Toyota V6 Oil Line Leak VVT-i Hose & Oil Cooler Pipe

By the Radman Auto Repair team, independent auto repair in Etobicoke since 1999 · Updated November 2026

Toyota’s 3.5-litre V6 (2GR-FE) in many Camry, RAV4, Highlander, Sienna and Avalon models used an oil line with a rubber section that can split. If it bursts, the engine can lose its oil in seconds. Toyota replaced it with an all-metal line under a service campaign.

Symptoms

What Causes It

Before You Start

• Park on level ground, set the parking brake and chock the wheels. Never work under a car held up only by a jack: use rated jack stands.
• Let the engine and exhaust cool before you touch them; coolant systems are under pressure when hot.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves, and disconnect the 12V battery before unplugging electrical parts or working near airbags.
• Check for open recalls on your VIN (Transport Canada or the manufacturer’s site) before you buy parts: a recall repair is free at the dealer.
• If the oil pressure light comes on, stop the engine immediately: running without oil destroys it in seconds.

Step-by-Step: Toyota V6 Oil Line Leak

1. Check your VIN. Ask a Toyota dealer whether the campaign was done and whether a newer action covers your vehicle.
2. Find the line. The VVT-i oil line runs along the back of the engine between the block and the cylinder heads.
3. Look for rubber. A section of rubber hose with crimped ends means the original line; all-metal means it was updated.
4. Check for leaks. Look for wet oil around the line and the oil cooler pipes.
5. Replace the line. Remove the banjo bolts and brackets, fit the all-metal line with new crush washers and torque to spec.
6. Top up the oil. Top up to the full mark.
7. Check for leaks. Run the engine and check every joint for leaks.

When to Stop and Bring It In

• The oil pressure light came on: don’t restart the engine; have it towed.
• The line is hard to reach on your model.
• The leak is from the oil cooler pipes or timing cover.
• You want the campaign done free at the dealer.

Not sure, or out of time? Radman Auto Repair in Etobicoke does this repair every week. Book online or call (416) 742-4521.

Also Known As

Searched as “Toyota oil line rubber hose”, “2GR-FE oil line”, “Camry V6 oil leak”, “RAV4 V6 oil hose”, “Sienna oil cooler line leak”, “Highlander oil cooler pipe” and “Toyota VVT-i oil line campaign”.

Frequently Asked Questions

See also Toyota Repair & Service, Synthetic Oil Change, Lexus Repair & Service, Multi-Point Inspection.

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11:02 10 Oct 26

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20:58 31 Aug 26

I cannot say enough good things about Livio and the team at Radman Auto Repair in Rexdale. We brought in my son’s 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer because the A/C was malfunctioning. We had already been to two other shops, paid for diagnostics, and received different explanations, so we were frustrated and unsure what to do next. Livio was outstanding. He listened carefully, looked at the issue, and explained everything clearly and in detail in a way that actually made sense. He was able to narrow down what was going on within minutes, without guessing, pressure, or recommending unnecessary work. What really stood out was that he did not charge us another diagnostic fee after learning we had already paid for two separate diagnoses. Even better, the work was completed the same day, which was a huge relief. It is rare to find a mechanic who is knowledgeable, honest, patient, efficient, and genuinely focused on helping customers understand the real issue before they spend money on repairs. Livio truly gets it. We are so happy we found Radman Auto Repair and would highly recommend Livio and his team to anyone looking for trustworthy, skilled, and customer-focused service..

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04:42 10 Aug 26

My 2015 Honda CR-V was blowing hot air and making noise when the A/C was on. The Compressor and Expansion valve needed replacement due to metal debris in the system. I rarely write reviews, but I felt it would be wrong not to appreciate Radman for their service, especially after what I went through before finding them. I’m writing this one month after the repair because I wanted to test my A/C on multiple long trips before recommending them. One thing I learned from this experience is that many mechanics know how to replace parts, but very *few follow the right procedures* and perform the proper checks. I initially went for a cheaper repair at a local mechanic. The problem came back, and afterward he didn’t seem to know what to do next. I found Radman through Google reviews without any personal recommendation, so I was taking a chance. They properly diagnosed the issue, explained everything clearly before starting the work, didn’t exaggerate the problem, and charged me a reasonable price. A/C issues can be complicated but they answered all my questions and I honestly haven’t had such a good and detailed conversation with a mechanic in the GTA about an A/C problem. Their knowledge and experience with A/C systems really stood out. I also had a catalytic converter issue. Another mechanic simply recommended replacing it, which would have cost at least $2,000. Radman explained that considering the age and condition of my 2015 CR-V, such an expensive replacement might not make sense. They gave me the replacement cost but also suggested trying Cataclean first. I tried it, and so far I haven’t had any issues. After a month and several long trips, my A/C is still working well. It’s rare to find this combination of knowledge, transparency, and honesty. Thank you, Radman, for the knowledgeable and honest service. I genuinely appreciate it.

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17:17 23 Jun 26

I fix my cars myself but I always go to Radman for AC work. Been coming here for years and they do great work and are fairly priced. The guys are honest and reliable. Very clean waiting room too!

Alexa De Los Santos

18:30 26 May 26

Finding a mechanic who actually understands EVs and is completely trustworthy is hard to come by, but ⁠Radman Repair is excellent. The service was top-notch, they explained everything to me with so much patience, and the overall experience was a 10/10. 100% recommended!

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