Diagnosis of a bad water pump which also caused a problem with the timing belt?

RMILLER73

MEMBER
2011 MAZDA CX-9
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

We have been given a diagnosis of a bad water pump which also caused a problem with the timing belt. Both need to be replaced. The garage said that there was no damage to the engine and quoted $3,400. Last month we paid $1,200 for a steering components repair (boots, joints, etc, ). The Car has been good but was in a moderate accident in the front driver side about 4 years ago. It was repaired but I wonder if these issues are related or just normal wear and tear. Mostly wondering if I should do the most recent repair or is it time to get rid of the car and get something different?

Sunday, January 7th, 2024 AT 1:27 AM

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
50,264 POSTS

All used cars need repairs, so it will be up to you if you have had enough and want to pay for a new one or put the money into the car you already have. The water pump timing belt combo is a normal service item repair. If you have taking good care of the car, I would have the repairs done because the car can go 250k. Here is the job that needs to be done with an estimate by the book of what it should cost. Keep in mind that may be added costs such as coolant drive belts etc. The reason for the cost is the engine needs to be removed from the vehicle to do the job.

Water Pump, R&R 16.8 hours @ shop rate

The engine has a timing chain not a belt btw and this is a big job, can I ask on what makes you think you need to repairs done? Is it leaking coolant? Check out the images (below). Please upload pictures or videos of the problem so we can see what's going on.

Images (Click to make bigger)