Hale

I got a check engine light the other night, accompanied by the temperature gauge swinging back and forth from full cold to full hot. Turns out the water pump seized up. My mistake was to then try to limp it 20 miles back to my favorite garage. After about 15 miles I had to pull over and call for a tow. The engine is rattling and I'm told that the damage could be $15,000. KBB value on my 2007 GS450h is approx $10K. Any suggestions?

Jeepdude

I just replace the engine in my 2007 GS350, but it is no hybrid.

I did the work myself and found an 18k motor that a buddy of mine was able to get through his body shop for $2,800 plus tax.

We like the car and didn't want a car payment, so I am out around $3,700 for all the repairs including new hoses and a variable valve timing solenoid that was broken. (my 2007 had a different part number than the 2010 I put in.

Here are a couple engines that will fit, but you will have to pay labor if you don't do it yourself: https://lkqonline.com/2007/Lexus/Gs4...gine-Assembly/

good luck.

Hale

Thank you, Jeepdude. I really appreciate the advice.

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

Ya I would source a low mileage engine and have the junkyard drop the engine off at a local mechanic. Mechanic may charge $500-$1000 to install the new engine.

www.car-part.com and search for an engine near you.

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

With the new engine out I would also replace the water pump and belts etc. The water pump you can buy from ebay from a company called Aisan. Its same supplier that supples toyota and its $110.00 on ebay

Hale

Thank you, ibidu1. I appreciate the advice and helpful tips!

amdaxiom

How many miles did you have Hale when this happened? My dealer noted that the water pump started leaking on mine but I was going to take it to my local shop after the dealer changes out my battery. Wasn't sure if it was really leaking as I haven't had any low coolant issues and it's only at 100K miles. But I was thinking of putting that off till my next oil change but now I may bring it in as soon as the battery is done.

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

GS350 75-80k is about the time to change out the water pump. If you do not you risk blowing up the engine and it has happened many times.

Aisan water pump are only $110 on ebay and probably 2 hrs to install. I did mine myself it was pretty easy! There are videos on how to replace them.

Hale

106K. I began to hear a rumbling noise about a week ago. I should have changed it immediately but wasn't certain whether it was the water pump or possibly some other pulley on the belt somewhere. It is difficult to isolate the sound without removing the covers.

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

A quick way to tell is to reach in with your hand (with the engine off of course) behind the water pump pulley and if theres any pink foam residue. Know that your water pump is leaking or seeping and best to replace it.

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

Hale

It is possible to repair your engine, but it may not be a long term fix. But if the engine is ratteling. its possible to take off the oil pan and with a prybar check each rod or crank bearing to see which spun on you. If its a rod bearing you can open it and see what the damage is, sometimes you can add an oversize bearing. All without having to remove the engine.