Cooling System
Water Pump
The water pump circulates coolant between the engine and radiator to keep operating temperature under control. We list 32 water pumps from $28 to $411 for 1991-2016 vehicles, from Gates, Airtex, AC Delco, GMB and SKP, with many for the Chevrolet Camaro and others for the BMW 328i, Dodge and Ford models.
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Signs of water pump failure
Water pumps have a shaft seal and a bearing that wear with age. The most common sign is a coolant leak from the weep hole, which leaves a wet trail or crusty residue below the pump.
Other signs include a whining or grinding noise from the front of the engine, a wobbly pulley and overheating. Many modern engines, including several BMW models, use electric pumps that fail without leaking and set warning lights or overheat suddenly.
Choosing the right pump
Listings show the contents and design. Options include a pump with back housing, an auxiliary coolant pump, and pumps with gaskets and an O-ring. Impeller materials include plastic, metal and steel, and housings are usually cast aluminum.
Check the drive type. Some pumps are driven by the serpentine belt, some by the timing belt or chain, and some are electric. Match your engine size in the fitment table, and compare the inlet, outlet and pulley with your old pump.
Installation advice
Work only on a cold engine. Drain the coolant into a clean container and dispose of old coolant properly.
Clean the mounting surface, use the new gasket or O-ring and torque bolts evenly. If the pump is driven by the timing belt, replace the belt and tensioner at the same time. Refill with the specified coolant and bleed air from the system as the factory procedure describes.
Water Pump questions
How do I know if my water pump is leaking?
Look for coolant drips, wetness or dried residue below the pump, especially near the weep hole. A dropping coolant level with no other leak is another sign.
Should I replace the timing belt with the water pump?
If the timing belt drives your water pump, yes. The labor overlaps, and a failing pump can ruin a new belt. Replacing both together saves repeating the same labor later.
What is an auxiliary coolant pump?
It is an extra electric pump used on some engines to circulate coolant to the heater, turbo or engine after shutdown. It works alongside the main water pump.