How Long Does a Water Pump Last?

How Long Should An Automotive Water Pump Last?

You should recommend a top-quality replacement water pump if a customer's old water pump has called it quits.

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. Several factors can shorten the life of any water pump. These include internal corrosion in the cooling system (old neglected coolant that is worn out and should have been changed), as well as cavitation wear (which can be a problem with some water pumps that have plastic impellers). The pump shaft is supported by bearings, and there is usually a ceramic seal around the shaft. Antifreeze contains lubricants for the shaft bearing, as well as corrosion inhibitors to prevent internal rust and corrosion.

But these additives eventually wear out over time. If the coolant is worn out or dirty, it will shorten the life of the water pump’s bearings and seals, as well as other cooling system components. A water pump with bad bearings may make noise and/or wobble as it turns. There should be no play or movement in the pump shaft if the pump pulley is wiggled sideways by hand when the engine is off. Coolant leaking out of the vent hole on the housing means the shaft seal has failed and the pump needs to be replaced. If an engine has been overheating, but the coolant level is full and there are no signs of coolant leaks externally or internally (such as a bad head gasket), the problem may be the water pump impeller.

Steel impellers can rust or even separate from the shaft. Plastic impellers can erode and wear down, reducing the pump’s ability to circulate coolant. Either way, a pump that isn’t pumping very well needs to be replaced. Other items a customer may need when changing a water pump include gaskets, coolant, a thermostat (recommended if the engine has overheated), and a new OHC timing belt or serpentine belt if the engine has a lot of miles on it and the water pump is driven by the timing belt or serpentine belt. All the hoses in the cooling system also should be inspected and replaced if more than 10 years old.

You May Also Like

Jacki Lutz Named Content Director at Auto Care Association

Lutz will be tasked with leading a cross-functional and multimedia content strategy, development and execution across all platforms.

Jacki Lutz Auto Care

The Auto Care Association recently announced the addition of Jacki Lutz as director of content to its communications team.

As the director of content, Lutz will be tasked with leading a cross-functional and multimedia content strategy, development and execution across all platforms. Lutz also will be responsible for shaping and driving content initiatives to meet the association’s business objectives; enhancing brand presence; and engaging with current and prospective members.

Assault on Batteries

Even EV batteries aren’t immune to the effects of extreme winter weather.

EV Batteries
Why Do Spark Plugs Get Dirty?

Being able to answer this question can help prevent them from failing prematurely.

Spark Plugs
All Aboard the CAN Bus

With the proliferation of computer electronics, there were just too many sensors and wires.

CAN Bus
The Evolution of Automotive Fuel Systems

The frequency of changes has increased in recent decades.

Fuel Systems

Other Posts

Auto Care Association Certified as a Great Place to Work

“This prestigious award is a testament to the association’s commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive and dynamic work environment for its employees,” Auto Care said.

HD Repair Shops Report Increases in Counter Sales, Labor Rates

The data comes from a Fullbay report published in partnership with ATA’s Technology and Maintenance Council.

Heavy Duty Repair
Applications Open for Federated Car Care Scholarships

Interested students should complete and submit their applications at AutomotiveScholarships.com by March 31.

BendPak Names Expert Automotive Primary Distributor in Las Vegas Valley

Under the agreement, Expert Automotive Equipment will offer and support equipment sold under the BendPak, Ranger, Cool Boss and Autostacker brands.

Expert Automotive