Small Water Pump Leak

Took the Tundra in for a new starter. During the replacement they came across a small leak in the water pump and said they can replace for $830 out the door. Does that seem reasonable or is it a simple enough job that I should take an afternoon myself. How soon should I look to do this? Any suggestions on where to buy one if so?

 

$830 isn't too bad if you like burning money or supporting your local businesses.

Take an afternoon, after your Aisin water pump kit from RockAuto and Toyota coolant comes of course, and change the water pump out. While I was in there I also did the thermostat, serpentine belt, and all associated pulleys on the front of the engine including the fan. With all that I was WAY under your $830 quoted price.

The pump is currently telling you to change it via the small leak. I would do it asap.

 

In case you havent changed out your water pump yet, it's actually normal for the "weephole" to have a tiny amount of residue around it. Might look like "pink crust". My 07 has had the residual around the weep hole for over 20k miles.(no drips or actual wet spots, radiator is full) I see it regularly on other toyota vehicles(relatively low mileage) that have exterior belt driven water pumps. And on timing belt driven ones when I'm changing the belt out for scheduled maintenance. Of course the water pump is changed out along with pulleys and tensioners at that time. Unless you actually see liquid coolant leaking or dripping, and radiator is full,I wouldn't worry too much. An inexpensive telescoping mirror can be put in the area for viewing the condition of said "leak". $830 may not be too far off when you consider today's labor rates. I've seen rates over $200/hr. Figure in part, coolant and most importantly-the warranty and it adds up. BTW...how much was it to change the starter if you don't mind me asking.

 

I replaced my own water pump at the same time as my radiator, and it sucked. I don't know that it's worth $850, but this isn't a relaxing day of work, it's a frustrating day of swearing and knuckle scraping.

 

I am a believer in doing things myself and having a sense of accomplishment after it’s over. If I can save a few bucks along the way that’s great too.

BUT I know my limits and after replacing almost every part and component on a jeep wrangler for my wife and tinkering with the tundra, I have been able to establish my limits!!!! If something is a huge job that’ll take a couple days to finish and have the potential to cost more money if I screw it up, I would rather leave it to the pros. When I read about timing belt, water pump and tensioner replacements I get anxious thinking about it. If/when the time comes for me to replace them, I will gladly head to my mechanic and have him to the job. YMMV

 

Ya, I feel you guys. Even as a seasoned mechanic of over 20 yrs, I don't look forward to working on these trucks. The flip side of the coin is that they don't break as often as other brands. Not even close.

 

How "normal" is this pink crust? Replacing the radiator/thermostat/serpentine belt on a 2010 Tundra and noticed this pink/white crust you mentioned. I assumed this wasnt normal... should I just put the new radiator back in and monitor it? I really dont want to tackle the water pump, would probably take it to a real mechanic.... thanks in advance for the advice.

 

When I had my 2011, I was replacing the plugs at 100000 miles in 2019 & noticed the water pump leaking. The dealership quoted me $950 for the water pump & new coolant. I went to an independent shop I trust & for $1100 I got the water pump, new Toyota coolant, all hoses, thermostat & housing & a new serpentine belt. I felt I did ok.

 

My 07 had the "weep" at 7 years old when I bought it and still had the "weep" when I traded it in for my 14 five years later. Normal.

 

thanks for the info, saved me time and money. y'all have a good one!