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Should I replace water pump with Cambelt?

Author

Sarah Smith

Published Jan 19, 2026

Generally, the idler pulleys, tensioner and water pump should always be replaced when the timing belt is replaced. In most cases, the timing belt drives the water pump, so it is the right time to replace the water pump. It is also recommended by the manufacturer. WORD TO THE WISE.

Do you really need to replace water pump?

With any luck, you shouldn't have to replace a water pump even if you keep a vehicle for 10 years or more; they often last that long. Unless a water pump starts to leak, makes unusual noises or quits working, there's generally no need to replace it.

Does timing belt kit include water pump?

Each timing kit comprises every part of the timing belt assembly. This includes tensioners, idlers, dampers, gaskets and even a water pump where required, as well as the belt itself.

How much is a cambelt and water pump change?

The average cambelt and water pump replacement cost in the UK is £383.50.

How long should a water pump and timing belt last?

The typical life expectancy for most water pumps and timing belts is about 100,000 miles. Both parts tend to go bad around the same time.

35 related questions found

At what mileage should a water pump be replaced?

Typically, the recommended interval for replacing the water pump is every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on various factors, such as the car model, road and weather conditions, and driving behavior. Therefore, if you plan to invest in a used car, ensure you verify whether the seller replaced the water pump.

What is the life expectancy of a water pump?

The average lifespan of a well water pump is 10-15 years. It depends on factors like well pump type, amount of sediment in you well water, and how long your pumps runs. Luckily, you can extend your pump's lifespan by a few years through preventive maintenance.

How often should Cambelt be changed?

It'll usually need to be replaced more than once over the course of a vehicle's lifetime. Manufacturers will usually recommend to replace your timing belt after a set number of years or miles. This could be anywhere from 40,000 to 100,000 miles or 4+ years.

Is timing belt and Cambelt the same thing?

Simply put, a cambelt and timing belt are the same component.

How much does a water pump cost UK?

The average water pump replacement cost is between £250 – £700 in the UK. The cost of water pump, gaskets and coolant is around £70 – £250, with the bulk of the cost being labour costs, which are around £180 – £450 (at an average hourly rate of £60 – £150 and 3 hours work).

Can you replace a water pump yourself?

A specialist workshop usually estimates a good three hours of work for changing a water pump. However, if you do this work yourself, the only costs incurred are those for a new water pump. These are usually between 50 and 500 pounds.

Do I have to drain coolant when replacing water pump?

There won't be a need to drain any of the coolant's radiators. The engine block needs to be removed. Changing the pump in such a way will help you not need to drain the radiator while draining the engine block.

How can you tell when a water pump is going bad?

Five Signs Your Water Pump Is Failing

  1. Overheating. A dead or dying water pump cannot circulate coolant through your vehicle's engine and, as such, the engine will overheat. ...
  2. Coolant Leaks. Coolant leaks from the water pump are common and a clear sign that it's time to replace the pump. ...
  3. Corroded Water Pump. ...
  4. Whining Noises.

How can I make my water pump last longer?

How to extend the life of a water pump. As with most components, correct maintenance and servicing can extend the life of the water pump. Always use the manufacturer's recommended coolant, adhere to the coolant service schedule, and flush the system whenever you change the fluid.

How much does a Cambelt change cost?

How much to change a cambelt in the UK? The average cambelt change cost is between £290 – £730 for most vehicles in the UK and can vary considerably depending on the car model and garage. The material costs for a new cambelt, tensioner and idler pulley will only be around £70 – £180.

How long do timing belts really last?

Depending on what schedule you may read, including information distributed by the manufacturers themselves, the average life span of a timing belt is between 60,000 and 105,000 miles or after 7 to 10 years regardless of mileage.

How much does a timing belt cost UK?

How Much Does a Timing Belt Replacement Cost? The average UK timing belt replacement cost is £350. However, the price can range between £200 and £1,200!

Does changing the Cambelt improve performance?

A cambelt change will increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle and can dramatically improve your petrol mileage. Additionally, as with most maintenance jobs, another reason to replace your cambelt is to avoid larger costs later down the line.

What happens if Cambelt snaps?

When the timing belt breaks, the crankshaft will continue to spin at 1000 rotations per minute, while the camshaft will stop turning. As a result, the pistons will continue to rise and fall in their cylinders, but they will strike closed valves.

Is a timing belt or chain better?

A: Timing chains are stronger than timing belts. Timing chains also last longer. Timing belts are quieter than timing chains and are cheaper and easier to replace.

Can a well pump last 40 years?

With proper well maintenance, your well pump can last, on average of 8 to 15 years, though many homeowners report their pumps lasting far longer, often between 20 and 30 years!

Can Car water pump last 15 years?

The average lifespan of a water pump is similar to the lifespan of a timing belt. They usually last 60,000 to 90,000 miles with the proper care. However, some cheaper water pumps may begin leaking at as low as 30,000 miles.

How long does it take to change a water pump in a car?

Replacing a water pump can be a steady half-day's work. A simple and straightforward switch might only take 2 hours, but some of the more complicated could take even the most competent mechanic a full day. We'd suggest between 2 and 4 hours for the majority.

What causes water pump failure?

Contaminated coolant, non-compatible coolant, or mixing coolants of different chemistries leads to premature water pump failure. Harmful contamination is common in systems that are not properly maintained.

Can you drive with a bad water pump?

Heating and cooling may be affected by the vehicle. The car may begin to overheat as well. It is possible to drive your vehicle without a water pump, but not good to. Some people in the racing circuit or who drive racing vehicles purposefully remove their water pumps to obtain more horsepower to their engine.