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.

From central Mitcham to surrounding areas including Pollards Hill, Figges Marsh, Lonesome and Colliers Wood, RAC Approved Garages offer a convenient way to get a water pump repair, with a friendly service and clear updates.

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 Mitcham

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

Motech

5.0/5

Motech are an independent garage based in South West London offering a wide range of garage services to all makes and models. We have a wealth of experience in the garage, with our mechanics coming from strong backgrounds in Peugeot, Ford, VW, Audi, BMW and Mercedes repairs.
43 Mitcham Lane, London, SW16 6LJ

Sds motors ltd

4.8/5

SDS MOTORS is a family company responsible for inspecting and repairing vehicles, diagnosing problems and performing maintenance work on them. Shpetim the mechanic of the company has more than 10 years of experience in this industry with very high problem solving skills, efficient, quick and organized.
21 Rosemary Road, London, SW170AR

Wimbledon Car Care

4.7/5

.Here at Wimbledon Car Care our number one priority to offer you the best possible service, repair and maintenance of their vehicle. Investing in the latest equipment ensuring that we’re always one step ahead. We specialise in all makes and models of vehicles, from brand new through to classic, for servicing, mechanical repairs, minor bodywork, MOT and Fleet Car support, enabling us to be one the best independent motor vehicle repair centres in and around Wimbledon and South West London.
163-167 Haydons Road, Wimbledon, SW198TB

Sutton Motors and Garage Limited

3.5/5

Sutton Motors and Garage Ltd is a reputable car repair and maintenance garage serving the Sutton area of South London. As a trusted local business, the garage provides a wide range of automotive services designed to keep vehicles safe, reliable, and roadworthy. These services include routine servicing, diagnostics, MOT testing, brake and clutch repairs, exhaust and suspension work, and general mechanical repairs. Mechanics at the garage are experienced and customer-focused, offering competitive pricing and professional expertise to address both everyday maintenance and more complex vehicle issues. Sutton’s busy roads and diverse driving conditions make reliable automotive care essential, and this garage plays an important role in meeting those needs for drivers in the Sutton community and surrounding areas.
292-300 Carshalton Rd Carshalton, Sutton, London, SM53QB

McCarthy Cars (UK) Ltd

2.3/5

McCarthy Cars (UK) Ltd As an RAC Approved business, you can trust us to deliver the best possible service, repair and MOT-testing results. McCarthy Cars is a multi-award-winning operation too. Our standalone Service Centre is based at 22 Silver Wing Industrial Estate, Horatius Way, Croydon, Kent (CR0 4RU), and is open every weekday, from 8am to 6pm. Horatius Way is accessible via Hannibal Way, which connects to Stafford Road (the B271), which itself links to the A23 and A232. The London Borough of Croydon features a number of railway stations too, with Waddon being the closest to our Service Centre. At Eurorepar Car Service, we’re all about keeping you and your car moving with confidence. As a trusted network of local garages, we provide high-quality car maintenance and repairs tailored to your needs – all at competitive prices. With our exclusive Brakes for Life program and a 2-year parts and labour warranty, you can drive away knowing you’re covered for the long haul.* Ask your Eurorepar Car Service Centre to fit Eurorepar branded parts to qualify. Claims under the 2-year parts and labour warranty must be made at a Eurorepar Car Service Centre. Discover expert care, unbeatable value, and peace of mind – all under one roof. Ready to experience the Eurorepar difference? Request a quote or give us a call today! *Terms and conditions apply.
Unit 22, Silverwing Industrial Estate, Croydon, CR04RU

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