Even before I bought my car I read some of the info regarding the two small covers on the valve covers to get an idea as to what I might be up against. I've only had my '07 XF (51K miles) for six weeks and it has begun to leak, fairly big time (10" diameter oil slick).

I first peaked under the car with flashlight and mirror and of course the leak is at the center drain hole in the panel (built in drip pan?) beneath the engine. Meaning of course it could be leaking pretty much anywhere. After removing the upper plastic cover (1st time) it is obvious that the two smaller covers need to be 'attended to'.

However...do the cam covers themselves frequently leak? And if so, are there specific gaskets for them and easily found? And any special way to install them? (I've not gotten deeper into the original thread for the small cover oil leak situation so perhaps I should?). Also, what type of socket does one get for the cam cover bolts? I have one 3/8" Torx socket I got for installing Carrello rods and it doesn't look anything like a socket for these bolt heads.

Scary question, can I wash my engine down (not getting close to either fuse box) and live to talk about it? Nor do I want to disconnect the battery when doing so. Obviously the six coils (these are quite new to me, though am aware of them) might not be thrilled by water, but my plan would be to completely blow off all of the water and if the engine didn't start first time, blow some more perhaps along with heat.

Biba