Easy lifehacks

How long does a water pump take?

How long does a water pump take?

The service life of most original equipment water pumps should be 100,000 miles or longer. Some cheap replacement water pumps, however, may not last 30,000 miles before they start to leak. That’s why you should recommend a top-quality replacement water pump if a customer’s old water pump has called it quits.

Should I replace the water pump at the same time as the timing belt?

If that is the case, then it is advisable to replace the water pump & auxiliary drive belt at the same time as the timing belt while the mechanic has access to all the parts. Once the timing belt is removed, it is only a matter of loosening a few more bolts and screws to change the water pump as well.

What happens when the water pump is on?

When the water pump is on with the timing belt (or geared to crankshaft as is occasionally the case), if the water pump seizes and tosses the belt, the engine will shutdown. Inconvenient, but rarely dangerous, and saves a very expensive repair.

Why is it important to keep water pump in Tip Top condition?

Making sure the water pump is in tip-top condition is key to avoid overheating of the engine, and avoid potentially expensive repairs. Even the slightest leak in or around the water pump can reduce the ability of the engine to keep itself cool.

Why is water pump stuck out of engine bay?

If you ran it out to a fan belt, it would be in the way of the timing belt while doing it, or it would be a really awkward mess trying to work around it. The second reason is for compactness. With the water pump stuck out of the way, it physically makes the engine shorter, which means it will fit in the hole which is the engine bay a little easier.

If that is the case, then it is advisable to replace the water pump & auxiliary drive belt at the same time as the timing belt while the mechanic has access to all the parts. Once the timing belt is removed, it is only a matter of loosening a few more bolts and screws to change the water pump as well.

When the water pump is on with the timing belt (or geared to crankshaft as is occasionally the case), if the water pump seizes and tosses the belt, the engine will shutdown. Inconvenient, but rarely dangerous, and saves a very expensive repair.

How can I check if my water pump is working?

Check the water pump shaft and pulley for signs of damage or movement. On vehicle models where a serpentine, drive or timing belt runs the water pump, you may need to remove the belt to manually check the water pump pulley. Wiggle your pump pulley with your hand. If you notice damage or movement, replace the water pump. Rotate the pulley by hand.

When to go to the mechanic for a bad water pump?

If you have a puddle of water or coolant below the front end of your car, you are probably looking at water pump failure, and so you need to go to a mechanic.

Author Image
Ruth Doyle