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 can do for your Volkswagen

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

LM MOTOR CLINIC

4.8/5

Welcome to LM Motor Clinic in Kilmarnock. We are a long-established well run RAC approved business providing exceptional garage repair services all provided by fully qualified and experienced technicians at competitive prices. Based in Kilmarnock, whether you need servicing, repairs or even diagnostics we can help. Our technicians have over 30 years combined experience in the motor industry so you can always rely on LM Motor Clinic for first-class servicing and repairs. What We Can Offer: Car & Van Servicing & Repairs Tyres & Exhausts Clutch Replacements Diagnostics Oil Changes Breakdown Recovery RAC Approved Services Flexible Payment Options As well as the above we also provide our customers in Kilmarnock with the following, Fair and Friendly Service, Pick Up Drop Off Service & all our garage services are Competitively Priced making sure you get the best possible rate for your service. Find out how we can help you As a RAC Garage in Kilmarnock, you can always rely on our expertise for servicing & repairs. We are now also approved by Euro Repar. Look no further for the very best garage services in Kilmarnock. Quality Work Honest Pricing Exceptional Customer Service Complete Peace of Mind We Have the Lastest Diagnostics with Dealer Software. Voted Scottish Garage of the Year and Scottish Specialist Garage of the Year at the Scottish Garage awards
19 Dean Street, Kilmarnock, KA31DY

A & S Coachworks Limited, Bosch Car Service

4.0/5

will be completed at a later date
High Street, Ixworth, Bury St Edmunds, IP312HN

Brooklands Service Centre

4.7/5

Brooklands have been here for 25 years. We are proud in everything we do and carry everything out to a high spec. Brooklands technicians carry over 15 years of experience an have delt with many aspects of different makes and models over the year, they all carry the correct qualifications from MOT licence’s to NVQ 2&3. We ain’t afraid to to take on any job an work constantly around the clock the get vehicles back on the road the same day. We carry out a wide range of diagnostic test's and checks, to service and repairs we also do mot's. As on the otherhand we also carry out a wide range of body work and reapirs too..
162 Armley Road, Leeds, LS122TY

RPM Motor Services Limited

5.0/5

£5 plus vat collection and delievery within 10 miles. Free loan cars subject to insurance cover Mot test centre on site. Bosch trained technician Car sales Air con Tyres Exhausts Brakes Batteries.
Unit 1, Harbour Road, Seaton, EX124AA

Weston Auto Centre

4.4/5

We are a family run garage, we put our customers first. Check out our reviews on the best of cannock and our facebook page
Unit 6 Bennick Industrial Estate, Broad Street, Bridgtown, WS11 0DA

Frequently asked questions about water pump repairs

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