The temperature in the car’s engine, when it is running, can rise to over 1000 degrees Celsius. However, the engine is built to benefit from efficient cooling that helps prevent overheating.
The most important element that keeps the engine’s temperature within the limits of optimal operation is the cooling system. Thanks to it, the oil does not exceed 110-120 degrees, and the water 90 degrees. The central component of the cooling system that enables its operation is the water pump. Read on to find out why it is so important and when the water pump should be replaced on an Seat Exeo.
The most common malfunctions that occur with the water pump are as follows: coolant loss, play in the hub, and a defective shaft. If the water pump makes noise while driving, it needs to be replaced.
How do you identify the water pump under the car’s hood?
In general, the water pump is located at the front of the engine, but there may be engine variations that deviate from this rule. To make it easier to orient yourself, keep in mind that the accessory belt is on the side, the fan is attached to the pulley, and the pulley is attached to the hub.
How to disassemble the water pump?
There are two ways to remove the water pump. Most cars allow you to replace the pump by opening the hood and working from the top of the engine. If you are not in this category and the water pump needs to be replaced from below, you should know that the procedure is more complex. The car needs to be lifted on a ramp, first remove the timing belt, and then the water pump.
Tip! If you’ve reached the point where you need to replace the water pump, and replacement is only done after removing the timing belt, it’s a good idea to have a new timing belt kit on hand so you don’t have to work on it again or pay for labor when it’s time to replace it.
Steps to install a new water pump on an Seat Exeo:
Parts. You can order parts from online auto parts websites or physical stores. To identify the right parts, you need the car’s VIN. The parts order should include: the water pump, the pump’s sealing gasket, and coolant. The car’s manual will state the amount of coolant required for this operation.
Preparing the car. To work, the car’s engine must be cold. For safety, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery or remove the battery and set it aside until the operation is complete. Then, drain the car’s cooling system completely.
Removing the water pump on the Seat Exeo. To do this, you must remove all the accessories that prevent you from taking out the water pump. These may need to be loosened or removed, depending on the pump’s position. Remove all the coolant from the cooling system, disconnect the hoses, and then the pump. To remove the pump, you will need to carefully undo the fastening screws.
Installing a new water pump. First, attach the gasket between the engine and the water pump. Then, attach the water pump and reconnect the hoses to their respective positions. Make sure you’ve put all the components back that you previously removed or loosened, and add the coolant.
At this stage, you can also replace the accessories’ pulleys and the accessory belt if you wish.
Checking the correct installation of the water pump. Start the car and check for coolant leaks. You should check both under the car and on the engine block.
If you’ve managed to get to this point, it means you’ve successfully replaced the water pump on the Seat Exeo.
How much can you save when replacing the water pump on your own for an Seat Exeo?
As you’ve seen above, the operation is not exactly a walk in the park. You need some experience and knowledge to complete it successfully. If you’re among those skilled in mechanics and know how to choose the right parts, you’ll save around 350-400 euros, which is roughly the cost of labor.
We don’t know how this amount looks to you, but we do know that if you find it too complicated, you should turn to a mechanic to avoid any unpleasant surprises and additional expenses in the end. Good luck!