Hi,

Just a quick question.

My Fabia is due a cambelt replacement. It currently has 32000 miles on the clock and I travel around 8500 miles per year. I'd like to know if there's any advantage and more importantly, any justification in replacing the water pump at the same time as the cambelt? That's it! Hope someone can advise. Thanks in advance.

I would advise yes. The VAG water pump has a plastic impeller moulded on the shaft using a fine spline which is weak and if it fails, I had one fail, it is expensive to replace as there is a lot of labour cost.

The pump is not dear and can easily be replaced when the cambelt is off.

Edited 5 March, 201313 yr by morelia

A Fabia 2, so its probably an early 07/57, 08/58 plate, am I right?

Get that belt and water pump changed ASAP. After four years the recommendation is to have it replaced regardless of mileage.

Martin

justatic, and also the tensioner should be replaced. Just get the full kit it's not expensive. One point, the water pump that is on there now should be fine as the plastic impeller was done away with some time ago. Can't be sure but I think form 07 onwards or even earlier. You mechanic can check that for you. However, it should still be replaced in my opinion. May seem excessive but I've done many pumps that have been weeping at just 25k. It then kills the belt early as the antifreeze rots the belt very quickly.

Thanks so much for the advice. My car is a late '08 model. Hoping to get it booked in in the next few weeks. As I live in the Manchester area I'm contemplating taking it to Claybank motors for the cambelt/water pump change. Would this be a good choice? Are there any independent garages/technicians that are recommended in this area?