Service, Repairs & MOT

Water pump repair

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  • 12-months parts guarantee
  • Honest pricing
  • Exceptional customer service

Why choose the RAC for a water pump repair?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running. We'll give you results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Book a water pump repair

The water pump helps circulate coolant through your engine, preventing overheating. If your water pump is leaking, making noise, or has failed, a water pump repair can help.

Any work done will meet the high standards set by the RAC.
We’re friendly, straightforward and jargon-free

Book a diagnostic

A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors

Introduction

A car's water pump works as part of the engine cooling system, making sure that the engine remains at a safe operating temperature. It circulates coolant through the engine, preventing it from overheating. A faulty water pump can lead to serious engine damage, so it's essential to recognize the symptoms of a failing pump. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about water pump replacement, including common issues, symptoms, costs, and frequently asked questions.

What is a car water pump?

A car water pump circulates coolant from the radiator to the engine and back. It plays a vital role in keeping the engine's temperature consistent by pumping a continuous flow of coolant through the engine's cooling system. The water pump is usually driven by the engine's crankshaft via a belt. It features impeller blades which are used to increase the pressure and flow of the coolant.

Common issues with water pumps

There are several issues which can affect a water pump’s performance and efficiency. Some of the most common problems include:

  • Coolant leaks: A leaking water pump can cause a loss of coolant, leading to engine overheating. Leaks often occur at the pump's seals or gaskets.
  • Worn-out seals: Seals and gaskets can wear out over time, causing coolant to leak and reducing the pump's effectiveness.
  • Corrosion: The internal components of the water pump can corrode due to coolant contamination.
  • Noisy operation: Failing water pumps sometimes produce a high-pitched whining noise, often caused by a loose or damaged belt.
  • Bearing failure: The bearings that support the water pump's impeller can wear out, leading to noisy operation and eventual pump failure.

Signs your water pump needs replacing

Recognising the symptoms of a failing water pump can help prevent severe engine damage. Some of the common signs indicating an issue include:

  • Coolant leaks: Puddles of coolant under your car can indicate a leaking water pump. Coolant is typically a bright green, orange, or pink fluid.
  • Overheating engine: If your engine frequently overheats, it could be due to a failing water pump.
  • Whining noise: A high-pitched noise from the front of the engine could signal a loose or failing water pump belt.
  • Steam from the radiator: Steam coming from your radiator or engine bay can be a sign of an overheating engine, possibly due to a faulty water pump.
  • Low coolant levels: Consistently low coolant levels despite regular top-ups can indicate a leak in the water pump.

Water pump replacement cost

The cost of replacing a water pump can vary widely depending on the make and model of the vehicle, where you have it repaired, and whether any additional parts need to be replaced.

Factors influencing the cost include:

  • Vehicle make and model: Some vehicles require more labour to access and replace the water pump.
  • Labour rates: Labour costs can vary depending on the location and the mechanic's expertise.
  • Additional parts: In some cases, other components such as the timing belt or thermostat may need to be replaced along with the water pump.

Making sure your water pump is in good working order is essential for maintaining your engine's performance and preventing overheating. Regular checks and timely replacements will save you from costly repairs down the line. Always consult with a professional mechanic to determine the best course of action for your vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions on water pump

The cost of a car water pump varies due to the cost of the pump itself, and labour involved for installation. We recommend getting a few quotes from different suppliers to better understand the cost you might expect to pay.

If your water pump isn’t working correctly, try not to drive your vehicle until it is fixed. A failing water pump can lead to engine overheating, which can cause severe damage. If you suspect your water pump is failing, it’s best to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

Symptoms of a bad water pump include coolant leaks, an overheating engine, a whining noise from the front of the engine, steam from the radiator, and consistently low coolant levels. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your water pump checked by a professional.

If a car water pump fails, it can lead to your engine overheating. This can cause significant damage to your engine, resulting in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. It’s important to address any issues with your water pump as soon as you’re aware of them to avoid serious damage to your vehicle.

Water pumps typically last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. However, it's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific vehicle. Regular maintenance checks can help identify potential issues early.

The timing belt often needs to be removed to access the water pump, and replacing both at the same time can save on labour costs and prevent future issues. While not strictly necessary, it is a cost-effective way of keeping your car in good condition.

Replacing a water pump can take between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. More complex vehicles may take longer.

Replacing a water pump can be challenging, especially for those without mechanical experience. We recommend you employ a professional mechanic to perform the replacement and make sure it’s done correctly and safely.

Whether your water pump is covered under warranty depends on the terms and conditions. It’s best to check with your vehicle's manufacturer or warranty provider for details.

Yes, a bad water pump can affect your car's heating system. The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine and heater core. If the pump fails, it can mean that not enough coolant flows through the engine, causing the heating system to function improperly.

It’s important to use the coolant type recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. Using the right coolant helps to make sure optimal performance and longevity of the water pump and cooling system. Always check your vehicle's owner manual for the recommended coolant type.

Several factors can cause a water pump to fail. They are mostly caused by poor maintenance or improper use, including:

  • Using incorrect coolant
  • Contaminated coolant with debris
  • Poor-quality water pump materials
  • Improper installation
  • Ignoring regular maintenance and coolant changes

Signs of a failing water pump bearing include:

  • A whining or grinding noise from the front of the engine
  • Visible wear on the water pump pulley
  • Belt tension or looseness