Service and Cost
Typical Cost
1. Parts Cost: The cost of a new auxiliary water pump can range from $50 to $400 or more. The price depends on the brand, quality, and specific requirements of the vehicle. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts tend to be more expensive than aftermarket options.
2. Labor Cost: Labor costs can vary significantly based on the complexity of the replacement. Typically, labor can range from $100 to $300. Some vehicles may require more time and effort to access and replace the pump, which can increase labor costs.
3. Total Cost: Combining parts and labor, the total cost to replace an auxiliary water pump can range from approximately $150 to $700 or more. Luxury or high-performance vehicles may incur higher costs due to more expensive parts and specialized labor.
4. Repair vs. Replacement: In some cases, the auxiliary water pump may be repairable, which could reduce costs. However, given the nature of the part and its role in the vehicle's cooling system, replacement is often recommended to ensure reliability.
5. Additional Costs: There may be additional costs if other related components need to be replaced or if there are complications during the repair process.It's always a good idea to get multiple quotes from reputable mechanics or service centers to ensure you are getting a fair price. Additionally, checking if the repair is covered under any warranty or service plan can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Typical Service Procedure
1. Diagnosis: Before any replacement or repair, a thorough diagnosis is performed to confirm that the auxiliary water pump is the source of the problem. This may involve checking for error codes, leaks, unusual noises, or inadequate heating or cooling performance.
2. Removal of the Old Pump: Draining Coolant:The coolant system is partially drained to prevent spills and allow for the removal of the pump. Accessing the Pump:Depending on the vehicle, this may involve removing other components or parts, such as engine covers, hoses, or other obstructions, to access the pump. Disconnecting Electrical Connections:The electrical connections to the pump are disconnected. Removing the Pump:The pump is unbolted and removed from its mounting location.
3. Inspection and Cleaning: The surrounding area and related components, such as hoses and connectors, are inspected for wear or damage. The mounting surface and any mating parts are cleaned to ensure a proper seal with the new pump.
4. Installation of the New Pump Positioning and Securing:The new pump is positioned and secured in place with bolts or fasteners. Reconnecting Electrical Connections:The electrical connections are reattached to the new pump. Reattaching Hoses:Any hoses that were removed are reattached and secured with clamps.
5. Refilling and Bleeding the Coolant System The coolant system is refilled with the appropriate type and mixture of coolant. The system is bled to remove any air pockets, which is crucial for proper operation and to prevent overheating.
6. Testing The vehicle is started, and the cooling system is monitored to ensure the new pump is functioning correctly. Checks are made for leaks, proper circulation, and that the heating or cooling performance is restored.
7. Final Inspection: A final inspection is conducted to ensure everything is reassembled correctly and that there are no leaks or issues.
8. Documentation: Any error codes are cleared, and the repair is documented for future reference.This process can vary slightly depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the specific design of the cooling system. It is often recommended to replace related components, such as hoses or clamps, if they show signs of wear, to ensure the longevity and reliability of the repair.
What is a Auxiliary Water Pump and What Does It Do?
The auxiliary water pump in a vehicle is a secondary pump that assists the main water pump in circulating coolant through the engine and, in some cases, the heating system. It is particularly useful in vehicles with complex cooling systems or those that require additional cooling capacity, such as high-performance or hybrid vehicles.
The primary function of the auxiliary water pump is to ensure that coolant continues to circulate even when the engine is idling or when additional cooling is needed. This helps maintain optimal engine temperature, prevents overheating, and ensures efficient operation of the vehicle's heating system. In some vehicles, the auxiliary water pump also aids in cooling the turbocharger or other components that generate significant heat.
By providing additional coolant flow, the auxiliary water pump can improve the efficiency of the vehicle's climate control system, ensuring that the cabin remains comfortable regardless of the engine's operating conditions. This is especially beneficial in hybrid or electric vehicles, where the engine may not always be running to provide heat.
Signs of a bad Auxillary Water Pump
The auxiliary water pump in a vehicle is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine and sometimes the heater core, especially when the engine is idling or at low speeds. If this component begins to fail, it can lead to various issues. Here are some common signs of failure for the auxiliary water pump:
1. Overheating Engine: One of the most noticeable signs is the engine overheating. If the auxiliary water pump is not functioning properly, it may not circulate coolant effectively, leading to increased engine temperatures.
2. Poor Cabin Heating: If your vehicle's heater is not providing warm air, it could be due to a failing auxiliary water pump. This pump helps circulate coolant through the heater core, and if it’s not working, the heater may not function properly.
3. Coolant Leaks: A failing auxiliary water pump may develop leaks. You might notice coolant pooling under the vehicle or a drop in coolant levels without any apparent reason.
4. Unusual Noises: A failing pump might produce unusual noises such as whining or grinding. These noises can indicate internal wear or damage to the pump.
5. Warning Lights: Some vehicles are equipped with sensors that can detect issues with the cooling system. A failing auxiliary water pump might trigger a check engine light or a specific coolant system warning light on the dashboard.
6. Reduced Coolant Flow: If you notice a reduction in coolant flow, it could be due to a malfunctioning auxiliary water pump. This can sometimes be observed by checking the coolant reservoir or radiator for proper flow.
7. Erratic Temperature Gauge: If the temperature gauge on your dashboard fluctuates erratically, it could be a sign that the auxiliary water pump is not maintaining consistent coolant flow.If you suspect that your auxiliary water pump is failing, it’s important to have it inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic to prevent further damage to your vehicle’s engine and cooling system.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
