How to Fix a Water Pump in a Vehicle

Last Updated: July 11, 2022 References

Fixing a water pump refers to the process of replacing an essential part of your vehicle's cooling system. It is one of the least complicated procedures to carry out, as far as auto repairs go, so almost anyone who can operate a wrench can do this on their own. Follow these steps for how to fix a water pump.

Steps

1
Confirm that the water pump is nonoperational by examining the functionality of the bearings by manually jostling the fan blade.^{[1]
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- This applies to fan operated cooling systems. The fan bearing should remain firmly seated if it is not in need of repair.
2
Jiggle the pulley that operates the pump in the case of a motorized fan.
- The shaft should remain tight if it is working properly.
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3
Inspect the pump casing for splotches, caused by an inordinate amount of fluid leakage, which would indicate a faulty seal.
- A few drops of water should sweat from the vent hole over a long period of time, but a ruined seal will cause excessive overflow.
4
Detach the negative battery line once the faulty water pump has been verified.^{[2]
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5
Remove the radiator cap and empty the radiator by disengaging the valve under the front passenger's side.
6
Remove the fan belt, if one is present.
7
Detach the radiator hoses.
8
Unbolt the fan shroud, found on the water pump's shaft.
9
Remove the fan shroud.^{[3]
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10
Remove the bolts from the fan and dislodge it.
11
Disengage the bolts from the drive pulley and remove it.
12
Dislodge the bolts from the dysfunctional water pump and remove it.
13
Scrape any dirt and debris away from the area surrounding the gaskets.^{[4]
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14
Apply industrial cleaning solution to the area and clean it thoroughly.
15
Follow the water pump manufacturer's instructions regarding sealant for the gaskets.
16
Apply gasket sealant, if directed.^{[5]
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17
Install the replacement gaskets.^{[6]
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18
Position the replacement water pump and secure the bolts.^{[7]
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19
Reinstall the drive pulley.
20
Position the fan and the shroud and reinstall the bolts.
21
Reattach the radiator hoses.
22
Reinstall the fan belt, referring to the manufacturer's belt routing diagram.^{[8]
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23
Confirm that the radiator valve is closed and refill the radiator.
24
Seal the radiator cap.
25
Reconnect the negative battery cable.
26
Start the car and verify that there are no irregular noises or leaks.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I know if my engine block got cracked?

Community Answer

Open the radiator cap and stick your finger in it when the engine is cold. If there is oil on your finger, this is one sign of a cracked block. Your engine will lose compression and overheat, this is another sign. Your vehicle might also lose or burn a lot of oil.
Question

How do I find the water pump on my car?

Community Answer

Open the hood, follow the belt, and it should be underneath the main fan right behind the radiator.
Question

How important is a temperature sensor?

Community Answer

Very important, because without it the cooling fan cannot start at the right time, and also the car's main computer needs to know it for the right fuel air mixture.