Toyota Repair: crankshaft leak, toyota camry, rear seal

Question
I have a 97 Toyota Camry and I have to fill up the oil approx. every two week.  I have been told that the oil leak problem is with the crankshaft and that the whole engine has to be taken apart in order to repair and that it will cost a lot of money.  Is there something else that can be done?
Thank you,
Anita


Answer
Hi there,

Your engine does not need to be completely taken apart to replace crankshaft seals. If the rear main seal is leaking, the engine and transmission has to be separated in order to access it. There is a lot of labor involved with the rear seal. If your front seal is leaking, there is less labor involved to access the front. If it is the front and the leak is not that bad, you can wait to repair it the next time you have your timing belt replaced. If your leak is as bad as you say, you will want to fix it ASAP.