Should I Replace My Water Pump

[RSVESL9]

I'm about to change the timing belt ( 169,000 ) for the 2nd time on my 2000 Avalon XL. The water pump has never been changed and I have not had any problems with it. Do you think it is a good time to replace the water pump since I'm changing the timing belt? Thanks

[toyomoho]

It's a gamble. You are beating the water pump will not fail in the next 90K miles (assuming you still own the car).

Typically owners follow this procedure and would change it now. Still there has not been a rash of pump failures reported.

If doing the work yourself an after market pump is pretty reasonable $$ wise, plus idler bearings. Also check the cam and crank/oil pump seals for leaking.

[O.O]

Since you are changing the timing belt, it is a wise decision to replace the water pump as well since it is recommended. You would want to do preventative maintenance on it since once it fails it will cost you more for repairs.

[NEZ]

I would change pump cause in the event it does start leaking you might have to replace the t-belt again I would also look into changing the front seals while your in there

[ChiTDI]

Originally Posted by RSVESL9

I'm about to change the timing belt ( 169,000 ) for the 2nd time on my 2000 Avalon XL. The water pump has never been changed and I have not had any problems with it. Do you think it is a good time to replace the water pump since I'm changing the timing belt? Thanks

Yes. If the water pump goes the coolant ruins the belt and you have to replace that if it doesn't break first.
Cam seals too if it were me.

[TrailDust]

I'd have to go along with changing it out now. Given you've gotten 169,000 already, it's problematical that the pump may fail sooner rather than later. This is one of those situations where you'll save grief and money in the long run by doing it now. Go for it!

TrailDust

[RSVESL9]

Thanks, I am going to replace the water pump as well as the timing belt. I appreciate everyone's input.