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The average price to replace a water pump at a dealership is around $900, according to Cox Automotive data. A water pump may only cost $200 to $400, but plus fees and other charges it can range from $400 to $800, depending on the vehicle.

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The average cost for water pump replacement at a dealer’s service center is about $900, according to data from Cox Automotive, parent of Kelley Blue Book. Costs vary by vehicle and your region. Parts can run from $200 to $400, and labor expenses make up two-thirds of the total replacement cost.  These estimates do not include taxes or shop materials and disposal fees. Kelley Blue Book’s Service & Repair Guide will estimate water pump replacement pricing for your specific car, plus show you nearby choices for a local auto shop if you’re ready to make an appointment.

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Kelley Blue Book® Values and pricing are based in part on transactions in your area. Your ZIP code also helps us find local deals and highlight other available offers.

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Kelley Blue Book® Values and pricing are based in part on transactions in your area. Your ZIP code also helps us find local deals and highlight other available offers.

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Water PumpRemoval Tool

The primary purpose of your car’s water pump is to continually circulate coolant from the radiator to the vehicle’s engine block to prevent overheating. Located at the front of the engine, the water pump is a vital part of an automobile’s cooling system.

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In most cars, the engine’s timing belt operates the water pump to create the centrifugal force that pushes coolant through the cooling system. However, some engine designs have pumps receiving energy from the vehicle’s electrical system. For example, Toyota and Lexus Hybrid models, some Audi, Bentley, and Volkswagen models, and several cars from BMW use that type of water pump setup.

It’s unusual for water pumps to stop working without first showing some symptoms in advance. These clues may signal that your water pump is failing.

A water pump should last 100,000 miles or longer on a new car. Older models might need a replacement between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.

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Replacing a car water pump could be a simple or difficult job, depending on the vehicle and the water pump’s location. It’s a job usually best left for professional mechanics. The water pump may be hidden under other components and may require special tools depending on the vehicle’s design. It’s a repair that can take two to three hours.

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Modern water pumps are much more robust than those used in older or classic cars. The water pump on a new vehicle can last 100,000 miles or more. The expected service life of water pumps for older models is 60,000-100,000 miles. Despite the lengthy expected life, pumps can fail prematurely. Typically, a bearing on the pump may go bad, or the pump can develop a leak, which might cause serious damage to the engine gasket, cylinder head, and other parts if not attended to.

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Severe engine damage can happen if your car’s water pump isn’t working correctly. The engine’s coolant can’t serve its purpose without this component, which can leave you stranded with an overheated vehicle.