Water Pump
The water pump circulates coolant through your engine to keep it from overheating. If you spot coolant leaking near the front of the engine, hear a whining or grinding noise, or your temperature gauge keeps climbing, the pump is likely failing and should be replaced before it leaves you stranded.
Find a TechnicianCommon causes
- Worn or seized internal bearing causing noise and play in the pulley
- Failed shaft seal allowing coolant to weep from the weep hole
- Corroded or eroded impeller that no longer moves coolant effectively
- Old coolant that has become acidic and attacked the pump internals
- A failing pump driven or strained by a worn timing belt or drive belt
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep driving with a leaking water pump?
Not for long. A leaking pump means you're losing coolant, and if it runs low your engine can overheat and suffer serious damage. It's best to have it replaced as soon as you notice the leak or any temperature warning.
Should the timing belt be replaced at the same time?
On many engines the water pump is driven by the timing belt, so it makes sense to replace both together. You're already paying for most of the labor, so doing them at once saves money and avoids a second job later.
How long does a water pump replacement take?
It usually takes a few hours, depending on how easy the pump is to reach. Engines where the pump sits behind the timing cover take longer than those with an easily accessible pump.
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