JRossSter

Another question for all you helpful folks on my 2007 ES 350...

When in for service, lexus told me the "Water Pump bearing worn out"... quoted me $1k for labor and parts to replace the water pump.

Has anyone experienced this problem, and is there less expensive resolution? They said continuing to drive with this issue will damage engine as there is leaks.

Thanks as always
Jason

pelos124

Lexus Master tech 10Yrs. I have replaced many of those. It's a common failure part. If you don't get it replaced, the pump bearing could fail completely and dump all the coolant out. If that does happen you could overheat the engine, and would be even more of an expensive repair. Cheapest option is buying the pump and replacing it yourself. Good luck

JRossSter

pelos - shot you a PM

jkayca

I have had the water pump replaced on my 08. Started leaking after 6 years. It's a common repair on ES350/Camry/Sienna and other Toyotas that have the same 3.5 L 2GR-FE V6 engine.

12jimmyjam

Toyota did mine for like $830 out the door.

overclock

The water pump is an absolute booger of a job. Water pumps are designed to fail. I don't understand why the engineers put the water pump where they did. I did it myself but it took me about 15 hours. I wanted to make a video but was too worn out and frustrated. I could probably do it again in 6 hours.

Call a different shop. I was quoted $550 (or maybe $650) for the part and 4 hours labor. The diamond encrusted wrenches and tools at the Lexus dealer work just as well as the regular tools at independent mechanics. I did mine using the Husky mechanic's tool set I got from Home Depot for father's day a few years ago.

chuyrobles

Do say! Can you give a quick run down on your approach? Did you lift the engine up to give more clearance? Did you remove the harmonic balancer? Did you get an Aisin brand?
We are coming up on 200K with original water pump. I check it periodically for play and leaks; good so far, but want to replace it as preventive maintenance.

nguyent8

Wow, I saw many other members having 150K on original water pump but you are the first one close to 200K mark.
Do you see any leak or excessive buildup around the water pump?

chuyrobles

Haven't checked below the WP in a couple oil changes, about 20K. Garage floor is dry. But coolant level was below max line in the reservoir. Will check it out this weekend.