cost to replace the water pump in a 2002 sebring

What is the cost to replace the water pump in a 2002 sebring?

The Water Pump sells for around $222 new, and reman for just around $100 or so. (Some reman's are just as good as new, and carry a warranty). The labor time guide calls for 3.4 hours to complete the job. On this vehicle, the water pump is driven by the timing belt, and it's highly recommened that the timing belt be replaced at the same time. If coolant has gotten onto the timing belt, it can harm the belt and effect it's reliability. This is a "better safe than sorry" repair, as if the belt is to break after water pump replacment, you'll have to pay for all this labor all over agian (not to mention the risk of internal engine damage due to the belt breaking!). If you choose to do this, the timing belt sells for around $86 and you will need to add another .5hr to the labor. Labor rates vary from shop to shop. For a job of this type, a "fair" labor rate can be anywhere from $85-$125 per hour.

• When replacing a water pump, it is necessary to drain the cooling system.
• Any components--belts, fan, fan shroud, shaft spacers, or viscous drive clutch--should be removed to make the pump accessible. Some pumps are attached to the cylinder block as shown below.

Installing a water pump. Courtesy of Dana Corporation.

• Loosen and remove the bolts in a crisscross pattern from the center outward.
• Insert a rag into the block opening and scrape off any remains of the old gasket.

WARNING

When working on the coolant system (for example, replacing the water pump or thermostat), a certain amount of coolant will spill on the floor. The antifreeze in the coolant causes it to be very slippery. Always immediately wipe up any coolant that spills to reduce or eliminate the chance of injury.

• When replacing a water pump, always follow the procedures recommended by the manufacturer.
• Most often a coating of good waterproof sealer should be applied to a new gasket before it is placed into position on the water pump.
• Coat the other side of the gasket with sealer, and position the pump against the engine block until it is properly seated.
• Install the mounting bolts and tighten them evenly in a staggered sequence to the torque specifications with a torque wrench. Careless tightening could cause the pump housing to crack. Check the pump to make sure it rotates freely.
• The water pumps on many late-model OHC engines are driven by the engine's timing belt. When replacing the water pump on these engines, always replace the timing belt.
• Make sure all pulleys and gears are aligned according to specifications when installing the belt.