Sump Gasket

[Mr Z]

I need a little old fashioned, good, honest advice. I have a 2003 3.0 E85 that has suffered from a minor oil leak for quite a while now. It has been identified as a leaking sump gasket (my indy says he can see where the oil is escaping from). Ive put up with this issue until now and have decided its time to get it sorted. My indy has told me its a BIG job and involves "possibly dropping the sub frame and steering rack". I have no reason to doubt what he is suggesting but I was wondering if anyone had a rough idea of this may / should cost me to rectify & please dont tell me its a diy job as my knowledge & skills are zero

 

[mjennings23]

First step is make sure it's not the oil.filter housing gasket, it leaks right above the sump gasket so can be mistaken. It also happens to be a much easier job to change!

The oil pan gasket is a pain, as you have to support the engine from above and lower the subframe to get it off, I wouldn't be shocked for a garage to charge 5 hours labour at the minimum.