Small oil leak ~ see photo ~ 2015 V

Discussion in 'Prius v Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Xriva, Oct 15, 2025 at 1:59 PM.

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  1. Xriva

    Xriva Junior Member

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    Considering buying 2015 Prius V with 160K miles . . . with oil accumulating in area shown in photo.
    Looks wet but not spraying nor dripping.

    any thoughts ~ wondering how this problem might age if not fixed.

    Ty,
    Kevin
     

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    #1 Xriva, Oct 15, 2025 at 1:59 PM
  2. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    Not a deal breaker, but getting it all cleaned up and knowing how much is leaking is the next step... The Toyota Stealerships make a fortune off of unsuspecting customers fixing this one even though it usually is such a minor leak it just needs monitoring, not repair.
     
    #2 PriusCamper, Oct 15, 2025 at 3:16 PM
  3. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

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    It's a common leak point which will get worse slowly coating everything on that side of the engine.

    In a few cases it can be the oil pressure switch leaking through the switch. Replacing is relatively easy from the passenger wheel well but the usual cause is the timing cover sealant to the block.

    Do not try to tighten the pressure switch or the aluminum case may crack.

    This was my leak just behind and slightly up from the oil pressure switch. It required resealing the timing chain cover.

    IMG_0268.jpeg
     
    #3 rjparker, Oct 15, 2025 at 3:19 PM
  4. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk MMX GEN III

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    I "think" that's the timing chain tensioner? Gasket leaking.

    (or the oil pressure sensor, per @rjparker)
     

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    #4 Mendel Leisk, Oct 15, 2025 at 3:20 PM
  5. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    You can tighten the bolts a quarter turn or so while you're in their cleaning without cracking anything. it might help.
     
    #5 PriusCamper, Oct 15, 2025 at 3:24 PM
  6. rjparker

    rjparker Tu Humilde Sirviente

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    Do not tighten Pressure switch.

    Since you are in Pa at least you have a good diagnostician available. Watch this video.

     
    #6 rjparker, Oct 15, 2025 at 3:25 PM
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