Need Advice on Timing Cover Gasket for 2013 Prius v

Toyota Stealerships are not your friend... If you aren't getting warranty work for free, it's equivalent to giving them bank account info so they can help themselves. You need to find a friend or family member or local mechanic who shares in your interest to keep repair costs low. We'd be happy to assist whoever you find.

As for valve cover, first step is to clean it and put cardboard under your car so you can track how much the oil loss is. Usually these leaks are good for just a few drops a day and the criminals at the Stealership think that's enough to take advantage of you, when in truth this is perfectly normal for a 13 year old car.

As for the tires... Stealerships are NOT a tire shop, they offer you no selection or reasonable pricing or free flat repair, rotation and balancing. Lastly, even the most honest tire shops will try to sell you a new set of tires before your old ones are worn out.

 

A timing chain cover leak on these engines is common and will get oil on everything over a period of time. But it is unlikely to amount to more than 12 oz over an oil change. It is enough to spot your garage floor and make other jobs messy.

By the book this is an engine out job so the dealer will charge it that way regardless if the tech does it in the car or not. The tech will probably do it in the car and still get book hours.

They may be charging standalone pricing for the needed oil and coolant changes.

Its likely they have included related parts such as a new timing chain tensioner and perhaps oil pressure switch. Always ask for detail. You don't need a chain or guides.

Most independents would charge $1200 or less and would do it in the car. It is more difficult access but saves many hours of labor. All of the parts are reusable; you are getting new form a gasket sealant, new fluids, expertise and labor.