power steering pump, and if its low top it up before you drive the car too far. Do the same for the transmission and the engine oil. Check your owner's manual for those procedures. That will ensure you do no more damage on the way to get the issue fixed. Good Luck, and keep us posted as to how it all works out!

[PLP]

Thanks Gene,

well I’m not a mechanic that’s for sure at the same time not completely

green when comes to cars. Is just I was in a hurry and had no chance to inspect
it in any detail. Spotted a fresh puddle of oil and heard steer noises and than
had to take off leaving my car behind. Now after a second inspection I’m pretty
sure it’s the power steering. That’s where it drips from. In fact the whole
front underneath is covered with fresh grease which indicates it’s been going on
for a while without me noticing it. Most obvious clue is oil level in a power
steering bin sits below minimum....

[KBRX330]

I would check the power steering fluid reservoir and refill before you take it anywhere. You don't want to run it dry. Any Toyota dealer should be able to repair it. It takes Dexron ATF in the reservoir.

[PLP]

So thank you guys for your interest and advise. As expected, power steering
was the leaking offender.... I got away lucky this time because the only damage
done was to power line. In fact I even splash for the original Lexus parts due
to it’s low cost.

My plan for the day was, if either power line or pump

were damaged I would go with Lexus replacements, if steering rack seals leaked I
would have to look for after market parts. BTW I did my fixing at Toyota
dealership.

I’ll be back soon with another small problem. I don’t know, think the first
owner wasn’t very kind to his car.... there seems to be number of minor issues
deriving from lack of proper maintenance and rough handling....

[KBRX330]

Look here to find any of your part numbers and then you can buy factory parts on line at reasonable discounts from discount dealers. I have all of my Toyota/Lexus vehicles in my account. I just did a brake reline on my wifes ES350 with factory pads for $78 for all 4 wheels. That site will show you what parts are in your specific vehicle based on the VIN number,

http://www.toyodiy.com/

[PLP]

Thanks K, I did signed up.

My next headache is broken door handle. Driver side on the outside. ToyoDIY
and Toyota dealership quote the same price for the handle, which is over $270.
Bit pricy. First I’m going to look around for other sources and see what’s
available...