Water pump keep or replace?

Durenol · Post by **Durenol** » 19 Oct 2020, 15:06

Belt swap on a 2007 XC70. Water pump is an original factory installed part (14 years old) but it only has 49K miles on it. Don't want to pay extra to replace a part that's not necessary, but also don't want to pay extra to go in twice if it gives up the ghost in a year. Looking for thoughts on the overall landscape of pump replacement.

How are these things designed, do they have any seals or gaskets or plastic parts that decay over time regardless of mileage? Are they one of those things that last forever? Are modern replacements cheap junk that end up being worse than an old original? Do shops commonly screw up replacements on these cars? etc. Not sure what the relative probabilities or percentages are. Keep or toss?

93SCMax · Post by **93SCMax** » 19 Oct 2020, 15:17

I believe the general consensus is replace the water pump with the 2nd timing belt change...not with the 1st timing belt change. Of course, you are quite a ways away from your 1st timing belt change.

I've got a 2001 V70 T5, original owner with 157k miles. Still on the original water pump but 1st timing belt changed at 107k miles after 11 years. No signs of leaks or noise. I only use Volvo coolant.

If it were my 2007 XC70, I would not replace the water pump now assuming you are only running Volvo coolant.

Others will chime in. Good luck.

Post by **volvolugnut** » 19 Oct 2020, 15:33

On a water pump, I would replace on the mileage, not years of service. Water pumps have seals and gaskets, but do not typically fail by time in service.
However, you should be aware, that a failed water pump can seize the belt and destroy the timing belt resulting in major engine damage.
When you do replace the pump, use original Volvo or Aisin water pump. They are good.
volvolugnut

Post by **abscate** » 19 Oct 2020, 17:24

You are up on years for timing belt, tensioner, and idler replacement but well away from time and miles on the water pump

I ran my 1999 water pump from 1999-2020 and 250k miles. The OEM Aisin pumps are really good if you change coolant every 30,000

Post by **June** » 19 Oct 2020, 21:25

I think it comes down to how long do you plan on keeping the car? As everyone above has attested these pumps last forever. My dealer tried to suggest every other belt change, but would not accept responsibility if it failed before the next belt service. So both belt services the pump was replaced on my car. A new Volvo engine is still $10,000 plus installation. A couple of hundred dollars for the peace of mind was worth it to me. Thats the real question you should be asking yourself in my opinion. After all anyone telling you yours will last forever will not be paying for the engine damage that will occur if it fails. Using only Genuine Volvo replacement parts is essential for the pump and belt kit. I have read many post on here about aftermarket parts failing way earlier than the belt change interval. I'm assuming you are changing it yourself? June

Post by **abscate** » 20 Oct 2020, 02:48

I’ll rewind this a bit

If it’s a new to you car and you don’t know the coolant change history I would change it

If you do know it and it’s favourable, I would run it

Per the other thread, while you have the pump out, it’s a good time to remove and lube the engine mount bolts , especially in wet climates

Post by **oragex** » 20 Oct 2020, 11:29

Also search on Google "volvo s60 water pump replacement"

With the old belt removed, you can also turn the water pump by hand. Should feel very smooth and with some smooth resistance to it - a new bearing has always a smooth resistance when turned. If replacing use only Aisin brand

Post by **SuperHerman** » 20 Oct 2020, 15:40

Drain coolant and examine - if coolant drains with no sediment at the end and is clean then replace the coolant and leave the water pump.

You are under 50K and you are changing belt b/c of age.

Me I would change water pump only if the coolant threw sediment, if it doesn't best bet is the coolant did its job and inhibited corrosion. In said case, change belt and coolant and be done with it.

You have 60k miles until the pulley change should be debated - lots can happen until then.

That said - you have to listen to your car and keep an eye on fluid levels. A bad water pump will make noise and/or leak 99.9% of the time before it fails. Pulleys pretty much the same.

Post by **abscate** » 20 Oct 2020, 18:01

You also have to be honest with yourself. Are you the kind who will put up your hood every weekend to look for things that aren’t tight or will you drive it like an appliance?

If the latter, replace parts on the PM model rather than waiting for failure.

Post by **abscate** » 20 Oct 2020, 18:02

You also have to be honest with yourself. Are you the kind who will put up your hood every weekend to look for things that aren’t tight or will you drive it like an appliance?

If the latter, replace parts on the PM model rather than waiting for failure.

(Written under duress from June)