Help me identify what's leaking on the front of my intake manifold (1 Viewer)

[yeos]

This has been an ongoing thing that I've noticed since buying my 2007 GX470 five years ago. This soot builds up at the front of the intake manifold on both sides. I have already replaced the PCV valve and hose on the driver side with brand new OEM parts. I'll clean up the soot and then a month or two later it'll build up again in the same area. I'm guessing that it's the intake manifold gasket itself. What do you think?

 

[JAGI410]

That's nothing to be concerned about, I think most modern engines get that over time, especially on ~20 year old SUVs that see dust and dirt.

 

[yeos]

It is more than just dust & dirt. There is a bit of an oily consistency in it, though not much. It hasn't bothered me much in 5 years, but I figure I'd ask anyway.