Water Pumps

How to Replace a Water Pump

The water pump is responsible for keeping the engine cool as it runs. It pumps coolant throughout the vehicle's cooling system to keep things at the right temperature. If you notice that the engine's temperature keeps on rising, the water pump might be shot. Usually, the pump's pulley bearing is broken or the pump's gasket is already leaking fluid. Save yourself time and money by replacing it on your own. We have prepared the tips, steps and tools needed to help you finish this project in no time.

Thing that You'll Need:

• Owner's manual
• Ratchet set with a universal joint
• A set of screwdrivers
• Gasket scraper
• Wire brush
• Gasket sealer
• Replacement hose clamps
• Replacement water pump and hoses

Safety Tips:

• Dispose of your vehicle's coolant and anti-freeze properly.
• Make sure that you're working on a solid, level surface.
• Since you'll be working on your vehicle's engine, let it cool first.
• Work in a well-ventilated area and keep a first aid kit handy.
• Check your replacement parts and make sure that they are compatible to your vehicle's make and model.
• Always wear recommended safety equipment like closed-toe shoes, an industrial-grade dusk mask, safety goggles and gloves.

Step 1: Put Locate your car's battery and disconnect the ground wire to avoid electric shock.

Step 2: Put a drain pan underneath your engine and drain all the liquid from the cooling system.

Step 3: Loosen the alternator's mounting brackets to remove the engine's drive belts. Unfasten and lift them with your socket wrench set.

Step 4: You may need to remove the engine's pulley, fan and fan shroud to access the water pump.

Step 5: Loosen the screws and bolts holding the water pump in place. Remove all the hoses connected to the water pump before lifting it from the engine bay.

Step 6: Inspect the area where the water pump was installed and clean the area if necessary. Replace any damaged or broken gaskets.

Step 7: Install the new water pump and make sure to apply the right amount of torque to securely fasten it. Consult your vehicle's service manual for its torque specifications.

Step 8: Reconnect all the hoses into the new water pump.

Step 9: Fasten all of the engine's drive belts and secure the alternator's mounting brackets. Make sure that the belts are following your car's correct tension specs.

Step 10: Refill your car's cooling system and check all the hoses for any leaks.

Step 11: Reconnect the battery's ground wire and start the engine. Make a visual inspection to make sure that everything is working.

Step 13: Water pump installation will take about an hour for an expert DIYer and around two hours for a beginner. Allow plenty of time for this project and have fun working on it.