Water pump for the 1.8 TSI

[Pravs]

Strangely enough the water pump on my 1.8 TSI has developed a pretty bad leak with the car having done less than 25k miles. Started with coolant light coming on. Topped it and the light came on again after 500 odd miles. Dealer says water pump gone. Removed the shield below the engine and showed it to me. Sure enough coolant was dripping on the right side of the engine oil sump. Thing is Skoda wants 300 quid for the part. I am getting a similar (not same) water pump at a garage outside for less than 100. The part number on mine is 06H 121 011. The one that I am getting is 06H 121 008. Does anyone know interchangeable part numbers for 06H 121 011? Also any thoughts on why a water pump would fail so early? 

[skodacarman]

I sympathise with you. But you are certainly not alone, nor particularly unlucky, as a quick browse of this forum will confirm.

 

Skoda certainly seem to have a weak spot with their water pumps.  I've no idea why.  In the UK, for example, the pumps on the 1.9TDI motors are notorious for leaks very early in their lives.