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Water Pump Replacement Repair

Sometimes refered to as Water Pump, Replace Water Pump, Water Pump Replace, Rebuild Water Pump, Water Pump Rebuild, Coolant Pump, Coolant Pump Replacement, Replace Coolant Pump

The water pump pushes coolant through a vehicle's cooling system. The water pump is operated by a fan belt at the front of the engine or by the timing belt.

A failing water pump may start to leak coolant and/or make a rumbling sound as the water pump's bearings start to deteriorate.

To replace the water pump, the cooling system is drained and the fan belt or timing belt and pulleys are removed.

If the water pump is operated by a fan belt, the hose going from the water pump to the radiator is removed, as are the bolts securing the water pump to the engine. The water pump is removed from the engine, and the engine surfaces are cleaned. A new water pump and gasket are installed, and the cooling system is refilled with fresh coolant.

If the water pump is operated by the timing belt, the timing belt covers, timing belt, and all related components are disassembled. The hardware securing the water pump to the engine is removed, and the water pump is removed from the engine. The surfaces are cleaned and a new water pump and gasket are installed. All timing belt–related components, fan belts, and pulleys are reinstalled, and the cooling system is refilled with fresh coolant.

About this Repair: Water Pump Replacement

Recommendations
  • When replacing the timing belt, we recommend replacing the water pump if it is driven by the timing belt. Doing so will reduce labor cost and optimize engine performance.

  • You may want to consider replacing drive belts along with the water pump if they have not been recently replaced.

  • The entire cooling system and all coolant-carrying hoses should be inspected when replacing the water pump.

Why this happens
  • Water pumps require replacement if they begin to leak coolant. Leaking water pumps may result in damage to the drive belts and the timing belt.

  • A failed water pump is often due to problems in the cooling system, such as a failing thermostat, radiator, seals, or even head gaskets.