Close up of a car dashboard showing an enginer temperature gaugeClose up of a car dashboard showing an enginer temperature gauge
Service, Repairs & MOT

Water pump repair in Barnstaple

Book a local RAC Approved Garage that you can trust.

  • 12-months parts guarantee
  • Honest pricing
  • Exceptional customer service

Why choose the RAC for a water pump repair?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running. We'll give you results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car
The temperature gauge of a car on a vehicle dashboard

Book a water pump repair

The water pump helps circulate coolant through your engine, preventing overheating. If your water pump is leaking, making noise, or has failed, a water pump repair can help.

Any work done will meet the high standards set by the RAC.
We’re friendly, straightforward and jargon-free
A mechanic inspecting the underside of a vehicle.

Book a diagnostic

A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors

And it’s not just water pump repairs that we do in Barnstaple

RAC Approved Garages offer MOTs and services. Our professional mechanics have the expertise and experience to make sure your vehicle is operating safely and efficiently – results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

A close up of an RAC mobile mechanic looking under the hood of a car

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

Precision Autos Ltd

Established in November 2022 we are a freshly set up automotive repair shop based in South Molton, North Devon. We undertake many different types of vehicle repair and have a vast array of equipment in order to accommodate most types of repair necessary to vehicles old and new! We have over 25 years of experience repairing, fault finding and modifying in all aspects, from bulb changes to engine rebuilds, rewiring to restoration, tyre puncture repair to race car preparation, from brake pad replacement to full brake upgrades. We like to offer a trustworthy and honest approach to car repair, often going beyond what is necessary to keep you safely on the road. We also like to show you and explain potential problems and what they may cause giving you choices for the cost conscious motorist. Tea and coffee is very much available, made to your liking! So whether you want a chat about a slight rattle, or to book in for the Precision treatment, we're here for you and your vehicle, on hand with a proper brew and a friendly service.
Precision Autos Ltd, Units 9 And 10 J Bucknell Way Pathfields Business Park, South Molton, EX363FU

Fast Lane Motors Ltd

Established in 1999, Fastlane Motors Ltd we have been offering our expertise in motor vehicle repairs and servicing for the past two decades. Our six highly skilled mechanics/technicians are on hand to get you back on the road in no time. We even offer a collection and delivery services for those within 10 miles of us and also offer courtesy cars so that even if your car is off the road you don't have to be. For further inquiries please get in touch, our friendly team are always happy to help.
Brandis Corner, Holsworthy, EX227YD

Highfield Garage and Recovery Ltd.

We are an established local independent garage and are proud to be members of Autofirst Network – a nationwide network of independent garages operating to the Network’s 6 core values of Capability, Consistency, Care, Clarity, Cost Effectiveness and Customer Focus. For your added peace of mind we are members of the Motor Ombudsman service which is approved by The Trading Standards Institute. In short, we are a local garage you can trust offering you the support and service guarantees of a national network, giving you complete peace of mind.
Spreyton, Crediton, EX175AF

Foxhayes Garage

Established in 1981 based in Exeter, Foxhayes garage is a family owned and run business and between our team of highly trained technicians/mechanics have over 100 years of combined experience working on motor vehicles of all makes and models. We have all of the latest diagnostic equipment and up to date modern vehicle ramps, so we are well equipped to pinpoint diagnose and then repair any issues your vehicle may have. We also offer specialty carbon cleaning which can have several benefits for your vehicle including improved exhaust emissions, improved engine efficiency, significantly improved compression, prolonged engine life and increased performance, improved mpg, cut emissions and more. All labour and parts we provide will also be covered by a 12-month warranty to give you peace of mind. We look forward to hearing from you and for more information on the full range of services we provide please visit our website: WWW.FOXHAYESCARSALES.CO.UK
127 Exwick Rd, Exeter, EX4 2BH

MillTop Motors

Are you looking for a team of trustworthy, fully qualified, and experienced mechanics? Then Milltop Motors are the ones you can trust most. With over 10 years’ experience in the local area, we have built on our reputation of being a friendly, affordable, and trusted team of professionals. From vehicle performance upgrades to bespoke fabrication, we are certainly not limited to what we can do for you. So, if your vehicle is long overdue some well-deserved upgrades and servicing, be sure to give us a call. www.milltopmotors.com
Unit 1 Bond House Lane, Whitestone, EX42HF

Frequently asked questions about a water pump repair

The cost of a car water pump varies due to the cost of the pump itself, and labour involved for installation. We recommend getting a few quotes from different suppliers to better understand the cost you might expect to pay.

If your water pump isn’t working correctly, try not to drive your vehicle until it is fixed. A failing water pump can lead to engine overheating, which can cause severe damage. If you suspect your water pump is failing, it’s best to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

Symptoms of a bad water pump include coolant leaks, an overheating engine, a whining noise from the front of the engine, steam from the radiator, and consistently low coolant levels. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your water pump checked by a professional.

If a car water pump fails, it can lead to your engine overheating. This can cause significant damage to your engine, resulting in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. It’s important to address any issues with your water pump as soon as you’re aware of them to avoid serious damage to your vehicle.

Water pumps typically last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. However, it's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific vehicle. Regular maintenance checks can help identify potential issues early.

The timing belt often needs to be removed to access the water pump, and replacing both at the same time can save on labour costs and prevent future issues. While not strictly necessary, it is a cost-effective way of keeping your car in good condition.

Replacing a water pump can take between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. More complex vehicles may take longer.

Replacing a water pump can be challenging, especially for those without mechanical experience. We recommend you employ a professional mechanic to perform the replacement and make sure it’s done correctly and safely.

Whether your water pump is covered under warranty depends on the terms and conditions. It’s best to check with your vehicle's manufacturer or warranty provider for details.

Yes, a bad water pump can affect your car's heating system. The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine and heater core. If the pump fails, it can mean that not enough coolant flows through the engine, causing the heating system to function improperly.

It’s important to use the coolant type recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer. Using the right coolant helps to make sure optimal performance and longevity of the water pump and cooling system. Always check your vehicle's owner manual for the recommended coolant type.

Several factors can cause a water pump to fail. They are mostly caused by poor maintenance or improper use, including:

  • Using incorrect coolant
  • Contaminated coolant with debris
  • Poor-quality water pump materials
  • Improper installation
  • Ignoring regular maintenance and coolant changes

Signs of a failing water pump bearing include:

  • A whining or grinding noise from the front of the engine
  • Visible wear on the water pump pulley
  • Belt tension or looseness