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How to Replace a Water Pump

for all vehicles ( View guide for your vehicle )
Parts needed: Suggest Parts
Water Pump Gasket Water Pump
Tools needed: Suggest Tools
Socket and Ratchet Set Screwdriver
(Show)
Estimated Costs:

DIY Costs
Est. $101.35 parts only
Shop Costs
Est. $348.37 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

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1
 
With the engine off and cold, o pen the hood and locate the vehicle’s radiator and water pump. edit step - submit photo
2
 
Remove the radiator cap. edit step - submit photo
3
 
Install a pressure tester on the radiator. Apply the pressure indicated on the radiator cap or in the owner’s manual. edit step - submit photo
Pressure testing radiator
4
 
Inspect the water pump for leaks. Remove the pressure tester. edit step - submit photo
5
 
Place a drain pan under the radiator. Open the drain valve or remove the lower radiator hose to drain the cooling system. edit step - submit photo
6
 
Remove the drive belts or serpentine belt. edit step - submit photo
7
 
Remove any hoses connected to the water pump. edit step - submit photo
8
 
Unbolt the water pump from the engine. Remove the water pump. edit step - submit photo
Water pump mounting bolts
9
 
Using a gasket scraper, clean the mounting surface on the engine block. edit step - submit photo
10
 
Install a new gasket and attach the new water pump to the engine with the original mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. edit step - submit photo
11
 
Re-install any hoses and belts that were removed. edit step - submit photo
12
 
Re-install the drain plug or lower radiator hose. edit step - submit photo
Lower radiator hose
13
 
Refill the radiator with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Pressure test the cooling system and check for leaks. edit step - submit photo
Radiator fluid filled
14
 
Check and fill the overflow reservoir with coolant. edit step - submit photo
15
 
Leave the radiator cap off and start the engine. Idle the engine to remove trapped air from the cooling system. Add coolant if necessary.  edit step - submit photo
16
 
Install the radiator cap. edit step - submit photo
17
 
Road test the vehicle and monitor the temperature gauge. If the vehicle runs hot, there may be an air pocket in the cooling system. Allow the engine to cool off and add the necessary coolant. edit step - submit photo
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