Notice a puddle of green liquid on your garage floor and steam from the engine?
Well, it might be time for a new water pump.
Wondering how much a water pump replacement costs?
Don’t worry.
We’ll break down the costs, clue you in on the telltale signs of water pump failure, and give you the lowdown on what to expect during the replacement.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does Water Pump Replacement Cost?
- Is it Worth Replacing the Water Pump?
- 4 Signs You Need a Water Pump Replacement
- How Long Do Water Pumps Last?
- How Do You Replace a Water Pump?
How Much Does Water Pump Replacement Cost?
Here’s the installation cost of a new water pump:
A. Range
You can expect to pay between $400 to $925 for a water pump replacement.
This includes:
- Cost of new part: $200 to $400
- Labor cost: $100 to $175 per hour
B. Factors Affecting Cost
The cost of replacing a water pump depends on local labor costs and the time taken to complete the job.
Some more factors that affect your overall cost are:
- Car make and model: Some pumps can be replaced in 30 minutes. But it can take 2 to 6 hours if the pump is in hard-to-reach areas like under the exhaust manifold. Additionally, luxury car water pumps often cost far more than their budget counterparts.
- Quality of parts: High-quality water pumps, especially from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), are more expensive than the aftermarket alternatives. Refurbished parts are cheaper than new pumps but have a shorter lifespan.
- Additional components: If other parts also need replacing, it can increase the total cost. For instance, adding new coolant can cost an extra $100 to $200 or a water pump gasket can add another $5 to $30 to the overall cost.
Note: It’s also best to replace your timing belt ($400 to $1100) when changing the water pump if the belt drives the pump in your vehicle. In other cars, it may be driven by the serpentine belt. A bad belt can wear out the new pump faster.
Is it Worth Replacing the Water Pump?
Yes, absolutely.
Here’s why driving with a faulty water pump isn’t a good idea:
- Poor performance: If the engine overheats, it leads to reduced power, sluggish acceleration, and decreased fuel economy.
- Damaged engine accessories: An engine running too hot can affect related parts, such as the head gasket, cylinders, and crankshaft bearings.
- Engine breakdown: An overheating engine can lead to a breakdown and result in costly repairs, such as an engine replacement, which can range from $2000 to $10000.
4 Signs You Need a Water Pump Replacement
Here are some telltale symptoms of a water pump failure:
- A rhythmic squealing or chirping sound coming from the front of the engine block
- Green puddles on the ground caused by a coolant leak
- Steam rising from under the hood due to an overheated engine
- Noticeable rust, deposit buildup, corrosion, or small cavities on the pump
How Long Do Water Pumps Last?
Depending on the make or model of the car, water pumps have a lifespan of around 60,000 and 90,000 miles. A few factors that affect the water pump’s longevity are:
- Driving conditions: Frequent stop-and-go traffic and high-speed driving can stress out the water pump and shorten its lifespan.
- Incorrect coolant: The wrong coolant can chemically react with pump components, causing corrosion and deposits within the pump, reducing its efficiency and lifespan.
- Maintenance: Lack of regular cooling system maintenance can lead to leaks or wear that can affect the cooling pump’s pressure and flow.
How Do You Replace a Water Pump?
Water pump replacement is a complex process and requires a professional.
Here’s how a mechanic will replace a faulty water pump:
- Ensure the engine is cooled and disconnect the negative battery cable.
- Drain out the coolant from the reservoir and radiator through the drain plug.
- Remove the serpentine belt or timing belt (depending on your vehicle) and inspect it for any signs of damage.
- Detach every pulley bolt with a wrench, unbolt the old water pump, and remove the old gasket.
- Clean the mounting surface of the water pump to ensure a proper seal with the new gasket.
- Install a new water pump with the accompanying gasket.
- Reinstall or replace the serpentine or timing belt.
- Refill the cooling system with the correct coolant.
- Let the engine idle for a few minutes and ensure that the pump isn’t leaking.
Get a Water Pump Replacement with AutoNation Mobile Service
If the water pump replacement goes wrong, it can lead to more costly repairs. That’s why you need a seasoned professional to ensure it goes without a hitch.
That’s where AutoNation Mobile Service comes in.
We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance solution that operates seven days a week. We also provide services like battery replacement, transmission repair, and air conditioner maintenance.
Book an appointment, and we’ll replace the broken water pump right from your driveway.