LR
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CoolingHigh severity

Water pump leaking or bearing noise

Safety or reliability risk. Fix promptly.

Symptoms

Coolant drips from the front of the engine, a weep hole crusted with coolant, a growl from the pump or a wobbling fan.

Likely cause

Worn pump seal and bearing, often made worse by an over-tight belt or old coolant.

Suggested fixes

Listed roughly in the order most owners try them.

  1. 1

    Replace the water pump

    Fit a new pump and gasket. On Tdi engines with a timing belt check whether the pump is belt driven before you start.

    Difficulty:
    Moderate DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)
  2. 2

    Check belt tension

    An over-tight belt wears the pump bearing quickly. Set it to the correct deflection.

    Difficulty:
    Easy DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)

This is general guidance gathered from owner experience and workshop practice, not a substitute for a workshop manual or a qualified mechanic. Costs are rough parts-only guides. Brakes, steering and suspension work affects safety, so if in doubt have it checked professionally.

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